Rachel Paschal Osborn, Water Hero 2001

Throughout her career, Rachel has been a staunch defender of the public interest, providing representation to Indigenous Tribes, environmental NGOs, labor unions, and small communities. Also a dedicated educator, her commitment to inspiring the next generation of water law and policy proponents is something CELP tries to emulate through our education and community outreach initiatives. She has also written extensively on water resources and environmental issues, which continue to inform our work as well as that of our partners. In addition to co-founding the Center of Environmental Law & Policy, she served as executive director from 1993-1999, overseeing CELP’s transition to an independent 501(c)3 nonprofit in 1993. She is also a co-founder and board member of Washington Water Trust.