Bischoff named next ECBID secretary-manager

OTHELLO — Bobby Bischoff, the assistant manager of operations and maintenance for the East Columbia Basin Irrigation District, has been selected as the next secretary-manager. Bischoff will take over the job June 1, 2027.

Bischoff will replace Craig Simpson, who was selected as secretary-manager in 2007. 

"Bobby has served the district well in each of the positions he's held, and I'm excited to see the district flourish under his leadership," Simpson said in an ECBID press release. "This promotion is well-deserved."

Bischoff joined the district in 2009, according to the press release, starting as a temporary canal worker. He has worked as a ditchrider, relief rider, assistant watermaster and special project administrator, as well as the Othello watermaster. 

Bischoff was selected from a field of more than 30 applicants, the ECBID release said. Duaine Anderson, president of the ECBID board, said Bischoff had the right credentials. 

"Bobby stood out as the top candidate because he's credible, trustworthy and has the respect of the staff and board. His deep experience in a variety of roles at the district will be a real asset to his ability to lead," Anderson said.

Bischoff said the variety of jobs he's held helped prepare him for leadership roles.

“My experience in the field and in management has helped me understand the challenges our employees face, the importance of reliable water delivery and how decisions impact both our employees and landowners," Bischoff said. "Given my history of serving in a number of roles, one of my priorities is employee development. I want to continue creating opportunities for employees to expand their knowledge of the district, strengthen their skills and grow professionally. The district has a proven system that has served our landowners for many years. My vision is to build on the successes for previous secretary-managers by maintaining a reliable water supply, continuing the progress being made on the Odessa Groundwater Replacement Program and moving closer to the completion of the Columbia Basin Project."