Reclamation names head of dam safety and infrastructure

The Bureau of Reclamation announced a new head of its dam safety program, promoting a 25-year veteran of the agency to helm oversight of its infrastructure.

Miguel Rocha is the new director of Dam Safety and Infrastructure Office, which includes both Reclamation’s dam safety program and its asset management program.

“Miguel brings more than 25 years of experience in dam safety, operations, maintenance, risk management, policy and program execution to this position,” Reclamation Chief Engineer David Raff said in a statement. “Miguel has also worked at all levels of Reclamation, which will be a great asset as he works with our customers, stakeholders and staff for safe and reliable infrastructure at Reclamation.”

Rocha has held a series of posts in the Dam Safety and Infrastructure Office since 2015, most recently serving as chief of the Dam Safety Office. He succeeds Karen Knight, who had held the post since 2020.