ECBID Taps Bischoff For Leadership Role

The East Columbia Basin Irrigation District has selected Bobby Bischoff as its next Secretary-Manager. During their October 7th selection, the ECBID Board selected Bischoff from more than 30 applicants. He’s worked for the district since 2009 and currently serves as Assistant Manager of Operations and Maintenance.

Bischoff takes over June 1st, 2027, succeeding Craig Simpson, who is retiring after 30+ years with the District, including nearly 20 years as Secretary-Manager.

“Having worked in several positions throughout the District, I've gained an understanding of our operations from different perspectives," Bischoff said. "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. I believe that experience has prepared me to take on this role. 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," Bischoff continued. "My vision is to build on the success of 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."

“Bobby has served the District well in each of the position’s he’s held, and I’m excited to see the District flourish under his leadership," Simpson noted. "This promotion is well-deserved."

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