Highlands Ranch Water is celebrating the remarkable career of Rick McLoud as he retires May 15 following decades of leadership and service to the district and the water industry. Rick leaves behind a legacy that will benefit our community for many decades into the future.

Rick is the district’s Water Resources Manager. For more than four decades, he has helped shape the future of Highlands Ranch Water into what it is today, a resilient, forward-thinking organization prepared to serve generations to come.

As Rick retires after 45 years of service in the water industry, colleagues say his impact on the district and our community cannot be overstated.

Rick’s career has been defined by long-range planning, strategic leadership and an unwavering commitment to securing reliable water supplies for Highlands Ranch. Since the early 1980s, he has led or played a key role in nearly every major water resource initiative undertaken by the district, including securing surface water decrees, expanding water storage capacity, developing groundwater systems and negotiating critical regional water agreements.

Among his most significant accomplishments was helping secure permanent water storage in Chatfield Reservoir, a process that spanned more than 25 years and required extensive environmental review, permitting and coordination with numerous regional partners. He also helped lead the planning and permitting for the South Platte Reservoir, a critical component of the district’s long-term water reliability strategy.

“Rick was instrumental in shaping the district’s policy to rely on renewable water rights as much as possible and to limit the district’s exposure to groundwater,” said Tim Flynn, attorney with Ireland Stapleton Pryor & Pascoe, PC. “He was thoughtful, creative and exercised a great deal of foresight when it came to providing adequate storage for the district’s water.”

That foresight became a hallmark of Rick’s career. Colleagues point to his ability to think decades ahead in an industry where long-term planning is essential.

“Way back in 1984, Rick had the foresight to secure water rights in Chatfield Reservoir based on his belief that we would eventually secure the right to store water there,” said Highlands Ranch Water General Manager Sam Calkins. “That did happen, but it wasn’t for another 38 years in 2022. The project increased our surface water storage capacity by 40% and was an invaluable addition to our water portfolio, especially during drought years.”

Calkins said Rick’s work fundamentally changed what the district can accomplish today. “Highlands Ranch Water sets the standard for water security in Douglas County, and for medium-sized water providers across the Front Range,” he said. “While other districts are spending tremendous time and money securing water rights, Rick has essentially done that work for us.”

In addition to his technical expertise, coworkers consistently describe Rick as a leader guided by integrity, professionalism and dedication.

Water attorney Fritz Holleman, who worked closely with Rick on water court cases and negotiations, said one principle always stood out. “The overriding direction from Rick in almost any water court case, contract negotiation or other water dispute was that we ‘do the right thing,’” Holleman said. “Rick was never out for short-term wins. He leaves a legacy of competence and decency, and he leaves the district with a well-crafted, sustainable water portfolio for a secure water future.”

Others reflected on the mentorship and institutional knowledge Rick shared throughout his career.

“I learned everything I know about water resources from Rick,” Calkins said. “I am also frequently inspired by Rick’s tremendous personal example of commitment and dedication to accomplishing a mission that took decades — securing the water future of Highlands Ranch.”

Stacy Smith, Highlands Ranch Water’s Executive Administrative Assistant, noted that Rick’s passion for the water industry has always been evident.

“I learned from Rick the importance of passion and interest in the field of expertise,” Smith said. “His work in securing our water resources will continue impacting the district for years to come.”

Communications Manager Kari Larese has worked alongside Rick for nearly 17 years.

“Throughout my time working with Rick, I’ve seen firsthand his passion and dedication to the water industry and to securing a sustainable future for Highlands Ranch Water. He has always been generous in sharing his knowledge and helping others learn and grow. I’ve learned so much from him over the years and will truly miss working alongside him.”

Julie Tinetti, who will succeed McLoud as Water Resources Manager, said Rick’s legacy provides a strong foundation for the future.

“Rick’s work has shaped the future of Highlands Ranch Water in a way few people ever have the opportunity to do,” Tinetti said. “It is humbling to step into a role built on such a strong foundation. His foresight, integrity and dedication to securing our community’s water future will continue to guide our work for decades to come.”

While Rick’s retirement marks the end of an extraordinary career, the systems, partnerships and water resources he helped secure will continue benefiting the community far into the future.

As colleagues reflect on his legacy, one theme remains clear: Highlands Ranch Water is stronger, more resilient and better prepared for the future because of Rick McLoud’s decades of leadership and service.