BRA board members share insight
Hand-selected by the governor, the 21-member Brazos River Authority Board of Directors volunteer their time perfecting policies, programs and direction to guide the development, management, and protection of the water resources of the basin.
In these mini-profiles of the BRA board members, we hear from them on a few topics, such as what makes water important and what fascinates them about the Brazos basin. In our third edition of Getting to Know You, we also find insight into their heroes and the jobs that launched their life into employment.
Wesley D. Lloyd
Waco
Why have you chosen to dedicate your talents to the Brazos River Authority Board of Directors?
I have experience and interest in water law and policy, along with environmental law, and I am passionate about protecting and promoting the economic interests of the State that depend on the development of water resources. It’s been a very fulfilling experience so far.
What was your first job?
My first “job” was probably mowing the lawn for my Dad. But my first paid position outside our home was as a meat cutter and “pitmaster in training” for a local barbecue restaurant, when I was 16.
What do you think most people don’t know about the Brazos River?
Most people don’t realize that the basin is larger than 17 states, and that the river itself is the longest in Texas.
Who is your hero?
My wife. With poise and grace, she somehow excels in a very demanding career while also being an incredible Mother and spouse. She also serves her community and always puts others first. She is a blast to be around, and is good at everything she does. And she does all that while somehow remaining the most gorgeous woman I’ve ever seen.
Why is water important?
It’s not an exaggeration to say that without water we don’t have life. But besides that, basic need, water also enables economic prosperity, recreational opportunities, and a higher quality of life for every individual.
What fascinates you about the Brazos basin?
The science and technology used in transporting and storing water has always fascinated me. But beyond that, the diversity of the basin and the varied needs from the upper reaches in the panhandle to the Gulf are unlike any other river basin in Texas.
Do you volunteer or participate in other organizations?
Yes, I am involved in several, including our local little league as a Board Member and coach, the Admissions Committee for the local U.S. Federal Court, the water policy committee for the local Chamber of Commerce, the Texas A&M School of Law Energy Symposium, and local political organizations. I have also served on a few municipal boards in the past, along with the local AGC chapter and the Youth Council at church.
What is your favorite quote?
“Nothing in this world can take the place of persistence. Talent will not: nothing is more common than unsuccessful men with talent. Genius will not; unrewarded genius is almost a proverb. Education will not: the world is full of educated derelicts. Persistence and determination alone are omnipotent.” – Calvin Coolidge
Jim Lattimore, Jr.
Graford
Why have you chosen to dedicate your talents to the Brazos River Authority Board of Directors?
I have always been interested in water. I grew up in a farming and ranching family in the very arid Southwest and even as a small boy came to understand the value of water. Later in life, I have been involved in all areas of conservation, but as a property owner in the Brazos River basin, I have focused on the issues surrounding our area. I like to think I am a “practical environmentalist” and bring that to my efforts in connection with the Brazos River Authority Board of Directors.
What was your first job?
My first job other than the work I did with the family while growing up was at the local airport working the line. I washed airplanes, refueled them and generally did whatever was necessary for the operation.
What do you think most people don’t know about the Brazos River?
I think most people don’t know how big the Brazos River basin really is or the history of the river and its power during floods. Everyone takes the water for granted and just assumes it will always be there.
Who is your hero?
I have several, but if I have to pick one, it would be General George S. Patton, Jr.
Why is water important?
I believe water will be the limiting factor to growth in Texas in the not-to-distant future. We have to be doing those things today that will ensure the availability of water for the decades to come. Because we take water for granted, there is not much interest in spending the capital necessary today to provide for our future tomorrow.
What fascinates you about the Brazos basin?
As an engineer, I am fascinated with the operation of the various projects maintained by the BRA, but I am also appreciative of the sheer beauty of the river and its environs. There is nothing prettier, so far as I am concerned, than the beautiful waters of the Brazos River and its lakes.
Do you volunteer or participate in other organizations?
I participate in our local church and the many activities and opportunities it provides, but I am also active in the community where we live with Rotary, the Chamber of Commerce and many other volunteer activities.
What is your favorite quote?
There is some confusion as to the exact source, but: “It's better to keep your mouth shut and appear stupid than open it and remove all doubt,” by Mark Twain. A very similar quote is attributable to Abraham Lincoln: “Better to remain silent and be thought a fool than to speak and to remove all doubt.”