LAGUNA HILLS, CA

Michael Cruikshank

PG, CHG

“I apply a multidisciplinary approach to effectively communicate technical concepts, all aimed at creating a better water future.”

Michael Cruikshank

OFF THE CLOCK

  • CAMPING
  • BBQ
  • SPORTS

Michael is WSC’s Hydrogeology Practice Lead with nearly two decades of experience leading large stakeholder driven groundwater resource programs.

Michael has managed projects in large diverse stakeholder environments for a variety of water resource projects including the development of groundwater sustainability plans (GSPs), salt and nutrient management plans (SNMPs), and indirect potable reuse (IPR) projects. He has technical expertise in water resource planning, hydrogeologic basin analysis, and the development of integrated groundwater and surface water models that are used to make important water resource management decisions on a watershed scale. He is an active member of the groundwater community and has held several leadership positions in the local Groundwater Resources Association (GRA) Branch and is currently serving on the Scientists and Engineers Board of the National Groundwater Association (NGWA).

On a personal note

It is a great time in California’s history to be working in the field of hydrogeology and water resource engineering with the passing and implementation of the historic Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA). In addition to SGMA, the One Water approach that all water has value and should be managed in a sustainable, inclusive, and integrated way brings hydrogeologists and engineers together. I am passionate about sustainable water management and having a positive impact on the world through my daily work.

My wife and I live in Orange County and stay busy raising three teenagers. We love spending time exploring the outdoors with our family and weekend BBQs.

AREA OF EXPERTISE

Hydrogeology

Water resources planning

GIS integration

Well design

Project management

SGMA compliance

LICENSES/CERTIFICATIONS

Professional Geologist, California, No. 8854

Certified Hydrogeologist, No. 994

Engineer-in-Training No. 142007

EDUCATION

MS, Civil and Environmental Engineering, California State University, Fullerton, CA

BS, Geology, California State University, Fullerton, CA