New NV top water regulator appointed, industry ties questioned by conservation groups

The Nevada Department of Conservation and Natural Resources has selected Joe Cacioppo as Nevada’s next state engineer, officials announced Thursday.

Cacioppo, a licensed civil engineer, served as the Deputy Administrator at the Nevada Division of Water Resources for a month before being promoted as Nevada’s top water regulator following the abrupt departure of his predecessor in December.

As the Nevada state engineer, Cacioppo will be responsible for managing Nevada’s limited water resources, including settling disputes …