Spotlight: Rabia Ahmed—a Trailblazer in Water Rights and Socioeconomics

Rabia Ahmed, Principal Economist and Managing Partner

Rabia Ahmed, Principal Economist and Managing Partner at Greene Economics, has spent nearly two decades advancing the economics of water rights and resource management. Her experience spans field work in Pakistan to her current role as the first BIPOC woman and two-year-term President (2024–25) of the American Water Resources Association (AWRA) National Board.

Rabia began her career in Pakistan, working with international organizations and NGOs on rural water supply projects that emphasized water as a basic human right.

“Back in Pakistan, I didn’t want to work in a bank or academia after I graduated. I got involved in rural water supply schemes. I saw women carrying water for miles. Even a few taps or a village well can make a huge difference.”

After moving to the U.S., Rabia found her niche in consulting, helping tribal communities with water rights settlements and supporting them in making economically viable decisions about their water resources.

“One of my first big projects was with the Gila River Indian Community, where they achieved a significant settlement. People called them the 'tsars of water' in Arizona. They asked, ‘Can you help us figure out what to do with this water? Everyone wants it, but we definitely don’t want to sell it.’ We explored different options—agriculture, irrigation, leases, and other ways to benefit the community.”

Rabia’s expertise includes policy and regulatory economics, water law and markets, environmental and social impact assessment, economic modeling, and community engagement. She has led water management and environmental projects across the U.S. and internationally, connecting environmental impacts to economic and community outcomes.

Her leadership extends beyond consulting. Rabia has served as Board Member and Past President of AWRA’s Washington Section, Past President of Women in Environment, and Co-Chair of multiple AWRA national conferences.

“Previously, the the AWRA presidency was just one year—barely enough time to get your feet wet! My next goal is to bring more young people into the organization and into leadership positions."

Next week, Rabia will attend AWRA’s 60th Anniversary Joint Water Resources Conference in St. Louis, Missouri, celebrating decades of water research, professional development, and mentorship.

Rabia holds a bachelor’s degree in Economics and Statistics from Punjab University, Lahore, a master’s degree in Economics from Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, and a master’s degree in Economics from Portland State University.

At Greene Economics, she applies her expertise in water rights, socioeconomics, and environmental analysis to help communities and organizations make informed, equitable decisions.

Connect with Rabia on LinkedIn or contact Greene Economics to explore collaboration on water management, water rights, and environmental planning.