Debby Dunn

Debby Dunn

Debby Dunn is a passionate environmental advocate with a long-standing commitment to the wise and efficient use of water. In her previous role with the City of Beverly Hills, she leveraged advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) data to help customers better understand their water use—contributing to savings of hundreds of millions of gallons of water annually.

In her current position with the San Diego County Water Authority, Debby evaluates conservation programs through the lens of decades of water-use data, translating complex information into practical, real-world guidance. Over the course of her career, she has educated more than 12,000 residents, professionals, and stakeholders on how to irrigate landscapes efficiently while balancing aesthetics, functionality, and local conditions.

An avid gardener, Debby is especially fond of pollinator-friendly plants, but she recognizes that landscapes reflect personal preferences and diverse needs. For those who choose to keep turf, her philosophy is simple and pragmatic: “If you don’t want a water-wise garden, at least water wisely.”

Debby holds a Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Studies and a Master of Public Administration. She is a 17-year Master Gardener and maintains multiple water-efficiency and conservation certifications, bringing together data, policy, and hands-on experience to advance smart water use across Southern California.