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Matthew (Matt) Ehret. Photo courtesy of the County of Ventura.
VENTURA — The Ventura County Public Works Agency (VCPWA) is pleased to announce the appointment of Matthew (Matt) Ehret as Director of Watershed Protection, effective October 25, 2026.
Ehret brings more than 24 years of public works experience, with an extensive background in engineering, construction management, flood control, and infrastructure development. Most recently, he served as Deputy Director of Watershed Protection’s Design & Construction Division, where he oversaw major capital improvement projects, emergency projects, and environmental services.
Throughout his career with VCPWA, Ehret has played a key role in several significant infrastructure projects, including the Ventura County Medical Center Hospital Replacement Wing, Santa Clara River Levee improvements, and the Matilija Dam Ecosystem Restoration Project.
As Director of Watershed Protection, Ehret will oversee the department’s efforts to reduce flood risks, maintain and improve critical flood control infrastructure, protect water resources, and support water quality initiatives throughout Ventura County.
“Matt’s extensive technical expertise, proven integrity, collaborative leadership, and deep familiarity with our agency make him uniquely qualified to guide the Watershed Protection Department into a strong, successful future,” said Gregg Strakaluse, Director of the VCPWA.
Ehret earned his Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, with an emphasis in water resources and structural analysis and design. He is also a licensed Professional Engineer in California. His professional accomplishments include being named VCPWA’s 2017 Employee of the Year and receiving recognition from the American Public Works Association (APWA) for his contributions to major County infrastructure projects.
As a lifelong Ventura County resident, Ehret has strong ties to the local community. Outside of work, he enjoys coaching his younger son’s baseball teams and listening to his older son perform in the Ventura High String Orchestra (cello) and dance in Ventura County Ballet’s performance of the Nutcracker.