Irela Bague

Irela Bagué is an experienced bilingual (Spanish and English) public affairs consultant and Principal for The Bagué Group, a full service consulting firm with more than 20 years of experience in Florida representing business development, public infrastructure, water and waste water resources, natural systems restoration, sustainable “green” initiatives, public involvement services, market research and government affairs.

In 2003, Irela was appointed to the South Florida Water Management District Board by Governor Jeb Bush, where she held the position of Board Vice-Chair until April 2007. She was responsible for spearheading policies in the areas of water resources development and regulation, flood control, water quality protection and natural systems restoration primarily with a focus on the restoration of America’s Everglades.

As a former state-appointed official, Irela has earned the respect of clients and policy makers alike. She is known for her in-depth understanding of the political process and for her critical insight and clear and straightforward communications style making her a credible and engaging spokesperson.

Irela has been an advocate of natural systems restoration, water resources and diversity in the environment having provided key testimony on behalf of the State of Florida to the United States House of Representatives Sub-Committee on Water & Power. She served as Chair of the Miami River Commission and was instrumental in gaining public support for the multi-million dollar dredging project to deepen the channel for larger vessels to help increase Miami’s marine and shipping economy.

Her career highlights include working for National Audubon Society’s Florida State Office as the State’s Public Affairs Coordinator managing outreach campaigns to promote support for Everglades restoration.