The Bureau of Reclamation is announcing $33.5 million for 14 projects to improve drought resiliency through water treatment, new or improved infrastructure, and implementation of new water management tools and technology. The projects are located in California, Nebraska, Utah and Washington.
“These investments represent the continued commitment by the Department of the Interior to help build drought resilient communities throughout the West,” said Acting Assistant Secretary for Water and Science Scott Cameron. “We are empowering these local water management agencies to take the steps necessary to develop alternate water sources, transport water to areas in need, or treat previously unusable water to supplement their supplies.”
The investments are empowering local water management agencies to take the steps necessary to develop alternate water sources, transport water to areas in need, or treat previously unusable water to supplement their supplies
The funding is made available through annual appropriations through the WaterSMART Drought Response program. The program provides a framework for federal leadership and assistance to stretch and secure water supplies for future generations in support of the Department’s priorities.
“Through WaterSMART, we are able to leverage federal and non-federal funding and work with states, tribes and other water management entities to plan and implement projects to increase the stability of their water supply,” said Acting Commissioner David Palumbo. “Clean, reliable water supply development continues to be a priority.”
This funding opportunity, which closed in October of 2024, invited eligible applicants to submit proposals for project to increase water management flexibility and reliability to help entities prepare for and address impacts of drought and water supply shortages. A full list of selected projects can be found here.
