The Department of the Interior's Bureau of Reclamation is seeking applicants for the WaterSMART Drought Response Program: Drought Resiliency Projects for Fiscal Year 2025. This funding opportunity will provide financial assistance to develop and update comprehensive drought plans, as well as implement projects that build long-term resilience to drought conditions across the Western United States. Eligible applicants include states, tribes, irrigation districts, water districts, and non-profit conservation organizations. Key evaluation criteria include the project's ability to increase water management flexibility and reliability, address drought impacts, and benefit disadvantaged communities. The application deadline is October 7, 2024.
The available funding ranges from $750,000 to $3 million per agreement for drought resiliency projects, with a 50% non-Federal cost share requirement. Additionally, up to $10 million per agreement is available for domestic water supply projects for Tribes or disadvantaged communities, with a 5% non-Federal cost share. Projects are expected to be completed within 2-3 years, with awards anticipated by September 1, 2025. The program is authorized under the Secure Water Act and the Inflation Reduction Act.
Generated 8/28/24, 10:13 AM