Energy and Natural Resources Committee, Water and Power Subcommittee
Introduced
In Committee
On Floor
Passed Chamber
Enacted
The Water Project Navigators Act establishes a program within the Department of the Interior to support the development and implementation of multi-benefit water projects . This program will award grants and cooperative agreements to eligible entities to fund navigator positions, providing crucial assistance with project planning, grant writing, technical support, and project management for water initiatives. The bill defines "multi-benefit water projects" as those enhancing community resilience to climate impacts on water supplies and providing benefits to ecosystems and watersheds. These projects can involve improving water use efficiency, promoting water recycling, enhancing access to safe drinking water, conserving habitat, and improving water quality. Eligible entities include states, Indian Tribes, local governments, water suppliers, and nonprofit conservation organizations. The Secretary of the Interior will prioritize applications from entities directly serving Indian Tribes , disadvantaged communities , and rural communities , particularly those with limited resources. Priority is also given to projects incorporating natural or nature-based features, demonstrating multi-stakeholder support, and promoting job creation. The federal share of project costs can be up to 75%, with potential waivers for financially struggling entities. Grants are limited to three years, with a possible two-year extension based on satisfactory performance. The Act authorizes $15,000,000 annually for fiscal years 2027 through 2032 to fund these efforts, aiming to reduce water supply-demand imbalances and enhance drought and ecosystem resilience.
The Water Project Navigators Act establishes a program within the Department of the Interior to support the development and implementation of multi-benefit water projects . This program will award grants and cooperative agreements to eligible entities to fund navigator positions, providing crucial assistance with project planning, grant writing, technical support, and project management for water initiatives. The bill defines "multi-benefit water projects" as those enhancing community resilience to climate impacts on water supplies and providing benefits to ecosystems and watersheds. These projects can involve improving water use efficiency, promoting water recycling, enhancing access to safe drinking water, conserving habitat, and improving water quality. Eligible entities include states, Indian Tribes, local governments, water suppliers, and nonprofit conservation organizations. The Secretary of the Interior will prioritize applications from entities directly serving Indian Tribes , disadvantaged communities , and rural communities , particularly those with limited resources. Priority is also given to projects incorporating natural or nature-based features, demonstrating multi-stakeholder support, and promoting job creation. The federal share of project costs can be up to 75%, with potential waivers for financially struggling entities. Grants are limited to three years, with a possible two-year extension based on satisfactory performance. The Act authorizes $15,000,000 annually for fiscal years 2027 through 2032 to fund these efforts, aiming to reduce water supply-demand imbalances and enhance drought and ecosystem resilience.