Western States Water Newsletter

On April 3, the White House released the FY 2027 Discretionary Budget Request proposing a restructuring of wildland fire management under the U.S. Wildland Fire Service. The proposal also includes major cuts and reallocations across environmental and science agencies, such as eliminating USGS ecosystem funding, reducing NOAA and EPA budgets, scaling back grants, and investing selectively in water infrastructure, hydropower, and Great Salt Lake restoration.

On April 8, EPA leadership recognized 48 water infrastructure projects funded through State Revolving Funds for their innovation and contributions to public health and economic resilience. Award-winning efforts included desalination, wastewater modernization, and water recycling projects across California, New Mexico, and Washington, demonstrating effective federal-state collaboration.

On April 13, the EPA announced $30 million in grants under the RealWaterTA Initiative to support technical assistance and training for small water systems and private well owners. The funding aims to improve compliance with the Safe Drinking Water Act, strengthen system management, and expand access to safe drinking water, particularly in rural communities.

On April 17, the Bureau of Reclamation announced emergency water releases from Flaming Gorge Reservoir to stabilize Lake Powell amid severe drought conditions, while reducing Lake Powell releases to Lake Mead. These measures aim to protect critical infrastructure and water supplies despite historically low snowpack and reservoir levels, though they may reduce hydropower generation and accelerate declines at Lake Mead.

On April 13, Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs vetoed several water-related bills, arguing they would hinder effective long-term water management solutions, while highlighting progress through a new 100-year assured water supply designation. The vetoed legislation included proposals related to groundwater rights deadlines and rural water infrastructure, which Hobbs criticized as inadequate responses to the state’s water challenges.

On April 14, seven Kansas communities received over $11 million in USDA funding to upgrade water infrastructure, including new pipelines, storage facilities, and treatment systems aimed at improving public health and supporting economic growth. State officials emphasized the importance of these investments for rural development and long-term community sustainability.

On March 25, Nebraska’s Water Quality and Quantity Task Force released recommendations outlining 14 goals to improve water management, including expanded monitoring, better agricultural practices, and increased access to safe drinking water. The report also called for coordinated planning, education efforts, and sustainable funding strategies to address statewide water challenges.