Every Drop Counts Act
Every Drop Counts Act
Plain Language Summary
# Every Drop Counts Act Summary **What It Does:** The Every Drop Counts Act would expand a federal grant program that helps fund small water storage projects in western states. Currently run by the Bureau of Reclamation, the program would be expanded to support more types of projects—specifically those that store between 200 and 150,000 acre-feet of water annually and help replenish underground water supplies (aquifers). The bill would also extend the program's authority for five more years, allowing it to continue operating beyond its current expiration date. **Who It Affects:** This bill primarily affects western states facing water scarcity issues and communities that depend on reliable water supplies for agriculture, municipalities, and industry.
Farmers, water districts, and local governments in the West could apply for grants to build or improve small-scale water storage projects. The program helps address water management challenges in drought-prone regions. **Current Status:** The bill was introduced in the 119th Congress by Representative Jim Costa (D-California) and is currently in committee, meaning it hasn't yet been voted on by the full House of Representatives. At this stage, it's being reviewed and discussed before any potential floor vote.
CRS Official Summary
Every Drop Counts ActThis bill expands the Bureau of Reclamation's Small Storage Program, which is a grant program for small surface water or groundwater storage projects in certain western states.First, the bill expands the types of projects that are eligible for grants under the program. Specifically, the bill makes a project eligible for a grant if the project (1) has water storage capacity of recharges no less than 200 acre-feet and no more than 150,000 acre-feet on an average annual basis over the life of the project for storage or use; and (2) increases groundwater aquifer storage, conveys water to or recovers water from groundwater storage, and stabilizes groundwater levels.Next, it extends Reclamation's authority to carry out the grant program for another five years.
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