§2347c Small water storage projects

Summary

The Secretary will run a program to study, build, or enlarge small water-storage projects with non-Federal partners. New projects must store at least 2,000 and at most 30,000 acre-feet of water. Enlargements must add at least 1,000 and at most 30,000 acre-feet. Projects must give flood protection, ecological gains, or improved water management, conservation, or supply. They must be cost-justified, safe for the environment, and technically doable, or, if they mainly give ecological benefits, be cost-effective. Projects in States with fewer than 1,000,000 people get priority. For 10 years starting December 27, 2020, projects that have finished required Federal permits must be sped up. When studying projects, the Secretary must use relevant State data and partner information when appropriate. Study costs are paid 100% by the Federal government up to $100,000 and 50% for costs above that. Construction cost shares follow existing rules: municipal/industrial water supply costs are 100% non-Federal, agricultural supply is 35% non-Federal, and recreation-related costs are 50% non-Federal for separable parts (with special rules for harbors). Operation, maintenance, repair, and replacement are paid by the non-Federal partner. No more than $65,000,000 in Federal money can go to any one project. Up to $130,000,000 a year is authorized for this program through fiscal year 2030.