Army Corps Seeks Water Project Ideas from Non-Feds
Published Date: 5/4/2026
Notice
Summary
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is asking communities and groups outside the federal government to send in ideas for new water projects or changes to existing ones by September 1, 2026. These proposals could lead to new studies or updates to water resources projects that help with things like flood control and environmental protection. This is a chance to get Congress’s attention and possibly secure funding for future water improvements.
Analyzed Economic Effects
6 provisions identified: 4 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
Inclusion Means Study Authorization, Not Construction
If a proposal is included in the Annual Report, any anticipated congressional authorization would be for a feasibility study (not for construction). To begin a USACE feasibility study, sufficient study authority and appropriated federal funds for the federal cost share are required. For construction, separate Congressional authorization and appropriations are required.
Five Criteria Determine Report Inclusion
To be placed in the Annual Report table, proposals must meet five statutory criteria: (1) relate to USACE missions/authorities (primary purposes: flood/coastal storm damage reduction, commercial navigation, aquatic ecosystem restoration, or municipal/agricultural water supply; recreation/hydropower eligible only when tied to those), (2) require specific Congressional authorization, (3) not have been previously authorized by Congress, (4) not have been included in any prior Annual Report table, and (5) could be carried out by USACE. Proposals not meeting all five criteria will be listed in an appendix with reasons.
Deadline to Submit Water Project Ideas
Non-federal interests may submit proposals for inclusion in the 2027 Annual Report to Congress on Future Water Resources Development. Proposals must be submitted by September 1, 2026, using the USACE fillable proposal form (submitted by email or arranged alternative).
Who Can Submit: Non-Federal Interests
Only "non-federal interests" may submit proposals. That term (42 U.S.C. 1962-5b(b)) means (1) a legally constituted public body (including an Indian tribe and a Tribal organization) or inter-tribal consortium, or (2) a nonprofit with the consent of the affected local government and the authority/capability to perform and pay damages if necessary.
Proposal Contents Are Public — Avoid Confidential Data
Information provided in a proposal will be included in the Annual Report or posted to the USACE Headquarters public website, so submitters should not include Confidential Business Information or other information they do not want publicly disclosed.
USACE Will Host Two Public Info Sessions
USACE will host two public virtual information sessions about the Annual Report and proposal process on June 29, 2026, and August 10, 2026. The Headquarters website contains additional guidance and a fillable proposal form.
Your PRIA Score
Personalized for You
How does this regulation affect your finances?
Sign up for a PRIA Policy Scan to see your personalized alignment score for this federal register document and every other regulation we track. We analyze your financial profile against policy provisions to show you exactly what matters to your wallet.
Key Dates
Department and Agencies
Related Federal Register Documents
2025-20402 — Updated Definition of “Waters of the United States”
The EPA and Army Corps are updating the rules that decide which waters are protected under the Clean Water Act, following a 2023 Supreme Court decision. This change helps everyone know exactly which waters are covered, making it easier to protect lakes, rivers, and wetlands while respecting state and tribal rights. People and businesses affected should share their thoughts by January 5, 2026, as this update could impact water projects and environmental protections.
2026-08463 — Notice of Study Termination and Withdrawal of Notice of Intent To Prepare an Environmental Impact Statement for the Collier County Coastal Storm Risk Management Feasibility Study, Collier County, Florida
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is stopping the Collier County Coastal Storm Risk Management study in Florida because they don’t have enough federal money to finish it. This means they won’t be making an Environmental Impact Statement as planned, so local communities and officials won’t see new storm protection plans anytime soon. The decision was made official on May 1, 2026.
2026-05328 — Notice of Mississippi River Commission Public Meetings for Spring 2026
The Mississippi River Commission is hosting public meetings in spring 2026 on a cool boat called the Motor Vessel MISSISSIPPI, stopping in Missouri, Tennessee, Mississippi, and Louisiana. These meetings let locals share their thoughts and hear updates on river projects that affect communities and the environment. If you live near the river or care about its future, mark your calendar for these free, open-to-all events!
2026-05051 — Notice of Solicitation of Input on Potential Future Changes to Nationwide Permits; Establishment of a Public Docket; Request for Input
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers wants your ideas to make nationwide permits easier and faster to use. These permits affect anyone doing work that impacts U.S. waters, like construction or land changes near rivers and wetlands. Share your thoughts by May 15, 2026, to help shape future rules that could save time and money for businesses and communities.
2025-15110 — Civil Monetary Penalty Inflation Adjustment Rule
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is raising fines for breaking water and fishing rules to keep up with inflation. This means anyone who violates laws about rivers, harbors, or fishing could face bigger penalties starting soon. It’s all about making sure the rules stay fair and the environment stays protected!
2026-00121 — Reissuance and Modification of Nationwide Permits
The Army Corps of Engineers is updating 56 existing Nationwide Permits and adding one new permit to help protect our waters while making it easier to get approval for certain projects. These permits, which affect builders, developers, and utility companies, will start on March 15, 2026, and last until March 15, 2031. The changes aim to balance environmental care with smoother project approvals, with no big new costs expected.
Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2026-08590 — Fisheries of the Gulf of America; Southeast Data, Assessment, and Review; Public Meeting
Fishermen, scientists, and fish lovers in the Gulf of America are gearing up for a series of online meetings starting May 18, 2026, to check on the health of king mackerel fish stocks. These webinars will help decide if any fishing rules need to change to keep the fish population strong and the fishing industry thriving. The meetings are free and open to the public, so anyone interested can join and learn how these important decisions are made.
Next: 2026-08592 — Endangered Species; Issuance of Permits
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service just gave out new permits allowing people to work with endangered species, but only after making sure these activities won’t harm the animals. These permits affect researchers, conservationists, and others who apply, and they come with rules to keep the species safe. If you’re curious or involved, you can check out the details online anytime!