§3207 Multi-benefit Projects to Improve Watershed Health

Summary

Creates a competitive grant program the Secretary must set up within one year after November 15, 2021 (so by November 15, 2022). The program gives money to plan, carry out, and check habitat restoration projects that improve watershed health in river basins harmed by a Bureau of Reclamation water project. Eligible applicants are: States; Tribal or local governments; organizations that deliver power or water; regional authorities; and nonprofit conservation groups. Projects can target ecosystem health, native species, climate impacts on fish and wildlife, invasive species, restoring natural river functions, and improving fishing or river recreation. Grants will favor projects that deliver more than one of those benefits. Funds cannot be used just to meet existing environmental mitigation or compliance duties. Projects must follow all federal and state laws. The federal share normally cannot be more than 50% of a project’s cost. If at least 75% of a project’s cost is for nonconsumptive water conservation or habitat restoration (as the Secretary decides), the federal share may be up to 75%.