Small Surface Water and Groundwater Storage Projects (Small Storage Program)

The U.S. Department of the Interior, through the Bureau of Reclamation, is administering a competitive grant program for small water storage and groundwater storage projects. The program will provide up to a 25% Federal cost-share to plan, design, and construct surface and groundwater storage projects between 200 and 30,000 acre-feet that will increase water storage or move water to or from a storage project. Eligible recipients include State, regional, or local water authorities, Indian tribes or tribal organizations, and other entities such as water conservation or conservancy districts. The program's objective is to enhance water storage opportunities for future generations by funding small surface water and groundwater storage projects. • The program will prioritize projects that provide a more reliable water supply for States, Indian Tribes, and local governments. • The program will prioritize projects that increase water management flexibility and reduce impacts on environmental resources from projects operated by Federal and State agencies. • The program will prioritize projects that are regional in nature. • The program will prioritize projects with multiple stakeholders. • The program will prioritize projects that provide multiple benefits, including water supply reliability, ecosystem benefits, groundwater management and enhancements, and water quality improvements.