These projects will enhance aquatic habitats, benefiting fisheries, wildlife, and overall water quality.
The Department of the Interior has announced a funding injection of more than $51 million from President Biden’s Investing in America agenda to support 18 projects across eight states, aimed at revitalising and safeguarding aquatic ecosystems.
Secretary Deb Haaland expressed, “Through President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, we are advancing nature-based solutions that benefit local water supplies and the wildlife and habitats that support them. The Interior Department continues to advance water solutions that are environmentally and economically sound for the American West.”
The projects span diverse regions, addressing specific challenges and opportunities in California, Colorado, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Washington, and Wyoming.
The Bureau of Reclamation Commissioner, Camille Calimlim Touton, highlighted the broad benefits of these initiatives, stating, “The benefits of these projects are far-reaching in terms of climate resilience and ecosystem restoration benefits.”
One notable project receiving $20 million is the Southern Nevada Water Authority’s effort to create a wetland and habitat within the Lake Mead National Recreation Area. This project aims to enhance water quality and protect the spawning area for the endangered razorback sucker in Las Vegas Bay.
President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, touted as the largest investment in climate resilience in U.S. history, focuses on bolstering Western communities' resilience to drought and climate change.
The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, with a $8.3 billion allocation over five years for water infrastructure projects, covers a range of initiatives, including rural water, water storage, conservation, nature-based solutions, dam safety, water purification and reuse, and desalination.
This round of the Aquatic Ecosystem Restoration Program targets projects in California, Colorado, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Washington, and Wyoming. Each project is designed to address specific ecological challenges, such as enhancing fish passage, restoring habitat, and improving water quality.
Read the original press release here.
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