S. 1242: Watershed Results Act

The Watershed Results Act aims to enhance management and conservation of watersheds in the United States, particularly in Reclamation States. Here’s what the bill proposes in simpler terms:

Purpose and Objectives

The main goal of this bill is to authorize the Secretary of the Interior to implement watershed projects using advanced scientific methods to improve water quality, increase water supply, and benefit local ecosystems. It focuses on measuring and achieving specific environmental outcomes through cost-effective conservation strategies.

Key Definitions

• Advance Watershed Analytics: Technical evaluations conducted before funding initiatives, identifying potential activities that lead to effective outcomes at the lowest cost.
• Eligible Entities: Groups that can apply for funding, including states, Indian tribes, local authorities, or any organization involved in water or power delivery.
• Pay-for-Performance Contract: Agreements to buy verified outcomes from watershed projects at agreed prices.
• Qualifying Activity: Conservation actions that advance the program's goals and meet performance standards set by the Secretary.

Process for Project Implementation

Once the bill is enacted, the Secretary of the Interior has one year to invite proposals from eligible entities to develop watershed outcomes projects. This involves:

• Soliciting submissions to create strategies using advance watershed analytics.
• Selecting partners to join in project execution based on proposed strategies that demonstrate a high likelihood of achieving positive outcomes.

Guidelines for Proposals

The Secretary will also establish guidelines for proposal submissions, which will consider factors like:

• Scope and purpose of the proposed project.
• Community support and stakeholder outreach.
• Project management capabilities of the applicant.
• Plans for monitoring the project outcomes.

Partnership Agreements

The Secretary may enter into partnership agreements with selected organizations that will last for up to five years, with the potential for renewal. These partnerships will enable:

• Technical and financial assistance to develop and implement projects.
• Grants to support project activities and performance payments based on outcomes achieved.

Obligations of Watershed Partners

Partners must:

• Prepare strategies to utilize advance analytics for project success.
• Engage with local stakeholders to ensure community-driven decisions.
• Implement and monitor the qualifying activities aiming for measurable conservation results.

Desired Outcomes for Activities

For a qualifying activity to be eligible for performance payments, it must achieve specific, measurable outcomes like:

• Increased surface or groundwater availability.
• Improved habitat quality and connectivity for aquatic life.
• Enhanced water quality including reduced pollutants.

Financial Considerations

The federal government will cover up to 75% of project costs, and partnerships are encouraged to secure additional non-federal funding. Performance payments will be made after confirming successful implementation of activities, helping ensure accountability for taxpayer funds.

Annual Reporting

The Secretary must provide annual updates on project progress to Congress, ensuring transparency and ongoing assessment of each watershed project’s effectiveness.

Funding Authorization

The bill authorizes an appropriation of $17 million annually from 2026 to 2031 to fund these watershed projects.

Relevant Companies

• None found