S. 3792: Water Project Navigators Act

The Water Project Navigators Act aims to establish a program to support the development and implementation of multi-benefit water projects in eligible states. Here’s a breakdown of its key components:

Definition of Terms

The bill specifies several definitions, such as:

• Disadvantaged community: A community with an annual median income below the statewide median.
• Eligible entity: Entities that can qualify for the program, including state governments, Indian Tribes, local governments, and nonprofit conservation organizations.
• Multi-benefit water project: Projects that improve resilience to climate impacts, enhance water supply efficiency, and benefit ecosystems.

Establishment of the Program

Within 180 days of enactment, the Secretary of the Interior must establish the Water Project Navigators Program to support eligible entities in creating and managing multi-benefit water projects.

Grant Authority

The Secretary will have the authority to award grants or cooperative agreements to eligible entities to fund the development of project navigator positions. These navigators will aid in planning and executing multi-benefit projects.

Grant Criteria and Priority

The Secretary will develop criteria for awarding grants, considering:

• The potential of the applicant to accelerate project development.
• Prior experience in developing multi-benefit projects.
• Identified multi-benefit projects that require support.

Pursuant to this, priority will be given to applications from entities serving disadvantaged or rural communities, with a focus on those addressing natural and ecosystem improvements.

Duties of Navigators

The navigators will help eligible entities with:

• Grant writing
• Project management
• Technical assistance, including feasibility and design work

Funding and Duration

The bill allows for federal funding of up to 75% of project costs, with provisions for reduced or waived non-federal shares for financially constrained eligible entities. Grants may last up to three years, with possible extensions based on performance.

Ongoing Funding Opportunities

Funding opportunities for the program will be continuously available, ensuring that eligible entities can apply on a regular basis.

Compliance and Coordination

All navigators and funded projects must comply with applicable laws. The program will coordinate with other federal, state, and local technical assistance programs to enhance project development.

Reporting

Within five years, the Secretary must report to Congress on the program's effectiveness in addressing water supply demand imbalances, ecosystem resilience, and capacity building in underserved communities.

Authorization of Appropriations

The bill authorizes appropriations of $15 million per year from 2027 to 2032 to fund the program.

Relevant Companies

None found