TL/DR –
Interior Secretary Deb Haaland has announced $60 million in federal funding to improve water conservation and increase drought resiliency in the Rio Grande Basin. The funding comes from the Inflation Reduction Act, which included $500 million for water management and conservation efforts in areas outside of the Colorado River Basin. The funding will be used to increase storage at existing sediment dams, improve irrigation infrastructure, and support voluntary forbearance and fallowing programs.
Interior Secretary Announces $60 Million for Water Conservation in Rio Grande Basin
The U.S. Interior Secretary, Deb Haaland, revealed on Friday that $60 million of federal funding will support initiatives that enhance water conservation and build drought resilience within the Rio Grande Basin.
The allocation, announced at the Open Space Visitors Center in Albuquerque, arises from the Inflation Reduction Act which earmarked $500 million for water management and conservation projects. These initiatives aim to mitigate the effects of climate change-induced droughts in regions outside the Colorado River Basin.
This funding announcement represents the first utilization of Inflation Reduction Act funds for water management and conservation projects outside the Colorado River Basin. The U.S. Bureau of Reclamation and the U.S. Department of the Interior intend to announce further funding for other basins throughout the year.
U.S. Rep. Melanie Stansbury stressed that the $60 million would assist communities grappling with the impacts of drought and climate change. It would also aid in managing interstate water delivery challenges.
Haaland Shares Personal Experiences
Haaland recounted her childhood experiences of hauling water with her grandmother. She underscored the importance of using water wisely, considering the needs of all communities, and working collaboratively.
The announced funding will assist in increasing storage at existing sediment dams and developing new storage capacity off of the Rio Grande channel to capture stormwater. This will reduce the demand for irrigation water, improve habitats for threatened species, increase irrigation infrastructure efficiency, and aid voluntary forbearance and fallowing programs.
State and Federal Governments Collaborate
Climate change has resulted in a pattern known as aridification in the western United States. Hannah Riseley-White of the Interstate Stream Commission stressed the importance of prudent decisions today to ensure future generations’ welfare.
The federal contribution complements $65 million of state funding for the Lower Rio Grande Basin and an additional $30 million for the Middle Rio Grande. This partnership is pivotal in addressing the challenges brought on by climate change.
Climate Change and Federal Investments
Stansbury highlighted the urgency of federal funding in the face of climate change. New Mexico and the Rio Grande are grappling with severe droughts — a glaring manifestation of climate change. According to the governor’s infrastructure advisor, Rebecca Roose, New Mexico is expected to have 25% less water in 50 years.
Impact of the Inflation Reduction Act and Elections
Stansbury highlighted the significance of effective leadership in addressing climate change. The Inflation Reduction Act and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which brought around $1 billion to New Mexico for water infrastructure, demonstrate the positive impact of such leadership.
The conservative think tank Heritage Foundation’s Project 2025 proposes repealing the Inflation Reduction Act. Stansbury warned of the potential setbacks in climate investment should a change in leadership occur.
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