FEDERAL FUNDING MOVES WEST TO FIGHT DROUGHT

Published on by in Government

The water scarcity in California has been all over the news for quite a while now. Reports of suffering avocado crops, Starbucks moving their water bottling facility out of the state, and residents changing their front lawns from grass to rocks to conserve water have are major headlines. But while California is in the spotlight, several other western states, as well as Puerto Rico are also feeling the effects of the resource shortage. 

In a recent article by the Associated Press, it is reported thatthe federal government will be putting $50 million dollars into creating water-saving projects for twelve states. Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Texas, Utah and Washington will facilitate more than 60 new projects with the funding provided. 

California and Texas, the second and third largest states in the U.S will receive the majority of funding. Both states are diverse hubs for residential, industrial, and agricultural water demands.  The development of recycled water pipelines and storage reservoirs will be some of the enhancements made. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

According to the article, “The money comes from the Interior Department’s WaterSMART sustainable water initiative, which has provided about $250 million in funding since 2010.” 

While these new advancements in water conservation are exciting and encouraging for a more sustainable future, there are still some low-tech solutions to the drought problem. Water conservation is an issue that affects us all, and we can all do our part to ensure that we are using our resources wisely. 

I’m happy that the U.S government is investing in our future and the solution to a problem that has the potential to affect the entire nation. I look forward to following the developments of this story and sharing them with you.

About the author:

Mark W. LeChevallier is director of Innovation & Environmental Stewardship for American Water, the largest publicly traded U.S. water and wastewater utility company. He received the 2012 Abel Wolman Award of Excellence from the AWWA, one of the industry’s highest honors recognizing those whose careers in the water works industry exemplify vision, creativity, and excellent professional performance characteristic of Abel Wolman's long and productive career. He was also named by Public Works magazine as a 2005 Trendsetters to “recognize leaders in the public works community who have defined policy, brought their community or an issue into the spotlight, or set the standard within the industry.”

Originally posted at http://www.drwater.amwater.com/

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