SOURCE: ACWA
WASHINGTON, DC, May 23, 2016 --The House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure released a draft of the 2016 Water Resources and Development Act (WRDA) on May 20, 2016. WRDA authorizes U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (ACOE) projects at U.S. harbors, locks, dams, and reservoirs. It ensures ACOE can maintain the Nation's water infrastructure, continue to provide flood protection, and work on environmental restoration projects. The bipartisan bill will be marked up by the full committee on May 25.
Several ACWA supported provisions are included in the draft WRDA bill. The bill expands the definition of a "water resources and development project" to include environmental infrastructure projects. This change would allow ACOE to participate in water supply and water recycling projects. The draft WRDA bill also includes language to encourage ACOE to revise operational documents for its reservoirs in partnerships with project sponsors. Additionally, ACOE is authorized to enter into agreements with non-Federal partners to engage in water conservation projects including stormwater capture and groundwater recharge projects.
About ACWA
The Association of California Water Agencies (ACWA) is the largest statewide coalition of public water agencies in the country. Its 430 public agency members collectively are responsible for 90% of the water delivered to cities, farms and businesses in California.
