Reclamation announces $1.5 million in Water Use Efficiency grants
SACRAMENTO, CA, SEPT 6, 2017 -- The Bureau of Reclamation announced it has selected two California projects to receive $1.5 million total in CALFED Water Use Efficiency grants for fiscal year 2017. Combined with local cost-share contributions, these projects are expected to implement about $6.9 million in water management improvements during the next 24 months.
The projects will conserve an estimated 733 acre-feet per year of water, contributing to the CALFED Bay-Delta Program objectives of improving ecosystem health, water supply reliability and water quality. California and federal agencies are partners in the 30-year program (2000-2030).
Reclamation made the selection through a competitive process, giving priority consideration to projects that address CALFED goals on a statewide basis. Here's a closer look at the two selected applicants and projects:
Santa Margarita Water District, $750,000 The district will expand the existing 3A Water Reclamation Plant to provide up to 3,000 acre-feet per year of recycled water and energy savings. The project includes construction for expanding the existing facility. Annual water savings will be 390 acre-feet per year; lifetime water savings will be 19,500 acre-feet. Total project cost is $5,080,000 with a federal cost-share of $750,000.
The Lake Mission Viejo Association needed a sustainable alternative to fill its recreational lake. In partnership with the Santa Margarita Water District and Wigen Water Technologies, an Advanced Treated Water Facility was fast tracked.
Semitropic Water Storage District, $750,000 The district will install a 1.5-mile long, 30 cubic feet per second, 36-inch diameter, bi-directional, intertie pipeline. The intertie pipeline will allow for the efficient conveyance of surface water supplies to spreading ground facilities located in Semitropic and the adjacent Shafter-Wasco Irrigation District. Annual water savings will be 343 acre-feet per year; lifetime water savings will be 17,000 acre-feet. Total project cost is $1,850,000 with a federal cost-share of $750,000.
About Reclamation
Reclamation is the largest wholesale water supplier in the United States, and the nation's second largest producer of hydroelectric power. Its facilities also provide substantial flood control, recreation, and fish and wildlife benefits. Visit our website at https://www.usbr.gov and follow us on Twitter @USBR.