Through the WaterSMART Grants (formerly Challenge Grants) Reclamation provides 50/50 cost share funding to irrigation and water districts, Tribes, States and other entities with water or power delivery authority. Projects should seek to conserve and use water more efficiently, increase the use of renewable energy, protect endangered species, or facilitate water markets. Projects are selected through a competitive process and the focus is on projects that can be completed within 24 months that will help sustainable water supplies in the western United States.

Interior Awards Grants in Eleven Western States to Improve Water Management, Supplies (May 22, 2013) - Secretary of the Interior Sally Jewell and Bureau of Reclamation Commissioner Michael L. Connor today announced 44 projects in 11 states that will receive $20.8 million in WaterSMART Water and Energy Efficiency Grants from Reclamation. News Release | Selected Projects

WaterSMART Water and Energy Efficiency Grant Project Selections Announced - (May 2, 2012) Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar announced today that the Bureau of Reclamation has selected $11 million in WaterSMART Water and Energy Efficiency Grants to stretch water supplies and conserve energy in the western United States. More... | List of Projects

WaterSMART Water and Energy Efficiency Grant Announced for Irrigation Districts in Oregon and Texas - (Sept. 20, 2011) Bureau of Reclamation Commissioner Michael L. Connor has announced that the Hidalgo County Irrigation District, No. 2 in Texas received $300,000 and Owyhee Irrigation District in Malheur County, Oregon, has received $299,946 in funding through WaterSMART Water and Energy Efficiency Grants. More...

Interior Announces 54 New Projects to Receive $24 Million in WaterSMART Grants, Saving Enough Water for 400,000 People - (May 19, 2011) Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar announced that the Bureau of Reclamation has selected 54 new projects in western states to receive a total of $24 million in WaterSMART Water and Energy Efficiency Grants. More...