Reclamation will make at least $2 million available for conducting appraisal investigations and feasibility studies through grants and cooperative agreements. For this fiscal year, Reclamation anticipates awarding grants to initiate one or two feasibility studies and five to eight appraisal investigations.

Eligible applicants include states and political subdivisions of states, such as departments, agencies, municipalities, counties, and other regional or local authorities, Indian tribes or tribal organizations, and entities created under state law that have water management or water delivery authority such as irrigation or water districts, canal companies and any combination of the entities listed above.

Reclamation's work with the selected entities is on a cost-shared basis. For an appraisal study, Reclamation will pay 100-percent up to $200,000 and 50-percent for all costs above that amount. Funding for feasibility studies is cost-shared with Reclamation paying 50-percent of the cost to complete the study. The non-Federal cost-share may be provided in the form of money or in-kind services that Reclamation determines are necessary and reasonable for the conduct and completion of the investigation or study.

A statement of interest is due by May 28, 2010, at 4 P.M. M.D.T., and if it is determined that you meet the eligibility and prioritization criteria, full proposals are due by July 13, 2010, at 4 P.M. M.D.T.

To learn more about Reclamation's Rural Water Program and this Funding Opportunity Announcement please visit www.usbr.gov/ruralwater.