System Optimization Reviews
System Optimization Reviews are the newest program to Water for America . A System Optimization Review is a broad look at system-wide efficiency focused on improving efficiency and operations of a water delivery system, water district, or water basin. The Review results in a plan of action that focuses on improving efficiency and operations on a regional and basin perspective. Those recommended improvements may then be eligible for the Water Marketing and Efficiency Grant funding.
A Review contains the following steps:
- Information Gathering - gather existing information about the system
- Collect New Data (if necessary)
- Identify Issues and Priorities - identify water management issues to be addressed by the recipient
- Set Goals - establish goals relative to water conservation, water management, water marketing, and preventing conflicts over water
- Identify and Evaluate Potential Improvements - identify potential projects, including costs and benefits
- Define a Plan of Action - recommend a sequence and strategy for implementation of improvements
- Prepare a Final Report
Applicants must:
- Include an irrigation and/or water district, tribal water authority, state governmental entity with water management authority, or entities created under state water law with water delivery authority within the 17-western states
- 50/50 cost-share
- Up to $300,000 Federal cost-share
- Completed within 24 months
Applications are reviewed and ranked by a Technical Proposal Evaluation Committee.
May 2008 Grants - On May 27, 2008, Secretary of the Interior Dirk Kempthorne announced $1.8 million in grants to water districts for ten projects to improve delivery systems in California, New Mexico, Oregon and Utah. Including matching contributions of non-federal partners, the selected projects represent a combined investment of more than $3.77 million.
FY2007, 2008 FOA-CLOSED DEC. 4, 2007, for review purposes only (1.2 MB PDF)
News Releases
Water for America Initiative Grant Funding Opportunity Available for System Optimization Reviews (11/3/08)
Secretary Kempthorne Announces $1.8 Million in Grants to Water Districts to Improve Delivery Systems (5/27/08)
Secretary Kempthorne Announces New Grant Program under Water 2025 (8/30/07)
Water Marketing and Efficiency Grants
Last updated: 2/19/09