The Department of the Interior announced on Mar. 17 an investment of $889 million for water infrastructure projects across the western United States, made possible by President Donald J. Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill Act. The funding will support Bureau of Reclamation initiatives in California, Idaho, North Dakota, South Dakota, Utah, and Wyoming to improve water conveyance, expand storage, and modernize systems that serve communities and agriculture.
The announcement highlights the federal government’s effort to address aging infrastructure and ensure reliable water supplies for American farmers and families. The One Big Beautiful Bill Act was signed into law by President Trump on July 4, 2025, providing $1 billion through 2034 to restore and expand existing water systems and increase surface storage capacity in the West.
“Under President Donald J. Trump’s leadership, the One Big Beautiful Bill is delivering major new investments in Western water infrastructure,” said Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum. “These investments strengthen our nation’s water security, modernize aging infrastructure and support the farmers, communities and industries that depend on reliable water supplies. By helping ensure strong agricultural production and efficient water delivery, this investment also supports more stable and affordable food prices for American families.”
California will receive $540 million from the total funding to upgrade major conveyance systems and storage projects throughout the Central Valley. Specific allocations include $235 million for rehabilitation of the Delta-Mendota Canal; $200 million for subsidence correction along the Friant-Kern Canal; $50 million to address issues with the San Luis Canal; $15 million for improvements at Tehama-Colusa Canal Authority pumping plant; and $40 million toward planning activities related to raising Shasta Dam.
Other states will also benefit: Idaho receives $30 million for a pump storage project in Lewiston Orchards; North Dakota gets a combined $108 million for municipal supply projects under Garrison Diversion Unit; South Dakota is allocated $11 million to repair siphons serving farmland; Utah receives $100 million to replace Highline Canal near Duchesne; Wyoming is awarded $100 million for repairs at Fort Laramie Tunnels.
According to Secretary Burgum, these investments complement efforts under Executive Order 14181 to expand water supply and strengthen drought resilience. The Department continues working with states and local partners to modernize infrastructure so that Western agriculture remains strong and communities have reliable access to water.
