Biden-Harris Administration Commits $400 Million to Combat Drought and Promote Water Conservation through Water-Saving Commodities

WASHINGTON, August 9, 2024 – On August 1, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) declared it will allocate $400 million towards at least 18 irrigation districts to support farmers in maintaining commodity production while simultaneously conserving water across the Western states. This financial commitment is projected to save up to 50,000 acre-feet of water across 250,000 acres of farmland, providing new sustainable market opportunities.

Here are some reactions:

Senator Michael Bennet (CO): “Farmers, water users, and communities in the American West are grappling with the impacts of a 1200-year drought and climate change. This situation is critical, and Washington must treat it as such. This investment demonstrates the Biden administration’s responsiveness to our plea for resources that will help producers innovate and adapt to drought conditions. I appreciate Secretary Vilsack’s initiative in securing this relief for Colorado and the Western region.”

Representative Yadira Caraveo (CO-08): “I am thrilled that our collaborative efforts in April to advocate for USDA investments in the West bore fruit. This new Water Savings Commodity Program and federal funding will be transformative for Colorado, equipping our communities with essential resources and protections.”

Senator Martin Heinrich, Chair of the Senate Appropriations Agriculture Subcommittee (NM): “New Mexicans are confronting the brunt of severe weather changes associated with climate change, including extended drought periods and increasing aridity. We need advanced tools for preparedness. I commend the USDA for addressing our requests for innovative resources that will enhance water security and climate resilience for our agricultural producers and communities.”

Senator Jeff Merkley (OR): “With climate challenges sparking prolonged droughts across Oregon and the West, it’s imperative that the federal government mobilizes its full range of resources to tackle this enduring crisis. Following our earlier appeal to the administration, I applaud the USDA for launching this program to support innovative water management solutions. This is a crucial step forward for a more resilient economy and environment in the West.”

Senator Alex Padilla (CA): “Farmers in California play a pivotal role in feeding the nation, but ongoing drought and water scarcity threaten their livelihoods and our agricultural sector. This investment in the backbone of our rural communities will bolster resiliency in agricultural production and strengthen California’s water supply through novel conservation technologies.”

Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02): “New Mexicans recognize the profound influence that prolonged droughts have on our communities and agricultural sectors. After urging the USDA for additional support, I am proud to embrace this $400 million investment aimed at tackling drought and enhancing conservation efforts. This funding is integral for a sustainable and resilient American West.”

Senator Ron Wyden (OR): “It is imperative that communities in Oregon and nationwide suffering from drought and wildfires receive every available resource to ensure their safety and well-being. These fires are increasingly intense and larger than we’ve seen in recent history. I will persist in advocating for additional support for communities affected by drought and the climate crisis.”

Central Arizona Irrigation and Drainage District, Elroy, AZ: “We are pleased to be included in the Water-Saving Commodities initiative. Projects aimed at improving our growers’ efficiency with reduced water usage are urgently needed.”

Central Oregon Irrigation District, Redmond, OR: “We appreciate USDA’s investment in our conservation initiatives. This collaboration will enhance our ongoing efforts to boost crop yields, ensure long-term water reliability, and conserve valuable resources, leaving a substantial impact in the Deschutes Basin.”

East Columbia Basin Irrigation District, Othello, WA: “Partnering with the USDA on this vital initiative is a significant opportunity for us. This collaboration will address critical water management challenges while enhancing irrigation efficiency and modernizing our infrastructure, benefiting our agricultural producers and fostering sustainable commodity production.”

Elephant Butte Irrigation District, Las Cruces, NM: “We value the chance to collaborate with our federal partners on practical solutions for local farmers and communities. We’re excited to advance our innovative strategies to tackle the challenges posed by declining water availability while supporting our producers.”

Glenn-Colusa Irrigation District, Willows, CA: “The GCID is thrilled to partner with USDA to pursue crucial water conservation efforts that will maintain and enhance commodity production amid increasing drought periods and climate change effects. This program aligns with our district goals and will significantly improve water efficiency while sustaining our regional agricultural economy.”

Greybull Valley Irrigation District, Emblem, WY: “GVID is looking forward to collaborating on water conservation projects through the USDA Water-Saving Commodities program. This is a tremendous opportunity for our district and its producers to focus on sustainable water practices while providing a reliable flow for crops and livestock.”

Imperial Irrigation District, Imperial, CA: “IID is eager to learn more about this USDA initiative and explore how to align funding with our existing conservation programs to enhance our water conveyance systems for the benefit of growers.”

Maricopa Stanfield Irrigation and Drainage District, Maricopa, AZ: “We are excited to collaborate with USDA to implement practices that save water and enhance efficiency as the historic drought greatly impacts agricultural producers in the Southwest. Supporting agriculture is vital for America.”

Palisade Irrigation District, Palisade, CO: “We are thrilled to be part of the initial group of irrigation districts invited to collaborate with USDA in this new endeavor aimed at water savings.”

Quincy-Columbia Basin Irrigation District, Quincy, WA: “We are excited to partner with USDA to bring federal support to local growers, focusing on providing efficient and reliable irrigation water.”

Sutter Mutual Water Company, Robbins, CA: “Sutter Mutual Water Company looks forward to partnering with USDA in our efforts to be innovative stewards of water resources in the Sutter Basin.”

Zippy Duval, President, American Farm Bureau Federation: “We’re grateful that USDA acknowledges the challenges confronting our western farmers and ranchers. Ongoing drought conditions threaten the viability of farms, and infrastructure improvements alongside productivity investments are essential for weathering tough times. We eagerly await more details about this investment and advocate for flexibility as these resources are deployed.”

Kevin Moran, Associate Vice President, Environmental Defense Fund: “USDA’s water conservation initiatives are a welcome affirmation of support for western communities facing prolonged drought, the driest period in 1000 years. Long-term drought is a new reality affecting farmers, communities, and ecosystems across the West. This investment aids irrigation districts in implementing vital and innovative water conservation measures. The inclusion of Tribal resources is particularly significant, and we look forward to understanding how this funding will cater to Tribal considerations. Given the escalating water scarcity, additional support for conservation will be necessary, but this represents a crucial step towards securing a resilient water future for the American West.”

Dan Keppen, Executive Director, Family Farm Alliance: “We welcome USDA’s announcement, which is set to benefit many members in need. Our collaborative belief is that effective local solutions to water resource challenges stem from stakeholders within the communities themselves. Empowering irrigation districts allows local farmers and ranchers to collaborate with USDA to establish effective strategies for water conservation.”

Julie O’Shea, Executive Director, Farmers Conservation Alliance: “Farmers Conservation Alliance appreciates USDA’s creation of the Water Savings Commodity Program, essential for assisting irrigation districts and farmers in managing ongoing drought challenges in the Western U.S. This funding will play a key role in upgrading outdated infrastructure while helping conserve water and sustain essential commodity production. We thank Senators Merkley and Wyden for advocating for programs that meet the pressing challenges of long-term drought in the West.”

Kim LaFleur, President, National Association of Conservation Districts: “NACD appreciates USDA’s commitments that empower producers and local conservation leaders to enact substantial measures to conserve water resources amidst severe drought in the West. NACD and local conservation districts across the country are dedicated to collaborating with USDA and our partners to implement effective conservation practices.”

Erin Foster West, Policy Campaigns Director, National Young Farmers Coalition: “We are optimistic about USDA’s announcement and hope for investments that prioritize efficiency while ensuring ecosystem resilience, wildfire considerations, and respect for cultural practices. Tribes and acequias can serve as examples of effective water conservation practices, promoting collaborative decision-making. We anticipate forthcoming announcements on how USDA will engage and allocate funds to these vital groups.”

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