Stalled $140 Million Federal Funds for Colorado River Drought Projects Amid Bureaucratic Delays
Approximately $140 million allocated for Western Slope drought mitigation projects remains unspent, causing concern among local officials. The funds, part of the Inflation Reduction Act, are critical for water rights acquisition and infrastructure improvements.
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Federal funding of $140 million for 17 drought mitigation projects in the Colorado River Basin has been stalled for nearly 16 months due to bureaucratic issues. The funding, awarded during the final days of the Biden administration, includes $40 million for the Colorado River District to purchase Shoshone water rights, essential for hydropower and environmental benefits.
Despite only $12 million being released for two Orchard Mesa projects, local representatives continue to advocate for the remaining funds, emphasizing the urgency due to severe drought conditions. The district has raised additional funds totaling $57.2 million from state and local sources, but the completion of the water rights acquisition hinges on federal approval and funding.
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