EPA, Bureau of Reclamation, state water districts team up for innovative conservation program grants

The Innovative Conservation Program (ICP) is entering its latest round of grant applications with expanded participation from federal agencies and regional organizations from the western United States that are teaming up to find new water-saving devices and technologies.

The program, which was started in 2001 by the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation (Reclamation) and the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California, will also receive support from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Central Arizona Project and the Southern Nevada Water Authority.

“As Western states brace for another year of drought, many are regarding dry conditions as the new normal,” EPA Pacific Southwest Water Division Director Tomás Torres said. “By supporting the ICP, we’re investing in innovative solutions to help communities meet the challenges of tomorrow — today.”

This cycle, the program will award $500,000 in grants of up to $30,000 and grants between $30,000 and $100,000. Over the years, the ICP has provided $27 million through 262 grants. Proposals are due May 23.

“These kinds of successful programs with our partners are an important tool in Reclamation’s Colorado River water management responsibilities as we face the effects of years of drought and the influences of climate variability,” Reclamation’s Lower Colorado Regional Director Terry Fulp said.