IDAHO FALLS, ID – The Surface Water Coalition (SWC) has announced its support for the Idaho Water Resource Board’s (IWRB) recent allocation of $30 million for water infrastructure projects across the state. The funding, authorized by the Idaho Legislature through House Bill 445, will be distributed during Fiscal Year 2026 to enhance water management and improve aquifer health.
The IWRB designated 50% of the funds for eastern Idaho and 50% for the Magic Valley, with a focus on stabilizing the Eastern Snake Plain Aquifer (ESPA) and supporting the 2024 Stipulated Mitigation Plan between groundwater and surface water users.
Alan Hansten, Chairman of the SWC, praised the investment in critical water supply and conservation initiatives. “Water is the backbone of Idaho,” Hansten stated. “This investment supports food production, hydropower, and our economy. It also protects the ESPA, which is essential for sustainable water use.”
Key programs supported by the funding include:
- $20 million for Groundwater to Surface Water Conversion Projects
- $4 million for ESPA Recharge Infrastructure
- $5 million for Surface Water Operational Efficiencies
- $1 million in grants for measuring and monitoring systems
The funds also support ongoing efforts under the State Water Plan and the ESPA Comprehensive Aquifer Management Plan, aiming to increase aquifer recharge to 350,000 acre-feet annually, as set by Senate Concurrent Resolution 110.
The SWC, which represents irrigation districts managing water for roughly 550,000 acres of farmland, reaffirmed its commitment to collaborating with the IWRB to ensure the success of the outlined projects and grants.
For more information, visit Idaho Legislature – H0445.
