Small Reclamation Water Resources Project Act of 2003

The Small Reclamation Water Resources Project Act of 2003 (S. 993) proposes to expand federal support for small-scale water management projects throughout the Western United States. The bill would authorize the Bureau of Reclamation to provide grants, loans, and loan guarantees to local organizations and Indian tribes for projects focused on water conservation, drought relief, and water quality improvements.

For citizens, this legislation aims to modernize local water infrastructure by funding projects that can be completed quickly—typically within 18 months. By offering a 50-percent federal match for costs up to $5 million, the bill seeks to help communities more affordably manage water for irrigation, urban landscaping, and fish and wildlife protection. Additionally, the bill introduces a loan guarantee program to help local entities secure private financing for these essential water resource improvements.