Water Resources on Indian Lands

To support Indian tribes in the effective and efficient management, planning, and use of their water resources.


Examples of Funded Projects

Projects include hydrologic studies of groundwater supply, groundwater modeling, quantitative and qualitative monitoring and analysis of ground and surface water, acquifer investigations, stream gaging; comprehensive water management plans, etc., and also participation in tribal water rights negotiations/litigation.


Agency - Department of the Interior

The Department of the Interior protects and provides access to the Nation's natural and cultural heritage, including responsibilities to Indian tribes and island communities. Departmental goals include resource protection and usage, overseeing recreational opportunities, serving communities and excellence in management.

Office - Applications may be filed with the local Bureau of Indian Affairs' agency office as listed in Appendix IV of the Catalog.



Program Accomplishments

Annually, approximately 25 to 40 percent of the requests for Water Management, Planning, and Pre-development financial assistance are at least partially funded.

Uses and Use Restrictions

Funds are used by tribes to conduct water management and planning project and activities for the purpose of managing and conserving their water resources and to participate in the on-going water rights negotiation and litigation activities to protect and secure their lawful water rights.

All awards are project/proposal specific and are the result of a nationwide competitve process.