Direct Link to Department of Ecology
In July 2021, the Legislature provided up to $14 million in funding to buy water for development of water banks in rural headwater counties. This funding will help public entities and their partners preserve water rights in their basin for local use and to protect streamflows.
Last modified: July 28, 2022
Staff Contact:
Robin McPherson
Water Banking Grant Lead Dept. of Ecology
[email protected]
360-706-3393
Accepting applications from Nov. 17, 2021, until all funds are awarded, or until funding expires on June 30, 2023.
Applications must be submitted through EAGL. Link to application information.
Grant awards will fund the development of water banks in eligible counties. Funds will be used to purchase water rights ready for purchase as part of a water banking project proposal.
One-third of all water rights acquired under this pilot grant program must be set aside strictly for permanent instream use to support streamflows and aquatic resources. We’ve published guidance that outlines our process for awarding these grants.
Funding is available for the following entities: Public entities and their partners in eligible counties.
We are offering consultation meetings for potential applicants to discuss the details of their water banking project with agency staff before submitting an application. We will meet requests in the order they are received and cannot guarantee meetings within a certain timeframe. See grant guidelines for additional information.
