CBDL Continues Push For Water Infrastructure Improvements

The Columbia Basin Development League, along with the Washington Congressional Delegation, continue to push for water infrastructure improvements. CBDL Communications/Projects Specialist Katlyn Straub said they've been pleased with the progress.

"All the focus that Congress has given to infrastructure overall this year has allowed for some attention to be given to aging agricultural water infrastructure and the need for new infrastructure for water for Ag."

Straub specifically pointed out efforts by Representatives Dan Newhouse and Cathy McMorris-Rogers as well as Senator Maria Cantwell. She also noted that the weather in 2021 has brought a new sense of urgency to the issue, even for irrigators off the Columbia Basin Project where the impact of the drought is not as great.

"While drought overall is not overwhelmingly impactful to our irrigators, there is still a great need that exists for a sustainable source of water. That has raised that opportunity to have the conversations that need to occur."​

Straub said they are also pushing for the passage of the Energy Infrastructure Act with help with the Odessa Groundwater Replacement Project.

If you have a story idea for the PNW Ag Network, call (509) 547-1618, or e-mail gvaagen@cherrycreekmedia.com