DWR Still Accepting Applications for Turf Replacement and Drought Relief Projects by ACWA Staff Dec 20, 2022 Water News The Department of Water Resources is accepting applications for approximately $300 million for turf replacement, conservation for urban suppliers and community drought relief projects. The funding is being offered through the 2022 Urban Community Drought Relief Grant. Eligible grant applicants include public agencies, public utilities, special district, mutual water companies, regional water management groups, colleges and universities, non-profit organizations and more. Applications must be submitted by Jan. 31, 2023 and awards will be announced from December 2022 through March 2023. Below are examples of eligible project types: Projects that support immediate drought response Projects that enhance local supply and climate resilience through source watershed improvements Drought resilience planning Water conservation activities, including but not limited to education, outreach, installation programs, fixture replacement incentives and rebate programs, and other activities that provide reductions in water consumption or improvements in water supply reliability Turf replacement with drought tolerant landscaping Hauled water Installation of temporary or permanent community water tanks Bottled water Water vending machines New wells or rehabilitation of existing wells Fish and wildlife rescue, protection and relocation DWR is encouraging projects that provide turf replacement or direct install programs to Underrepresented Communities and Tribes. There is a minimum award amount of $3 million per applicant but smaller projects can be bundled together in a single application to meet the minimum grant award requirement. Also, project costs incurred on/after July 1, 2022 are eligible for reimbursement.
