THE GORGE — On July 25, the United States Senate Committee on Appropriations announced the Fiscal Year 2025 Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act will provide $44.6 billion in total funding to protect and preserve the environment, public lands and support tribal communities and make sure Americans have clean air. Several communities in Washington and Oregon will receive money mainly to improve water system infrastructure.
Marla Keethler, Mayor, White Salmon
City of White Salmon Mayor Marla Keethler confirmed that they will receive $1.6 million. Keethler thanked Washington Sen. Patty Murray, who is also the Senate Appropriations Committee chair. The funds will “help [White Salmon] to improve the aquifer storage and recovery (ASR) system conveying Buck Creek surface water source to Well No. 2,” Keethler said.
The project will allow the city to create more efficient water reserves and give them the ability to meet the needs of residents during peak seasons. The funds will additionally reinforce the flow capacity to better withstand harsh weather and changing environmental conditions.
The Public Utility District No. 1 of Skamania County was awarded $1.5 million for their Underwood Water Rehabilitation Project.
The City of White Salmon and the Skamania PUD were two of seven in the State of Washington selected for funding through the appropriations bill.
Oregon Sens. Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden appropriated $1 million for the City of Maupin for Water System Improvements. Maupin was one of six projects in Oregon to be awarded funding.
The bill also brings forward commitments protecting public lands. Wildland firefighting and tribal programs were privy to much of the funds. The bill provides $12.65 billion for Tribal programs across the Department of the Interior and the Indian Health Service, an increase of $1.774 billion above fiscal year 2024. It also directs the agencies to prioritize improvements to fire facilities and to spend at least $8 million on firefighter housing.
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