In 2006, the Legislature tasked the Washington Department of Ecology (Ecology) to aggressively seek out new water supplies for both instream and out-of-stream uses. (Chap. 90-90 RCW). The same legislation established the Columbia River Basin Development Account and authorized $200 million to fund it. The Office of Columbia River set aside a significant portion of this money to fund annual competitive grants for local water storage and conservation projects that preserve and enhance the standard of living for the people of Washington by strengthening the state’s economy, and restoring and protecting the Columbia Basin’s unique natural environment.

Grant applications undergo a rigorous vetting and technical review process which includes review by representatives from federal and state agencies, county commissions, tribes, water users, business, and environmental organizations.