Rural Utilities Service: Funding Rural America’s Water and Waste Infrastructure

RUS Water and Environmental Programs ARRA Implementation

RUS ARRA Water and Waste Disposal Funding

ARRA Quick Facts 1.9 million rural residents receiving new or improved access to water or waste service. 6.3% Reduction in rural populations’ potential for water borne illness % of WEP ARRA funding were obligated for projects in persistent poverty counties. 66,000 jobs anticipated to be created or saved

Is There Life After ARRA?

Funding Outlook Yes! RUS/WEP will have funding. Anticipated FY 2011 Appropriation –Similar Levels of Funding (1 to 1.5 billion) –Continuing Resolution at 2010 Level –Subsidy Rate Increasing Slightly from 7.54 to 8.58 –Partnering will be important. New SEARCH Grants Available in 2010 –Communities of 2,500 or less –Financially Distressed Communities

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9 Market Intermediate Poverty

FY 2011 Priorities ARRA Projects –Construction of Projects –Recipient Reporting Regularly Funded Projects –Construction of Projects –More Outreach –Applications on Hand (backlog still above $3 billion)

Why Is This Date So Important? 9/30/ /30/2015

FY 2011 Priorities Farm Bill Preparation Adapting Rules to New Census Data 1780 Modifications Strong Underwriting Targeted Outreach

FY 2011 Priorities Sustainable Systems – Sustainable Communities –EPA Collaboration –Energy Projects –Workforce Initiative –Regional Colonia’s Initiative

What Can You Do To Help? Encourage build out of projects. Continue to provide technical assistance to rural water systems. Farm Bill

Thank You! Jacqueline Ponti-Lazaruk Assistant Administrator, Water and Environmental Program