Salinity Reduction Projects in the Price and San Rafael Watersheds

The Utah Department of Agriculture and Food administers the Salinity Control Program as part of a broader cooperative effort involving the Utah Department of Environmental Quality, agricultural producers, conservation districts, and industry stakeholders such as mining companies. The program is designed to reduce salinity entering the Colorado River Basin, a critical water resource in the western United States. Through this initiative, entities that contribute to salinity, including mining operations, help fund mitigation projects that reduce salt loading through improved agricultural and water management practices. The program aligns with regional efforts led by the Colorado River Basin Salinity Control Forum and related federal and state partners. The purpose of this funding opportunity is to support projects that reduce salinity in the Price and San Rafael Watersheds. The Utah Department of Agriculture and Food has indicated that up to 700000 dollars may be available, depending on actual funding levels at the time of award. Projects are expected to produce measurable and new reductions in salt loading and must demonstrate long term effectiveness, with a minimum functional lifespan of fifteen years. Eligible activities include irrigation efficiency improvements, canal lining, livestock water systems, and other infrastructure or management practices that prevent salts from entering waterways. Funding is intended for projects that can clearly quantify salinity reduction using accepted methodologies. Applicants must provide detailed calculations showing the amortized cost per ton of salt controlled over the life of the project. On farm practices are generally expected to meet a cost threshold of approximately 150 dollars per ton, while off farm practices should target approximately 100 dollars per ton. Matching contributions are required at a minimum of ten percent and may include cash or in kind support, though such contributions cannot duplicate funding from other salinity programs. Eligible applicants include individuals or entities capable of implementing projects within the designated watersheds and meeting technical and financial requirements. Applicants must demonstrate the ability to design, construct, and maintain projects, and prior experience with salinity control initiatives may improve competitiveness. Proposals must include a comprehensive project description, maps, engineering or design plans, cost calculations, timelines, and documentation of support from conservation districts or affected stakeholders. Applications must be submitted using the required template and include multiple components such as project descriptions, salinity calculations, budgets, and letters of support. The submission process requires applicants to compile all materials into a single PDF and submit electronically to the designated program contact. Evaluation is based on a weighted scoring system that prioritizes cost effectiveness, matching contributions, prior experience, innovative practices, and irrigation water management elements. The application cycle for this funding opportunity opens on July 1, 2026, and closes on September 1, 2026 at 5:00 PM. Awards are anticipated in the second quarter of the year following submission. The program appears to operate on a recurring basis, with annual solicitations expected for future cycles. Applicants may contact the program representative at the Utah Department of Agriculture and Food for additional guidance, including technical assistance with salinity calculations and project planning.

Focus on minimizing cost per ton and maximizing match contributions; provide strong technical justification and detailed calculations; include complete documentation and stakeholder support