“We have so many water resource needs along the White River Basin that demand immediate attention, yet our communities cannot find the resources to provide the local match,” said Congressman Berry. “By lowering this cost share, I hope to help the White River region finish the study in a reasonable timeframe and get critical water resource projects underway.” 

The White River Basin covers approximately 28,000 square miles in northeastern Arkansas and southern Missouri. The current study will help the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers locate new projects such as improvements to Corps lakes and projects to address water resource needs for water supply, flood control, waste water management, navigation, recreation, and power generation. Although water resource studies require local authorities to match 50% of the funds, Congressman Berry was able to secure additional language to decrease the local match to 25% for the White River basin project. This will relieve the financial burden on state and local agencies already experiencing tight fiscal conditions.

“While I recognize the need to keep federal spending under control, the current federal match for water resource studies is so high that it discourages many communities from exploring potential projects,” said Congressman Berry. “By lowering this barrier for the White River Basin, we can ensure that the region takes advantage of the federal resources set aside to address water resource needs.”

The Water Resources Development Act passed the U.S. House of Representatives on July 14, 2005 and has been referred to the U.S. Senate for further consideration. Congressman Berry will continue to work with Senators Blanche Lincoln and Mark Pryor to ensure that the study for the White River basin is included in the final version of the legislation.