Snow Water Supply Forecasting Program FY 2026
This grant funds projects using aerial LiDAR snow surveys to improve water supply forecasts, encouraging collaboration with water agencies to enhance data use and support effective water management decisions.
Funder: Bureau of Reclamation
Due Dates: May 5, 2026: Full application deadline (4:00 PM Mountain Time)
Funding Amounts: $300,000–$999,999 per award | Total program funding: $6,500,000 | Up to 7 awards, project period through September 2029
Summary: Supports projects deploying aerial LiDAR snow surveys to enhance water supply forecasting and management in the Western U.S.
Key Information: At least 80% of federal funding must be for aerial LiDAR snow survey flights; projects must occur within the 17 Reclamation states.
Description
This opportunity from the Bureau of Reclamation seeks proposals to improve water supply forecasting through the deployment of aerial LiDAR snow surveys. The program aims to enhance the skill and accuracy of water supply forecasts, which are critical for effective water management and planning in the Western United States. Projects should demonstrate how LiDAR-based snow monitoring compares to existing methods and quantify the benefits for water management decisions. Strong applications will involve partnerships with water management and forecasting agencies and contribute to the Bureau's mission of sustainable water resource management.
