Water Resources

Major technology companies and environmental organizations are shaping a voluntary national framework focused on water, transparency and participation, energy, and economic development. While it creates no stated procurement requirement, contractors supporting data center projects should track its development for potential implications to project planning, community engagement, resource use, and permitting.

Linn County, Iowa, is preparing to consider an agreement with Black & Veatch for an independent regional water balance study, with Google reimbursing up to $242,000. The county would retain control over the study and its findings, with results released to Google and the public simultaneously; completion is expected by March 2027.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) is poised to initiate 14 water infrastructure projects after the congressional approval of H.R. 9497, the Water Resources Development Act. Future appropriations through the Energy and Water Development process will determine actual funding for these projects, opening up significant contracting opportunities for industry stakeholders.

The Senate EPW Committee is progressing with the bipartisan Water Resources Development Act of 2026, authorizing crucial infrastructure projects nationwide. Procurement opportunities are anticipated for firms engaged in water resources, environmental engineering, and infrastructure modernization as new funding is made available.