USDA Rural Development Nebraska State Director Karl Elmshaeuser today announced that nearly $2.5 million will be utilized for a water project in Beaver City.
“The funding announced today is a first step to improving Beaver City’s water infrastructure. Access to water that is reliable and safe is essential in rural Nebraska communities and we are very pleased to be assisting in this major water project,” said Elmshaeuser.
Beaver City’s water project consists of installing one new well, updating the distribution system, and replacing inoperable valves, fire hydrants and meters. The improvements will ensure a safe water source and promote water conservation practices.
Elmshaeuser’s announcement is in coordination with U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Deputy Under Secretary of Rural Development Donald “DJ” LaVoy’s announcement that USDA is investing $201 million to improve rural water infrastructure in 31 states.
USDA is providing the funding through the Water and Waste Disposal Loan and Grant program. Eligible applicants include rural cities, towns and water districts. The funds can be used for drinking water, stormwater drainage and waste disposal systems in rural communities with 10,000 or fewer residents.
“Modern, reliable and accessible infrastructure is critical to economic development and quality of life,” LaVoy said. “Under the leadership of President Trump and Agriculture Secretary Perdue, USDA is committed to partnering with rural communities to help them improve their infrastructure, because when rural America thrives, all of America thrives.”
USDA awarded nearly $1.8 billion for Water and Environmental Program loans and grants during fiscal year 2019. If your community is interested in a water or wastewater project, view the interactive RD Apply tool or contact a Nebraska Community Programs Specialist.
In April 2017, President Donald J. Trump established the Interagency Task Force on Agriculture and Rural Prosperity to identify legislative, regulatory and policy changes that could promote agriculture and prosperity in rural communities. In January 2018, Secretary Perdue presented the Task Force’s findings to President Trump. These findings included 31 recommendations to align the federal government with state, local and tribal governments to take advantage of opportunities that exist in rural America. Increasing investments in rural infrastructure is a key recommendation of the task force.
To view the report in its entirety, please view the Report to the President of the United States from the Task Force on Agriculture and Rural Prosperity (PDF, 5.4 MB). In addition, to view the categories of the recommendations, please view the Rural Prosperity infographic (PDF, 190 KB).
USDA Rural Development provides loans and grants to help expand economic opportunities and create jobs in rural areas. This assistance supports infrastructure improvements; business development; housing; community facilities such as schools, public safety and health care; and high-speed internet access in rural areas. For more information, visit www.rd.usda.gov.