Connecticut River Watershed Partnership Act

Key Points

• This bill creates a new nonregulatory program to coordinate conservation efforts across the Connecticut River Watershed, covering portions of five New England states: Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Vermont.
• A competitive grant program would fund restoration and protection projects by state, Tribal, and local governments, nonprofits, and colleges. The federal government would cover up to 75% of project costs, or up to 90-100% for projects serving environmental justice communities.
• The program aims to restore fish and wildlife habitats, improve water quality, support farmland conservation, and advance nature-based flood and storm resilience solutions across the watershed region.
• The bill specifically calls for improving public access to outdoor recreation, including trails, fishing, hunting, wildlife viewing, and active transportation options like bike lanes and sidewalks, with a focus on environmental justice communities.
• Funding is authorized for fiscal years 2026 through 2030, with at least 75% of all money going directly to the grant program and technical assistance. The bill does not specify a dollar amount, instead authorizing "such sums as are necessary."