Wyoming Agencies Collaborate on Water Infrastructure Funding and Support Strategy

The Select Water Committee of the Wyoming Legislature convened on August 7, 2025, to discuss critical aspects of water and wastewater infrastructure funding in the state. The meeting focused on the roles of various agencies in managing state revolving funds (SRFs) and the implications of recent federal funding initiatives.

The session began with an overview of the technical responsibilities of the Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) and the Office of State Lands and Investments. These agencies are integral to the administration of the drinking water SRF and the clean water SRF programs. They review project applications, provide technical assistance, and oversee the disbursement of funds for water and wastewater projects.

Jennifer Zigmund, the water quality administrator for DEQ, highlighted the agency's mission to protect the environment and ensure compliance with water quality standards. She noted that Wyoming has not yet obtained primacy under the Safe Drinking Water Act, meaning the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) currently oversees this program in the state. However, DEQ does manage other related programs, including capacity development and operator certification.

The committee discussed the significant funding opportunities available through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), which has allocated hundreds of millions of dollars for water infrastructure projects in Wyoming. This includes annual supplemental allocations for both drinking water and clean water SRF programs, aimed at enhancing the state's capacity to address infrastructure needs.

Sean, representing the Office of State Lands and Investments, elaborated on the various funding sources available to communities, including the Mineral Royalty Grant program and the Capital Construction Loan program. He explained that while these programs provide substantial financial support, they are not exclusively dedicated to water and wastewater projects.

The discussion also touched on the challenges faced by small communities in accessing these funds, particularly due to federal requirements associated with SRF loans. The committee acknowledged that while the funding pool is healthy, the complexity of federal regulations can deter municipalities from utilizing these resources.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the importance of collaboration among state agencies to improve coordination in funding water and wastewater infrastructure projects. The committee plans to continue its efforts to streamline processes and enhance support for Wyoming's communities as they navigate the funding landscape. The next steps include ongoing outreach and technical assistance to ensure that all eligible projects can benefit from available funding opportunities.