DNR FY26 request centers on drinking water loans, Superfund match and flood‑resiliency studies

Department of Natural Resources Director Kurt Schaeffer told the committee the department’s FY26 budget focuses on drinking‑water and wastewater infrastructure funding, environmental remediation obligations, and energy and park operations.

Schaeffer opened by summarizing the department’s structure and funding mix and said only about 7 percent of the department’s total budget request is general revenue, while about 76 percent is other funds (fees, federal pass‑throughs and program receipts). He told members the approval process must balance fee‑funded program expectations with legislative oversight.

Drinking water loans and encumbrance authority: The division of environmental quality’s Financial Assistance Center manages the state revolving fund (SRF) that provides low‑interest loans and grants for water infrastructure. The…