Collapse to view only § 2283. Fish and wildlife mitigation

§ 2280. Maximum cost of projects
(a) In generalIn order to insure against cost overruns, each total cost set forth with respect to a project for water resources development and conservation and related purposes authorized to be carried out by the Secretary in this Act or in a law enacted after the date of the enactment of this Act, including the Water Resources Development Act of 1988, or in an amendment made by this Act or any later law with respect to such a project shall be the maximum cost of that project, except that such maximum amount—
(1) may be increased by the Secretary for modifications which do not materially alter the scope or functions of the project as authorized, but not by more than 20 percent of the total cost stated for the project in this Act, in any later law, or in an amendment made by this Act or any later law; and
(2) shall be automatically increased for—
(A) changes in construction costs applied to unconstructed features (including real property acquisitions, preconstruction studies, planning, engineering, and design) from the date of enactment of this Act or any later law (unless otherwise specified) as indicated by engineering and other appropriate cost indexes; and
(B) additional studies, modifications, and actions (including mitigation and other environmental actions) authorized by this Act or any later law or required by changes in Federal law.
(b) Contributions by non-Federal interests

Notwithstanding subsection (a), in accordance with section 701h of this title, the Secretary may accept funds from a non-Federal interest for any authorized water resources development project that has exceeded its maximum cost under subsection (a), and use such funds to carry out such project, if the use of such funds does not increase the Federal share of the cost of such project.

(Pub. L. 99–662, title IX, § 902, Nov. 17, 1986, 100 Stat. 4183; Pub. L. 100–676, § 3(b), Nov. 17, 1988, 102 Stat. 4014; Pub. L. 113–121, title I, § 1023, June 10, 2014, 128 Stat. 1228.)
§ 2281. Matters to be addressed in planning
(a) In general

Enhancing national economic development (including benefits to particular regions of the Nation not involving the transfer of economic activity to such regions from other regions), the quality of the total environment (including preservation and enhancement of the environment), the well-being of the people of the United States, the prevention of loss of life, and the preservation of cultural and historical values shall be addressed in the formulation and evaluation of water resources projects to be carried out by the Secretary, and the associated benefits and costs, both quantifiable and unquantifiable, and information regarding potential loss of human life that may be associated with flooding and coastal storm events, shall be displayed in the benefits and costs of such projects.

(b) Assessments
For all feasibility reports for water resources projects completed after December 31, 2007, the Secretary shall assess whether—
(1) the water resources project and each separable element is cost-effective; and
(2) the water resources project complies with Federal, State, and local laws (including regulations) and public policies.
(Pub. L. 99–662, title IX, § 904, Nov. 17, 1986, 100 Stat. 4185; Pub. L. 101–640, title III, § 315, Nov. 28, 1990, 104 Stat. 4641; Pub. L. 104–303, title II, § 231, Oct. 12, 1996, 110 Stat. 3704; Pub. L. 110–114, title II, § 2033(a), Nov. 8, 2007, 121 Stat. 1084.)
§ 2281a. Tribal Liaison
(a) In general

Beginning not later than 1 year after December 23, 2022, the District Commander for each Corps of Engineers district that contains a Tribal community shall have on staff a Tribal Liaison.

(b) Duties
Each Tribal Liaison shall make recommendations to the applicable District Commander regarding, and be responsible for—
(1) removing barriers to access to, and participation in, Corps of Engineers programs for Tribal communities, including by improving implementation of section 2213(m) of this title;
(2) improving outreach to, and engagement with, Tribal communities about relevant Corps of Engineers programs and services;
(3) identifying and engaging with Tribal communities suffering from water resources challenges;
(4) improving, expanding, and facilitating government-to-government consultation between Tribal communities and the Corps of Engineers;
(5) coordinating and implementing all relevant Tribal consultation policies and associated guidelines, including the requirements of section 2356 of title;
(6) training and tools to facilitate the ability of Corps of Engineers staff to effectively engage with Tribal communities in a culturally competent manner, especially in regards to lands of ancestral, historic, or cultural significance to a Tribal community, including burial sites; and
(7) such other issues identified by the Secretary.
(c) Uniformity
Not later than 120 days after December 23, 2022, the Secretary shall finalize guidelines for—
(1) a position description for Tribal Liaisons; and
(2) required qualifications for Tribal Liaisons, including experience and expertise relating to Tribal communities and water resource issues.
(d) Funding

Funding for the position of Tribal Liaison shall be allocated from the budget line item provided for the expenses necessary for the supervision and general administration of the civil works program, and filling the position shall not be dependent on any increase in this budget line item.

(e) Definitions
In this section:
(1) Tribal community

The term “Tribal community” means a community of people who are recognized and defined under Federal law as indigenous people of the United States.

(2) Tribal Liaison
The term “Tribal Liaison” means a permanent employee of a Corps of Engineers district whose primary responsibilities are to—
(A) serve as a direct line of communication between the District Commander and the Tribal communities within the boundaries of the Corps of Engineers district; and
(B) ensure consistency in government-to-government relations.
(Pub. L. 117–263, div. H, title LXXXI, § 8112, Dec. 23, 2022, 136 Stat. 3704.)
§ 2281b. Corps of engineers support for underserved communities; outreach
(a) In General

It is the policy of the United States for the Corps of Engineers to strive to understand and accommodate and, in coordination with non-Federal interests, seek to address the water resources development needs of all communities in the United States.

(b) Outreach and access
(1) In generalThe Secretary shall, at Federal expense, develop, support, and implement public awareness, education, and regular outreach and engagement efforts for potential non-Federal interests with respect to the water resources development authorities of the Secretary, with particular emphasis on—
(A) technical service programs, including the authorities under—
(i)section 709a of this title;
“(ii)section 1962d–16 of title 42; and
(iii)section 2269 of this title; and
(B) continuing authority programs, as such term is defined in section 2282d(c)(1)(D) of this title.
(2) ImplementationIn carrying out this subsection, the Secretary shall—
(A) develop and make publicly available (including on a publicly available website), technical assistance materials, guidance, and other information with respect to the water resources development authorities of the Secretary;
(B) establish and make publicly available (including on a publicly available website), an appropriate point of contact at each district and division office of the Corps of Engineers for inquiries from potential non-Federal interests relating to the water resources development authorities of the Secretary;
(C) conduct regular outreach and engagement, including through hosting seminars and community information sessions, with local elected officials, community organizations, and previous and potential non-Federal interests, on opportunities to address local water resources challenges through the water resources development authorities of the Secretary;
(D) issue guidance for, and provide technical assistance through technical service programs to, non-Federal interests to assist such interests in pursuing technical services and developing proposals for water resources development projects; and
(E) provide, at the request of a non-Federal interest, assistance with researching and identifying existing project authorizations or authorities to address local water resources challenges.
(3) Prioritization

In carrying out this subsection, the Secretary shall, to the maximum extent practicable, prioritize awareness, education, and outreach and engagement to economically disadvantaged communities (as defined by the Secretary under section 160 of the Water Resources Development Act of 2020 (33 U.S.C. 2201 note)), including economically disadvantaged communities located in urban and rural areas.

(4) Authorization of appropriations

There is authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section $30,000,000 for each fiscal year.

(Pub. L. 117–263, div. H, title LXXXI, § 8117, Dec. 23, 2022, 136 Stat. 3709.)
§ 2282. Feasibility reports
(a) Preparation of reports
(1) In general

In the case of any water resources project-related study authorized to be undertaken by the Secretary that results in recommendations concerning a project or the operation of a project and that requires specific authorization by Congress in law or otherwise, the Secretary shall prepare a feasibility report, subject to section 2215 of this title.

(2) Contents of feasibility reports

A feasibility report shall describe, with reasonable certainty, the economic, environmental, and social benefits and detriments of the recommended plan and alternative plans considered by the Secretary and the engineering features (including hydrologic and geologic information), the public acceptability, and the purposes, scope, and scale of the recommended plan. A feasibility report shall also include the views of other Federal agencies and non-Federal agencies with regard to the recommended plan, a description of a nonstructural alternative to the recommended plan when such plan does not have significant nonstructural features, and a description of the Federal and non-Federal participation in such plan, and shall demonstrate that States, other non-Federal interests, and Federal agencies have been consulted in the development of the recommended plan. A feasibility report shall include a preliminary analysis of the Federal interest and the costs, benefits, and environmental impacts of the project.

(3) ApplicabilityThis subsection shall not apply to—
(A) any study with respect to which a report has been submitted to Congress before November 17, 1986;
(B) any study for a project, which project is authorized for construction by this Act and is not subject to section 903(b); 1
1 See References in Text note below.
(C) any study for a project which does not require specific authorization by Congress in law or otherwise; and
(D) general studies not intended to lead to recommendation of a specific water resources project.
(4) Feasibility report defined

In this subsection, the term “feasibility report” means each feasibility report, and any associated environmental impact statement and mitigation plan, prepared by the Corps of Engineers for a water resources project. The term includes a project implementation report prepared under title VI of the Water Resources Development Act of 2000 (114 Stat. 2680–2694), a general reevaluation report, and a limited reevaluation report.

(b) Federal interest determination
(1) In general
(A) Economically disadvantaged communities

In preparing a feasibility report under subsection (a) for a study that will benefit an economically disadvantaged community, upon request by the non-Federal interest for the study, the Secretary shall first determine the Federal interest in carrying out the study and the projects that may be proposed in the study.

(B) Other communities

In preparing a feasibility report under subsection (a) for a study that will benefit a community other than a community described in subparagraph (A), upon request by the non-Federal interest for the study, the Secretary may, with respect to not more than 20 studies in each fiscal year, first determine the Federal interest in carrying out the study and the projects that may be proposed in the study.

(2) Cost shareThe costs of a determination under paragraph (1)—
(A) shall be at Federal expense; and
(B) shall not exceed $200,000.
(3) Deadline

A determination under paragraph (1) shall be completed by not later than 120 days after the date on which funds are made available to the Secretary to carry out the determination.

(4) Treatment
(A) Timing

The period during which a determination is being completed under paragraph (1) for a study shall not be included for purposes of the deadline to complete a final feasibility report under section 2282c(a)(1) of this title.

(B) Cost

The cost of a determination under paragraph (1) shall not be included for purposes of the maximum Federal cost under section 2282c(a)(2) of this title.

(5) Report to non-Federal interest

If, based on a determination under paragraph (1), the Secretary determines that a study or project is not in the Federal interest because the project will not result, or is unlikely to result, in a recommended plan that will produce national economic development benefits greater than cost, but may result in a technically sound and environmentally acceptable plan that is otherwise consistent with section 2281 of this title, the Secretary shall issue a report to the non-Federal interest with recommendations on how the non-Federal interest might modify the proposal such that the project could be in the Federal interest and feasible.

(c) Projects not specifically authorized by Congress

In the case of any water resources project-related study authorized to be undertaken by the Secretary without specific authorization by Congress in law or otherwise, the Secretary shall prepare a detailed project report.

(d) Indian tribes

For purposes of studies undertaken pursuant to this section, the Secretary is authorized to consider benefits which may accrue to Indian tribes as a result of a project resulting from such a study.

(e) Standard and uniform procedures and practices

The Secretary shall undertake such measures as are necessary to ensure that standard and uniform procedures and practices are followed by each district office (and each division office for any area in which there is no district office) of the United States Army Corps of Engineers in the preparation of feasibility reports on water resources projects.

(f) Enhanced public participation
(1) In general

The Secretary shall establish procedures to enhance public participation in the development of each feasibility study under subsection (a), including, if appropriate, establishment of a stakeholder advisory group to assist the Secretary with the development of the study.

(2) Membership

If the Secretary provides for the establishment of a stakeholder advisory group under this subsection, the membership of the advisory group shall include balanced representation of social, economic, and environmental interest groups, and such members shall serve on a voluntary, uncompensated basis.

(3) Limitation

Procedures established under this subsection shall not delay development of any feasibility study under subsection (a).

(g) Detailed project schedule
(1) In general

Not later than 180 days after June 10, 2014, the Secretary shall determine a set of milestones needed for the completion of a feasibility study under this subsection, including all major actions, report submissions and responses, reviews, and comment periods.

(2) Detailed project schedule milestones

Each District Engineer shall, to the maximum extent practicable, establish a detailed project schedule, based on full funding capability, that lists all deadlines for milestones relating to feasibility studies in the District developed by the Secretary under paragraph (1).

(3) Non-Federal interest notificationEach District Engineer shall submit by certified mail the detailed project schedule under paragraph (2) to each relevant non-Federal interest—
(A) for projects that have received funding from the General Investigations Account of the Corps of Engineers in the period beginning on October 1, 2009, and ending on June 10, 2014, not later than 180 days after the establishment of milestones under paragraph (1); and
(B) for projects for which a feasibility cost-sharing agreement is executed after the establishment of milestones under paragraph (1), not later than 90 days after the date on which the agreement is executed.
(4) Congressional and public notificationBeginning in the first full fiscal year after June 10, 2014, the Secretary shall—
(A) submit an annual report that lists all detailed project schedules under paragraph (2) and an explanation of any missed deadlines to the Committee on Environment and Public Works of the Senate and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives; and
(B) make publicly available, including on the Internet, a copy of the annual report described in subparagraph (A) not later than 14 days after date 2
2 So in original. Probably should be preceded by “the”.
on which a report is submitted to Congress.
(5) Failure to actIf a District Engineer fails to meet any of the deadlines in the project schedule under paragraph (2), the District Engineer shall—
(A) not later than 30 days after each missed deadline, submit to the non-Federal interest a report detailing—
(i) why the District Engineer failed to meet the deadline; and
(ii) a revised project schedule reflecting amended deadlines for the feasibility study; and
(B) not later than 30 days after each missed deadline, make publicly available, including on the Internet, a copy of the amended project schedule described in subparagraph (A)(ii).
(Pub. L. 99–662, title IX, § 905, Nov. 17, 1986, 100 Stat. 4185; Pub. L. 106–541, title II, § 222(a), Dec. 11, 2000, 114 Stat. 2597; Pub. L. 110–114, title II, § 2043(b), Nov. 8, 2007, 121 Stat. 1101; Pub. L. 113–121, title I, § 1002(a)–(c), June 10, 2014, 128 Stat. 1198; Pub. L. 116–260, div. AA, title I, § 117, Dec. 27, 2020, 134 Stat. 2628; Pub. L. 117–263, div. H, title LXXXI, § 8156, Dec. 23, 2022, 136 Stat. 3738.)
§ 2282a. Planning
(a) Omitted
(b) Planning process improvementsThe Chief of Engineers—
(1) shall adopt a risk analysis approach to project cost estimates for water resources projects; and
(2) not later than one year after November 8, 2007, shall—
(A) issue procedures for risk analysis for cost estimation for water resources projects; and
(B) submit to Congress a report that includes any recommended amendments to section 2280 of this title.
(c) Benchmarks
(1) In general

Not later than 12 months after November 8, 2007, the Chief of Engineers shall establish benchmarks for determining the length of time it should take to conduct a feasibility study for a water resources project and its associated review process under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.). The Chief of Engineers shall use such benchmarks as a management tool to make the feasibility study process more efficient in all districts of the Corps of Engineers.

(2) Benchmark goals

The Chief of Engineers shall establish, to the extent practicable, under paragraph (1) benchmark goals for completion of feasibility studies for water resources projects generally within 2 years. In the case of feasibility studies that the Chief of Engineers determines may require additional time based on the project type, size, cost, or complexity, the benchmark goal for completion shall be generally within 4 years.

(d) Calculation of benefits and costs for flood damage reduction projectsA feasibility study for a project for flood damage reduction shall include, as part of the calculation of benefits and costs—
(1) a calculation of the residual risk of flooding following completion of the proposed project;
(2) a calculation of the residual risk of loss of human life and residual risk to human safety following completion of the proposed project;
(3) a calculation of any upstream or downstream impacts of the proposed project; and
(4) calculations to ensure that the benefits and costs associated with structural and nonstructural alternatives are evaluated in an equitable manner.
(e) Centers of specialized planning expertise
(1) Establishment

The Secretary may establish centers of expertise to provide specialized planning expertise for water resources projects to be carried out by the Secretary in order to enhance and supplement the capabilities of the districts of the Corps of Engineers.

(2) DutiesA center of expertise established under this subsection shall—
(A) provide technical and managerial assistance to district commanders of the Corps of Engineers for project planning, development, and implementation;
(B) provide agency peer reviews of new major scientific, engineering, or economic methods, models, or analyses that will be used to support decisions of the Secretary with respect to feasibility studies for water resources projects;
(C) provide support for independent peer review panels under section 2343 of this title; and
(D) carry out such other duties as are prescribed by the Secretary.
(3) Deep draft navigation planning center of expertise
(A) In general

The Secretary shall consolidate deep draft navigation expertise within the Corps of Engineers into a deep draft navigation planning center of expertise.

(B) List

Not later than 60 days after the date of the consolidation required under subparagraph (A), the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Environment and Public Works of the Senate and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives a list of the grade levels and expertise of each of the personnel assigned to the center described in subparagraph (A).

(f) Completion of Corps of Engineers reports
(1) Alternatives
(A) In generalFeasibility and other studies and assessments for a water resources project shall include recommendations for alternatives—
(i) that, as determined in coordination with the non-Federal interest for the project, promote integrated water resources management; and
(ii) for which the non-Federal interest is willing to provide the non-Federal share for the studies or assessments.
(B) Constraints

The alternatives contained in studies and assessments described in subparagraph (A) shall not be constrained by budgetary or other policy.

(C) Reports of Chief of Engineers

The reports of the Chief of Engineers shall identify any recommendation that is not the best technical solution to water resource needs and problems and the reason for the deviation.

(2) Report completionThe completion of a report of the Chief of Engineers for a water resources project—
(A) shall not be delayed while consideration is being given to potential changes in policy or priority for project consideration; and
(B) shall be submitted, on completion, to—
(i) the Committee on Environment and Public Works of the Senate; and
(ii) the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives.
(g) Completion review
(1) In generalExcept as provided in paragraph (2), not later than 120 days after the date of completion of a report of the Chief of Engineers that recommends to Congress a water resources project, the Secretary shall—
(A) review the report; and
(B) provide any recommendations of the Secretary regarding the water resources project to Congress.
(2) Prior reports

Not later than 180 days after November 8, 2007, with respect to any report of the Chief of Engineers recommending a water resources project that is complete prior to November 8, 2007, the Secretary shall complete review of, and provide recommendations to Congress for, the report in accordance with paragraph (1).

(Pub. L. 110–114, title II, § 2033, Nov. 8, 2007, 121 Stat. 1084; Pub. L. 113–121, title II, § 2103, June 10, 2014, 128 Stat. 1278.)
§ 2282b. Submission of reports to Congress

Beginning on January 17, 2014, and hereafter, not later than 120 days after the date of the Chief of Engineers Report on a water resource matter, the Assistant Secretary of the Army (Civil Works) shall submit the report to the appropriate authorizing and appropriating committees of the Congress.

(Pub. L. 113–76, div. D, title I, § 104, Jan. 17, 2014, 128 Stat. 157.)
§ 2282c. Vertical integration and acceleration of studies
(a) In general
To the extent practicable, a feasibility study initiated by the Secretary, after June 10, 2014, under section 2282(a) of this title shall—
(1) result in the completion of a final feasibility report not later than 3 years after the date of initiation;
(2) have a maximum Federal cost of $3,000,000; and
(3) ensure that personnel from the district, division, and headquarters levels of the Corps of Engineers concurrently conduct the review required under that section.
(b) Extension
If the Secretary determines that a feasibility study described in subsection (a) will not be conducted in accordance with subsection (a), the Secretary, not later than 30 days after the date of making the determination, shall—
(1) prepare an updated feasibility study schedule and cost estimate;
(2) notify the non-Federal feasibility cost-sharing partner that the feasibility study has been delayed; and
(3) provide written notice to the Committee on Environment and Public Works of the Senate and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives as to the reasons the requirements of subsection (a) are not attainable.
(c) Exception
(1) In general

The Secretary may extend the timeline of a study by a period not to exceed 3 years, if the Secretary determines that the feasibility study is too complex to comply with the requirements of subsection (a).

(2) Factors
In making a determination that a study is too complex to comply with the requirements of subsection (a), the Secretary shall consider—
(A) the type, size, location, scope, and overall cost of the project;
(B) whether the project will use any innovative design or construction techniques;
(C) whether the project will require significant action by other Federal, State, or local agencies;
(D) whether there is significant public dispute as to the nature or effects of the project; and
(E) whether there is significant public dispute as to the economic or environmental costs or benefits of the project.
(3) Notification

Each time the Secretary makes a determination under this subsection, the Secretary shall provide written notice to the Committee on Environment and Public Works of the Senate and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives as to the results of that determination, including an identification of the specific 1 or more factors used in making the determination that the project is complex.

(d) Reviews
Not later than 90 days after the date of the initiation of a study described in subsection (a) for a project, the Secretary shall—
(1) take all steps necessary to initiate the process for completing federally mandated reviews that the Secretary is required to complete as part of the study, including the environmental review process under section 1005;
(2) convene a meeting of all Federal, tribal, and State agencies identified under section 2348(e) of this title that may be required by law to conduct or issue a review, analysis, or opinion on or to make a determination concerning a permit or license for the study; and
(3) take all steps necessary to provide information that will enable required reviews and analyses related to the project to be conducted by other agencies in a thorough and timely manner.
(e) Interim report
Not later than 18 months after June 10, 2014, the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Environment and Public Works of the Senate and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and make publicly available a report that describes—
(1) the status of the implementation of the planning process under this section, including the number of participating projects;
(2) a review of project delivery schedules, including a description of any delays on those studies participating in the planning process under this section; and
(3) any recommendations for additional authority necessary to support efforts to expedite the feasibility study process for water resource projects.
(f) Final report
Not later than 4 years after June 10, 2014, the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Environment and Public Works of the Senate and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and make publicly available a report that describes—
(1) the status of the implementation of this section, including a description of each feasibility study subject to the requirements of this section;
(2) the amount of time taken to complete each feasibility study; and
(3) any recommendations for additional authority necessary to support efforts to expedite the feasibility study process, including an analysis of whether the limitation established by subsection (a)(2) needs to be adjusted to address the impacts of inflation.
(Pub. L. 113–121, title I, § 1001, June 10, 2014, 128 Stat. 1196; Pub. L. 115–270, title I, § 1330(b), Oct. 23, 2018, 132 Stat. 3827; Pub. L. 116–260, div. AA, title III, § 360(c), Dec. 27, 2020, 134 Stat. 2733.)
§ 2282d. Annual report to Congress
(a) In generalNot later than February 1 of each year, the Secretary shall develop and submit to the Committee on Environment and Public Works of the Senate and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives an annual report, to be entitled “Report to Congress on Future Water Resources Development”, that identifies the following:
(1) Feasibility reports

Each feasibility report that meets the criteria established in subsection (c)(1)(A).

(2) Proposed feasibility studies

Any proposed feasibility study submitted to the Secretary by a non-Federal interest pursuant to subsection (b) that meets the criteria established in subsection (c)(1)(A).

(3) Proposed modificationsAny proposed modification to an authorized water resources development project or feasibility study that meets the criteria established in subsection (c)(1)(A) that—
(A) is submitted to the Secretary by a non-Federal interest pursuant to subsection (b); or
(B) is identified by the Secretary for authorization.
(4) Programmatic modifications

Any programmatic modification for an environmental infrastructure assistance program.

(b) Requests for proposals
(1) Publication

Not later than May 1 of each year, the Secretary shall publish in the Federal Register a notice requesting proposals from non-Federal interests for proposed feasibility studies, proposed modifications to authorized water resources development projects and feasibility studies, and proposed modifications for an environmental infrastructure program to be included in the annual report.

(2) Deadline for requests

The Secretary shall include in each notice required by this subsection a requirement that non-Federal interests submit to the Secretary any proposals described in paragraph (1) by not later than 120 days after the date of publication of the notice in the Federal Register in order for the proposals to be considered for inclusion in the annual report.

(3) NotificationOn the date of publication of each notice required by this subsection, the Secretary shall—
(A) make the notice publicly available, including on the Internet; and
(B) provide written notification of the publication to the Committee on Environment and Public Works of the Senate and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives.
(c) Contents
(1) Feasibility reports, proposed feasibility studies, and proposed modifications
(A) Criteria for inclusion in reportThe Secretary shall include in the annual report only those feasibility reports, proposed feasibility studies, and proposed modifications to authorized water resources development projects and feasibility studies that—
(i) are related to the missions and authorities of the Corps of Engineers;
(ii) require specific congressional authorization, including by an Act of Congress;
(iii) have not been congressionally authorized;
(iv) have not been included in any previous annual report; and
(v) if authorized, could be carried out by the Corps of Engineers.
(B) Description of benefits
(i) Description

The Secretary shall describe in the annual report, to the extent applicable and practicable, for each proposed feasibility study and proposed modification to an authorized water resources development project or feasibility study included in the annual report, the benefits, as described in clause (ii), of each such study or proposed modification (including the water resources development project that is the subject of the proposed feasibility study or the proposed modification to an authorized feasibility study).

(ii) BenefitsThe benefits (or expected benefits, in the case of a proposed feasibility study) described in this clause are benefits to—(I) the protection of human life and property;(II) improvement to transportation;(III) the national, regional, or local economy;(IV) the environment; or(V) the national security interests of the United States.
(C) Identification of other factorsThe Secretary shall identify in the annual report, to the extent practicable—
(i) for each proposed feasibility study included in the annual report, the non-Federal interest that submitted the proposed feasibility study pursuant to subsection (b); and
(ii) for each proposed feasibility study and proposed modification to an authorized water resources development project or feasibility study included in the annual report, whether the non-Federal interest has demonstrated—(I) that local support exists for the proposed feasibility study or proposed modification to an authorized water resources development project or feasibility study (including the water resources development project that is the subject of the proposed feasibility study or the proposed modification to an authorized feasibility study); and(II) the financial ability to provide the required non-Federal cost share.
(D) Modifications of projects carried out pursuant to continuing authority programs
(i) In general

With respect to a project being carried out pursuant to a continuing authority program for which a proposed modification is necessary because the project is projected to exceed, in the coming fiscal year, the maximum Federal cost of the project, the Secretary shall include a proposed modification in the annual report if the proposed modification will result in completion of construction the 1

1 So in original. Probably should be preceded by “of”.
project and the justification for the modification is not the result of a change in the scope of the project.

(ii) InclusionFor each proposed modification included in an annual report under clause (i), the Secretary shall include in the annual report—(I) a justification of why the modification is necessary;(II) an estimate of the total cost and timeline required to complete construction of the project; and(III) an indication of continued support by the non-Federal interest and the financial ability of the non-Federal interest to provide the required cost-share.
(iii) DefinitionFor the purposes of this subparagraph, the term “continuing authority program” means any of—(I)section 701r of this title;(II)section 426g of this title;(III)section 577 of this title;(IV)section 426i of this title;(V)section 2326 of this title;(VI)section 701s of this title;(VII)section 2330 of this title;(VIII)section 701g of this title; and(IX)section 2309a of this title.
(2) TransparencyThe Secretary shall include in the annual report, for each feasibility report, proposed feasibility study, and proposed modification to an authorized water resources development project or feasibility study included under paragraph (1)(A)—
(A) the name of the associated non-Federal interest, including the name of any non-Federal interest that has contributed, or is expected to contribute, a non-Federal share of the cost of—
(i) the feasibility report;
(ii) the proposed feasibility study;
(iii) the authorized feasibility study for which the modification is proposed; or
(iv) construction of—(I) the water resources development project that is the subject of—(aa) the feasibility report;(bb) the proposed feasibility study; or(cc) the authorized feasibility study for which a modification is proposed; or(II) the proposed modification to an authorized water resources development project;
(B) a letter or statement of support for the feasibility report, proposed feasibility study, or proposed modification to an authorized water resources development project or feasibility study from each associated non-Federal interest;
(C) the purpose of the feasibility report, proposed feasibility study, or proposed modification to an authorized water resources development project or feasibility study;
(D) an estimate, to the extent practicable, of the Federal, non-Federal, and total costs of—
(i) the proposed modification to an authorized feasibility study; and
(ii) construction of—(I) the water resources development project that is the subject of—(aa) the feasibility report; or(bb) the authorized feasibility study for which a modification is proposed, with respect to the change in costs resulting from such modification; or(II) the proposed modification to an authorized water resources development project; and
(E) an estimate, to the extent practicable, of the monetary and nonmonetary benefits of—
(i) the water resources development project that is the subject of—(I) the feasibility report; or(II) the authorized feasibility study for which a modification is proposed, with respect to the benefits of such modification; or
(ii) the proposed modification to an authorized water resources development project.
(3) Certification

The Secretary shall include in the annual report a certification stating that each feasibility report, proposed feasibility study, and proposed modification to an authorized water resources development project or feasibility study included in the annual report meets the criteria established in paragraph (1)(A).

(4) Appendix
(A) In general

The Secretary shall include in the annual report an appendix listing the proposals submitted under subsection (b) that were not included in the annual report under paragraph (1)(A) and a description of why the Secretary determined that those proposals did not meet the criteria for inclusion under such paragraph.

(B) LimitationIn carrying out the activities described in this section—
(i) the Secretary shall not include proposals in the appendix of the annual report that otherwise meet the criteria for inclusion in the annual report solely on the basis of the Secretary’s determination that the proposal requires legislative changes to an authorized water resources development project, feasibility study, or environmental infrastructure program;
(ii) the Secretary shall not include proposals in the appendix of the annual report that otherwise meet the criteria for inclusion in the annual report solely on the basis that the proposals are for the purposes of navigation, flood risk management, ecosystem restoration, or municipal or agricultural water supply; and
(iii) the Secretary shall not include proposals in the appendix of the annual report that otherwise meet the criteria for inclusion in the annual report solely on the basis of a policy of the Secretary.
(d) Programmatic modifications in annual report

The Secretary shall include in the annual report only proposed modifications for an environmental infrastructure assistance program that have not been included in any previous annual report. For each proposed modification, the Secretary shall include a letter or statement of support for the proposed modification from each associated non-Federal interest, description of assistance provided, and total Federal cost of assistance provided.

(e) Special rule for initial annual reportNotwithstanding any other deadlines required by this section, the Secretary shall—
(1) not later than 60 days after June 10, 2014, publish in the Federal Register a notice required by subsection (b)(1); and
(2) include in such notice a requirement that non-Federal interests submit to the Secretary any proposals described in subsection (b)(1) by not later than 120 days after the date of publication of such notice in the Federal Register in order for such proposals to be considered for inclusion in the first annual report developed by the Secretary under this section.
(f) Publication

Upon submission of an annual report to Congress, the Secretary shall make the annual report publicly available, including through publication on the Internet.

(g) DefinitionsIn this section:
(1) Annual report

The term “annual report” means a report required by subsection (a).

(2) Feasibility report
(A) In general

The term “feasibility report” means a final feasibility report developed under section 2282 of this title.

(B) InclusionsThe term “feasibility report” includes—
(i) a report described in section 2215(d)(2) of this title; and
(ii) where applicable, any associated report of the Chief of Engineers.
(3) Feasibility study

The term “feasibility study” has the meaning given that term in section 2215 of this title.

(4) Non-Federal interest

The term “non-Federal interest” has the meaning given that term in section 1962d–5b of title 42.

(5) Water resources development project

The term “water resources development project” includes a project under an environmental infrastructure assistance program.

(Pub. L. 113–121, title VII, § 7001, June 10, 2014, 128 Stat. 1360; Pub. L. 114–322, title I, § 1157(b), Dec. 16, 2016, 130 Stat. 1666; Pub. L. 115–270, title I, § 1332(a), Oct. 23, 2018, 132 Stat. 3834; Pub. L. 116–260, div. AA, title I, § 127(a), Dec. 27, 2020, 134 Stat. 2640.)
§ 2282d–1. Report to Congress on authorized studies and projects
(a) In generalNot later than February 1 of each year, the Secretary shall develop and submit to Congress an annual report, to be entitled “Report to Congress on Authorized Water Resources Development Projects and Studies”, that identifies—
(1) ongoing or new feasibility studies, authorized within the previous 20 years, for which a Report of the Chief of Engineers has not been issued;
(2) authorized feasibility studies for projects in the preconstruction, engineering and design phase;
(3) ongoing or new water resources development projects authorized for construction within the previous 20 years; and
(4) authorized and constructed water resources development projects the Secretary has the responsibility to operate or maintain.
(b) Contents
(1) Inclusions
(A) CriteriaThe Secretary shall include in each report submitted under this section only a feasibility study or water resources development project—
(i) that has been authorized by Congress to be carried out by the Secretary and does not require any additional congressional authorization to be carried out;
(ii) that the Secretary has the capability to carry out if funds are appropriated for such study or project under any of the “Investigations”, “Construction”, “Operation and Maintenance”, or “Mississippi River and Tributaries” appropriations accounts for the Corps of Engineers; and
(iii) for which a non-Federal interest—(I) in the case of a study or a project other than a project for which funds may be appropriated for operation and maintenance, has entered into a feasibility cost-sharing agreement, design agreement, or project partnership agreement with the Corps of Engineers, or has informed the Secretary that the non-Federal interest has the financial capability to enter into such an agreement within 1 year; and(II) demonstrates the legal and financial capability to satisfy the requirements for local cooperation with respect to the study or project.
(B) Description of benefits
(i) Description

The Secretary shall, to the maximum extent practicable, describe in each report submitted under this section the benefits, as described in clause (ii), of each feasibility study and water resources development project included in the report.

(ii) BenefitsThe benefits referred to in clause (i) are benefits to—(I) the protection of human life and property;(II) improvement to transportation;(III) the national, regional, or local economy;(IV) the environment; or(V) the national security interests of the United States.
(2) TransparencyThe Secretary shall include in each report submitted under this section, for each feasibility study and water resources development project included in the report—
(A) the name of the associated non-Federal interest, including the name of any non-Federal interest that has contributed, or is expected to contribute, a non-Federal share of the cost of the study or project;
(B) the purpose of the study or project;
(C) an estimate, to the extent practicable, of the Federal, non-Federal, and total costs of the study or project, including, to the extent practicable, the fully funded capability of the Corps of Engineers for—
(i) the 3 fiscal years following the fiscal year in which the report is submitted, in the case of a feasibility study; and
(ii) the 5 fiscal years following the fiscal year in which the report is submitted, in the case of a water resources development project; and
(D) an estimate, to the extent practicable, of the monetary and nonmonetary benefits of the study or project.
(3) Certification

The Secretary shall include in each report submitted under this section a certification stating that each feasibility study or water resources development project included in the report meets the criteria described in paragraph (1)(A).

(4) Omissions
(A) Limitation

The Secretary shall not omit from a report submitted under this section a study or project that otherwise meets the criteria for inclusion in the report solely on the basis of a policy of the Secretary.

(B) Appendix

If the Secretary omits from a report submitted under this section a study or project that otherwise meets the criteria for inclusion in the report, the Secretary shall include with the report an appendix that lists the name of the study or project and reason for its omission.

(c) Submission to Congress; publication
(1) Submission to Congress

The Secretary may submit a report under this section in conjunction with the submission of the annual report under section 2282d of this title.

(2) Publication

On submission of each report under this section, the Secretary shall make the report publicly available, including through publication on the internet.

(d) DefinitionsIn this section:
(1) Non-Federal interest

The term “non-Federal interest” has the meaning given that term in section 1962d–5b of title 42.

(2) Water resources development project

The term “water resources development project” includes a separable element of a project, a project under an environmental infrastructure assistance program, and a project the authorized purposes of which include water supply.

(Pub. L. 116–260, div. AA, title II, § 222, Dec. 27, 2020, 134 Stat. 2694.)
§ 2282e. Post-authorization change reports
(a) In generalThe completion of a post-authorization change report prepared by the Corps of Engineers for a water resources development project—
(1) may not be delayed as a result of consideration being given to changes in policy or priority with respect to project consideration; and
(2) shall be submitted, upon completion, to—
(A) the Committee on Environment and Public Works of the Senate; and
(B) the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives.
(b) Completion reviewWith respect to a post-authorization change report subject to review by the Secretary, the Secretary shall, not later than 120 days after the date of completion of such report—
(1) review the report; and
(2) provide to Congress any recommendations of the Secretary regarding modification of the applicable water resources development project.
(c) Prior reports

Not later than 120 days after December 16, 2016, with respect to any post-authorization change report that was completed prior to December 16, 2016, and is subject to a review by the Secretary that has yet to be completed, the Secretary shall complete review of, and provide recommendations to Congress with respect to, the report.

(d) Post-authorization change report inclusionsIn this section, the term “post-authorization change report” includes—
(1) a general reevaluation report;
(2) a limited reevaluation report; and
(3) any other report that recommends the modification of an authorized water resources development project.
(Pub. L. 114–322, title I, § 1132, Dec. 16, 2016, 130 Stat. 1653.)
§ 2282f. Review of resiliency assessments
(a) Resiliency assessment
(1) In general

Not later than 180 days after December 27, 2020, and in conjunction with the development of procedures under section 1962–4 of title 42, the Secretary is directed to review, and where appropriate, revise the existing planning guidance documents and regulations of the Corps of Engineers on the assessment of the effects of sea level rise or inland flooding on future water resources development projects to ensure that such guidance documents and regulations are based on the best available, peer-reviewed science and data on the current and future effects of sea level rise or inland flooding on relevant communities.

(2) Coordination
In carrying out this subsection, the Secretary shall—
(A) coordinate the review with the Engineer Research and Development Center, other Federal and State agencies, and other relevant entities; and
(B) to the maximum extent practicable and where appropriate, utilize data provided to the Secretary by such agencies.
(b) Assessment of benefits from addressing sea level rise and inland flooding resiliency in feasibility reports
(1) In general

Upon the request of a non-Federal interest, in carrying out a feasibility study for a project for flood risk mitigation, hurricane and storm damage risk reduction, or ecosystem restoration under section 2282 of this title, the Secretary shall consider whether the need for the project is predicated upon or exacerbated by conditions related to sea level rise or inland flooding.

(2) Addressing sea level rise and inland flooding resiliency benefits

To the maximum extent practicable, in carrying out a study pursuant to paragraph (1), the Secretary shall document the potential effects of sea level rise or inland flooding on the project, and the expected benefits of the project relating to sea level rise or inland flooding, during the 50-year period after the date of completion of the project.

(Pub. L. 116–260, div. AA, title I, § 113, Dec. 27, 2020, 134 Stat. 2626.)
§ 2282g. Scope of feasibility studies
(a) Flood risk management or hurricane and storm damage risk reduction
In carrying out a feasibility study for a project for flood risk management or hurricane and storm damage risk reduction, the Secretary, at the request of the non-Federal interest for the study, shall formulate alternatives to maximize the net benefits from the reduction of the comprehensive flood risk within the geographic scope of the study from the isolated and compound effects of—
(1) a riverine discharge of any magnitude or frequency;
(2) inundation, wave attack, and erosion coinciding with a hurricane or coastal storm;
(3) flooding associated with tidally influenced portions of rivers, bays, and estuaries that are hydrologically connected to the coastal water body;
(4) a rainfall event of any magnitude or frequency;
(5) a tide of any magnitude or frequency;
(6) seasonal variation in water levels;
(7) groundwater emergence;
(8) sea level rise;
(9) subsidence; or
(10) any other driver of flood risk affecting the area within the geographic scope of the study.
(b) Water supply, water conservation, and drought risk reduction
In carrying out a feasibility study for any purpose, the Secretary, at the request of the non-Federal interest for the study, shall formulate alternatives—
(1) to maximize combined net benefits for the primary purpose of the study and for the purposes of water supply or water conservation (including the use of water supply conservation measures described in section 1116 of the Water Resources Development Act of 2016 (130 Stat. 1639)); or
(2) to include 1 or more measures for the purposes of water supply or water conservation if the Secretary determines that such measures may reduce potential adverse impacts of extreme weather events, including drought, on water resources within the geographic scope of the study.
(c) Cost sharing

All costs to carry out a feasibility study in accordance with this section shall be shared in accordance with the cost share requirements otherwise applicable to the study.

(Pub. L. 117–263, div. H, title LXXXI, § 8106, Dec. 23, 2022, 136 Stat. 3699.)
§ 2283. Fish and wildlife mitigation
(a) Steps to be taken prior to or concurrently with construction
(1) In the case of any water resources project which is authorized to be constructed by the Secretary before, on, or after November 17, 1986, construction of which has not commenced as of November 17, 1986, and which necessitates the mitigation of fish and wildlife losses, including the acquisition of lands or interests in lands to mitigate losses to fish and wildlife, as a result of such project, such mitigation, including acquisition of the lands or interests—
(A) shall be undertaken or acquired before any construction of the project (other than such acquisition) commences, or
(B) shall be undertaken or acquired concurrently with lands and interests in lands for project purposes (other than mitigation of fish and wildlife losses),
whichever the Secretary determines is appropriate, except that any physical construction required for the purposes of mitigation may be undertaken concurrently with the physical construction of such project.
(2) For the purposes of this subsection, any project authorized before November 17, 1986, on which more than 50 percent of the land needed for the project, exclusive of mitigation lands, has been acquired shall be deemed to have commenced construction under this subsection.
(b) Acquisition of lands or interests in lands for mitigation
(1) After consultation with appropriate Federal and non-Federal agencies, the Secretary is authorized to mitigate damages to fish and wildlife resulting from any water resources project under his jurisdiction, whether completed, under construction, or to be constructed. Such mitigation may include the acquisition of lands, or interests therein, except that—
(A) acquisition under this paragraph shall not be by condemnation in the case of projects completed as of November 17, 1986, or on which at least 10 percent of the physical construction on the project has been completed as of November 17, 1986; and
(B) acquisition of water, or interests therein, under this paragraph, shall not be by condemnation.
The Secretary, shall, under the terms of this paragraph, obligate no more than $30,000,000 in any fiscal year. With respect to any water resources project, the authority under this subsection shall not apply to measures that cost more than $7,500,000 or 10 percent of the cost of the project, whichever is greater.
(2) Whenever, after his review, the Secretary determines that such mitigation features under this subsection are likely to require condemnation under subparagraph (A) or (B) of paragraph (1) of this subsection, the Secretary shall transmit to Congress a report on such proposed modification, together with his recommendations.
(c) Allocation of mitigation costs

Costs incurred after November 17, 1986, including lands, easements, rights-of-way, and relocations, for implementation and operation, maintenance, and rehabilitation to mitigate damages to fish and wildlife shall be allocated among authorized project purposes in accordance with applicable cost allocation procedures, and shall be subject to cost sharing or reimbursement to the same extent as such other project costs are shared or reimbursed, except that when such costs are covered by contracts entered into prior to November 17, 1986, such costs shall not be recovered without the consent of the non-Federal interests or until such contracts are complied with or renegotiated.

(d) Mitigation plans as part of project proposals
(1) In general

After November 17, 1986, the Secretary shall not submit any proposal for the authorization of any water resources project to Congress in any report, and shall not select a project alternative in any report, unless such report contains (A) a recommendation with a specific plan to mitigate for damages to ecological resources, including terrestrial and aquatic resources, and fish and wildlife losses created by such project, or (B) a determination by the Secretary that such project will have negligible adverse impact on ecological resources and fish and wildlife without the implementation of mitigation measures. Specific mitigation plans shall ensure that impacts to bottomland hardwood forests are mitigated in-kind, and other habitat types are mitigated to not less than in-kind conditions, to the extent possible. If the Secretary determines that mitigation to in-kind conditions is not possible, the Secretary shall identify in the report the basis for that determination and the mitigation measures that will be implemented to meet the requirements of this section and the goals of section 2317(a)(1) of this title. In carrying out this subsection, the Secretary shall consult with appropriate Federal and non-Federal agencies.

(2) Selection and design of mitigation projects

(3) Mitigation requirements
(A) In general

To mitigate losses to flood damage reduction capabilities and fish and wildlife resulting from a water resources project, the Secretary shall ensure that the mitigation plan for each water resources project complies with, at a minimum, the mitigation standards and policies established pursuant to the regulatory programs administered by the Secretary.

(B) InclusionsA specific mitigation plan for a water resources project under paragraph (1) shall include, at a minimum—
(i) a plan for monitoring the implementation and ecological success of each mitigation measure, including the cost and duration of any monitoring, and, to the extent practicable, a designation of the entities that will be responsible for the monitoring;
(ii) the criteria for ecological success by which the mitigation will be evaluated and determined to be successful based on replacement of lost functions and values of the habitat, including hydrologic and vegetative characteristics;
(iii) for projects where mitigation will be carried out by the Secretary—(I) a description of the land and interest in land to be acquired for the mitigation plan;(II) the basis for a determination that the land and interests are available for acquisition; and(III) a determination that the proposed interest sought does not exceed the minimum interest in land necessary to meet the mitigation requirements for the project;
(iv) for projects where mitigation will be carried out through a third party mitigation arrangement in accordance with subsection (i)—(I) a description of the third party mitigation instrument to be used; and(II) the basis for a determination that the mitigation instrument can meet the mitigation requirements for the project;
(v) a description of—(I) the types and amount of restoration activities to be conducted;(II) the physical action to be undertaken to achieve the mitigation objectives within the watershed in which such losses occur and, in any case in which the mitigation will occur outside the watershed, a detailed explanation for undertaking the mitigation outside the watershed; and(III) the functions and values that will result from the mitigation plan; and
(vi) a contingency plan for taking corrective actions in cases in which monitoring demonstrates that mitigation measures are not achieving ecological success in accordance with criteria under clause (ii).
(C) Responsibility for monitoring

In any case in which it is not practicable to identify in a mitigation plan for a water resources project the entity responsible for monitoring at the time of a final report of the Chief of Engineers or other final decision document for the project, such entity shall be identified in the partnership agreement entered into with the non-Federal interest under section 1962d–5b of title 42.

(4) Determination of success
(A) In general

A mitigation plan under this subsection shall be considered to be successful at the time at which the criteria under paragraph (3)(B)(ii) are achieved under the plan, as determined by monitoring under paragraph (3)(B)(i).

(B) ConsultationIn determining whether a mitigation plan is successful under subparagraph (A), the Secretary shall consult annually with appropriate Federal agencies and each State in which the applicable project is located on at least the following:
(i) The ecological success of the mitigation as of the date on which the report is submitted.
(ii) The likelihood that the mitigation will achieve ecological success, as defined in the mitigation plan.
(iii) The projected timeline for achieving that success.
(iv) Any recommendations for improving the likelihood of success.
(5) Monitoring

Mitigation monitoring shall continue until it has been demonstrated that the mitigation has met the ecological success criteria.

(e) First enhancement costs as Federal costsIn those cases when the Secretary, as part of any report to Congress, recommends activities to enhance fish and wildlife resources, the first costs of such enhancement shall be a Federal cost when—
(1) such enhancement provides benefits that are determined to be national, including benefits to species that are identified by the National Marine Fisheries Service as of national economic importance, species that are subject to treaties or international convention to which the United States is a party, and anadromous fish;
(2) such enhancement is designed to benefit species that have been listed as threatened or endangered by the Secretary of the Interior under the terms of the Endangered Species Act, as amended (16 U.S.C. 1531, et seq.), or
(3) such activities are located on lands managed as a national wildlife refuge.
When benefits of enhancement do not qualify under the preceding sentence, 25 percent of such first costs of enhancement shall be provided by non-Federal interests under a schedule of reimbursement determined by the Secretary. Not more than 80 percent of the non-Federal share of such first costs may be satisfied through in-kind contributions, including facilities, supplies, and services that are necessary to carry out the enhancement project. The non-Federal share of operation, maintenance, and rehabilitation of activities to enhance fish and wildlife resources shall be 25 percent.
(f) National benefits from enhancement measures for Atchafalaya Floodway System and Mississippi Delta Region projects

Fish and wildlife enhancement measures carried out as part of the project for Atchafalaya Floodway System, Louisiana, authorized by Public Law 99–88, and the project for Mississippi Delta Region, Louisiana, authorized by the Flood Control Act of 1965, shall be considered to provide benefits that are national for purposes of this section.

(g) Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act supplementation

The provisions of subsections (a), (b), and (d) shall be deemed to supplement the responsibility and authority of the Secretary pursuant to the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act [16 U.S.C. 661 et seq.], and nothing in this section is intended to affect that Act.

(h) Programmatic mitigation plans
(1) In general

The Secretary may develop programmatic mitigation plans to address the potential impacts to ecological resources, fish, and wildlife associated with existing or future Federal water resources development projects.

(2) Use of mitigation plans

The Secretary shall, to the maximum extent practicable, use programmatic mitigation plans developed in accordance with this subsection to guide the development of a mitigation plan under subsection (d).

(3) Non-Federal plans

The Secretary shall, to the maximum extent practicable and subject to all conditions of this subsection, use programmatic environmental plans developed by a State, a body politic of the State, which derives its powers from a State constitution, a government entity created by State legislation, or a local government, that meet the requirements of this subsection to address the potential environmental impacts of existing or future water resources development projects.

(4) ScopeA programmatic mitigation plan developed by the Secretary or an entity described in paragraph (3) to address potential impacts of existing or future water resources development projects shall, to the maximum extent practicable—
(A) be developed on a regional, ecosystem, watershed, or statewide scale;
(B) include specific goals for aquatic resource and fish and wildlife habitat restoration, establishment, enhancement, or preservation;
(C) identify priority areas for aquatic resource and fish and wildlife habitat protection or restoration;
(D) include measures to protect or restore habitat connectivity;
(E) encompass multiple environmental resources within a defined geographical area or focus on a specific resource, such as aquatic resources or wildlife habitat; and
(F) address impacts from all projects in a defined geographical area or focus on a specific type of project.
(5) Consultation

The scope of the plan shall be determined by the Secretary or an entity described in paragraph (3), as appropriate, in consultation with the agency with jurisdiction over the resources being addressed in the environmental mitigation plan.

(6) ContentsA programmatic environmental mitigation plan may include—
(A) an assessment of the condition of environmental resources in the geographical area covered by the plan, including an assessment of recent trends and any potential threats to those resources;
(B) an assessment of potential opportunities to improve the overall quality of environmental resources in the geographical area covered by the plan through strategic mitigation for impacts of water resources development projects;
(C) standard measures for mitigating certain types of impacts, including impacts to habitat connectivity;
(D) parameters for determining appropriate mitigation for certain types of impacts, such as mitigation ratios or criteria for determining appropriate mitigation sites;
(E) adaptive management procedures, such as protocols that involve monitoring predicted impacts over time and adjusting mitigation measures in response to information gathered through the monitoring;
(F) acknowledgment of specific statutory or regulatory requirements that must be satisfied when determining appropriate mitigation for certain types of resources; and
(G) any offsetting benefits of self-mitigating projects, such as ecosystem or resource restoration and protection.
(7) ProcessBefore adopting a programmatic environmental mitigation plan for use under this subsection, the Secretary shall—
(A) for a plan developed by the Secretary—
(i) make a draft of the plan available for review and comment by applicable environmental resource agencies and the public; and
(ii) consider any comments received from those agencies and the public on the draft plan; and
(B) for a plan developed under paragraph (3), determine, not later than 180 days after receiving the plan, whether the plan meets the requirements of paragraphs (4) through (6) and was made available for public comment.
(8) Integration with other plans

A programmatic environmental mitigation plan may be integrated with other plans, including watershed plans, ecosystem plans, species recovery plans, growth management plans, and land use plans.

(9) Consideration in project development and permitting

If a programmatic environmental mitigation plan has been developed under this subsection, any Federal agency responsible for environmental reviews, permits, or approvals for a water resources development project may use the recommendations in that programmatic environmental mitigation plan when carrying out the responsibilities of the agency under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.).

(10) Preservation of existing authorities

Nothing in this subsection limits the use of programmatic approaches to reviews under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.).

(11) EffectNothing in this subsection—
(A) requires the Secretary to undertake additional mitigation for existing projects for which mitigation has already been initiated, including the addition of fish passage to an existing water resources development project; or
(B) affects the mitigation responsibilities of the Secretary under any other provision of law.
(i) Third-party mitigation arrangements
(1) Eligible activitiesIn accordance with all applicable Federal laws (including regulations), mitigation efforts carried out under this section may include—
(A) participation in mitigation banking or other third-party mitigation arrangements, such as—
(i) the purchase of credits from commercial or State, regional, or local agency-sponsored mitigation banks; and
(ii) the purchase of credits from in-lieu fee mitigation programs; and
(B) contributions to statewide and regional efforts to conserve, restore, enhance, and create natural habitats and wetlands if the Secretary determines that the contributions will ensure that the mitigation requirements of this section and the goals of section 2317(a)(1) of this title will be met.
(2) Inclusion of other activities

The banks, programs, and efforts described in paragraph (1) include any banks, programs, and efforts developed in accordance with applicable law (including regulations).

(3) Terms and conditionsIn carrying out natural habitat and wetlands mitigation efforts under this section, contributions to the mitigation effort may—
(A) take place concurrent with, or in advance of, the commitment of funding to a project; and
(B) occur in advance of project construction only if the efforts are consistent with all applicable requirements of Federal law (including regulations) and water resources development planning processes.
(4) Preference

At the request of the non-Federal project sponsor, preference may be given, to the maximum extent practicable, to mitigating an environmental impact through the use of a mitigation bank, in-lieu fee, or other third-party mitigation arrangement, if the use of credits from the mitigation bank or in-lieu fee, or the other third-party mitigation arrangement for the project has been approved by the applicable Federal agency.

(j) Use of funds
(1) In general

The Secretary, with the consent of the applicable non-Federal interest, may use funds made available for preconstruction engineering and design after authorization of project construction to satisfy mitigation requirements through third-party arrangements or to acquire interests in land necessary for meeting mitigation requirements under this section.

(2) Notification

Prior to the expenditure of any funds for a project pursuant to paragraph (1), the Secretary shall notify the Committee on Appropriations and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Appropriations and the Committee on Environment and Public Works of the Senate.

(k) Measures

The Secretary shall consult with interested members of the public, the Director of the United States Fish and Wildlife Service, the Assistant Administrator for Fisheries of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, States, including State fish and game departments, and interested local governments to identify standard measures under subsection (h)(6)(C) that reflect the best available scientific information for evaluating habitat connectivity.

(Pub. L. 99–662, title IX, § 906, Nov. 17, 1986, 100 Stat. 4186; Pub. L. 102–580, title III, § 333(a), Oct. 31, 1992, 106 Stat. 4852; Pub. L. 106–53, title II, § 221, Aug. 17, 1999, 113 Stat. 295;
§ 2283a. Status report
(1) In general

Concurrent with the President’s submission to Congress of the President’s request for appropriations for the Civil Works Program for a fiscal year, the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Environment and Public Works of the Senate a report on the status of construction of projects that require mitigation under section 2283 of this title, the status of such mitigation, and the results of the consultation under subsection (d)(4)(B) of such section.

(2) Projects included
The status report shall include the status of—
(A) all projects that are under construction as of the date of the report;
(B) all projects for which the President requests funding for the next fiscal year; and
(C) all projects that have undergone or completed construction, but have not completed the mitigation required under section 2283 of this title.
(3) Information included
In reporting the status of all projects included in the report, the Secretary shall—
(A) use a uniform methodology for determining the status of all projects included in the report;
(B) use a methodology that describes both a qualitative and quantitative status for all projects in the report; and
(C) provide specific dates for participation in the consultations required under section 2283(d)(4)(B) of this title.
(4) Availability of information

The Secretary shall make information contained in the status report available to the public, including on the Internet.

(Pub. L. 110–114, title II, § 2036(b), Nov. 8, 2007, 121 Stat. 1094; Pub. L. 113–121, title I, § 1041, June 10, 2014, 128 Stat. 1243.)
§ 2283b. Clarification of mitigation authority
(a) In generalThe Secretary may carry out measures to improve fish species habitat within the boundaries and downstream of a water resources project constructed by the Secretary that includes a fish hatchery if the Secretary—
(1) has been explicitly authorized to compensate for fish losses associated with the project; and
(2) determines that the measures are—
(A) feasible;
(B) consistent with authorized project purposes and the fish hatchery; and
(C) in the public interest.
(b) Cost sharing
(1) In general

Subject to paragraph (2), the non-Federal interest shall contribute 35 percent of the total cost of carrying out activities under this section, including the costs relating to the provision or acquisition of required land, easements, rights-of-way, dredged material disposal areas, and relocations.

(2) Operation and maintenance

The non-Federal interest shall contribute 100 percent of the costs of operation, maintenance, replacement, repair, and rehabilitation of the measures carried out under this section.

(Pub. L. 113–121, title I, § 1028, June 10, 2014, 128 Stat. 1230.)
§ 2283c. Technical assistance
(1) In general

The Secretary may provide technical assistance to States and local governments to establish third-party mitigation instruments, including mitigation banks and in-lieu fee programs, that will help to target mitigation payments to high-priority ecosystem restoration actions.

(2) Requirements

In providing technical assistance under this section, the Secretary shall give priority to States and local governments that have developed State, regional, or watershed-based plans identifying priority restoration actions.

(3) Mitigation instruments

The Secretary shall seek to ensure any technical assistance provided under this section will support the establishment of mitigation instruments that will result in restoration of high-priority areas identified in the plans under paragraph (2).

(Pub. L. 113–121, title I, § 1040(c), June 10, 2014, 128 Stat. 1243.)
§ 2284. Benefits and costs attributable to environmental measures

In the evaluation by the Secretary of benefits and costs of a water resources project, the benefits attributable to measures included in a project for the purpose of environmental quality, including improvement of the environment and fish and wildlife enhancement, shall be deemed to be at least equal to the costs of such measures.

(Pub. L. 99–662, title IX, § 907, Nov. 17, 1986, 100 Stat. 4188.)
§ 2284a. Benefits to navigation

In evaluating potential improvements to navigation and the maintenance of navigation projects, the Secretary shall consider, and include for purposes of project justification, economic benefits generated by cruise ships as commercial navigation benefits.

(Pub. L. 104–303, title II, § 230, Oct. 12, 1996, 110 Stat. 3704.)
§ 2284b. Scenic and aesthetic considerations

In conducting studies of potential water resources projects, the Secretary shall consider measures to preserve and enhance scenic and aesthetic qualities in the vicinity of such projects.

(Pub. L. 104–303, title II, § 232, Oct. 12, 1996, 110 Stat. 3704.)
§ 2285. Environmental Protection and Mitigation Fund

There is established an Environmental Protection and Mitigation Fund. There is authorized to be appropriated to such fund $35,000,000 for fiscal years beginning after September 30, 1986. Amounts in the fund 1

1 So in original. Probably should be capitalized.
shall be available for undertaking, in advance of construction of any water resources project authorized to be constructed by the Secretary, such measures authorized as part of such project, including the acquisition of lands and interests therein, as may be necessary to ensure that project-induced losses to fish and wildlife production and habitat will be mitigated. The Secretary shall reimburse the Fund for any amounts expended under this section for a water resources project from the first appropriations made for construction, including planning and designing, of such project.

(Pub. L. 99–662, title IX, § 908, Nov. 17, 1986, 100 Stat. 4188.)
§ 2286. Acceptance of certain funds for mitigation

The Secretary is authorized to accept funds from any entity, public or private, in accordance with the Pacific Northwest Electric Power Planning and Conservation Act [16 U.S.C. 839 et seq.] to be used to protect, mitigate, and enhance fish and wildlife in connection with projects constructed or operated by the Secretary. The Secretary may accept and use funds for such purposes without regard to any limitation established under any other provision of law or rule of law.

(Pub. L. 99–662, title XI, § 1146, Nov. 17, 1986, 100 Stat. 4253.)
§ 2287. Continued planning and investigations
(a) Pre-authorization planning and engineering

After the Chief of Engineers transmits his recommendations for a water resources development project to the Secretary for transmittal to the Congress, as authorized in section 701–1 of this title, and before authorization for construction of such project, the Chief of Engineers is authorized to undertake continued planning and engineering (other than preparation of plans and specifications) for such project if the Chief of Engineers finds that the project is without substantial controversy and justifies further engineering, economic, and environmental investigations and the Chief of Engineers transmits to the Committee on Public Works and Transportation of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Environment and Public Works of the Senate a statement of such findings. In the one-year period after authorization for construction of such project, the Chief of Engineers is authorized to undertake planning, engineering, and design for such project.

(b) Omitted
(c) Authorizations as additions to other authorizations

The authorization made by this section shall be in addition to any other authorizations for planning, engineering, and design of water resources development projects and shall not be construed as a limitation on any other such authorization.

(Pub. L. 99–662, title IX, § 910, Nov. 17, 1986, 100 Stat. 4189.)
§ 2288. Repealed. Pub. L. 113–121, title I, § 1004, June 10, 2014, 128 Stat. 1199
§ 2289. Urban and rural flood control frequency

In the preparation of feasibility reports for projects for flood damage prevention in urban and rural areas, the Secretary may consider and evaluate measures to reduce or eliminate damages from flooding without regard to frequency of flooding, drainage area, and amount of runoff. This section shall apply with respect to any project, or separable element thereof, the Federal share of the cost of which is less than $3,000,000.

(Pub. L. 99–662, title IX, § 914, Nov. 17, 1986, 100 Stat. 4190.)
§ 2289a. Consideration of measures
(a) Definitions
In this section, the following definitions apply:
(1) Natural feature

The term “natural feature” means a feature that is created through the action of physical, geological, biological, and chemical processes over time.

(2) Nature-based feature

The term “nature-based feature” means a feature that is created by human design, engineering, and construction to provide risk reduction by acting in concert with natural processes.

(b) Requirement
In studying the feasibility of projects for flood risk management, hurricane and storm damage reduction, and ecosystem restoration the Secretary shall, with the consent of the non-Federal sponsor of the feasibility study, consider, as appropriate—
(1) natural features;
(2) nature-based features;
(3) nonstructural measures; and
(4) structural measures.
(c) Report to Congress
(1) In general

Not later than February 1, 2020, and 5 and 10 years thereafter, the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Environment and Public Works of the Senate and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives a report on the implementation of subsection (b).

(2) Contents
The report under paragraph (1) shall include, at a minimum, the following:
(A) A description of guidance or instructions issued, and other measures taken, by the Secretary and the Chief of Engineers to implement subsection (b).
(B) An assessment of the costs, benefits, impacts, and trade-offs associated with measures recommended by the Secretary for coastal risk reduction and the effectiveness of those measures.
(C) A description of any statutory, fiscal, or regulatory barriers to the appropriate consideration and use of a full array of measures for coastal risk reduction.
(Pub. L. 114–322, title I, § 1184, Dec. 16, 2016, 130 Stat. 1679; Pub. L. 115–270, title I, § 1149(b), Oct. 23, 2018, 132 Stat. 3787.)
§ 2290. Flood control in Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands

The Secretary is authorized to use the authority contained in section 205 of the Flood Control Act of 1948 (33 U.S.C. 701s), section 2 of the Flood Control Act of August 28, 1937 (33 U.S.C. 701g), section 14 of the Flood Control Act of 1946 (33 U.S.C. 701r), section 107 of the River and Harbor Act of 1960 (33 U.S.C. 577), section 3 of the Act entitled “An Act authorizing Federal participation in the cost of protecting the shores of publicly owned property”, approved August 13, 1946 (33 U.S.C. 426g), and section 111 of the River and Harbor Act of 1968 (33 U.S.C. 426i) in the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands.

(Pub. L. 99–662, title IX, § 915(h), Nov. 17, 1986, 100 Stat. 4191.)
§ 2291. Federal Project Repayment District
(a) The Secretary may enter into a contract providing for the payment or recovery of an appropriate share of the costs of a project under his responsibility with a Federal Project Repayment District or other political subdivision of a State prior to the construction, operation, improvement, or financing of such project. The Federal Project Repayment District shall include lands and improvements which receive identifiable benefits from the construction or operation of such project. Such districts shall be established in accordance with State law, shall have specific boundaries which may be changed from time to time based upon further evaluations of benefits, and shall have the power to recover benefits through any cost-recovery approach that is consistent with State law and satisfies the applicable cost-recovery requirement under subsection (b).
(b) Prior to execution of an agreement pursuant to subsection (a) of this section, the Secretary shall require and approve a study from the State or political subdivision demonstrating that the revenues to be derived from a contract under this section, or an agreement with a Federal Project Repayment District, will be sufficient to equal or exceed the cost recovery requirements over the term of repayment required by Federal law.
(Pub. L. 99–662, title IX, § 916, Nov. 17, 1986, 100 Stat. 4191; Pub. L. 100–676, § 15, Nov. 17, 1988, 102 Stat. 4026.)
§ 2292. Surveying and mapping

Any surveying or mapping services to be performed in connection with a water resources project which is or has been authorized to be undertaken by the Secretary shall be procured in accordance with title IX of the Federal Property and Administrative Services Act of 1949.1

1 See References in Text note below.

(Pub. L. 99–662, title IX, § 918, Nov. 17, 1986, 100 Stat. 4192.)
§ 2293. Reprogramming during national emergencies
(a) Termination or deferment of civil works projects; application of resources to national defense projects

In the event of a declaration of war or a declaration by the President of a national emergency in accordance with the National Emergencies Act [50 U.S.C. 1601 et seq.] that requires or may require use of the Armed Forces, the Secretary, without regard to any other provision of law, may (1) terminate or defer the construction, operation, maintenance, or repair of any Department of the Army civil works project that he deems not essential to the national defense, and (2) apply the resources of the Department of the Army’s civil works program, including funds, personnel, and equipment, to construct or assist in the construction, operation, maintenance, and repair of authorized civil works, military construction, and civil defense projects that are essential to the national defense.

(b) Termination of state of war or national emer­gency

The Secretary shall immediately notify the appropriate committees of Congress of any actions taken pursuant to the authorities provided by this section, and cease to exercise such authorities not later than 180 calendar days after the termination of the state of war or national emergency, whichever occurs later.

(Pub. L. 99–662, title IX, § 923, Nov. 17, 1986, 100 Stat. 4194.)
§ 2293a. Reprogramming of funds for projects by Corps of Engineers

None of the funds made available before, on, or after June 15, 2006, in an appropriations Act may be expended to prevent or limit any reprogramming of funds for a project to be carried out by the Corps of Engineers using funds appropriated in any Act making appropriations for energy and water development, based on whether the project was included by the President in the budget transmitted under section 1105(a) of title 31 or is otherwise proposed by the President or considered part of the budget by the Office of Management and Budget, if the project received funds in an Act making appropriations for energy and water development or any other appropriations Act making additional funds available for energy and water development.

(Pub. L. 109–234, title II, § 2307, June 15, 2006, 120 Stat. 457.)
§ 2294. Office of Environmental Policy

The Secretary shall establish in the Directorate of Civil Works of the Office of the Chief of Engineers an Office of Environmental Policy. Such Office shall be responsible for the formulation, coordination, and implementation of all matters concerning environmental quality and policy as they relate to the water resources program of the United States Army Corps of Engineers. Such Office shall, among other things, develop, and monitor compliance with, guidelines for the consideration of environmental quality in formulation and planning of water resources projects carried out by the Secretary, the preparation and coordination of environmental impact statements for such projects, and the coordination with Federal, State, and local agencies of environmental aspects of such projects and regulatory responsibilities of the Secretary.

(Pub. L. 99–662, title IX, § 924, Nov. 17, 1986, 100 Stat. 4194.)
§ 2295. Compilation of laws; annual reports
(a) Federal laws relating to improvements of rivers and harbors, flood control, beach erosion, and other water resources development

Within one year after November 17, 1986, the laws of the United States relating to the improvement of rivers and harbors, flood control, beach erosion, and other water resources development enacted after November 8, 1966, and before January 1, 1987, shall be compiled under the direction of the Secretary and the Chief of Engineers and printed for the use of the Department of the Army, the Congress, and the general public. The Secretary shall reprint the volumes containing such laws enacted before November 8, 1966. In addition, the Secretary shall include an index in each volume so compiled or reprinted. The Secretary shall transmit copies of each such volume to Congress.

(b) Annual report

The Secretary shall prepare and submit the annual report required by section 556 of this title, in two volumes. Volume I shall consist of a summary and highlights of Corps of Engineers’ activities, authorities, and accomplishments. Volume II shall consist of detailed information and field reports on Corps of Engineers’ activities. The Secretary shall publish an index with each annual report.

(c) Biennial reports for each State

The Secretary shall prepare biennially for public information a report for each State containing a description of each water resources project under the jurisdiction of the Secretary in such State and the status of each such project. Each report shall include an index. The report for each State shall be prepared in a separate volume. The reports under this subsection shall be published at the same time and the first such reports shall be published not later than one year after November 17, 1986.

(Pub. L. 99–662, title IX, § 925, Nov. 17, 1986, 100 Stat. 4194.)
§ 2295a. Policy and technical standards

Every 5 years, the Secretary shall revise, rescind, or certify as current, as applicable, each policy and technical standards publication for the civil works programs of the Corps of Engineers, including each engineer regulation, engineer circular, engineer manual, engineer pamphlet, engineer technical letter, planning guidance letter, policy guidance letter, planning bulletin, and engineering and construction bulletin.

(Pub. L. 117–263, div. H, title LXXXI, § 8140, Dec. 23, 2022, 136 Stat. 3723.)
§ 2296. Acquisition of recreation lands
(a) In the case of any water resources project which is authorized to be constructed by the Secretary before, on, or after November 17, 1986, construction of which has not commenced before November 17, 1986, and which involves the acquisition of lands or interests in lands for recreation purposes, such lands or interests shall be acquired along with the acquisition of lands and interests in lands for other project purposes.
(b) The Secretary is authorized to acquire real property by condemnation, purchase, donation, exchange, or otherwise, as a part of any water resources development project for use for public park and recreation purposes, including but not limited to, real property not contiguous to the principal part of the project.
(Pub. L. 99–662, title IX, § 926, Nov. 17, 1986, 100 Stat. 4195.)
§ 2297. Operation and maintenance on recreation lands

The Secretary shall not require, under section 460d of title 16, and the Federal Water Project Recreation Act [16 U.S.C. 460l–12 et seq.], non-Federal interests to assume operation and maintenance of any recreational facility operated by the Secretary at any water resources project as a condition to the construction of new recreational facilities at such project or any other water resources project.

(Pub. L. 99–662, title IX, § 927, Nov. 17, 1986, 100 Stat. 4195.)
§ 2298. Impact of proposed projects on existing recreation facilities

Any report describing a project having recreation benefits that is submitted after November 17, 1986, to the Committee on Environment and Public Works of the Senate or the Committee on Public Works and Transportation of the House of Representatives by the Secretary, or by the Secretary of Agriculture under authority of the Watershed Protection and Flood Protection Act (68 Stat. 666; 16 U.S.C. 1001 et seq.), shall describe the usage of other, similar public recreational facilities within the general area of the project, and the anticipated impact of the proposed project on the usage of such existing recreational facilities.

(Pub. L. 99–662, title IX, § 928, Nov. 17, 1986, 100 Stat. 4195.)
§ 2299. Acquisition of beach fill

Notwithstanding any other provision of law, in any case in which the use of fill material for beach erosion and beach nourishment is authorized as a purpose of an authorized water resources project, the Secretary is authorized to acquire by purchase, exchange, or otherwise from nondomestic sources and utilize such material for such purposes if such materials are not available from domestic sources for environmental or economic reasons.

(Pub. L. 99–662, title IX, § 935, Nov. 17, 1986, 100 Stat. 4197.)
§ 2300. Study of Corps capabilities

The Secretary shall study and evaluate the measures necessary to increase the capabilities of the United States Army Corps of Engineers to undertake the planning and construction of water resources projects on an expedited basis and to adequately comply with all requirements of law applicable to the water resources program of the Corps of Engineers. As part of such study the Secretary shall consider appropriate measures to increase reliance on the private sector in the conduct of the water resources program of the Corps of Engineers. The Secretary shall implement such measures as may be necessary to improve the capabilities referred to in the first sentence of this section, including the establishment of increased levels of personnel, changes in project planning and construction procedures designed to lessen the time required for such planning and construction, and procedures for expediting the coordination of water resources projects with Federal, State, and local agencies.

(Pub. L. 99–662, title IX, § 936, Nov. 17, 1986, 100 Stat. 4197.)
§§ 2301, 2302. Omitted
§ 2303. Historical properties

The Secretary is authorized to preserve, restore, and maintain those historic properties located on water resource development project lands under the jurisdiction of the Department of the Army if such properties have been entered into the National Register of Historic Places.

(Pub. L. 99–662, title IX, § 943, Nov. 17, 1986, 100 Stat. 4200.)
§ 2304. Separability

If any provision of this Act, or the application of any provision of this Act to any person or circumstance, is held invalid, the application of such provision to other persons or circumstances, and the remainder of this Act, shall not be affected thereby.

(Pub. L. 99–662, title IX, § 949, Nov. 17, 1986, 100 Stat. 4201.)
§ 2305. Use of FMHA funds

Notwithstanding any other provision of law, Federal assistance made available by the Farmers Home Administration may be used to pay the non-Federal share of any other Federal grant-in-aid program for any project for water resources, including water pollution control.

(Pub. L. 99–662, title IX, § 950, Nov. 17, 1986, 100 Stat. 4201.)
§ 2306. Reports

If any report required to be transmitted under this Act to the Committee on Public Works and Transportation of the House of Representatives or the Committee on Environment and Public Works of the Senate pertains in whole or in part to fish and wildlife mitigation, benthic environmental repercussions, or ecosystem mitigation, the Federal officer required to prepare or transmit that report also shall transmit a copy of the report to the Committee on Merchant Marine and Fisheries of the House of Representatives.

(Pub. L. 99–662, title IX, § 951, Nov. 17, 1986, 100 Stat. 4201.)
§ 2307. Control of ice
(a) Program authority

The Secretary shall undertake a program of research for the control of ice, and to assist communities in breaking up ice, which otherwise is likely to cause or aggravate flood damage or severe streambank erosion.

(b) Assistance to units of local government

The Secretary is further authorized to provide technical assistance to units of local government to implement local plans to control or break up such ice. As part of such authority, the Secretary shall acquire necessary ice-control or ice-breaking equipment, which shall be loaned to units of local government together with operating assistance, where appropriate.

(c) Authorization of appropriations

There is authorized to be appropriated $5,000,000 per fiscal year for each of the fiscal years 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, and 1992 for purposes of carrying out subsections (a) and (b) of this section, such sums to remain available until expended.

(d) Hardwick, Vermont, demonstration program

To implement further the purposes of this section, the Secretary, in consultation and cooperation with local officials, is authorized and directed to undertake a demonstration program for the control of ice at Hardwick, Vermont. The work authorized by this subsection shall be designed to minimize the danger of flooding due to ice problems in the vicinity of such community. In the design, construction, and location of ice-control structures for this project, full consideration will be given to the recreational, scenic, and environmental values of the reach of river affected by the project, in order to minimize project impacts on these values. Full opportunity shall be given to interested environmental and recreational organizations to participate in such planning. There is authorized to be appropriated $900,000 for fiscal years beginning after September 30, 1986, for the purposes of carrying out this subsection, such sum to remain available until expended.

(e) Salmon, Idaho, experimental program
(1) The Secretary is directed to complete an experimental program placing screens in the Salmon River in the vicinity of Salmon, Idaho, to trap frazil ice, and thus to eliminate flooding caused by ice dams in the river. Within one year of November 17, 1986, the Secretary shall report to the Congress on the feasibility of such experiment, including consideration of any adverse environmental or social effects that could result from such experiment. If, in the Secretary’s judgment, such experiment is not feasible or acceptable, the Secretary is authorized to consult with local public interests to develop a plan that is workable and practical, and then to submit such plan to Congress.
(2) There is authorized to be appropriated $1,000,000 for fiscal years beginning after September 30, 1986, for purposes of carrying out this subsection, such sum to remain available until expended.
(f) Wilmington, Illinois, project
(1) To implement further the purposes of this section, the Secretary shall carry out a project for the control of ice on the Kankakee River in the vicinity of Wilmington, Illinois. The Secretary shall report to Congress not later than one year after November 17, 1986, and annually thereafter on the effectiveness of the program under this section with respect to the Kankakee River in the vicinity of Wilmington, Illinois.
(2) There is authorized to be appropriated $3,000,000 for fiscal years beginning after September 30, 1986, for purposes of carrying out this subsection, such sum to remain available until expended.
(g) Cost sharing

Cost sharing applicable to flood control projects under section 2213 of this title shall apply to projects under this section.

(h) Report to Congress

Not later than March 1, 1989, the Secretary shall report to the Congress on activities under this section.

(Pub. L. 99–662, title XI, § 1101, Nov. 17, 1986, 100 Stat. 4223.)
§ 2308. Campgrounds for senior citizens
(a) Establishment and development

The Secretary may establish and develop separate campgrounds for individuals sixty-two years of age or older at any lake or reservoir under the jurisdiction of the Secretary where camping is permitted.

(b) Control of campground use and access

The Secretary may prescribe regulations to control the use of and the access to any separate campground established and developed under subsection (a) of this section.

(c) Authorization of appropriations

There are authorized to be appropriated such sums as may be necessary for fiscal years beginning after September 30, 1986, to carry out subsection (a) of this section.

(d) Campground at Sam Rayburn Dam and Reservoir, Texas

The Secretary shall establish and develop the parcel of land (located in the State of Texas at the Sam Rayburn Dam and Reservoir) described in subsection (g) of this section as a separate campground for individuals sixty-two years of age or older.

(e) Control of use and access to campground at Sam Rayburn Dam and Reservoir, Texas

The Secretary shall prescribe regulations to control the use of and the access to the separate campground established and developed pursuant to subsection (d) of this section.

(f) Authorization of appropriations

There are authorized to be appropriated for fiscal years beginning after September 30, 1986, $600,000 to carry out subsection (d) of this section.

(g) Boundaries of campground at Sam Rayburn Dam and Reservoir, Texas

The parcel of land to be established and developed as a separate campground pursuant to subsection (d) of this section is a tract of land of approximately 50 acres which is located in the county of Angelina in the State of Texas and which is part of the Thomas Hanks survey. The boundary of the parcel begins at a point at the corner furthest west of tract numbered 3420 of the Sam Rayburn Dam and Reservoir:

thence north 81 degrees 30 minutes east, approximately 2,800 feet to a point at the edge of the water;

thence south along the edge of the water approximately 2,600 feet;

thence north 80 degrees 30 minutes west, approximately 1,960 feet to a point at the reentrant corner of tract numbered 3419 of the Sam Rayburn Dam and Reservoir;

thence along the boundary line of tract numbered 3419 north 46 degrees 15 minutes west, 220 feet to a point at the center line of a road at the corner common to tract numbered 3419 and tract numbered 3420;

thence along the southwestern boundary line of tract numbered 3420 north 46 degrees 15 minutes west, 230 feet to a point at the corner furthest east of tract numbered 3424 of the Sam Rayburn Dam and Reservoir;

thence along the boundary line of tract numbered 3424 south 32 degrees 4 minutes west, 420 feet to a point;

thence along the boundary line of tract numbered 3424 north 28 degrees 34 minutes west, 170 feet to a point;

thence along the boundary line of tract numbered 3424 north 38 degrees 15 minutes east, 248 feet to a point;

thence along the boundary line of tract numbered 3424 north 32 degrees 44 minutes east, 120 feet to a point at the corner furthest north of tract numbered 3424;

thence along the southwestern boundary line of tract numbered 3420 north 46 degrees 15 minutes west, 460 feet to the beginning point.

(Pub. L. 99–662, title XI, § 1127, Nov. 17, 1986, 100 Stat. 4245.)
§ 2309. Great Lakes Commodities Marketing Board
(a) Congressional declaration of purpose

To ensure the coordinated economic revitalization and environmental enhancement of the Great Lakes and their connecting channels and the Saint Lawrence Seaway (hereinafter in this section referred to as the “Great Lakes”), known as the “Fourth Seacoast” of the United States, it is hereby declared to be the intent of Congress to recognize the importance of the economic vitality of the Great Lakes region, the importance of exports from the region in the United States balance of trade, and the need to assure an environmentally and socially responsible navigation system for the Great Lakes. Congress finds that the Great Lakes provide a diversity of agricultural, commercial, environmental, recreational, and related opportunities based on their extensive water resources and water transportation systems.

(b) Establishment; strategy development; composition of Board; Director; report; termination
(1) There is hereby established a Board to be known as the Great Lakes Commodities Marketing Board (hereinafter in this subsection referred to as the “Board”).
(2)
(A) The Board shall develop a strategy to improve the capacity of the Great Lakes region to produce, market, and transport commodities in a timely manner and to maximize the efficiency and benefits of marketing products produced in the Great Lakes region and products shipped through the Great Lakes.
(B) The strategy shall address, among other things, environmental issues relating to transportation on the Great Lakes and marketing difficulties experienced due to late harvest seasons in the Great Lakes region. The strategy shall include, as appropriate alternative storage, sales, marketing, multimodal transportation systems, and other systems, to assure optimal economic benefits to the region from agricultural and other commercial activities. The strategy shall develop—
(i) methods to improve and promote both bulk and general cargo trade through Great Lakes ports;
(ii) methods to accelerate the movement of grains and other agricultural commodities through the Great Lakes;
(iii) methods to provide needed flexibility to farmers in the Great Lakes region to market grains and other agricultural commodities; and
(iv) methods and materials to promote trade from the Great Lakes region and through Great Lakes ports, particularly with European, Mediterranean, African, Caribbean, Central American, and South American nations.
(C) In developing the strategy, the Board shall conduct and consider the results of—
(i) an analysis of the feasibility and costs of using iron ore vessels, which are not being utilized, to move grain and other agricultural commodities on the Great Lakes;
(ii) an economic analysis of transshipping such commodities through Montreal, Canada, and other ports;
(iii) an analysis of the economic feasibility of storing such commodities during the non-navigation season of the Great Lakes and the feasibility of and need for construction of new storage facilities for such commodities;
(iv) an analysis of the constraints on the flexibility of farmers in the Great Lakes region to market grains and other agricultural commodities, including harvest dates for such commodities and the availability of transport and storage facilities for such commodities; and
(v) an analysis of the amount of grain and other agricultural commodities produced in the United States which are being diverted to Canada by rail but which could be shipped on the Great Lakes if vessels were available for shipping such products during the navigation season.
(D) In developing the strategy, the Board shall consider weather problems and related costs and marketing problems resulting from the late harvest of agricultural commodities (including wheat and sunflower seeds) in the Great Lakes region.
(E) In developing the strategy, the Board shall consult United States ports on the Great Lakes and their users, including farm organizations (such as wheat growers and soybean growers), port authorities, water carrier organizations, and other interested persons.
(3) The Board shall be composed of seven members as follows:
(A) the chairman of the Great Lakes Commission or his or her delegate,
(B) the Secretary or his or her delegate,
(C) the Secretary of Transportation or his or her delegate,
(D) the Secretary of Commerce or his or her delegate,
(E) the Administrator of the Great Lakes St. Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation or his or her delegate,
(F) the Secretary of Agriculture or his or her delegate, and
(G) the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency or his or her delegate.
(4)
(A) Members of the Board shall serve for the life of the Board.
(B) Members of the Board shall serve without pay and those members who are full time officers or employees of the United States shall receive no additional pay by reason of their service on the Board, except that members of the Board shall be allowed travel or transportation expenses under subchapter I of chapter 57 of title 5 while away from their homes or regular places of business and engaged in the actual performance of duties vested in the Board.
(C) Four members of the Board shall constitute a quorum but a lesser number may hold hearings.
(D) The co-chairmen of the Board shall be the Secretary or his or her delegate and the Administrator of the Great Lakes St. Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation or his or her delegate.
(E) The Board shall meet at the call of the co-chairmen or a majority of its members.
(5)
(A) The Board shall, without regard to section 5311(b) 1
1 See References in Text note below.
of title 5, have a Director, who shall be appointed by the Board and shall be paid at a rate which the Board considers appropriate.
(B) Subject to such rules as may be prescribed by the Board, without regard to 5311(b) 1 of title 5, the Board may appoint and fix the pay of such additional personnel as the Board considers appropriate.
(C) Upon request of the Board, the head of any Federal agency is authorized to detail, on a reimbursable basis, any of the personnel of such agency to the Board to assist the Board in carrying out its duties under this subsection.
(6)
(A) The Board may, for purposes of carrying out this subsection, hold such hearings, sit and act at such times and places, take such testimony, and receive such evidence, as the Board considers appropriate.
(B) Any member or agent of the Board may, if so authorized by the Board, take any action which the Board is authorized to take by this paragraph.
(C) The Board may secure directly from any department or agency of the United States any information necessary to enable it to carry out this subsection. Upon request of the co-chairmen of the Board, the head of such department or agency shall furnish such information to the Board.
(D) The Board may use the United States mail in the same manner and under the same conditions as other departments and agencies of the United States.
(E) The Administrator of General Services shall provide to the Board on a reimbursable basis such administrative support services as the Board may request.
(7) Not later than September 30, 1989, the Board shall transmit to the President and to each House of the Congress a report stating the strategy developed under this subsection and the results of each analysis conducted under this subsection. Such report shall contain a detailed statement of the findings and conclusions of the Board together with its recommendations for such legislative and administrative actions as it considers appropriate to carry out such strategy and to assure maximum economic benefits to the users of the Great Lakes and to the Great Lakes region.
(8) The Board shall cease to exist 180 days after submitting its report pursuant to this subsection.
(9) The non-Federal share of the cost of carrying out this subsection shall be 25 percent. There is authorized to be appropriated such sums as may be necessary to carry out the Federal share of this subsection for fiscal years beginning after September 30, 1986, and ending before October 1, 1990.
(c) International advisory group
(1) The President shall invite the Government of Canada to join in the formation of an international advisory group whose duty it shall be (A) to develop a bilateral program for improving navigation, through a coordinated strategy, on the Great Lakes, and (B) to conduct investigations on a continuing basis and make recommendations for a system-wide navigation improvement program to facilitate optimum use of the Great Lakes. The advisory group shall be composed of five members representing the United States, five members representing Canada, and two members from the International Joint Commission established by the treaty between the United States and Great Britain relating to boundary waters between the United States and Canada, signed at Washington, January 11, 1909 (36 Stat. 2448). The five members representing the United States shall include the Secretary of State, one member of the Great Lakes Commodities Marketing Board (as designated by the Board), and three individuals appointed by the President representing commercial, shipping, and environmental interests, respectively.
(2) The United States representatives to the international advisory group shall serve without pay and the United States representatives to the advisory group who are full time officers or employees of the United States shall receive no additional pay by reason of their service on the advisory group, except that the United States representatives shall be allowed travel or transportation expenses under subchapter I of chapter 57 of title 5 while away from their homes or regular place of business and engaged in the actual performance of duties vested in the advisory group.
(3) The international advisory group established by this subsection shall report to Congress and to the Canadian Parliament on its progress in carrying out the duties set forth in this subsection not later than one year after the formation of such group and biennially thereafter.
(d) Review of environmental, economic, and social impacts of navigation in United States portion of Great Lakes

The Secretary and the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, in cooperation with the Secretary of the Interior, the Administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and other appropriate Federal and non-Federal entities, shall carry out a review of the environmental, economic, and social impacts of navigation in the United States portion of the Great Lakes. In carrying out such review, the Secretary and the Administrator shall use existing research, studies, and investigations relating to such impacts to the maximum extent possible. Special emphasis shall be made in such review of the impacts of navigation on the shoreline and on fish and wildlife habitat, including, but not limited to, impacts associated with resuspension of bottom sediment. The Secretary and the Administrator shall submit to Congress an interim report of such review not later than September 30, 1988, and a final report of such review along with recommendations not later than September 30, 1990.

(Pub. L. 99–662, title XI, § 1132, Nov. 17, 1986, 100 Stat. 4246; Pub. L. 116–260, div. AA, title V, § 512(c)(5)(D), Dec. 27, 2020, 134 Stat. 2756.)
§ 2309a. Project modifications for improvement of environment
(a) Determination of need

The Secretary is authorized to review water resources projects constructed by the Secretary to determine the need for modifications in the structures and operations of such projects for the purpose of improving the quality of the environment in the public interest and to determine if the operation of such projects has contributed to the degradation of the quality of the environment.

(b) Authority to make modifications

The Secretary is authorized to carry out a program for the purpose of making such modifications in the structures and operations of water resources projects constructed by the Secretary which the Secretary determines (1) are feasible and consistent with the authorized project purposes, and (2) will improve the quality of the environment in the public interest.

(c) Restoration of environmental quality
(1) In general

If the Secretary determines that construction of a water resources project by the Secretary or operation of a water resources project constructed by the Secretary has contributed to the degradation of the quality of the environment, the Secretary may undertake measures for restoration of environmental quality and measures for enhancement of environmental quality that are associated with the restoration, through modifications either at the project site or at other locations that have been affected by the construction or operation of the project, if such measures do not conflict with the authorized project purposes.

(2) Control of sea lamprey
Congress finds that—
(A) the Great Lakes navigation system has been instrumental in the spread of sea lamprey and the associated impacts on its fishery; and
(B) the use of the authority under this subsection for control of sea lamprey at any Great Lakes basin location is appropriate.
(d) Non-Federal share; limitation on maximum Federal expenditure

The non-Federal share of the cost of any modifications or measures carried out or undertaken pursuant to subsection (b) or (c) shall be 25 percent. The non-Federal share may be provided in kind, including a facility, supply, or service that is necessary to carry out the modification or measure. Not more than $10,000,000 in Federal funds may be expended on any single modification or measure carried out or undertaken pursuant to this section.

(e) Coordination of actions

The Secretary shall coordinate any actions taken pursuant to this section with appropriate Federal, State, and local agencies.

(f) Omitted
(g) Nonprofit entities

Notwithstanding section 1962d–5b of title 42, a non-Federal sponsor for any project carried out under this section may include a nonprofit entity, with the consent of the affected local government.

(h) Authorization of appropriations

There is authorized to be appropriated not to exceed $50,000,000 annually to carry out this section.

(i) Definition

In this section, the term “water resources project constructed by the Secretary” includes a water resources project constructed or funded jointly by the Secretary and the head of any other Federal agency (including the Natural Resources Conservation Service).

(Pub. L. 99–662, title XI, § 1135, Nov. 17, 1986, 100 Stat. 4251; Pub. L. 100–676, § 41, Nov. 17, 1988, 102 Stat. 4040; Pub. L. 101–640, title III, § 304, Nov. 28, 1990, 104 Stat. 4634; Pub. L. 102–580, title II, § 202, Oct. 31, 1992, 106 Stat. 4826; Pub. L. 104–303, title II, § 204, Oct. 12, 1996, 110 Stat. 3678; Pub. L. 106–53, title V, § 506, Aug. 17, 1999, 113 Stat. 338; Pub. L. 106–541, title II, § 210(c), Dec. 11, 2000, 114 Stat. 2592; Pub. L. 110–114, title II, § 2024, Nov. 8, 2007, 121 Stat. 1079; Pub. L. 113–121, title I, § 1030(f), June 10, 2014, 128 Stat. 1232; Pub. L. 115–270, title I, § 1157(g), Oct. 23, 2018, 132 Stat. 3794.)
§ 2310. Cost sharing for Territories and Indian tribes
(a) In generalThe Secretary shall waive local cost-sharing requirements up to $200,000 for all studies and projects—
(1) in American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, the Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, and the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands;
(2) for any Indian tribe or tribal organization (as those terms are defined in section 5304 of title 25); and
(3) for any organization that—
(A) is composed primarily of people who are—
(i) recognized and defined under Federal law as indigenous people of the United States; and
(ii) from a specific community; and
(B) assists in the social, cultural, and educational development of such people in that community.
(b) Inflation adjustment

The Secretary shall adjust the dollar amount specified in subsection (a) on an annual basis for inflation.

(c) Inclusion

For purposes of this section, the term “study” includes a watershed assessment.

(d) Application

The Secretary shall apply the waiver amount described in subsection (a) to reduce only the non-Federal share of study and project costs.

(Pub. L. 99–662, title XI, § 1156, Nov. 17, 1986, 100 Stat. 4256; Pub. L. 113–121, title I, § 1032, June 10, 2014, 128 Stat. 1233; Pub. L. 114–322, title I, § 1119, Dec. 16, 2016, 130 Stat. 1643; Pub. L. 115–270, title I, §§ 1155(a), 1156, Oct. 23, 2018, 132 Stat. 3793; Pub. L. 116–260, div. AA, title I, § 135, Dec. 27, 2020, 134 Stat. 2649; Pub. L. 117–263, div. H, title LXXXI, § 8114, Dec. 23, 2022, 136 Stat. 3707.)
§ 2311. Report to Congress covering proposals for water impoundment facilities

Any report that is submitted to the Committee on Environment and Public Works of the Senate or the Committee on Public Works and Transportation of the House of Representatives by the Secretary, or the Secretary of Agriculture acting under Public Law 83–566, as amended [16 U.S.C. 1001 et seq.], which proposes construction of a water impoundment facility, shall include information on the consequences of failure and geologic or design factors which could contribute to the possible failure of such facility.

(Pub. L. 99–662, title XII, § 1202, Nov. 17, 1986, 100 Stat. 4263.)
§ 2312. Comments on certain changes in operations of reservoirs

Before the Secretary may make changes in the operation of any reservoir which will result in or require a reallocation of storage space in such reservoir or will significantly affect any project purpose, the Secretary shall provide an opportunity for public review and comment.

(Pub. L. 100–676, § 5, Nov. 17, 1988, 102 Stat. 4022.)
§ 2313. Research and development
(a) In general

The Secretary is authorized to carry out basic, applied, and advanced research activities as required to aid in the planning, design, construction, operation, and maintenance of water resources development projects and to support the missions and authorities of the Corps of Engineers.

(b) Testing and application

In carrying out subsection (a), the Secretary is authorized to test and apply technology, tools, techniques, and materials developed pursuant to such subsection, including the testing and application of such technology, tools, techniques, and materials at authorized water resources development projects, in consultation with the non-Federal interests for such projects.

(c) Other transactional authority for prototype projects
(1) In general

In carrying out subsection (b), the Secretary is authorized to enter into transactions (other than contracts, cooperative agreements, or grants) to carry out prototype projects to support basic, applied, and advanced research activities that are directly relevant to the civil works missions and authorities of the Corps of Engineers.

(2) Follow-on production transactions

A transaction entered into under paragraph (1) for a prototype project may provide for the award of a follow-on production contract or transaction to the participants in the transaction in accordance with the requirements of section 4022 of title 10.

(3) Guidance

Prior to entering into the first transaction under this subsection, the Secretary shall issue guidance for entering into transactions under this subsection (including guidance for follow-on production contracts or transactions under paragraph (2)).

(4) ConditionsIn carrying out this subsection, the Secretary shall ensure that—
(A) competitive procedures are used to the maximum extent practicable to award each transaction; and
(B) at least one of the following conditions is met with respect to each transaction:
(i) The prototype project includes significant participation by at least one nonprofit research institution or nontraditional defense contractor, as that term is defined in section 3014 of title 10.
(ii) All significant participants in the transaction other than the Federal Government are small business concerns, as that term is used in section 632 of title 15 (including such concerns participating in a program described in section 638 of title 15).
(iii) At least one-third of the total cost of the prototype project is to be paid out of funds provided by sources other than the Federal Government.
(iv)
(5) NotificationNot later than 30 days before the Secretary enters into a transaction under paragraph (1), the Secretary shall notify the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Environment and Public Works of the Senate of—
(A) the dollar amount of the transaction;
(B) the entity carrying out the prototype project that is the subject of the transaction;
(C) the justification for the transaction; and
(D) as applicable, the water resources development project where the prototype project will be carried out.
(6) Report

Not later than 4 years after December 23, 2022, the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Environment and Public Works of the Senate a report describing the use of the authority under this subsection.

(7) Comptroller General access to information
(A) Examination of records

Each transaction entered into under this subsection shall provide for mandatory examination by the Comptroller General of the United States of the records of any party to the transaction or any entity that participates in the performance of the transaction.

(B) Limitations
(i) Parties and entities

Examination of records by the Comptroller General pursuant to subparagraph (A) shall be limited as provided under clause (ii) in the case of a party to the transaction, an entity that participates in the performance of the transaction, or a subordinate element of that party or entity if the only transactions that the party, entity, or subordinate element entered into with Government entities in the year prior to the date of that transaction were entered into under paragraph (1) or under section 4021 or 4022 of title 10.

(ii) Records

The only records of a party, other entity, or subordinate element referred to in clause (i) that the Comptroller General may examine pursuant to subparagraph (A) are records of the same type as the records that the Government has had the right to examine under the audit access clauses of the previous transactions referred to in such clause that were entered into by that particular party, entity, or subordinate element.

(C) WaiverThe Head of the Contracting Activity for the Corps of Engineers may waive the applicability of subparagraph (A) to a transaction if the Head of the Contracting Activity for the Corps of Engineers—
(i) determines that it would not be in the public interest to apply the requirement to the transaction; and
(ii) transmits to the Committee on Environment and Public Works of the Senate, the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives, and the Comptroller General, before the transaction is entered into, a notification of the waiver, including the rationale for the determination under clause (i).
(D) Timing

The Comptroller General may not examine records pursuant to subparagraph (A) more than 3 years after the final payment is made by the United States under the transaction.

(E) Report

Not later than 1 year after December 23, 2022, and annually thereafter, the Comptroller General shall submit to the Committee on Environment and Public Works of the Senate and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives a report on the use of the authority under this paragraph.

(8) Termination of authority

The authority to enter into a transaction under this subsection shall terminate on December 31, 2028.

(d) Coordination and consultation

In carrying out this section, the Secretary may coordinate and consult with Federal agencies, State and local agencies, Indian Tribes, universities, consortiums, councils, and other relevant entities that will aid in the planning, design, construction, operation, and maintenance of water resources development projects.

(e) Annual report
(1) In general

For fiscal year 2025, and annually thereafter, in conjunction with the annual budget submission of the President to Congress under section 1105(a) of title 31, the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Environment and Public Works of the Senate and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives a report on basic, applied, and advanced research activities and prototype projects carried out under this section.

(2) ContentsEach report under paragraph (1) shall include—
(A) a description of each ongoing and new activity or project, including—
(i) the estimated total cost of the activity or project;
(ii) the amount of Federal expenditures for the activity or project;
(iii) the amounts provided by a non-Federal party to a transaction described in subsection (c), if applicable;
(iv) the estimated timeline for completion of the activity or project;
(v) the requesting district of the Corps of Engineers, if applicable; and
(vi) how the activity or project is consistent with subsection (a); and
(B) any additional information that the Secretary determines to be appropriate.
(f) Savings clause

Nothing in this section affects the authority of the Secretary to carry out, through the Engineer Research and Development Center, any activity requested by a district of the Corps of Engineers in support of a water resources development project or feasibility study (as defined in section 2215(d) of this title).

(g) Establishment of account

The Secretary, in consultation with the Director of the Office of Management and Budget, shall establish a separate appropriations account for administering funds made available to carry out this section.

(Pub. L. 100–676, § 7, Nov. 17, 1988, 102 Stat. 4022; Pub. L. 104–303, title II, § 214, Oct. 12, 1996, 110 Stat. 3684; Pub. L. 117–263, div. H, title LXXXI, § 8160(a), Dec. 23, 2022, 136 Stat. 3741.)
§ 2313a. Engineering and environmental innovations of national significance
(a) Surveys, plans, and studies

To encourage innovative and environmentally sound engineering solutions and innovative environmental solutions to problems of national significance, the Secretary may undertake surveys, plans, and studies and prepare reports that may lead to work under existing civil works authorities or to recommendations for authorizations.

(b) Funding
(1) Authorization of appropriations

There is authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section $1,000,000 for each of fiscal years 1997 through 2000.

(2) Funding from other sources

The Secretary may accept and expend additional funds from other Federal agencies, States, or non-Federal entities for purposes of carrying out this section.

(Pub. L. 104–303, title II, § 212, Oct. 12, 1996, 110 Stat. 3684.)
§ 2313b. Support of Army civil works program
(a) General authority

In carrying out research and development in support of the civil works program of the Department of the Army, the Secretary may utilize contracts, cooperative research and development agreements, cooperative agreements, and grants with non-Federal entities, including State and local governments, colleges and universities, consortia, professional and technical societies, public and private scientific and technical foundations, research institutions, educational organizations, and nonprofit organizations.

(b) Commercial application

With respect to contracts for research and development, the Secretary may include requirements that have potential commercial application and may use such potential application as an evaluation factor where appropriate.

(Pub. L. 104–303, title II, § 229, Oct. 12, 1996, 110 Stat. 3703.)
§ 2314. Innovative technology
(a) Use
The Secretary shall, whenever feasible, seek to promote long- and short-term cost savings, increased efficiency, reliability, and safety, and improved environmental results through the use of innovative technology in all phases of water resources development projects and programs under the Secretary’s jurisdiction. To further this goal, Congress encourages the Secretary to—
(1) use procurement and contracting procedures that encourage innovative project design, construction, rehabilitation, repair, and operation and maintenance technologies;
(2) frequently review technical and design criteria to remove or modify unnecessary impediments to innovation;
(3) increase timely exchange of technical information with universities, private companies, government agencies, and individuals;
(4) foster design competition; and
(5) encourage greater participation by non-Federal project sponsors in the development and implementation of projects.
(b) Accelerated adoption of innovative technologies for management of contaminated sediments
(1) Test projects

The Secretary shall approve an appropriate number of projects to test, under actual field conditions, innovative technologies for environmentally sound management of contaminated sediments.

(2) Demonstration projects

The Secretary may approve an appropriate number of projects to demonstrate innovative technologies that have been pilot tested under paragraph (1).

(3) Conduct of projects

Each pilot project under paragraph (1) and demonstration project under paragraph (2) shall be conducted by a university with proven expertise in the research and development of contaminated sediment treatment technologies and innovative applications using waste materials.

(4) Location

At least 1 of the projects under this subsection shall be conducted in New England by the University of New Hampshire.

(c) Reports

Within 2 years after November 17, 1988, and thereafter at the Secretary’s discretion, the Secretary shall provide Congress with a report on the results of, and recommendations to increase, the development and use of innovative technology in water resources development projects under the Secretary’s jurisdiction. Such report shall also contain information regarding innovative technologies which the Secretary has considered and rejected for use in water resources development projects under the Secretary’s jurisdiction.

(d) “Innovative technology” defined

For the purpose of this section, the term “innovative technology” means designs, methods, or materials, including roller compacted concrete, geosynthetic materials, and advanced composites, that the Secretary determines are appropriate to carry out this section.

(Pub. L. 100–676, § 8, Nov. 17, 1988, 102 Stat. 4023; Pub. L. 106–53, title V, § 503(b), Aug. 17, 1999, 113 Stat. 337; Pub. L. 113–121, title III, § 3021, June 10, 2014, 128 Stat. 1301.)
§ 2314a. Technical assistance program
(a) In general
The Secretary is authorized to provide technical assistance, on a nonexclusive basis, to any United States firm which is competing for, or has been awarded, a contract for the planning, design, or construction of a project outside the United States, if the United States firm provides, in advance of fiscal obligation by the United States, funds to cover all costs of such assistance. In determining whether to provide such assistance, the Secretary shall consider the effects on the Department of the Army civil works mission, personnel, and facilities. Prior to the Secretary providing such assistance, a United States firm must—
(1) certify to the Secretary that such assistance is not otherwise reasonably and expeditiously available; and
(2) agree to hold and save the United States free from damages due to the planning, design, construction, operation, or maintenance of the project.
(b) Federal employees’ inventions
As to an invention made or conceived by a Federal employee while providing assistance pursuant to this section, if the Secretary decides not to retain all rights in such invention, the Secretary may—
(1) grant or agree to grant in advance, to a United States firm, a patent license or assignment, or an option thereto, retaining a nonexclusive, nontransferable, irrevocable, paid-up license to practice the invention or have the invention practiced throughout the world by or on behalf of the United States and such other rights as the Secretary deems appropriate; or
(2) waive, subject to reservation by the United States of a nonexclusive, irrevocable, paid-up license to practice the invention or have the invention practiced throughout the world by or on behalf of the United States, in advance, in whole, or in part, any right which the United States may have to such invention.
(c) Protection of confidential information

Information of a confidential nature, such as proprietary or classified information, provided to a United States firm pursuant to this section shall be protected. Such information may be released by a United States firm only after written approval by the Secretary.

(d) Definitions
For purposes of this section—
(1) United States firm

The term “United States firm” means a corporation, partnership, limited partnership, or sole proprietorship that is incorporated or established under the laws of any of the United States with its principal place of business in the United States.

(2) United States

The term “United States”, when used in a geographical sense, means the several States of the United States and the District of Columbia.

(Pub. L. 100–676, § 9, Nov. 17, 1988, 102 Stat. 4024; Pub. L. 101–640, title III, § 318(c), Nov. 28, 1990, 104 Stat. 4642.)
§ 2314b. Advanced modeling technologies
(a) In general
To the greatest extent practicable, the Secretary shall encourage and incorporate advanced modeling technologies, including 3-dimensional digital modeling, that can expedite project delivery or improve the evaluation of water resources development projects that receive Federal funding by—
(1) accelerating and improving the environmental review process;
(2) increasing effective public participation;
(3) enhancing the detail and accuracy of project designs;
(4) increasing safety;
(5) accelerating construction and reducing construction costs; or
(6) otherwise achieving the purposes described in paragraphs (1) through (5).
(b) Activities
In carrying out subsection (a), the Secretary, to the greatest extent practicable, shall—
(1) compile information related to advanced modeling technologies, including industry best practices with respect to the use of the technologies;
(2) disseminate to non-Federal interests the information described in paragraph (1); and
(3) promote the use of advanced modeling technologies.
(Pub. L. 113–121, title I, § 1034, June 10, 2014, 128 Stat. 1234.)
§ 2315. Periodic statements

Upon receipt of a request from a non-Federal sponsor of a water resources development project under construction by the Secretary, the Secretary shall provide such sponsor with periodic statements of project expenditures. Such statements shall include an estimate of all Federal and non-Federal funds expended by the Secretary, including overhead expenditures, the purpose for expenditures, and a schedule of anticipated expenditures during the remaining period of construction. Statements shall be provided to the sponsor at intervals of no greater than 6 months.

(Pub. L. 100–676, § 10, Nov. 17, 1988, 102 Stat. 4024.)
§ 2315a. Transparency in accounting and administrative expenses

On the request of a non-Federal interest, the Secretary shall provide to the non-Federal interest a detailed accounting of the Federal expenses associated with a water resources project.

(Pub. L. 113–121, title I, § 1012(a), June 10, 2014, 128 Stat. 1218.)
§ 2315b. Transparency and accountability in cost sharing for water resources development projects
(a) Definition of balance sheet
In this section, the term “balance sheet” means a document that describes—
(1) the funds provided by each Federal and non-Federal interest for a water resources development project; and
(2) the status of those funds.
(b) Establishment of balance sheet
Each district of the Corps of Engineers shall, using the authority of the Secretary under section 2315 of this title
(1) maintain a balance sheet for each water resources development project carried out by the Secretary for which a non-Federal cost share is required; and
(2) on request of a non-Federal interest that provided funds for the project, provide to the non-Federal interest a copy of the balance sheet.
(c) Under-budget projects

In the case of a water resources development project carried out by the Secretary that is completed at a cost less than the estimated cost, the Secretary shall transfer any excess non-Federal funds to the non-Federal interest in accordance with the cost-share requirement applicable to the project.

(Pub. L. 115–270, title I, § 1120, Oct. 23, 2018, 132 Stat. 3777.)
§ 2316. Environmental protection mission
(a) General rule

The Secretary shall include environmental protection as one of the primary missions of the Corps of Engineers in planning, designing, constructing, operating, and maintaining water resources projects.

(b) Limitation
Nothing in this section affects—
(1) existing Corps of Engineers’ authorities, including its authorities with respect to navigation and flood control;
(2) pending Corps of Engineers permit applications or pending lawsuits involving permits or water resources projects; or
(3) the application of public interest review procedures for Corps of Engineers permits.
(Pub. L. 101–640, title III, § 306, Nov. 28, 1990, 104 Stat. 4635.)
§ 2317. Wetlands
(a) Goals and action plan
(1) Goals

There is established, as part of the Corps of Engineers water resources development program, an interim goal of no overall net loss of the Nation’s remaining wetlands base, as defined by acreage and function, and a long-term goal to increase the quality and quantity of the Nation’s wetlands, as defined by acreage and function.

(2) Use of authorities

The Secretary shall utilize all appropriate authorities, including those to restore and create wetlands, in meeting the interim and long-term goals.

(3) Action plan
(A) Development

The Secretary shall develop, in consultation with the Environmental Protection Agency, the Fish and Wildlife Service, and other appropriate Federal agencies, a wetlands action plan to achieve the goals established by this subsection as soon as possible.

(B) Contents

The plan shall include and identify actions to be taken by the Secretary in achieving the goals and any new authorities which may be necessary to accelerate attainment of the goals.

(C) Completion deadline

The Secretary shall complete the plan not later than 1 year after November 28, 1990.

(b) Constructed wetlands for Mud Creek, ArkansasNotwithstanding any other provision of law, the Secretary is authorized and directed to establish and carry out a research and pilot project to evaluate and demonstrate—
(1) the use of constructed wetlands for wastewater treatment, and
(2) methods by which such projects contribute—
(A) to meeting the objective of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act [33 U.S.C. 1251 et seq.] to restore and maintain the physical, chemical, and biological integrity of the Nation’s waters, and
(B) to attaining the goals established by subsection (a).
The project under this subsection shall be carried out to improve the quality of effluent discharged from publicly owned treatment works operated by the city of Fayetteville, Arkansas, into Mud Creek or its tributaries.
(c) Non-Federal responsibilitiesFor the project conducted under subsection (b), the non-Federal interest shall agree—
(1) to provide, without cost to the United States, all lands, easements, rights-of-way, relocations, and dredged material disposal areas necessary for construction and subsequent research and demonstration work;
(2) to hold and save the United States free from damages due to construction, operation, and maintenance of the project, except damages due to the fault or negligence of the United States or its contractors; and
(3) to operate and maintain the restored or constructed wetlands in accordance with good management practices; except that nothing in this paragraph shall be construed as precluding a Federal agency from agreeing to operate and maintain the restored or reconstructed wetlands.
The value of the non-Federal lands, easements, rights-of-way, relocations, and dredged material disposal areas provided by the non-Federal interest shall be credited toward the non-Federal share of project design and construction costs. The non-Federal share of project design and construction costs shall be 25 percent.
(d) Wetlands restoration and enhancement demonstration program
(1) Establishment and implementation

The Secretary, in consultation with the Administrator, is authorized to establish and implement a demonstration program for the purpose of determining the feasibility of wetlands restoration, enhancement, and creation as a means of contributing to the goals established by subsection (a).

(2) Goal

The goal of the program under this subsection shall be to establish a limited number of demonstration wetlands restoration, enhancement, and creation areas in districts of the Corps of Engineers for the purpose of evaluating the technical and scientific long-term feasibility of such areas as a means of contributing to the attainment of the goals established by subsection (a). Federal and State land-owning agencies and private parties may contribute to such areas.

(3) Factors to considerIn establishing the demonstration program under this subsection, the Secretary shall consider—
(A) past experience with wetlands restoration, enhancement, and creation;
(B) the appropriate means of measuring benefits of compensatory mitigation activities, including enhancement or restoration of existing wetlands or creation of wetlands;
(C) the appropriate geographic scope for which wetlands loss may be offset by restoration, enhancement, and creation efforts;
(D) the technical feasibility and scientific likelihood that wetlands can be successfully restored, enhanced, and created;
(E) means of establishing liability for, and long-term ownership of, wetlands restoration, enhancement, and creation areas; and
(F) responsibilities for short- and long-term project monitoring.
(4) Reporting
(A) To the Chief of Engineers

The district engineer for each district of the Corps of Engineers in which a wetlands restoration, enhancement, and creation area is established under this subsection shall transmit annual reports to the Chief of Engineers describing the amount and value of wetlands restored, enhanced, and created for the area and a summary of whether the area is contributing to the goal established in paragraph (2).

(B) To Congress

Not later than 3 years after November 28, 1990, the Secretary shall transmit to Congress a report evaluating the use of wetlands restoration, enhancement, and creation areas in fulfilling the goal established by paragraph (2), together with recommendations on whether or not to continue use of such areas as a means of meeting the goals established by subsection (a).

(5) Effect on other laws

Nothing in this subsection affects any requirements under section 404 of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act (33 U.S.C. 1344) or section 403 of this title.

(e) Training and certification of delineators
(1) In general

The Secretary is authorized to establish a program for the training and certification of individuals as wetlands delineators. As part of such program, the Secretary shall carry out demonstration projects in districts of the Corps of Engineers. The program shall include training and certification of delineators and procedures for expediting consideration and acceptance of delineations performed by certified delineators.

(2) Reports

The Secretary shall transmit to Congress periodic reports concerning the status of the program and any recommendations on improving the span and implementation of the Federal Manual for Identifying and Delineating Jurisdictional Wetlands.

(Pub. L. 101–640, title III, § 307, Nov. 28, 1990, 104 Stat. 4635.)
§ 2317a. Cooperative agreements
(a) In general

For the purpose of expediting the cost-effective design and construction of wetlands restoration that is part of an authorized water resources project, the Secretary may enter into cooperative agreements under section 6305 of title 31 with nonprofit organizations with expertise in wetlands restoration to carry out such design and construction on behalf of the Secretary.

(b) Limitations
(1) Per project limit

A cooperative agreement under this section may not obligate the Secretary to pay the nonprofit organization more than $1,000,000 for any single wetlands restoration project.

(2) Annual limit

The total value of work carried out under cooperative agreements under this section may not exceed $5,000,000 in any fiscal year.

(Pub. L. 110–114, title II, § 2015, Nov. 8, 2007, 121 Stat. 1076.)
§ 2317b. Mitigation banks and in-lieu fee arrangements
(1) In general

Not later than 180 days after December 16, 2016, the Secretary shall issue implementation guidance that provides for the consideration in water resources development feasibility studies of the entire amount of potential in-kind credits available at mitigation banks approved by the Secretary and in-lieu fee programs with an approved service area that includes the location of the projected impacts of the water resources development project.

(2) RequirementsAll potential mitigation bank and in-lieu fee credits that meet the criteria under paragraph (1) shall be considered a reasonable alternative for planning purposes if—
(A) the applicable mitigation bank—
(i) has an approved mitigation banking instrument; and
(ii) has completed a functional analysis of the potential credits using the approved Corps of Engineers certified habitat assessment model specific to the region; and
(B) the Secretary determines that the use of such banks or in-lieu fee programs provide reasonable assurance that the statutory (and regulatory) mitigation requirements for a water resources development project are met, including monitoring or demonstrating mitigation success.
(3) EffectNothing in this subsection—
(A) modifies or alters any requirement for a water resources development project to comply with applicable laws or regulations, including section 2283 of this title; or
(B) shall be construed as to limit mitigation alternatives or require the use of mitigation banks or in-lieu fee programs.
(Pub. L. 110–114, title II, § 2036(c), Nov. 8, 2007, 121 Stat. 1094; Pub. L. 114–322, title I, § 1163, Dec. 16, 2016, 130 Stat. 1669.)
§ 2318. Flood plain management
(a) Exclusion of elements from benefit-cost analysis
The Secretary shall not include in the benefit base for justifying Federal flood damage reduction projects—
(1)
(A) any new or substantially improved structure (other than a structure necessary for conducting a water-dependent activity) built in the 100-year flood plain with a first floor elevation less than the 100-year flood elevation after July 1, 1991; or
(B) in the case of a county substantially located within the 100-year flood plain, any new or substantially improved structure (other than a structure necessary for conducting a water-dependent activity) built in the 10-year flood plain after July 1, 1991; and
(2) any structure which becomes located in the 100-year flood plain with a first floor elevation less than the 100-year flood elevation or in the 10-year flood plain, as the case may be, by virtue of constrictions placed in the flood plain after July 1, 1991.
(b) Flood damage reduction benefits
(1) In general

In calculating the benefits of a proposed project for nonstructural flood damage reduction, the Secretary shall calculate the benefits of the nonstructural project using methods similar to those used for calculating the benefits of structural projects, including similar treatment in calculating the benefits from losses avoided.

(2) Avoidance of double counting

In carrying out paragraph (1), the Secretary should avoid double counting of benefits.

(c) Counties substantially located within 100-year flood plain
For the purposes of subsection (a), a county is substantially located within the 100-year flood plain—
(1) if the county is comprised of lands of which 50 percent or more are located in the 100-year flood plain; and
(2) if the Secretary determines that application of the requirement contained in subsection (a)(1)(A) with respect to the county would unreasonably restrain continued economic development or unreasonably limit the availability of needed flood control measures.
(d) Cost sharing

Not later than January 1, 1992, the Secretary shall transmit to Congress a report on the feasibility and advisability of increasing the non-Federal share of costs for new projects in areas where new or substantially improved structures and other constrictions are built or placed in the 100-year flood plain or the 10-year flood plain, as the case may be, after the initial date of the affected governmental unit’s entry into the regular program of the national flood insurance program of the National Flood Insurance Act of 1968 [42 U.S.C. 4001 et seq.].

(e) Regulations

Not later than 6 months after the date on which a report is transmitted to Congress under subsection (c), the Secretary, in consultation with the Director of the Federal Emergency Management Agency, shall issue regulations to implement subsection (a). Such regulations shall define key terms, such as new or substantially improved structure, constriction, 10-year flood plain, and 100-year flood plain.

(f) Applicability

The provisions of this section shall not apply to any project, or separable element thereof, for which a final report of the Chief of Engineers has been forwarded to the Secretary before the last day of the 6-month period beginning on the date on which regulations are issued pursuant to subsection (a) but not later than July 1, 1993.

(Pub. L. 101–640, title III, § 308, Nov. 28, 1990, 104 Stat. 4638; Pub. L. 106–53, title II, § 219(a), Aug. 17, 1999, 113 Stat. 294.)
§ 2319. Reservoir management

The Secretary shall ensure that, in developing or revising reservoir operating manuals of the Corps of Engineers, the Corps shall provide significant opportunities for public participation, including opportunities for public hearings. The Secretary shall issue regulations to implement this section, including a requirement that all appropriate informational materials relating to proposed management decisions of the Corps be made available to the public sufficiently in advance of public hearings. Not later than January 1, 1992, the Secretary shall transmit to Congress a report on measures taken pursuant to this section.

(Pub. L. 101–640, title III, § 310, Nov. 28, 1990, 104 Stat. 4639; Pub. L. 104–303, title II, § 233, Oct. 12, 1996, 110 Stat. 3704.)
§ 2320. Protection of recreational and commercial uses
(a) General rule

In planning any water resources project, the Secretary shall consider the impact of the project on existing and future recreational and commercial uses in the area surrounding the project.

(b) Maintenance

Whenever the Secretary maintains, repairs, rehabilitates, or reconstructs a water resources project which will result in a change in the configuration of a structure which is a part of such project, the Secretary, to the maximum extent practicable, shall carry out such maintenance, repair, rehabilitation, or reconstruction in a manner which will not adversely affect any recreational use established with respect to such project before the date of such maintenance, repair, rehabilitation, or reconstruction.

(c) Mitigation
(1) In general

If maintenance, repair, rehabilitation, or reconstruction of a water resources project by the Secretary results in a change in the configuration of any structure which is a part of such project and has an adverse effect on a recreational use established with respect to such project before the date of such maintenance, repair, rehabilitation, or reconstruction, the Secretary, to the maximum extent practicable, shall take such actions as may be necessary to restore such recreational use or provide alternative opportunities for comparable recreational use.

(2) Maximum amount

The Secretary may not expend more than $2,000,000 in a fiscal year to carry out this subsection.

(3) Termination date

This subsection shall not be effective after the last day of the 5-year period beginning on November 28, 1990; except that the Secretary may complete any restoration commenced under this subsection on or before such last day.

(d) Applicability
(1) General rule

Subsections (b) and (c) shall apply to maintenance, repair, rehabilitation, or reconstruction for which physical construction is initiated after May 1, 1988.

(2) Limitation

Subsections (b) and (c) shall not apply to any action of the Secretary which is necessary to discontinue the operation of a water resources project.

(e) Cost sharing

Costs incurred by the Secretary to carry out the objectives of this section shall be allocated to recreation and shall be payable by the beneficiaries of the recreation.

(Pub. L. 101–640, title III, § 313, Nov. 28, 1990, 104 Stat. 4640.)
§ 2321. Operation and maintenance of navigation and hydroelectric facilities
(a) In general

Activities currently performed by personnel under the direction of the Secretary in connection with the operation and maintenance of navigation or hydroelectric power generating facilities at Corps of Engineers water resources projects are to be considered as inherently governmental functions and not commercial activities.

(b) Major maintenance contracts allowed

This section does not prohibit contracting out major maintenance or other functions which are currently contracted out or studying services not directly connected with project maintenance and operations.

(c) Exclusion
This section does not—
(1) apply to a navigation facility that was under contract on or before October 23, 2018, with a non-Federal interest to perform operations or maintenance; and
(2) prohibit the Secretary from contracting out commercial activities after October 23, 2018, at a navigation facility.
(Pub. L. 101–640, title III, § 314, Nov. 28, 1990, 104 Stat. 4641; Pub. L. 115–270, title I, § 1151(a), Oct. 23, 2018, 132 Stat. 3787.)
§ 2321a. Hydroelectric power project uprating
(a) In general
In carrying out the operation, maintenance, rehabilitation, and modernization of a hydroelectric power generating facility at a water resources project under the jurisdiction of the Department of the Army, the Secretary may, to the extent funds are made available in appropriations Acts or in accordance with subsection (c), take such actions as are necessary to optimize the efficiency of energy production or increase the capacity of the facility, or both, if, after consulting with the heads of other appropriate Federal and State agencies, the Secretary determines that such actions—
(1) are economically justified and financially feasible;
(2) will not result in any significant adverse effect on the other purposes for which the project is authorized;
(3) will not result in significant adverse environmental impacts;
(4) will not involve major structural or operational changes in the project; and
(5) will not adversely affect the use, management, or protection of existing Federal, State, or tribal water rights.
(b) Consultation

Before proceeding with any proposed uprating under subsection (a), the Secretary shall provide affected State, tribal, and Federal agencies with a copy of the proposed determinations under subsection (a). If the agencies submit comments, the Secretary shall accept those comments or respond in writing to any objections those agencies raise to the proposed determinations.

(c) Use of funds provided by preference customers

In carrying out this section, the Secretary may accept and expend funds provided by preference customers under Federal law relating to the marketing of power.

(d) Application

This section does not apply to any facility of the Department of the Army that is authorized to be funded under section 839d–1 of title 16.

(e) Effect on other authority

This section shall not affect the authority of the Secretary and the Administrator of the Bonneville Power Administration under section 839d–1 of title 16.

(Pub. L. 104–303, title II, § 216, Oct. 12, 1996, 110 Stat. 3694; Pub. L. 106–541, title II, § 212, Dec. 11, 2000, 114 Stat. 2593.)
§ 2321b. Expediting hydropower at Corps of Engineers facilities
(a) PolicyCongress declares that it is the policy of the United States that—
(1) the development of non-Federal hydroelectric power at Corps of Engineers water resources development projects, including locks and dams, shall be given priority;
(2) Corps of Engineers approval of non-Federal hydroelectric power at Corps of Engineers water resources development projects, including permitting required under section 408 of this title, shall be completed by the Corps of Engineers in a timely and consistent manner; and
(3) approval of hydropower at Corps of Engineers water resources development projects shall in no way diminish the other priorities and missions of the Corps of Engineers, including authorized project purposes and habitat and environmental protection.
(b) Implementation of policyThe Secretary shall—
(1) ensure that the policy described in subsection (a) is implemented nationwide in an efficient, consistent, and coordinated manner; and
(2) assess opportunities—
(A) to increase the development of hydroelectric power at existing water resources development projects of the Corps of Engineers with hydroelectric facilities; and
(B) to develop new hydroelectric power at existing nonpowered water resources development projects of the Corps of Engineers.
(c) ReportNot later than 2 years after June 10, 2014, and biennially thereafter, the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Environment and Public Works of the Senate and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and make publicly available a report that, at a minimum, shall include—
(1) a description of initiatives carried out by the Secretary to encourage the development of hydroelectric power by non-Federal entities at Corps of Engineers water resources development projects and to meet the requirements of subsection (b);
(2) a list of all new hydroelectric power activities by non-Federal entities approved at Corps of Engineers water resources development projects in that fiscal year, including the length of time the Secretary needed to approve those activities;
(3) a description of the status of each pending application from non-Federal entities for approval to develop hydroelectric power at Corps of Engineers water resources development projects;
(4) a description of any benefits or impacts to the environment, recreation, or other uses associated with Corps of Engineers water resources development projects at which non-Federal entities have developed hydroelectric power in the previous fiscal year; and
(5) the total annual amount of payments or other services provided to the Corps of Engineers, the Treasury, and any other Federal agency as a result of approved non-Federal hydropower projects at Corps of Engineers water resources development projects.
(d) Reviewing hydropower at Corps of Engineers facilities
(1) Definition of eligible non-Federal interest

In this subsection, the term “eligible non-Federal interest” means a non-Federal interest that owns or operates an existing non-Federal hydropower facility at a Corps of Engineers water resources development project.

(2) Evaluation
(A) In general

On the written request of an eligible non-Federal interest, the Secretary shall conduct an evaluation to consider operational changes at the applicable project to facilitate production of non-Federal hydropower, consistent with authorized project purposes. The Secretary shall solicit input from interested stakeholders as part of the evaluation.

(B) DeadlineNot later than 180 days after the date on which the Secretary receives a written request under subparagraph (A), the Secretary shall provide to the non-Federal interest a written response to inform the non-Federal interest—
(i) that the Secretary has approved the request to conduct an evaluation; or
(ii) of any additional information necessary for the Secretary to approve the request to conduct an evaluation.
(3) Operational changesAn operational change referred to in paragraph (2)(A) may include—
(A) changes to seasonal pool levels;
(B) modifying releases from the project; and
(C) other changes included in the written request submitted under that paragraph that enhance the usage of the project to facilitate production of non-Federal hydropower, consistent with authorized project purposes.
(4) Cost share

The eligible non-Federal interest shall pay 100 percent of the costs associated with an evaluation under this subsection, including the costs to prepare the report under paragraph (6).

(5) Deadline

The Secretary shall complete an evaluation under this subsection by the date that is not later than 1 year after the date on which the Secretary begins the evaluation.

(6) Report

On completion of an evaluation under this subsection, the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Environment and Public Works of the Senate and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives a report on the effects of the operational changes proposed by the non-Federal interest and examined in the evaluation on the authorized purposes of the project, including a description of any negative impacts of the proposed operational changes on the authorized purposes of the project, or on any Federal project located in the same basin.

(7) Savings provisionNothing in this subsection—
(A) affects the authorized purposes of a Corps of Engineers water resources development project;
(B) affects existing authorities of the Corps of Engineers, including authorities with respect to navigation, flood damage reduction, environmental protection and restoration, water supply and conservation, and other related purposes; or
(C) authorizes the Secretary to make any operational changes to a Corps of Engineers water resources development project.
(Pub. L. 113–121, title I, § 1008, June 10, 2014, 128 Stat. 1215; Pub. L. 116–260, div. AA, title I, § 146, Dec. 27, 2020, 134 Stat. 2655; Pub. L. 117–263, div. H, title LXXXI, § 8123, Dec. 23, 2022, 136 Stat. 3714.)
§ 2322. Single entities

For purposes of Federal participation in water resource development projects which are to be carried out by the Secretary, benefits which are to be provided to a facility owned by a State (including the District of Columbia and a territory or possession of the United States), county, municipality, or other public entity shall not be treated as benefits to be provided a single owner or single entity. The Secretary shall not treat such a facility as a single owner or single entity for any purpose.

(Pub. L. 101–640, title III, § 317, Nov. 28, 1990, 104 Stat. 4641.)
§ 2323. Technical assistance to private entities
(a) Use of Corps research and development labs
The Secretary is authorized to use Corps of Engineers research and development laboratories to provide research and development assistance to corporations, partnerships, limited partnerships, consortia, public and private foundations, universities, and nonprofit organizations operating within the United States, territories or possessions of the United States, and the Commonwealths of Puerto Rico and the Northern Mariana Islands—
(1) if the entity furnishes in advance of fiscal obligation by the United States such funds as are necessary to cover any and all costs of such research and development assistance;
(2) if the Secretary determines that the research and development assistance to be provided is within the mission of the Corps of Engineers and is in the public interest;
(3) if the entity has certified to the Secretary that provision of such research and development assistance is not otherwise reasonably and expeditiously obtainable from the private sector; and
(4) if the entity has agreed to hold and save the United States free from any damages due to any such research and development assistance.
(b) Contract

The Secretary may provide research and development assistance under subsection (a), or any part thereof, by contract.

(c) Omitted
(Pub. L. 101–640, title III, § 318, Nov. 28, 1990, 104 Stat. 4641.)
§ 2323a. Interagency and international support authority
(a) In general

The Secretary may engage in activities (including contracting) in support of Federal departments or agencies, nongovernmental organizations, international organizations, or foreign governments to address problems of national significance to the United States.

(b) Consultation

The Secretary may engage in activities in support of international organizations or foreign governments only after consulting with the Department of State.

(c) Use of Corps’ expertise

The Secretary may use the technical and managerial expertise of the Corps of Engineers to address domestic and international problems related to water resources, infrastructure development, and environmental protection and restoration.

(d) Funding
(1) In general

There is authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section $1,000,000 for fiscal year 2008 and each fiscal year thereafter.

(2) Acceptance of funds

The Secretary may accept and expend additional funds from Federal departments or agencies, nongovernmental organizations, international organizations, or foreign governments to carry out this section.

(Pub. L. 104–303, title II, § 234, Oct. 12, 1996, 110 Stat. 3704; Pub. L. 106–541, title II, § 207, Dec. 11, 2000, 114 Stat. 2590; Pub. L. 110–114, title II, § 2030, Nov. 8, 2007, 121 Stat. 1081; Pub. L. 113–121, title I, § 1029, June 10, 2014, 128 Stat. 1230.)
§ 2324. Reduced pricing for certain water supply storage
(a) Provision of storage space

If a low income community requests the Secretary to provide water supply storage space in a water resources development project operated by the Secretary and if the amount of space requested is available or could be made available through reallocation of water supply storage space in the project or through modifications to operation of the project, the Secretary may provide such space to the community at a price determined under subsection (c).

(b) Maximum amount of storage space

The maximum amount of water supply storage space which may be provided to a community under this section may not exceed an amount of water supply storage space sufficient to yield 3,000,000 gallons of water per day.

(c) Price
The Secretary shall provide water supply storage space under this section at a price which is the greater of—
(1) the updated construction cost of the project allocated to provide such amount of water supply storage space or $100 per acre foot of storage space, whichever is less; and
(2) the value of the benefits which are lost as a result of providing such water supply storage space.
(d) Determinations

For purposes of subsection (c), the determinations of updated construction costs and value of benefits lost shall be made by the Secretary on the basis of the most recent information available.

(e) Inflation adjustment of dollar amount

The $100 amount set forth in subsection (c) shall be adjusted annually by the Secretary for changes in the Consumer Price Index of All Urban Consumers published by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

(f) Non-Federal responsibilities

Nothing in this section shall be construed as affecting the responsibility of non-Federal interests to provide operation and maintenance costs assigned to water supply storage provided under this section.

(g) “Low income community” defined
The term “low income community” means—
(1) a community with a population of less than 20,000 which is located in a county with a per capita income less than the per capita income of two-thirds of the counties in the United States; or
(2) a regional water system that serves a population of less than 100,000, for which the per capita income is less than the per capita income of not less than 50 percent of the counties in the United States.
(Pub. L. 101–640, title III, § 322, Nov. 28, 1990, 104 Stat. 4643; Pub. L. 116–260, div. AA, title III, § 350, Dec. 27, 2020, 134 Stat. 2716.)
§ 2325. Voluntary contributions for environmental and recreation projects
(a) Acceptance

In connection with carrying out a water resources project for environmental protection and restoration or a water resources project for recreation, the Secretary is authorized to accept contributions of cash, funds, materials, and services from persons, including governmental entities but excluding the project sponsor.

(b) Deposit

Any cash or funds received by the Secretary under subsection (a) shall be deposited into the account in the Treasury of the United States entitled “Contributions and Advances, Rivers and Harbors, Corps of Engineers (8862)” and shall be available until expended to carry out water resources projects described in subsection (a).

(Pub. L. 102–580, title II, § 203, Oct. 31, 1992, 106 Stat. 4826; Pub. L. 104–303, title II, § 236(a), Oct. 12, 1996, 110 Stat. 3705.)
§ 2325a. Authority to accept and use materials and services
(a) In general
Subject to subsection (b), the Secretary is authorized to accept and use materials, services, or funds contributed by a non-Federal public entity, a nonprofit entity, or a private entity to repair, restore, replace, or maintain a water resources project in any case in which the District Commander determines that—
(1) there is a risk of adverse impacts to the functioning of the project for the authorized purposes of the project; and
(2) acceptance of the materials and services or funds is in the public interest.
(b) Limitation

Any entity that contributes materials or services under subsection (a) shall not be eligible for credit or reimbursement for the value of such materials or services.

(c) Additional requirements
(1) Applicable laws and regulations

The Secretary may only use materials or services accepted under this section if such materials and services comply with all applicable laws and regulations that would apply if such materials and services were acquired by the Secretary.

(2) Supplementary services

The Secretary may only accept and use services under this section that provide supplementary services to existing Federal employees, and may only use such services to perform work that would not otherwise be accomplished as a result of funding or personnel limitations.

(d) Report
Not later than February 1 of each year after the first fiscal year in which materials, services, or funds are accepted under this section, the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Environment and Public Works of the Senate and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives an annual report that includes—
(1) a description of the activities undertaken, including the costs associated with the activities; and
(2) a comprehensive description of how the activities are necessary for maintaining a safe and reliable water resources project.
(Pub. L. 113–121, title I, § 1024, June 10, 2014, 128 Stat. 1229; Pub. L. 114–322, title I, § 1153, Dec. 16, 2016, 130 Stat. 1663.)
§ 2325b. Materials, services, and funds for repair, restoration, or rehabilitation of projects
(a) Definitions
In this section:
(1) Covered area
The term “covered area” means an area—
(A) for which the Governor of a State has requested a determination that an emergency exists; or
(B) covered by an emergency or major disaster declaration declared under the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 5121 et seq.).
(2) Emergency period
The term “emergency period” means—
(A) with respect to a covered area described in paragraph (1)(A), the period during which the Secretary determines an emergency exists; and
(B) with respect to a covered area described in paragraph (1)(B), the period during which the applicable declaration is in effect.
(b) In general

In any covered area, the Secretary is authorized to accept and use materials, services, and funds, during the emergency period, from a non-Federal interest or private entity to repair, restore, or rehabilitate a federally authorized water resources development project, and to provide reimbursement to such non-Federal interest or private entity for such materials, services, and funds, in the Secretary’s sole discretion, and subject to the availability of appropriations, if the Secretary determines that reimbursement is in the public interest.

(c) Additional requirement

The Secretary may only reimburse for the use of materials or services accepted under this section if such materials or services meet the Secretary’s specifications and comply with all applicable laws and regulations that would apply if such materials and services were acquired by the Secretary, including sections 3141 through 3148 and 3701 through 3708 of title 40, section 8302 of title 41, and the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969.

(d) Agreements
(1) In general
Prior to the acceptance of materials, services, or funds under this section, the Secretary and the non-Federal interest or private entity shall enter into an agreement that specifies—
(A) the non-Federal interest or private entity shall hold and save the United States free from any and all damages that arise from use of materials or services of the non-Federal interest or private entity, except for damages due to the fault or negligence of the United States or its contractors;
(B) the non-Federal interest or private entity shall certify that the materials or services comply with all applicable laws and regulations under subsection (c); and
(C) any other term or condition required by the Secretary.
(2) Exception
If an agreement under paragraph (1) was not entered prior to materials or services being contributed, a non-Federal interest or private entity shall enter into an agreement with the Secretary that—
(A) specifies the value, as determined by the Secretary, of those materials or services contributed and eligible for reimbursement; and
(B) ensures that the materials or services comply with subsection (c) and paragraph (1).
(Pub. L. 116–260, div. AA, title I, § 130, Dec. 27, 2020, 134 Stat. 2642.)
§ 2326. Regional sediment management
(a) In general
(1) Sediment use
(A) Sediment from Federal water resources projects

For sediment obtained through or used in the construction, operation, or maintenance of an authorized Federal water resources project, including a project authorized for flood control, the Secretary shall develop, at Federal expense, regional sediment management plans and carry out projects at locations identified in plans developed under this section, or identified jointly by the non-Federal interest and the Secretary, for use in the construction, repair, modification, or rehabilitation of projects associated with Federal water resources projects for purposes listed in paragraph (3).

(B) Sediment from other Federal sources and non-Federal sources

For purposes of projects carried out under this section, the Secretary may include sediment from other Federal sources and non-Federal sources, subject to the requirement that any sediment obtained from a non-Federal source shall not be obtained at Federal expense.

(2) Cooperation

The Secretary shall develop plans under this subsection in cooperation with the appropriate Federal, State, regional, and local agencies.

(3) Purposes for sediment use in projects
The purposes of using sediment for the construction, repair, modification, or rehabilitation of Federal water resources projects are—
(A) to reduce storm damage to property;
(B) to protect, restore, and create aquatic and ecologically related habitats, including wetlands; and
(C) to transport and place suitable sediment for the purposes of improving environmental conditions in marsh and littoral systems, stabilizing stream channels, enhancing shorelines, and supporting State and local risk management adaptation strategies.
(4) Reducing costs

To reduce or avoid Federal costs, the Secretary shall consider the beneficial use of dredged material in a manner that contributes to the maintenance of sediment resources in the nearby coastal system.

(b) Secretarial findings
Subject to subsection (c), projects carried out under subsection (a) may be carried out in any case in which the Secretary finds that—
(1) the environmental, economic, and social benefits of the project, both monetary and nonmonetary, justify the cost of the project; and
(2) the project will not result in environmental degradation.
(c) Determination of project costs
(1) Costs of construction
(A) In general

Costs associated with construction of a project under this section or identified in a regional sediment management plan shall be limited solely to construction costs that are in excess of the costs necessary to carry out the dredging for construction, operation, or maintenance of an authorized Federal water resources project in the most cost-effective way, consistent with economic, engineering, and environmental criteria.

(B) Cost sharing
(i) In general

Except as provided in clause (ii), the non-Federal share of the construction cost of a project under this section shall be determined as provided in subsections (a) through (d) of section 2213 of this title.

(ii) Special rule

Construction of a project under this section for one or more of the purposes of protection, restoration, or creation of aquatic and ecologically related habitat, the cost of which does not exceed $750,000 and which is located in a disadvantaged community as determined by the Secretary, may be carried out at Federal expense.

(C) Total cost

The total Federal costs associated with construction of a project under this section may not exceed $10,000,000.

(2) Operation, maintenance, replacement, and rehabilitation costs

Operation, maintenance, replacement, and rehabilitation costs associated with a project under this section are the responsibility of the non-Federal interest.

(d) Selection of dredged material disposal method for purposes related to environmental restoration or storm damage and flood reduction
(1) In general
At the request of the non-Federal interest for a water resources development project involving the disposal of dredged material, the Secretary, using funds appropriated for construction or operation and maintenance of the project, may select a disposal method that is not the least cost option if the Secretary determines that the incremental costs of the disposal method are reasonable in relation to—
(A) the environmental benefits, including the benefits to the aquatic environment to be derived from the creation of wetlands and control of shoreline erosion; or
(B) the hurricane and storm or flood risk reduction benefits, including shoreline protection, protection against loss of life, and damage to improved property.
(2) Federal share

The Federal share of such incremental costs shall be determined in accordance with subsection (c).

(3) Special rule

Disposal of dredged material under this subsection may include a single or periodic application of sediment for beneficial use and shall not require operation and maintenance.

(4) Disposal at non-Federal cost

The Secretary may accept funds from a non-Federal interest to dispose of dredged material as provided under section 2213(d)(1) of this title.

(5) Selection of dredged material disposal method for certain purposes
Activities carried out under this subsection—
(A) shall be carried out using amounts appropriated for construction or operation and maintenance of the project involving the disposal of the dredged material; and
(B) shall not carried 1
1 So in original. Probably should be preceded by “be”.
out using amounts made available under subsection (g).
(e) State and regional plans
The Secretary may—
(1) cooperate with any State or group of States in the preparation of a comprehensive State or regional sediment management plan within the boundaries of the State or among States;
(2) encourage State participation in the implementation of the plan; and
(3) submit to Congress reports and recommendations with respect to appropriate Federal participation in carrying out the plan.
(f) Priority areas
In carrying out this section, the Secretary shall give priority to a regional sediment management project in the vicinity of each of the following:
(1) Little Rock Slackwater Harbor, Arkansas.
(2) Fletcher Cove, California.
(3) Egmont Key, Florida.
(4) Calcasieu Ship Channel, Louisiana.
(5) Delaware River Estuary, New Jersey and Pennsylvania.
(6) Fire Island Inlet, Suffolk County, New York.
(7) Smith Point Park Pavilion and the TWA Flight 800 Memorial, Brookhaven, New York.
(8) Morehead City, North Carolina.
(9) Toledo Harbor, Lucas County, Ohio.
(10) Galveston Bay, Texas.
(11) Benson Beach, Washington.
(g) Authorization of appropriations

There is authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section $62,500,000 per fiscal year, of which not more than $5,000,000 per fiscal year may be used for the development of regional sediment management plans authorized by subsection (e) and of which not more than $3,000,000 per fiscal year may be used for construction of projects to which subsection (c)(1)(B)(ii) applies. Such funds shall remain available until expended.

(Pub. L. 102–580, title II, § 204, Oct. 31, 1992, 106 Stat. 4826; Pub. L. 104–303, title II, § 207, Oct. 12, 1996, 110 Stat. 3680; Pub. L. 106–53, title II, § 209, Aug. 17, 1999, 113 Stat. 287; Pub. L. 110–114, title II, § 2037(a), Nov. 8, 2007, 121 Stat. 1094; Pub. L. 113–121, title I, §§ 1030(d)(1), 1038, June 10, 2014, 128 Stat. 1232, 1236; Pub. L. 114–322, title I, § 1122(i), Dec. 16, 2016, 130 Stat. 1647; Pub. L. 115–270, title I, §§ 1150, 1157(d), Oct. 23, 2018, 132 Stat. 3787, 3794; Pub. L. 116–260, div. AA, title I, § 125(a)(2)(C), Dec. 27, 2020, 134 Stat. 2637.)
§ 2326a. Dredged material disposal facility partnerships
(a) Additional capacity or replacement capacity
(1) Provided by Secretary
(A) In general
Subject to subparagraph (B), at the request of a non-Federal interest with respect to a project, the Secretary may—
(i) provide additional capacity at a dredged material disposal facility constructed by the Secretary beyond the capacity that would be required for project purposes; or
(ii) permit the use of dredged material disposal facility capacity required for project purposes by the non-Federal interest if the Secretary determines that replacement capacity can be constructed at the facility or another facility or site before such capacity is needed for project purposes.
(B) Agreement
Before the Secretary takes an action under subparagraph (A), the non-Federal interest shall agree to pay—
(i) all costs associated with the construction of the additional capacity or replacement capacity in advance of construction of such capacity; and
(ii) in the case of use by a non-Federal interest of dredged material disposal capacity required for project purposes under subparagraph (A)(ii), any increase in the cost of operation and maintenance of the project that the Secretary determines results from the use of the project capacity by the non-Federal interest in advance of each cycle of dredging.
(C) Credit

In the event the Secretary determines that the cost to operate or maintain the project decreases as a result of use by the non-Federal interest of dredged material disposal capacity required for project purposes under subparagraph (A)(ii), the Secretary, at the request of the non-Federal interest, shall credit the amount of the decrease toward any cash contribution of the non-Federal interest required thereafter for construction, operation, or maintenance of the project, or of another navigation project.

(2) Cost recovery authority

The non-Federal interest may recover the costs assigned to the additional capacity under paragraph (1)(A)(i) through fees assessed on third parties whose dredged material is deposited at the facility and who enter into agreements with the non-Federal interest for the use of the facility. The amount of such fees may be determined by the non-Federal interest.

(3) Special rule for designation of replacement capacity facility or site
(A) In general
Subject to such terms and conditions as the Secretary determines to be necessary or advisable, an agreement under paragraph (1)(B) for use permitted under paragraph (1)(A)(ii) shall reserve to the non-Federal interest—
(i) the right to submit to the Secretary for approval at a later date an alternative to the facility or site designated in the agreement for construction of replacement capacity; and
(ii) the right to construct the replacement capacity at the alternative facility or site at the expense of the non-Federal interest.
(B) Requirement
The Secretary shall not reject a site for the construction of replacement capacity under paragraph (1)(A)(ii) that is submitted by the non-Federal interest for approval by the Secretary before the date of execution of the agreement under paragraph (1)(B), or thereafter, unless the Secretary—
(i) determines that the site is environmentally unacceptable, geographically unacceptable, or technically unsound; and
(ii) provides a written basis for the determination under clause (i) to the non-Federal interest.
(4) Public comment

The Secretary shall afford the public an opportunity to comment on the determinations required under this subsection for a use permitted under paragraph (1)(A)(ii).

(b) Non-Federal use of disposal facilities
(1) In general
The Secretary—
(A) may permit the use of any dredged material disposal facility under the jurisdiction of, or managed by, the Secretary by a non-Federal interest if the Secretary determines that such use will not reduce the availability of the facility for project purposes; and
(B) may impose fees to recover capital, operation, and maintenance costs associated with such use.
(2) Use of fees

Notwithstanding section 1341(c) of this title but subject to advance appropriations, any monies received through collection of fees under this subsection shall be available to the Secretary, and shall be used by the Secretary, for the operation and maintenance of the disposal facility from which the fees were collected.

(c) Dredged material facility
(1) In general

The Secretary may enter into a partnership agreement under section 1962d–5b of title 42 with one or more non-Federal interests with respect to a water resources project, or group of water resources projects within a geographic region, if appropriate, for the acquisition, design, construction, management, or operation of a dredged material processing, treatment, contaminant reduction, or disposal facility (including any facility used to demonstrate potential beneficial uses of dredged material, which may include effective sediment contaminant reduction technologies) using funds provided in whole or in part by the Federal Government.

(2) Performance

One or more of the parties to a partnership agreement under this subsection may perform the acquisition, design, construction, management, or operation of a dredged material processing, treatment, contaminant reduction, or disposal facility.

(3) Multiple projects

If appropriate, the Secretary may combine portions of separate water resources projects with appropriate combined cost-sharing among the various water resources projects in a partnership agreement for a facility under this subsection if the facility serves to manage dredged material from multiple water resources projects located in the geographic region of the facility.

(4) Specified Federal funding sources and cost sharing
(A) Specified Federal funding
A partnership agreement with respect to a facility under this subsection shall specify—
(i) the Federal funding sources and combined cost-sharing when applicable to multiple water resources projects; and
(ii) the responsibilities and risks of each of the parties relating to present and future dredged material managed by the facility.
(B) Management of sediments
(i) In general

A partnership agreement under this subsection may include the management of sediments from the maintenance dredging of Federal water resources projects that do not have partnership agreements.

(ii) Payments

A partnership agreement under this subsection may allow the non-Federal interest to receive reimbursable payments from the Federal Government for commitments made by the non-Federal interest for disposal or placement capacity at dredged material processing, treatment, contaminant reduction, or disposal facilities.

(C) Credit

A partnership agreement under this subsection may allow costs incurred by the non-Federal interest before execution of the partnership agreement to be credited in accordance with section 1962d–5b of title 42.

(5) Credit
(A) Effect on existing agreements

Nothing in this subsection supersedes or modifies an agreement in effect on November 8, 2007, between the Federal Government and any non-Federal interest for the cost-sharing, construction, and operation and maintenance of a water resources project.

(B) Credit for funds

Subject to the approval of the Secretary and in accordance with law (including regulations and policies) in effect on November 8, 2007, a non-Federal interest for a water resources project may receive credit for funds provided for the acquisition, design, construction, management, or operation of a dredged material processing, treatment, contaminant reduction, or disposal facility to the extent the facility is used to manage dredged material from the project.

(C) Non-Federal interest responsibilities
A non-Federal interest entering into a partnership agreement under this subsection for a facility shall—
(i) be responsible for providing all necessary lands, easements, relocations, and rights-of-way associated with the facility; and
(ii) receive credit toward the non-Federal share of the cost of the project with respect to which the agreement is being entered into for those items.
(d) Public-private partnerships
(1) In general

The Secretary may carry out a program to evaluate and implement opportunities for public-private partnerships in the design, construction, management, or operation and maintenance of dredged material processing, treatment, contaminant reduction, or disposal facilities in connection with construction or maintenance of Federal navigation projects. If a non-Federal interest is a sponsor of the project, the Secretary shall consult with the non-Federal interest in carrying out the program with respect to the project.

(2) Private financing
(A) Agreements

In carrying out this subsection, the Secretary may enter into an agreement with a non-Federal interest with respect to a project, a private entity, or both for the acquisition, design, construction, management, or operation and maintenance of a dredged material processing, treatment, contaminant reduction, or disposal facility (including any facility used to demonstrate potential beneficial uses of dredged material) using funds provided in whole or in part by the private entity.

(B) Reimbursement

If any funds provided by a private entity are used to carry out a project under this subsection, the Secretary may reimburse the private entity over a period of time agreed to by the parties to the agreement through the payment of subsequent user fees. Such fees may include the payment of a disposal or tipping fee for placement of suitable dredged material at the facility.

(C) Amount of fees

User fees paid pursuant to subparagraph (B) shall be sufficient to repay funds contributed by the private entity plus a reasonable return on investment approved by the Secretary in cooperation with the non-Federal interest with respect to the project and the private entity.

(D) Federal share

The Federal share of such fees shall be equal to the percentage of the total cost that would otherwise be borne by the Federal Government as required pursuant to existing cost-sharing requirements, including section 2213 of this title and section 2326 of this title.

(E) Budget Act compliance

Any spending authority (as defined in section 651(c)(2) of title 2) authorized by this section shall be effective only to such extent and in such amounts as are provided in appropriation Acts.

(Pub. L. 104–303, title II, § 217, Oct. 12, 1996, 110 Stat. 3694; Pub. L. 110–114, title II, § 2005, Nov. 8, 2007, 121 Stat. 1071; Pub. L. 116–260, div. AA, title I, § 145, Dec. 27, 2020, 134 Stat. 2654.)
§ 2326b. Sediment management
(a) In general

The Secretary may enter into cooperation agreements with non-Federal interests with respect to navigation projects, or other appropriate non-Federal entities, for the development of long-term management strategies for controlling sediments at such projects.

(b) Contents of strategies
Each strategy developed under subsection (a) shall—
(1) include assessments of sediment rates and composition, sediment reduction options, dredging practices, long-term management of any dredged material disposal facilities, remediation of such facilities, and alternative disposal and reuse options;
(2) include a timetable for implementation of the strategy; and
(3) incorporate relevant ongoing planning efforts, including remedial action planning, dredged material management planning, harbor and waterfront development planning, and watershed management planning.
(c) Consultation

In developing strategies under subsection (a), the Secretary shall consult with interested Federal agencies, States, and Indian tribes and provide an opportunity for public comment.

(d) Dredged material disposal
(1) Study

The Secretary shall conduct a study to determine the feasibility of constructing and operating an underwater confined dredged material disposal site in the Port of New York-New Jersey that could accommodate as much as 250,000 cubic yards of dredged material for the purpose of demonstrating the feasibility of an underwater confined disposal pit as an environmentally suitable method of containing certain sediments.

(2) Report

The Secretary shall transmit to Congress a report on the results of the study conducted under paragraph (1), together with any recommendations of the Secretary that may be developed in a strategy under subsection (a).

(e) Great Lakes tributary model
(1) In general

In consultation and coordination with the Great Lakes States, the Secretary shall develop a tributary sediment transport model for each major river system or set of major river systems depositing sediment into a Great Lakes federally authorized commercial harbor, channel maintenance project site, or Area of Concern identified under the Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement of 1978. Such model may be developed as a part of a strategy developed under subsection (a).

(2) Requirements for models

In developing a tributary sediment transport model under this subsection, the Secretary shall build on data and monitoring information generated in earlier studies and programs of the Great Lakes and their tributaries.

(3) Report

Not later than December 31, 2003, the Secretary shall transmit to Congress a report on the Secretary’s activities under this subsection.

(f) “Great Lakes States” defined

In this section, the term “Great Lakes States” means the States of Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin.

(g) Coastal mapping
The Secretary shall develop and carry out a plan for the recurring mapping of coastlines that are experiencing rapid change, including such coastlines in—
(1) Alaska;
(2) Hawaii; and
(3) any territory or possession of the United States.
(h) Authorization of appropriations
(1) In general

There is authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary to carry out this section $5,000,000 for each of fiscal years 1998 through 2001.

(2) Great Lakes tributary model

In addition to amounts made available under paragraph (1), there is authorized to be appropriated to carry out subsection (e) $5,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2002 through 2012.

(3) Coastal mapping

In addition to amounts made available under paragraph (1), there is authorized to be appropriated to carry out subsection (g) with respect to Alaska, Hawaii, and the territories and possessions of the United States, $10,000,000, to remain available until expended.

(Pub. L. 104–303, title V, § 516, Oct. 12, 1996, 110 Stat. 3763; Pub. L. 106–541, title V, § 505, Dec. 11, 2000, 114 Stat. 2645; Pub. L. 110–114, title V, § 5013, Nov. 8, 2007, 121 Stat. 1195; Pub. L. 116–260, div. AA, title I, § 148, Dec. 27, 2020, 134 Stat. 2656.)
§ 2326c. Reservoir sediment
(a) In general

Not later than 180 days after October 23, 2018, and after providing public notice, the Secretary shall, using available funds, accept services provided by a non-Federal interest or commercial entity for removal of sediment captured behind a dam owned or operated by the United States and under the jurisdiction of the Secretary for the purpose of restoring the authorized storage capacity of the project concerned.

(b) Requirements
In carrying out this section, the Secretary shall—
(1) review the services of the non-Federal interest or commercial entity to ensure that the services are consistent with the authorized purposes of the project concerned;
(2) ensure that the non-Federal interest or commercial entity will indemnify the United States for, or has entered into an agreement approved by the Secretary to address, any adverse impact to the dam as a result of such services; and
(3) require the non-Federal interest or commercial entity, prior to initiating the services and upon completion of the services, to conduct sediment surveys to determine the pre- and post-services sediment profile and sediment quality.
(c) Limitation
(1) In general

The Secretary may not accept services under subsection (a) if the Secretary, after consultation with the Chief of Engineers, determines that accepting the services is not advantageous to the United States.

(2) Report to Congress

If the Secretary makes a determination under paragraph (1), the Secretary shall provide to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Environment and Public Works of the Senate written notice describing the reasoning for the determination.

(d) Disposition of removed sediment

In exchange for providing services under subsection (a), a non-Federal interest or commercial entity is authorized to retain, use, recycle, sell, or otherwise dispose of any sediment removed in connection with the services and the Corps of Engineers may not seek any compensation for the value of the sediment.

(e) Congressional notification

Prior to accepting services provided by a non-Federal interest or commercial entity under this section, the Secretary shall provide to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Environment and Public Works of the Senate written notice of the acceptance of the services.

(f) Report to Congress

Not later than 3 years after October 23, 2018, the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Environment and Public Works of the Senate and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives a report describing the results of the program under this section.

(Pub. L. 106–541, title II, § 215, Dec. 11, 2000, 114 Stat. 2594; Pub. L. 114–322, title I, § 1115(a), Dec. 16, 2016, 130 Stat. 1638; Pub. L. 115–270, title I, § 1146, Oct. 23, 2018, 132 Stat. 3786.)
§ 2326d. Alternative projects to maintenance dredging

The Secretary may enter into agreements to assume the operation and maintenance costs of an alternative project to maintenance dredging for a Federal navigation channel if the costs of the operation and maintenance of the alternative project, and any remaining costs necessary for maintaining the Federal navigation channel, are less than the costs of maintaining such channel without the alternative project.

(Pub. L. 114–322, title I, § 1106, Dec. 16, 2016, 130 Stat. 1634.)
§ 2326e. Non-Federal interest dredging authority
(a) In general

The Secretary may permit a non-Federal interest to carry out, for an authorized navigation project (or a separable element of an authorized navigation project), such maintenance activities as are necessary to ensure that the project is maintained to not less than the minimum project dimensions.

(b) Cost limitations

Except as provided in this section and subject to the availability of appropriations, the costs incurred by a non-Federal interest in performing the maintenance activities described in subsection (a) shall be eligible for reimbursement, not to exceed an amount that is equal to the estimated Federal cost for the performance of the maintenance activities, with any reimbursement subject to the non-Federal interest complying with all Federal laws and regulations that would apply to such maintenance activities if carried out by the Secretary.

(c) Agreement

Before initiating maintenance activities under this section, a non-Federal interest shall enter into an agreement with the Secretary that specifies, for the performance of the maintenance activities, the terms and conditions that are acceptable to the non-Federal interest and the Secretary.

(d) Provision of equipment
In carrying out maintenance activities under this section, a non-Federal interest shall—
(1) provide equipment at no cost to the Federal Government; and
(2) hold and save the United States free from any and all damage that arises from the use of the equipment of the non-Federal interest, except for damage due to the fault or negligence of a contractor of the Federal Government.
(e) Reimbursement eligibility limitations
Costs that are eligible for reimbursement under this section are the costs of maintenance activities directly related to the costs associated with operation and maintenance of a dredge based on the lesser of—
(1) the costs associated with operation and maintenance of the dredge during the period of time that the dredge is being used in the performance of work for the Federal Government during a given fiscal year; or
(2) the actual fiscal year Federal appropriations that are made available for the portion of the maintenance activities for which the dredge was used.
(f) Audit
Not earlier than 5 years after December 16, 2016, the Secretary may conduct an audit on any maintenance activities for an authorized navigation project (or a separable element of an authorized navigation project) carried out under this section to determine if permitting a non-Federal interest to carry out maintenance activities under this section has resulted in—
(1) improved reliability and safety for navigation; and
(2) cost savings to the Federal Government.
(g) Termination of authority

The authority of the Secretary under this section terminates on the date that is 10 years after December 16, 2016.

(Pub. L. 114–322, title I, § 1113, Dec. 16, 2016, 130 Stat. 1637.)
§ 2326f. Maintenance dredging data
(a) In general

The Secretary shall establish, maintain, and make publicly available a database on maintenance dredging carried out by the Secretary, which shall include information on maintenance dredging carried out by Federal and non-Federal vessels.

(b) Scope
The Secretary shall include in the database maintained under subsection (a), for each maintenance dredging project and contract, estimated and actual data on—
(1) the volume of dredged material removed;
(2) the initial cost estimate of the Corps of Engineers;
(3) the total cost, including a separate line item for all Federal costs associated with the disposal of dredged material;
(4) the party and vessel carrying out the work; and
(5) the number of private contractor bids received and the bid amounts, including bids that did not win the final contract award.
(Pub. L. 114–322, title I, § 1133, Dec. 16, 2016, 130 Stat. 1654; Pub. L. 117–263, div. H, title LXXXI, § 8207, Dec. 23, 2022, 136 Stat. 3756.)
§ 2326g. Beneficial use of dredged material; dredged material management plans
(a) National policy on the beneficial use of dredged material
(1) In general

It is the policy of the United States for the Corps of Engineers to maximize the beneficial use, in an environmentally acceptable manner, of suitable dredged material obtained from the construction or operation and maintenance of water resources development projects.

(2) Placement of dredged materials
(A) In general
In evaluating the placement of dredged material obtained from the construction or operation and maintenance of water resources development projects, the Secretary shall consider—
(i) the suitability of the dredged material for a full range of beneficial uses; and
(ii) the economic and environmental benefits, efficiencies, and impacts (including the effects on living coral) of using the dredged material for beneficial uses, including, in the case of beneficial use activities that involve more than one water resources development project, the benefits, efficiencies, and impacts that result from the combined activities.
(B) Calculation of Federal standard
(i) Determination

The economic benefits and efficiencies from the beneficial use of dredged material considered by the Secretary under subparagraph (A) shall be included in any determination relating to the “Federal standard” by the Secretary under section 335.7 of title 33, Code of Federal Regulations, for the placement or disposal of such material.

(ii) Reports
The Secretary shall submit to Congress—
(I) a report detailing the method and all of the factors utilized by the Corps of Engineers to determine the Federal standard referred to in clause (i); and(II) for each evaluation under subparagraph (A), a report displaying the calculations for economic and environmental benefits and efficiencies from the beneficial use of dredged material (including, where appropriate, the utilization of alternative dredging equipment and dredging disposal methods) considered by the Secretary under such subparagraph for the placement or disposal of such material.
(C) Omitted
(Pub. L. 116–260, div. AA, title I, § 125(a), Dec. 27, 2020, 134 Stat. 2636.)
§ 2326h. Five-year regional dredged material management plans
(1) In general

Not later than 1 year after December 27, 2020, and annually thereafter, the District Commander of each district of the Corps of Engineers that obtains dredged material through the construction or operation and maintenance of a water resources development project shall, at Federal expense, develop and submit to the Secretary a 5-year dredged material management plan in coordination with relevant State agencies and stakeholders.

(2) ScopeEach plan developed under this subsection shall include—
(A) a dredged material budget for each watershed or littoral system within the district;
(B) an estimate of the amount of dredged material likely to be obtained through the construction or operation and maintenance of all water resources development projects projected to be carried out within the district during the 5-year period following submission of the plan, and the estimated timing for obtaining such dredged material;
(C) an identification of potential water resources development projects projected to be carried out within the district during such 5-year period that are suitable for, or that require, the placement of dredged material, and an estimate of the amount of dredged material placement capacity of such projects;
(D) an evaluation of—
(i) the suitability of the dredged material for a full range of beneficial uses; and
(ii) the economic and environmental benefits, efficiencies, and impacts (including the effects on living coral) of using the dredged material for beneficial uses, including, in the case of beneficial use activities that involve more than one water resources development project, the benefits, efficiencies, and impacts that result from the combined activities;
(E) the district-wide goals for beneficial use of the dredged material, including any expected cost savings from aligning and coordinating multiple projects (including projects across Corps districts) in the use of the dredged material; and
(F)
(3) Public comment

In developing each plan under this subsection, each District Commander shall provide notice and an opportunity for public comment, including a solicitation for stakeholders to identify beneficial use projects, in order to ensure, to the extent practicable, that beneficial use of dredged material is not foregone in a particular fiscal year or dredging cycle.

(4) Public availability

Upon submission of each plan to the Secretary under this subsection, each District Commander shall make the plan publicly available, including on a publicly available website.

(5) Transmission to Congress

As soon as practicable after receiving a plan under subsection (a), the Secretary shall transmit the plan to Congress.

(6) Regional sediment management plansA plan developed under this section—
(A) shall be in addition to regional sediment management plans prepared under section 2326(a) of this title; and
(B) shall not be subject to the limitations in section 2326(g) of this title.
(Pub. L. 116–260, div. AA, title I, § 125(c), Dec. 27, 2020, 134 Stat. 2638.)
§ 2327. Definition of rehabilitation for inland waterway projectsFor purposes of laws relating to navigation on inland and intracoastal waterways of the United States, the term “rehabilitation” means—
(1) major project feature restoration—
(A) which consists of structural work on an inland navigation facility operated and maintained by the Corps of Engineers;
(B) which will significantly extend the physical life of the feature;
(C) which is economically justified by a benefit-cost analysis;
(D) which will take at least 2 years to complete; and
(E)
(i) which is initially funded before October 1, 1994, and will require at least $5,000,000 in capital outlays; or
(ii) which is initially funded on or after such date and will require at least $20,000,000 in capital outlays; and
(2) structural modification of a major project component (not exhibiting reliability problems)—
(A) which will enhance the operational efficiency of such component or any other major component of the project by increasing benefits beyond the original project design; and
(B) which will require at least $1,000,000 in capital outlays.
Such term does not include routine or deferred maintenance. The dollar amounts referred to in paragraphs (1) and (2) shall be adjusted annually according to the economic assumption published each year as guidance in the Annual Program and Budget Request for Civil Works Activities of the Corps of Engineers.
(Pub. L. 102–580, title II, § 205, Oct. 31, 1992, 106 Stat. 4827; Pub. L. 113–121, title II, § 2006(a)(4), June 10, 2014, 128 Stat. 1268.)
§ 2327a. Rehabilitation of Corps of Engineers constructed pump stations
(a) DefinitionsIn this section:
(1) Eligible pump stationThe term “eligible pump station” means a pump station—
(A) that is a feature of—
(i) a federally authorized flood or coastal storm risk management project; or
(ii) an integrated flood risk reduction system that includes a federally authorized flood or coastal storm risk management project; and
(B) the failure of which the Secretary has determined would demonstrably impact the function of the federally authorized flood or coastal storm risk management project.
(2) Rehabilitation
(A) In general

The term “rehabilitation”, with respect to an eligible pump station, means to address a major deficiency of the eligible pump station caused by long-term degradation of the foundation, construction materials, or engineering systems or components of the eligible pump station.

(B) InclusionsThe term “rehabilitation”, with respect to an eligible pump station, includes—
(i) the incorporation into the eligible pump station of—(I) current design standards;(II) efficiency improvements; and(III) associated drainage; and
(ii) increasing the capacity of the eligible pump station, subject to the condition that the increase shall—(I) significantly decrease the risk of loss of life and property damage; or(II) decrease total lifecycle rehabilitation costs for the eligible pump station.
(b) AuthorizationThe Secretary may carry out rehabilitation of an eligible pump station, if the Secretary determines that—
(1) the eligible pump station has a major deficiency; and
(2) the rehabilitation is feasible.
(c) Cost sharingThe non-Federal interest for the eligible pump station shall—
(1) provide 35 percent of the cost of rehabilitation of an eligible pump station carried out under this section; and
(2) provide all land, easements, rights-of-way, and necessary relocations associated with the rehabilitation described in subparagraph (A), at no cost to the Federal Government.
(d) Agreement requiredThe rehabilitation of an eligible pump station pursuant to this section shall be initiated only after a non-Federal interest has entered into a binding agreement with the Secretary—
(1) to pay the non-Federal share of the costs of rehabilitation under subsection (c); and
(2) to pay 100 percent of the operation and maintenance costs of the rehabilitated eligible pump station, in accordance with regulations promulgated by the Secretary.
(e) Treatment

The rehabilitation of an eligible pump station pursuant to this section shall not be considered to be a separable element of the associated flood risk management project constructed by the Corps of Engineers.

(f) Authorization of appropriations

There is authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section $60,000,000, to remain available until expended.

(g) Prioritization

To the maximum extent practicable, the Secretary shall prioritize the rehabilitation of eligible pump stations under this section that benefit economically disadvantaged communities, as defined by the Secretary under section 160 of the Water Resources Development Act of 2020 (33 U.S.C. 2201 note), including economically disadvantaged communities located in urban and rural areas.

(Pub. L. 116–260, div. AA, title I, § 133, Dec. 27, 2020, 134 Stat. 2647; Pub. L. 117–263, div. H, title LXXXI, § 8152, Dec. 23, 2022, 136 Stat. 3733.)
§ 2328. Challenge cost-sharing program for management of recreation facilities
(a) In general

The Secretary is authorized to develop and implement a program to share the cost of managing recreation facilities and natural resources at water resource development projects under the Secretary’s jurisdiction.

(b) Cooperative agreements

To implement the program under this section, the Secretary is authorized to enter into cooperative agreements with non-Federal public and private entities to provide for operation and management of recreation facilities and natural resources at civil works projects under the Secretary’s jurisdiction where such facilities and resources are being maintained at complete Federal expense.

(c) User fees
(1) Collection of fees
(A) In general

The Secretary may allow a non-Federal public entity that has entered into an agreement pursuant to subsection (b) to collect user fees for the use of developed recreation sites and facilities, whether developed or constructed by that entity or the Department of the Army.

(B) Use of visitor reservation services

A non-Federal public entity described in subparagraph (A) may use, to manage fee collections and reservations under this section, any visitor reservation service that the Secretary has provided for by contract or interagency agreement, subject to such terms and conditions as the Secretary determines to be appropriate.

(2) Use of fees
A non-Federal public entity that collects user fees under paragraph (1)—
(A) may retain up to 100 percent of the fees collected, as determined by the Secretary; and
(B) notwithstanding section 460d–3(b)(4) of title 16, shall use any retained amount for operation, maintenance, and management activities at the recreation site at which the fee is collected.
(3) Terms and conditions

The authority of a non-Federal public entity under this subsection shall be subject to such terms and conditions as the Secretary determines necessary to protect the interests of the United States.

(d) Contributions

For purposes of carrying out this section the Secretary may accept contributions of funds, materials, and services from non-Federal public and private entities. Any funds received by the Secretary under this section shall be deposited into the account in the Treasury of the United States entitled “Contributions and Advances, Rivers and Harbors, Corps of Engineers (8862)” and shall be available until expended to carry out the purposes of this section.

(Pub. L. 102–580, title II, § 225, Oct. 31, 1992, 106 Stat. 4838; Pub. L. 104–303, title II, § 236(b), Oct. 12, 1996, 110 Stat. 3705; Pub. L. 114–322, title I, § 1155, Dec. 16, 2016, 130 Stat. 1663.)
§ 2328a. Special use permits
(a) Special use permits
(1) In general

The Secretary may issue special permits for uses such as group activities, recreation events, motorized recreation vehicles, and such other specialized recreation uses as the Secretary determines to be appropriate, subject to such terms and conditions as the Secretary determines to be in the best interest of the Federal Government.

(2) Fees
(A) In generalIn carrying out this subsection, the Secretary may—
(i) establish and collect fees associated with the issuance of the permits described in paragraph (1); or
(ii) accept in-kind services in lieu of those fees.
(B) Outdoor recreation equipment

The Secretary may establish and collect fees for the provision of outdoor recreation equipment and services for activities described in paragraph (1) at public recreation areas located at lakes and reservoirs operated by the Corps of Engineers.

(C) Use of feesAny fees generated pursuant to this subsection shall be—
(i) retained at the site collected; and
(ii) available for use, without further appropriation, solely for administering the special permits under this subsection and carrying out related operation and maintenance activities at the site at which the fees are collected.
(b) Cooperative management
(1) Program
(A) In generalSubject to subparagraph (B), the Secretary may enter into an agreement with a State or local government to provide for the cooperative management of a public recreation area if—
(i) the public recreation area is located—(I) at a lake or reservoir operated by the Corps of Engineers; and(II) adjacent to or near a State or local park or recreation area; and
(ii) the Secretary determines that cooperative management between the Corps of Engineers and a State or local government agency of a portion of the Corps of Engineers recreation area or State or local park or recreation area will allow for more effective and efficient management of those areas.
(B) Restriction

The Secretary may not transfer administration responsibilities for any public recreation area operated by the Corps of Engineers.

(2) Acquisition of goods and services

The Secretary may acquire from or provide to a State or local government with which the Secretary has entered into a cooperative agreement under paragraph (1) goods and services to be used by the Secretary and the State or local government in the cooperative management of the areas covered by the agreement.

(3) Administration

The Secretary may enter into 1 or more cooperative management agreements or such other arrangements as the Secretary determines to be appropriate, including leases or licenses, with non-Federal interests to share the costs of operation, maintenance, and management of recreation facilities and natural resources at recreation areas that are jointly managed and funded under this subsection.

(c) Use of funds
(1) In general

If the Secretary determines that it is in the public interest for purposes of enhancing recreation opportunities at Corps of Engineers water resources development projects, the Secretary may use funds made available to the Secretary to support activities carried out by State, local, and tribal governments and such other public or private nonprofit entities as the Secretary determines to be appropriate.

(2) Cooperative agreements

Any use of funds pursuant to this subsection shall be carried out through the execution of a cooperative agreement, which shall contain such terms and conditions as the Secretary determines to be necessary in the public interest.

(Pub. L. 113–121, title I, § 1047, June 10, 2014, 128 Stat. 1255.)
§ 2329. International outreach program
(a) Authorization
(1) In general

The Secretary may engage in activities to inform the United States of technological innovations abroad that could significantly improve water resources development in the United States.

(2) Inclusions
Activities under paragraph (1) may include—
(A) development, monitoring, assessment, and dissemination of information about foreign water resources projects that could significantly improve water resources development in the United States;
(B) research, development, training, and other forms of technology transfer and exchange; and
(C) offering technical services that cannot be readily obtained in the private sector to be incorporated into water resources projects if the costs for assistance will be recovered under the terms of each project.
(b) Cooperation

The Secretary may carry out the provisions of this section in cooperation with Federal departments and agencies, State and local agencies, authorities, institutions, corporations (profit or nonprofit), foreign governments, or other organizations.

(c) Funding

The funds to carry out the provisions of this section shall include funds deposited in a special account with the Secretary of the Treasury for such purposes by any cooperating entity or organization according to cost-sharing agreements proscribed by the Secretary. Reimbursement for services provided under this section shall be credited to the appropriation concerned.

(Pub. L. 102–580, title IV, § 401, Oct. 31, 1992, 106 Stat. 4862; Pub. L. 114–322, title I, § 1138, Dec. 16, 2016, 130 Stat. 1657.)
§ 2330. Aquatic ecosystem restoration
(a) General authority
(1) In general
The Secretary may carry out a project to restore and protect an aquatic ecosystem or estuary if the Secretary determines that the project—
(A)
(i) will improve the quality of the environment and is in the public interest; or
(ii) will improve the elements and features of an estuary (as defined in section 2902 of this title); and
(B) is cost-effective.
(2) Dam removal

A project under this section may include removal of a dam.

(3) Anadromous fish habitat and passage
(A) Measures
A project under this section may include measures to improve habitat or passage for anadromous fish, including—
(i) installing fish bypass structures on small water diversions;
(ii) modifying tide gates; and
(iii) restoring or reconnecting floodplains and wetlands that are important for anadromous fish habitat or passage.
(B) Benefits

A project that includes measures under this paragraph shall be formulated to maximize benefits for the anadromous fish species benefitted by the project.

(b) Cost sharing
(1) In general

Non-Federal interests shall provide 35 percent of the cost of construction of any project carried out under this section, including provision of all lands, easements, rights-of-way, and necessary relocations.

(2) Form

Before October 1, 2003, the Federal share of the cost of a project under this section may be provided in the form of reimbursements of project costs.

(c) Agreements
(1) In general

Construction of a project under this section shall be initiated only after a non-Federal interest has entered into a binding agreement with the Secretary to pay the non-Federal share of the costs of construction required by this section and to pay 100 percent of any operation, maintenance, and replacement and rehabilitation costs with respect to the project in accordance with regulations prescribed by the Secretary.

(2) Nonprofit entities

Notwithstanding section 1962d–5b of title 42, for any project carried out under this section, a non-Federal interest may include a nonprofit entity, with the consent of the affected local government.

(d) Cost limitation

Not more than $10,000,000 in Federal funds may be allotted under this section for a project at any single locality.

(e) Use of natural and nature-based features

In carrying out a project to restore and protect an aquatic ecosystem or estuary under subsection (a), the Secretary shall consider, and may include, with the consent of the non-Federal interest, a natural feature or nature-based feature, as such terms are defined in section 2289a of this title, if the Secretary determines that inclusion of such features is consistent with the requirements of subsection (a).

(f) Funding

There is authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section $62,500,000 for each fiscal year.

(g) Prioritization

The Secretary shall give projects that include measures described in subsection (a)(3) equal priority for implementation as other projects under this section.

(Pub. L. 104–303, title II, § 206, Oct. 12, 1996, 110 Stat. 3679; Pub. L. 106–53, title II, § 210, Aug. 17, 1999, 113 Stat. 287; Pub. L. 110–114, title II, § 2020, Nov. 8, 2007, 121 Stat. 1078; Pub. L. 113–121, title I, § 1030(g), June 10, 2014, 128 Stat. 1232; Pub. L. 115–270, title I, §§ 1149(a), 1157(f), Oct. 23, 2018, 132 Stat. 3787, 3794; Pub. L. 116–260, div. AA, title I, § 126(a), Dec. 27, 2020, 134 Stat. 2640.)
§ 2330a. Monitoring ecosystem restoration
(a) In general

In conducting a feasibility study for a project (or a component of a project) for ecosystem restoration, the Secretary shall ensure that the recommended project includes, as an integral part of the project, a plan for monitoring the success of the ecosystem restoration.

(b) Monitoring plan
The monitoring plan shall—
(1) include a description of the monitoring activities to be carried out, the criteria for ecosystem restoration success, and the estimated cost and duration of the monitoring; and
(2) specify that the monitoring shall continue until such time as the Secretary determines that the criteria for ecosystem restoration success will be met.
(c) Cost share

For a period of 10 years from completion of construction of a project (or a component of a project) for ecosystem restoration, the Secretary shall consider the cost of carrying out the monitoring as a project cost. If the monitoring plan under subsection (b) requires monitoring beyond the 10-year period, the cost of monitoring shall be a non-Federal responsibility.

(d) Inclusions
A monitoring plan under subsection (b) shall include a description of—
(1) the types and number of restoration activities to be conducted;
(2) the physical action to be undertaken to achieve the restoration objectives of the project;
(3) the functions and values that will result from the restoration plan; and
(4) a contingency plan for taking corrective actions in cases in which monitoring demonstrates that restoration measures are not achieving ecological success in accordance with criteria described in the monitoring plan.
(e) Conclusion of operation and maintenance responsibility

The responsibility of a non-Federal interest for operation and maintenance of the nonstructural and nonmechanical elements of a project, or a component of a project, for ecosystem restoration shall cease 10 years after the date on which the Secretary makes a determination of success under subsection (b)(2).

(f) Federal obligations

The Secretary is not responsible for the operation or maintenance of any components of a project with respect to which a non-Federal interest is released from obligations under subsection (e).

(Pub. L. 110–114, title II, § 2039, Nov. 8, 2007, 121 Stat. 1100; Pub. L. 114–322, title I, § 1161, Dec. 16, 2016, 130 Stat. 1668.)
§ 2330b. Fish hatcheries
(a) In general

Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the Secretary may operate a fish hatchery for the purpose of restoring a population of fish species located in the region surrounding the fish hatchery that is listed as a threatened species or an endangered species under the Endangered Species Act of 1973 (16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.) or a similar State law.

(b) Costs

A non-Federal entity, another Federal agency, or a group of non-Federal entities or other Federal agencies shall be responsible for 100 percent of the additional costs associated with managing a fish hatchery for the purpose described in subsection (a) that are not authorized as of December 16, 2016, for the fish hatchery.

(Pub. L. 114–322, title I, § 1168, Dec. 16, 2016, 130 Stat. 1671.)
§ 2330c. Aquatic ecosystem restoration
(a) Definition of eligible entityIn this section, the term “eligible entity” means—
(1) any State, Indian Tribe, irrigation district, or water district;
(2) any State, regional, or local authority, the members of which include 1 or more organizations with water or power delivery authority;
(3) any other entity or organization that owns a facility that is eligible for upgrade, modification or removal under this section;
(4) any nonprofit conservation organization, acting in partnership with any entity listed in paragraphs (1) through (3), with respect to a project involving land or infrastructure owned by the entity; and
(5) an agency established under State law for the joint exercise of powers or a combination of entities described in paragraphs (1) through (4).
(b) General authority
(1) In general

Subject to the requirements of this section and paragraph (2), on request of any eligible entity the Secretary may negotiate and enter into an agreement on behalf of the United States to fund the design, study, and construction of an aquatic ecosystem restoration and protection project in a Reclamation State if the Secretary determines that the project is likely to improve the health of fisheries, wildlife or aquatic habitat, including through habitat restoration and improved fish passage via the removal or bypass of barriers to fish passage.

(2) ExceptionWith respect to an aquatic ecosystem restoration and protection project under this section that removes a dam or modifies a dam in a manner that reduces storage or diversion capacity, the Secretary may only negotiate and enter into an agreement to fund—
(A) the design or study of such project if the Secretary has received consent from the owner of the applicable dam; or
(B) the construction of such project if the Secretary—
(i) identifies any eligible entity that receives water or power from the facility that is under consideration for removal or modification at the time of the request;
(ii) notifies each eligible entity identified in clause (i) that the dam removal or modification project has been requested; and
(iii) does not receive, by the date that is 120 days after the date on which all eligible entities have been notified under clause (ii), written objection from 1 or more eligible entities that collectively receive ⅓ or more of the water or power delivered from the facility that is under consideration for removal or modification at the time of the request.
(c) Requirements
(1) In general

The Secretary shall accept and consider public comment prior to initiating design, study or development of a project under this section.

(2) PreconditionsConstruction of a project under this section shall be a voluntary project initiated only after—
(A) an eligible entity has entered into an agreement with the Secretary to pay no less than 35 percent of the costs of project construction;
(B) an eligible entity has entered an agreement to pay 100 percent of any operation, maintenance, and replacement and rehabilitation costs with respect to the project;
(C) the Secretary determines the proposed project—
(i) will not result in an unmitigated adverse impact on fulfillment of existing water delivery obligations consistent with historical operations and applicable contracts;
(ii) will not result in an unmitigated adverse effect on the environment;
(iii) is consistent with the responsibilities of the Secretary—(I) in the role as trustee for federally recognized Indian Tribes; and(II) to ensure compliance with any applicable international and Tribal treaties and agreements and interstate compacts and agreements;
(iv) is in the financial interest of the United States based on a determination that the project advances Federal objectives including environmental enhancement objectives in a Reclamation State; and
(v) complies with all applicable Federal and State law, including environmental laws; and
(D) the Secretary has complied with all applicable environmental laws, including—
(i) the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.);
(ii) the Endangered Species Act of 1973 (16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.); and
(iii) subtitle III of title 54.
(d) Funding

There is authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section $15,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2022 through 2026, to remain available until expended.

(e) Effects
(1) In general

Nothing in this section supersedes or limits any existing authority provided, or responsibility conferred, by any provision of law.

(2) Effect on state water lawNothing in this section preempts or affects any—
(A) State water law; or
(B) interstate compact governing water.
(f) Compliance required

The Secretary shall comply with applicable State water laws in carrying out this section.

(g) Priority for projects providing regional benefits and assistance for aging assetsWhen funding projects under this section, the Secretary shall prioritize projects that—
(1) are jointly developed and supported by a diverse array of stakeholders including representatives of irrigated agricultural production, hydroelectric production, potable water purveyors and industrial water users, Indian Tribes, commercial fishing interests, and nonprofit conservation organizations;
(2) affect water resources management in 2 or more river basins while providing regional benefits not limited to fisheries restoration;
(3) are a component of a broader strategy or plan to replace aging facilities with 1 or more alternate facilities providing similar benefits; and
(4) contribute to the restoration of anadromous fish species listed under the Endangered Species Act of 1973 (16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.).
(Pub. L. 116–260, div. FF, title XI, § 1109, Dec. 27, 2020, 134 Stat. 3244.)
§ 2330d. Public recreational amenities in ecosystem restoration projects

At the request of a non-Federal interest, the Secretary is authorized to study the incorporation of public recreational amenities, including facilities for hiking, biking, walking, and waterborne recreation, into a project for ecosystem restoration, including a project carried out under section 2330 of this title, if the incorporation of such amenities would be consistent with the ecosystem restoration purposes of the project.

(Pub. L. 117–263, div. H, title LXXXI, § 8105, Dec. 23, 2022, 136 Stat. 3699.)
§ 2331. Use of continuing contracts for construction of certain projects
(a) In general

Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the Secretary shall not implement a fully allocated funding policy with respect to a water resource project if initiation of construction has occurred but sufficient funds are not available to complete the project.

(b) Continuing contracts

The Secretary shall enter into a continuing contract for a project described in subsection (a).

(c) Initiation of construction clarified
(1) Construction, General.
(2) Operation and Maintenance, General.
(3) Flood Control, Mississippi River and Tributaries.
(Pub. L. 106–53, title II, § 206, Aug. 17, 1999, 113 Stat. 286.)
§ 2331a. Initiating work on separable elements
With respect to a water resources development project that has received construction funds in the previous 6-year period, for purposes of initiating work on a separable element of the project—
(1) no new start or new investment decision shall be required; and
(2) the work shall be treated as ongoing work.
(Pub. L. 114–322, title I, § 1146, Dec. 16, 2016, 130 Stat. 1659.)
§ 2332. Shoreline and riverine protection and restoration
(a) In general
The Secretary may carry out studies and projects to—
(1) reduce flood and hurricane and storm damage hazards; or
(2) restore the natural functions and values of rivers and shorelines throughout the United States.
(b) Studies and projects
(1) Authority
(A) Studies
In carrying out subsection (a), the Secretary may carry out studies to identify appropriate measures for—
(i) the reduction of flood and hurricane and storm damage hazards, including measures for erosion mitigation and bank stabilization; or
(ii) the conservation and restoration of the natural functions and values of rivers and shorelines.
(B) Projects

Subject to subsection (f)(2), in carrying out subsection (a), the Secretary may design and implement projects described in subsection (a).

(2) Consultation and coordination

The studies and projects carried out under this section shall be conducted, to the maximum extent practicable, in consultation and coordination with the Federal Emergency Management Agency and other appropriate Federal agencies, and in consultation and coordination with appropriate State and local agencies and tribes.

(3) Nonstructural approaches

The studies and projects shall emphasize, to the maximum extent practicable and appropriate, nonstructural approaches to preventing or reducing flood and hurricane and storm damages, including the use of natural features or nature-based features.

(4) Participation

The studies and projects shall be conducted, to the maximum extent practicable, in cooperation with State and local agencies and tribes to ensure the coordination of local flood and hurricane and storm damage reduction or riverine, shoreline, and wetland restoration studies with projects that conserve, restore, and manage hydrologic and hydraulic regimes and restore the natural functions and values of floodplains and coastal barriers.

(c) Cost-sharing requirements
(1) Studies

Studies conducted under this section shall be subject to cost sharing in accordance with section 2215 of this title, except that the first $200,000 of the costs of a study conducted under this section shall be at Federal expense.

(2) Environmental restoration and nonstructural projects
(A) In general

Design and construction of a project under this section that includes a nonstructural measure, a natural feature or nature-based feature, or an environmental restoration measure, shall be subject to cost sharing in accordance with section 2213 of this title, except that the non-Federal share of the cost to design and construct such a project benefitting an economically disadvantaged community (including economically disadvantaged communities located in urban and rural areas) shall be 10 percent.

(B) Items provided by non-Federal interests

The non-Federal interests shall provide all land, easements, rights-of-way, dredged material disposal areas, and relocations necessary for such projects.

(C) Credit

The value of such land, easements, rights-of-way, dredged material disposal areas, and relocations shall be credited toward the payment required under this paragraph.

(3) Structural flood control or hurricane and storm damage reduction projects

Any structural flood control or hurricane and storm damage reduction projects carried out under this section shall be subject to cost sharing in accordance with section 2213 of this title, except that the non-Federal share of the cost to design and construct such a project benefitting an economically disadvantaged community (including economically disadvantaged communities located in urban and rural areas) shall be 10 percent.

(4) Operation and maintenance

The non-Federal interests shall be responsible for all costs associated with operating, maintaining, replacing, repairing, and rehabilitating all projects carried out under this section.

(d) Project justification
Notwithstanding any requirement for economic justification established under section 1962–2 of title 42, the Secretary may implement a project under this section if the Secretary determines that the project—
(1) will significantly reduce potential flood, hurricane and storm, or erosion damages;
(2) will improve the quality of the environment; and
(3) is justified considering all costs and beneficial outputs of the project.
(e) Areas for Examination
(1) In general
In carrying out this section, the Secretary shall examine appropriate locations, including—
(A) Pima County, Arizona, at Paseo De Las Iglesias and Rillito River;
(B) Coachella Valley, Riverside County, California;
(C) Los Angeles and San Gabriel Rivers, California;
(D) Murrieta Creek, California;
(E) Napa River Valley watershed, California, at Yountville, St. Helena, Calistoga, and American Canyon;
(F) Santa Clara basin, California, at Upper Guadalupe River and Tributaries, San Francisquito Creek, and Upper Penitencia Creek;
(G) Pond Creek, Kentucky;
(H) Red River of the North, Minnesota, North Dakota, and South Dakota;
(I) Connecticut River, New Hampshire;
(J) Pine Mount Creek, New Jersey;
(K) Southwest Valley, Albuquerque, New Mexico;
(L) Upper Delaware River, New York;
(M) Briar Creek, North Carolina;
(N) Chagrin River, Ohio;
(O) Mill Creek, Cincinnati, Ohio;
(P) Tillamook County, Oregon;
(Q) Willamette River basin, Oregon;
(R) Blair County, Pennsylvania, at Altoona and Frankstown Township;
(S) Delaware River, Pennsylvania;
(T) Schuylkill River, Pennsylvania;
(U) Providence County, Rhode Island;
(V) Shenandoah River, Virginia;
(W) Lincoln Creek, Wisconsin;
(X) Perry Creek, Iowa;
(Y) Lester, St. Louis, East Savanna, and Floodwood Rivers, Duluth, Minnesota;
(Z) Lower Hudson River and tributaries, New York;
(AA) Susquehanna River watershed, Bradford County, Pennsylvania;
(BB) Clear Creek, Harris, Galveston, and Brazoria Counties, Texas;
(CC) Ascension Parish, Louisiana;
(DD) East Baton Rouge Parish, Louisiana;
(EE) Iberville Parish, Louisiana;
(FF) Livingston Parish, Louisiana; and
(GG) Pointe Coupee Parish, Louisiana.
(2) Priority projects
In carrying out this section, the Secretary shall prioritize projects for the following locations:
(A) Delaware beaches and watersheds, Delaware.
(B) Louisiana Coastal Area, Louisiana.
(C) Great Lakes Shores and Watersheds.
(D) Oregon Coastal Area and Willamette River basin, Oregon.
(E) Upper Missouri River Basin.
(F) Ohio River Tributaries and their watersheds, West Virginia.
(G) Chesapeake Bay watershed and Maryland beaches, Maryland.
(H) City of Southport, North Carolina.
(I) Maumee River, Ohio.
(J) Los Angeles and San Gabriel Rivers, California.
(K) Kentucky River and its tributaries and watersheds.
(f) Procedure
(1) All projects
The Secretary shall not implement any project under this section until—
(A) the Secretary submits to the Committee on Environment and Public Works of the Senate and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives a written notification describing the project and the determinations made under subsection (d)(1); and
(B) 21 calendar days have elapsed after the date on which the notification was received by the committees.
(2) Projects requiring specific authorization

If the Federal share of the cost to design and construct a project under this section exceeds $15,000,000, the Secretary may only carry out the project if Congress enacts a law authorizing the Secretary to carry out the project.

(g) Definitions
In this section:
(1) Economically disadvantaged community

The term “economically disadvantaged community” has the meaning given the term as defined by the Secretary under section 160 of the Water Resources Development Act of 2020 (33 U.S.C. 2201 note).

(2) Natural feature; nature-based feature

The terms “natural feature” and “nature-based feature” have the meanings given those terms in section 2289a(a) of this title.

(Pub. L. 106–53, title II, § 212, Aug. 17, 1999, 113 Stat. 288; Pub. L. 106–541, title II, § 227, Dec. 11, 2000, 114 Stat. 2599; Pub. L. 110–114, title V, § 5005, Nov. 8, 2007, 121 Stat. 1192; Pub. L. 117–263, div. H, title LXXXI, § 8103(a), Dec. 23, 2022, 136 Stat. 3696.)
§ 2333. Irrigation diversion protection and fisheries enhancement assistance
(a) In general

The Secretary may provide technical planning and design assistance to non-Federal interests and may conduct other site-specific studies to formulate and evaluate fish screens, fish passages devices, and other measures to decrease the incidence of juvenile and adult fish inadvertently entering irrigation systems.

(b) Cooperation
Measures under subsection (a)—
(1) shall be developed in cooperation with Federal and State resource agencies; and
(2) shall not impair the continued withdrawal of water for irrigation purposes.
(c) Priority
In providing assistance under subsection (a), the Secretary shall give priority based on—
(1) the objectives of the Endangered Species Act of 1973 (16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.);
(2) cost-effectiveness; and
(3) the potential for reducing fish mortality.
(d) Non-Federal share
(1) In general

The non-Federal share of the cost of measures under subsection (a) shall be 50 percent.

(2) In-kind contributions

Not more than 50 percent of the non-Federal contribution may be made through the provision of services, materials, supplies, or other in-kind contributions.

(e) No construction activity

This section does not authorize any construction activity.

(f) Report
Not later than 2 years after August 17, 1999, the Secretary shall submit to Congress a report on—
(1) fish mortality caused by irrigation water intake devices;
(2) appropriate measures to reduce fish mortality;
(3) the extent to which those measures are currently being employed in arid States;
(4) the construction costs associated with those measures; and
(5) the appropriate Federal role, if any, to encourage the use of those measures.
(Pub. L. 106–53, title V, § 515, Aug. 17, 1999, 113 Stat. 344.)
§ 2334. Innovative technologies for watershed restoration

The Secretary shall examine using, and, if appropriate, encourage the use of, innovative treatment technologies, including membrane technologies, for watershed and environmental restoration and protection projects involving water quality.

(Pub. L. 106–53, title V, § 516, Aug. 17, 1999, 113 Stat. 344.)
§ 2335. Coastal aquatic habitat management
(a) In general

The Secretary may cooperate with the Secretaries of Agriculture and the Interior, the Administrators of the Environmental Protection Agency and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, other appropriate Federal, State, and local agencies, and affected private entities, in the development of a management strategy to address problems associated with toxic microorganisms and the resulting degradation of ecosystems in the tidal and nontidal wetlands and waters of the United States.

(b) Assistance

As part of the management strategy, the Secretary may provide planning, design, and other technical assistance to each participating State in the development and implementation of nonregulatory measures to mitigate environmental problems and restore aquatic resources.

(c) Cost sharing

The Federal share of the cost of measures undertaken under this section shall not exceed 65 percent.

(d) Operation and maintenance

The non-Federal share of operation and maintenance costs for projects constructed with assistance provided under this section shall be 100 percent.

(e) Authorization of appropriations

There is authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section $7,000,000 for the period beginning with fiscal year 2000.

(Pub. L. 106–53, title V, § 559, Aug. 17, 1999, 113 Stat. 354.)
§ 2336. Abandoned and inactive noncoal mine restoration
(a) In general

The Secretary may provide technical, planning, and design assistance to Federal and non-Federal interests for carrying out projects to address water quality problems caused by drainage and related activities from abandoned and inactive noncoal mines.

(b) Specific measures
Assistance provided under subsection (a) may be in support of projects for the purposes of—
(1) managing drainage from abandoned and inactive noncoal mines;
(2) restoring and protecting streams, rivers, wetlands, other waterbodies, and riparian areas degraded by drainage from abandoned and inactive noncoal mines; and
(3) demonstrating management practices and innovative and alternative treatment technologies to minimize or eliminate adverse environmental effects associated with drainage from abandoned and inactive noncoal mines.
(c) Non-Federal share

The non-Federal share of the cost of assistance under subsection (a) shall be 50 percent, except that the Federal share with respect to projects located on land owned by the United States, on land held in trust by the Secretary of the Interior on behalf of, and for the benefit of, an Indian Tribe, or on restricted land of any Indian Tribe, shall be 100 percent.

(d) Effect on authority of Secretary of the Interior

Nothing in this section affects the authority of the Secretary of the Interior under title IV of the Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act of 1977 (30 U.S.C. 1231 et seq.).

(e) Technology database for reclamation of abandoned mines

The Secretary may provide assistance to non-Federal and nonprofit entities to develop, manage, and maintain a database of conventional and innovative, cost-effective technologies for reclamation of abandoned and inactive noncoal mine sites. Such assistance shall be provided through the Restoration of Abandoned Mine Sites Program managed by the Albuquerque District Office of the Corps of Engineers.

(f) Authorization of appropriations

There is authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section $50,000,000.

(Pub. L. 106–53, title V, § 560, Aug. 17, 1999, 113 Stat. 354; Pub. L. 108–137, title I, § 118, Dec. 1, 2003, 117 Stat. 1836; Pub. L. 110–114, title II, § 2025, Nov. 8, 2007, 121 Stat. 1079; Pub. L. 116–260, div. AA, title III, § 302, Dec. 27, 2020, 134 Stat. 2703; Pub. L. 117–263, div. H, title LXXXI, § 8390, Dec. 23, 2022, 136 Stat. 3831.)
§ 2337. Property protection program
(a) In general

The Secretary may carry out a program to reduce vandalism and destruction of property at water resources development projects under the jurisdiction of the Department of the Army.

(b) Provision of rewards

In carrying out the program, the Secretary may provide rewards (including cash rewards) to individuals who provide information or evidence leading to the arrest and prosecution of individuals causing damage to Federal property.

(c) Authorization of appropriations

There is authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section $500,000 for fiscal year 2001 and each fiscal year thereafter.

(Pub. L. 106–541, title II, § 205, Dec. 11, 2000, 114 Stat. 2590.)
§ 2338. Reburial and conveyance authority
(a) Definition of Indian tribe

In this section, the term “Indian tribe” has the meaning given the term in section 5304 of title 25.

(b) Reburial
(1) Reburial areas
In consultation with affected Indian tribes, the Secretary may identify and set aside areas at civil works projects of the Department of the Army that may be used to rebury Native American remains that—
(A) have been discovered on project land; and
(B) have been rightfully claimed by a lineal descendant or Indian tribe in accordance with applicable Federal law.
(2) Reburial

In consultation with and with the consent of the lineal descendant or the affected Indian tribe, the Secretary may recover and rebury, at Federal expense, the remains at the areas identified and set aside under subsection (b)(1).

(c) Conveyance authority
(1) In general

Subject to paragraph (2), notwithstanding any other provision of law, the Secretary may convey to an Indian tribe for use as a cemetery an area at a civil works project that is identified and set aside by the Secretary under subsection (b)(1).

(2) Retention of necessary property interests

In carrying out paragraph (1), the Secretary shall retain any necessary right-of-way, easement, or other property interest that the Secretary determines to be necessary to carry out the authorized purposes of the project.

(Pub. L. 106–541, title II, § 208, Dec. 11, 2000, 114 Stat. 2590.)
§ 2339. Assistance programs
(a) Conservation and recreation management

To further training and educational opportunities about water resources development projects under the jurisdiction of the Secretary, the Secretary may enter into cooperative agreements with non-Federal public and nonprofit entities for services relating to natural resources conservation or recreation management.

(b) Rural community assistance

In carrying out studies and projects under the jurisdiction of the Secretary, the Secretary may enter into cooperative agreements with multistate regional private nonprofit rural community assistance entities for services, including water resource assessment, community participation, planning, development, and management activities.

(c) Youth service and conservation corps organizations

The Secretary, to the maximum extent practicable, shall enter into cooperative agreements with qualified youth service and conservation corps organizations for services relating to projects under the jurisdiction of the Secretary and shall do so in a manner that ensures the maximum participation and opportunities for such organizations.

(d) Cooperative agreements

A cooperative agreement entered into under this section shall not be considered to be, or treated as being, a cooperative agreement to which chapter 63 of title 31 applies.

(Pub. L. 106–541, title II, § 213, Dec. 11, 2000, 114 Stat. 2593; Pub. L. 113–121, title I, § 1047(e), June 10, 2014, 128 Stat. 1257; Pub. L. 114–322, title I, § 1101, Dec. 16, 2016, 130 Stat. 1632.)
§ 2339a. Cooperative agreements with Indian tribes

The Secretary may enter into a cooperative agreement with an Indian tribe (or a designated representative of an Indian tribe) to carry out authorized activities of the Corps of Engineers to protect fish, wildlife, water quality, and cultural resources.

(Pub. L. 113–121, title I, § 1031(b), June 10, 2014, 128 Stat. 1233.)
§ 2340. Revision of project partnership agreement; cost sharing
(a) Federal allocation

Upon authorization by law of an increase in the maximum amount of Federal funds that may be allocated for a water resources project or an increase in the total cost of a water resources project authorized to be carried out by the Secretary, the Secretary shall enter into a revised partnership agreement for the project to take into account the change in Federal participation in the project.

(b) Cost sharing

An increase in the maximum amount of Federal funds that may be allocated for a water resources project, or an increase in the total cost of a water resources project, authorized to be carried out by the Secretary shall not affect any cost-sharing requirement applicable to the project.

(c) Cost estimates

The estimated Federal and non-Federal costs of water resources projects authorized to be carried out by the Secretary before, on, or after November 8, 2007, are for informational purposes only and shall not be interpreted as affecting the cost-sharing responsibilities established by law.

(Pub. L. 110–114, title II, § 2008, Nov. 8, 2007, 121 Stat. 1073.)
§ 2341. Expedited actions for emergency flood damage reduction

The Secretary shall expedite any authorized planning, design, and construction of any project for flood damage reduction for an area that, within the preceding 5 years, has been subject to flooding that resulted in the loss of life and caused damage of sufficient severity and magnitude to warrant a declaration of a major disaster by the President under the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 5121 et seq.).

(Pub. L. 110–114, title II, § 2009, Nov. 8, 2007, 121 Stat. 1074.)
§ 2341a. Prioritization
(a) Prioritization of hurricane and storm damage risk reduction efforts
(1) PriorityFor authorized projects and ongoing feasibility studies with a primary purpose of hurricane and storm damage risk reduction, the Secretary shall give funding priority to projects and ongoing studies that—
(A) address an imminent threat to life and property;
(B) prevent storm surge from inundating populated areas;
(C) restore or prevent the loss of coastal wetlands that help reduce the impact of storm surge;
(D) protect emergency hurricane evacuation routes or shelters;
(E) prevent adverse impacts to publicly owned or funded infrastructure and assets;
(F) minimize disaster relief costs to the Federal Government; and
(G) address hurricane and storm damage risk reduction in an area for which the President declared a major disaster in accordance with section 5170 of title 42.
(2) Expedited consideration of currently authorized projectsNot later than 180 days after December 16, 2016, the Secretary shall—
(A) submit to the Committee on Environment and Public Works of the Senate and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives a list of all—
(i) ongoing hurricane and storm damage reduction feasibility studies that have signed feasibility cost-share agreements and have received Federal funds since 2009; and
(ii) authorized hurricane and storm damage reduction projects;
(B) identify those projects on the list required under subparagraph (A) that meet the criteria described in paragraph (1); and
(C) provide a plan for expeditiously completing the projects identified under subparagraph (B), subject to available funding.
(b) Prioritization of ecosystem restoration efforts
(1) In generalFor authorized projects with a primary purpose of ecosystem restoration, the Secretary shall give funding priority to projects—
(A) that—
(i) address an identified threat to public health, safety, or welfare;
(ii) preserve or restore ecosystems of national significance; or
(iii) preserve or restore habitats of importance for federally protected species, including migratory birds; and
(B) for which the restoration activities will contribute to other ongoing or planned Federal, State, or local restoration initiatives.
(2) Expedited consideration of currently authorized programmatic authoritiesNot later than 180 days after December 16, 2016, the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Environment and Public Works of the Senate and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives a report that contains—
(A) a list of all programmatic authorities for aquatic ecosystem restoration or improvement of the environment that—
(i) were authorized or modified in the Water Resources Development Act of 2007 (Public Law 110–114; 121 Stat. 1041) or any subsequent Act; and
(ii) that meet the criteria described in paragraph (1); and
(B) a plan for expeditiously completing the projects under the authorities described in subparagraph (A), subject to available funding.
(Pub. L. 113–121, title I, § 1011, June 10, 2014, 128 Stat. 1217; Pub. L. 114–322, title I, § 1322(a), Dec. 16, 2016, 130 Stat. 1706.)
§ 2341b. Prioritization of certain projectsThe Secretary shall give priority to a project for flood risk management if—
(1) there is an executed project partnership agreement for the project; and
(2) the project is located in an area—
(A) with respect to which—
(i) there has been a loss of life due to flood events; and
(ii) the President has declared that a major disaster or emergency exists under section 5170 of title 42; or
(B) that is at significant risk for catastrophic flooding.
(Pub. L. 114–322, title I, § 1144, Dec. 16, 2016, 130 Stat. 1659.)
§ 2341c. Criteria for funding environmental infrastructure projects
(a) In general

Not later than 180 days after December 27, 2020, the Secretary shall develop specific criteria for the evaluation and ranking of individual environmental assistance projects authorized by Congress (including projects authorized pursuant to environmental assistance programs) for the Secretary to carry out.

(b) Minimum criteriaFor the purposes of carrying out this section, the Secretary shall evaluate, at a minimum—
(1) the nature and extent of the positive and negative local economic impacts of the project, including—
(A) the benefits of the project to the local economy;
(B) the extent to which the project will enhance local development;
(C) the number of jobs that will be directly created by the project; and
(D) the ability of the non-Federal interest to pay the applicable non-Federal share of the cost of the project;
(2) the demographics of the location in which the project is to be carried out, including whether the project serves—
(A) a rural community; or
(B) an economically disadvantaged community, including an economically disadvantaged minority community;
(3) the amount of appropriations a project has received;
(4) the funding capability of the Corps of Engineers with respect to the project;
(5) whether the project could be carried out under other Federal authorities at an equivalent cost to the non-Federal interest; and
(6) any other criteria that the Secretary considers to be appropriate.
(c) Inclusion in guidance

The Secretary shall include the criteria developed under subsection (a) in the annual Civil Works Direct Program Development Policy Guidance of the Secretary.

(d) Report to Congress

For fiscal year 2022, and biennially thereafter, in conjunction with the President’s annual budget submission to Congress under section 1105(a) of title 31, the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Environment and Public Works and the Committee on Appropriations of the Senate and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure and the Committee on Appropriations of the House of Representatives a report that identifies the Secretary’s ranking of individual environmental assistance projects authorized by Congress for the Secretary to carry out, in accordance with the criteria developed under this section.

(Pub. L. 116–260, div. AA, title I, § 137, Dec. 27, 2020, 134 Stat. 2650.)
§ 2342. Access to water resource data
(a) In general
Using available funds, the Secretary shall make publicly available, including on the Internet, all data in the custody of the Corps of Engineers on—
(1) the planning, design, construction, operation, and maintenance of water resources development projects; and
(2) water quality and water management of projects owned, operated, or managed by the Corps of Engineers.
(b) Limitation

Nothing in this section may be construed to compel or authorize the disclosure of data or other information determined by the Secretary to be confidential information, privileged information, law enforcement information, national security information, infrastructure security information, personal information, or information the disclosure of which is otherwise prohibited by law.

(c) Timing

The Secretary shall ensure that data is made publicly available under subsection (a) as quickly as practicable after the data is generated by the Corps of Engineers.

(d) Partnerships

In carrying out this section, the Secretary may develop partnerships, including through cooperative agreements, with State, tribal, and local governments and other Federal agencies.

(Pub. L. 110–114, title II, § 2017, Nov. 8, 2007, 121 Stat. 1077; Pub. L. 114–322, title I, § 1135, Dec. 16, 2016, 130 Stat. 1656.)
§ 2343. Independent peer review
(a) Project studies subject to independent peer review
(1) In general

Project studies shall be subject to a peer review by an independent panel of experts as determined under this section.

(2) Scope

The peer review may include a review of the economic and environmental assumptions and projections, project evaluation data, economic analyses, environmental analyses, engineering analyses, formulation of alternative plans, methods for integrating risk and uncertainty, models used in evaluation of economic or environmental impacts of proposed projects, and any biological opinions of the project study.

(3) Project studies subject to peer review
(A) MandatoryA project study shall be subject to peer review under paragraph (1) if—
(i) the project has an estimated total cost of more than $200,000,000, including mitigation costs, and is not determined by the Chief of Engineers to be exempt from peer review under paragraph (6);
(ii) the Governor of an affected State requests a peer review by an independent panel of experts; or
(iii) the Chief of Engineers determines that the project study is controversial considering the factors set forth in paragraph (4).
(B) Discretionary
(i) Agency request

A project study shall be considered by the Chief of Engineers for peer review under this section if the head of a Federal or State agency charged with reviewing the project study determines that the project is likely to have a significant adverse impact on environmental, cultural, or other resources under the jurisdiction of the agency after implementation of proposed mitigation plans and requests a peer review by an independent panel of experts.

(ii) Deadline for decision

A decision of the Chief of Engineers under this subparagraph whether to conduct a peer review shall be made within 21 days of the date of receipt of the request by the head of the Federal or State agency under clause (i).

(iii) Reasons for not conducting peer review

If the Chief of Engineers decides not to conduct a peer review following a request under clause (i), the Chief shall make publicly available, including on the Internet, the reasons for not conducting the peer review.

(iv) Appeal to Chairman of Council on Environmental Quality

A decision by the Chief of Engineers not to conduct a peer review following a request under clause (i) shall be subject to appeal by a person referred to in clause (i) to the Chairman of the Council on Environmental Quality if such appeal is made within the 30-day period following the date of the decision being made available under clause (iii). A decision of the Chairman on an appeal under this clause shall be made within 30 days of the date of the appeal.

(4) Factors to considerIn determining whether a project study is controversial under paragraph (3)(A)(iii), the Chief of Engineers shall consider if—
(A) there is a significant public dispute as to the size, nature, or effects of the project; or
(B) there is a significant public dispute as to the economic or environmental costs or benefits of the project.
(5) Project studies excluded from peer reviewThe Chief of Engineers may exclude a project study from peer review under paragraph (1)—
(A) if the project study does not include an environmental impact statement and is a project study subject to peer review under paragraph (3)(A)(i) that the Chief of Engineers determines—
(i) is not controversial;
(ii) has no more than negligible adverse impacts on scarce or unique cultural, historic, or tribal resources;
(iii) has no substantial adverse impacts on fish and wildlife species and their habitat prior to the implementation of mitigation measures; and
(iv) has, before implementation of mitigation measures, no more than a negligible adverse impact on a species listed as endangered or threatened species under the Endangered Species Act of 1973 (16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.) or the critical habitat of such species designated under such Act;
(B) if the project study—
(i) involves only the rehabilitation or replacement of existing hydropower turbines, lock structures, or flood control gates within the same footprint and for the same purpose as an existing water resources project;
(ii) is for an activity for which there is ample experience within the Corps of Engineers and industry to treat the activity as being routine; and
(iii) has minimal life safety risk; or
(C) if the project study does not include an environmental impact statement and is a project study pursued under section 701s of this title, section 701g of this title, section 701r of this title, section 577(a) of this title, section 426g of this title, section 426i of this title, section 603a of this title, section 2309a of this title, or section 2330 of this title.
(6) Determination of total cost

For purposes of determining the estimated total cost of a project under paragraph (3)(A), the total cost shall be based upon the reasonable estimates of the Chief of Engineers at the completion of the reconnaissance study for the project. If the reasonable estimate of total costs is subsequently determined to be in excess of the amount in paragraph (3)(A), the Chief of Engineers shall make a determination whether a project study is required to be reviewed under this section.

(b) Timing of peer review
(1) In general

The Chief of Engineers shall determine the timing of a peer review of a project study under subsection (a). In all cases, the peer review shall occur during the period beginning on the date of the signing of the feasibility cost-sharing agreement for the study and ending on the date established under subsection (e)(1)(A) for the peer review and shall be accomplished concurrent with the conducting of the project study.

(2) Factors to considerIn any case in which the Chief of Engineers has not initiated a peer review of a project study, the Chief of Engineers shall consider, at a minimum, whether to initiate a peer review at the time that—
(A) the without-project conditions are identified;
(B) the array of alternatives to be considered are identified; and
(C) the preferred alternative is identified.
(3) Reasons for timingIf the Chief of Engineers does not initiate a peer review for a project study at a time described in paragraph (2), the Chief shall—
(A) not later than 7 days after the date on which the Chief of Engineers determines not to initiate a peer review—
(i) notify the Committee on Environment and Public Works of the Senate and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives of that decision; and
(ii) make publicly available, including on the Internet, the reasons for not conducting the review; and
(B)
(4) Limitation on multiple peer review

Nothing in this subsection shall be construed to require the Chief of Engineers to conduct multiple peer reviews for a project study.

(c) Establishment of panels
(1) In general

For each project study subject to peer review under subsection (a), as soon as practicable after the Chief of Engineers determines that a project study will be subject to peer review, the Chief of Engineers shall contract with the National Academy of Sciences or a similar independent scientific and technical advisory organization or an eligible organization to establish a panel of experts to conduct a peer review for the project study.

(2) Membership

A panel of experts established for a project study under this section shall be composed of independent experts who represent a balance of areas of expertise suitable for the review being conducted.

(3) Limitation on appointments

The National Academy of Sciences or any other organization the Chief of Engineers contracts with under paragraph (1) to establish a panel of experts shall apply the National Academy of Science’s policy for selecting committee members to ensure that members selected for the panel of experts have no conflict with the project being reviewed.

(4) Congressional and public notificationFollowing the identification of a project study for peer review under this section, but prior to initiation of the review by the panel of experts, the Chief of Engineers shall, not later than 7 days after the date on which the Chief of Engineers determines to conduct a review—
(A) notify the Committee on Environment and Public Works of the Senate and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives of the review conducted under this section; and
(B) make publicly available, including on the Internet, information on—
(i) the dates scheduled for beginning and ending the review;
(ii) the entity that has the contract for the review; and
(iii) the names and qualifications of the panel of experts.
(d) Duties of panelsA panel of experts established for a peer review for a project study under this section shall—
(1) conduct the peer review for the project study;
(2) assess the adequacy and acceptability of the economic, engineering, and environmental methods, models, and analyses used by the Chief of Engineers;
(3) receive from the Chief of Engineers the public written and oral comments provided to the Chief of Engineers;
(4) provide timely written and oral comments to the Chief of Engineers throughout the development of the project study, as requested; and
(5) submit to the Chief of Engineers a final report containing the panel’s economic, engineering, and environmental analysis of the project study, including the panel’s assessment of the adequacy and acceptability of the economic, engineering, and environmental methods, models, and analyses used by the Chief of Engineers, to accompany the publication of the report of the Chief of Engineers for the project.
(e) Duration of project study peer reviews
(1) DeadlineA panel of experts established under this section shall—
(A) complete its peer review under this section for a project study and submit a report to the Chief of Engineers under subsection (d)(5) not more than 60 days after the last day of the public comment period for the draft project study, or, if the Chief of Engineers determines that a longer period of time is necessary, such period of time determined necessary by the Chief of Engineers; and
(B) terminate on the date of initiation of the State and agency review required by section 701–1 of this title.
(2) Failure to meet deadline

If a panel of experts does not complete its peer review of a project study under this section and submit a report to the Chief of Engineers under subsection (d)(5) on or before the deadline established by paragraph (1) for the peer review, the Chief of Engineers shall complete the project study without delay.

(f) Recommendations of panel
(1) Consideration by the Chief of Engineers

After receiving a report on a project study from a panel of experts under this section and before entering a final record of decision for the project, the Chief of Engineers shall consider any recommendations contained in the report and prepare a written response for any recommendations adopted or not adopted.

(2) Public availability and submission to CongressAfter receiving a report on a project study from a panel of experts under this section, the Chief of Engineers shall make available to the public, including on the Internet, and submit to the Committee on Environment and Public Works of the Senate and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives—
(A) a copy of the report not later than 7 days after the date on which the report is delivered to the Chief of Engineers; and
(B) a copy of any written response of the Chief of Engineers on recommendations contained in the report not later than 3 days after the date on which the response is delivered to the Chief of Engineers.
(3) Inclusion in project study

A report on a project study from a panel of experts under this section and the written response of the Chief of Engineers shall be included in the final decision document for the project study.

(g) Costs
(1) In generalThe costs of a panel of experts established for a peer review under this section—
(A) shall be a Federal expense; and
(B) shall not exceed $500,000.
(2) Waiver

The Chief of Engineers may waive the $500,000 limitation contained in paragraph (1)(B) in cases that the Chief of Engineers determines appropriate.

(h) ApplicabilityThis section shall apply to—
(1) project studies initiated during the 2-year period preceding November 8, 2007, and for which the array of alternatives to be considered has not been identified; and
(2) project studies initiated during the period beginning on November 8, 2007, and ending 17 years after November 8, 2007.
(i) Reports
(1) Initial report

Not later than 3 years after November 8, 2007, the Chief of Engineers shall submit to the Committee on Environment and Public Works of the Senate and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives a report on the implementation of this section.

(2) Additional report

Not later than 6 years after November 8, 2007, the Chief of Engineers shall update the report under paragraph (1) taking into account any further information on implementation of this section and submit such updated report to the Committee on Environment and Public Works of the Senate and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives.

(j) Nonapplicability of chapter 10 of title 5

Chapter 10 of title 5 shall not apply to a peer review panel established under this section.

(k) Savings clause

Nothing in this section shall be construed to affect any authority of the Chief of Engineers to cause or conduct a peer review of a water resources project existing on November 8, 2007.

(l) DefinitionsIn this section, the following definitions apply:
(1) Project studyThe term “project study” means—
(A) a feasibility study or reevaluation study for a water resources project, including the environmental impact statement prepared for the study; and
(B) any other study associated with a modification of a water resources project that includes an environmental impact statement, including the environmental impact statement prepared for the study.
(2) Affected State

The term “affected State”, as used with respect to a water resources project, means a State all or a portion of which is within the drainage basin in which the project is or would be located and would be economically or environmentally affected as a consequence of the project.

(3) Eligible organizationThe term “eligible organization” means an organization that—
(A) is described in section 501(c)(3), and exempt from Federal tax under section 501(a), of title 26;
(B) is independent;
(C) is free from conflicts of interest;
(D) does not carry out or advocate for or against Federal water resources projects; and
(E) has experience in establishing and administering peer review panels.
(4) Total cost

The term “total cost”, as used with respect to a water resources project, means the cost of construction (including planning and designing) of the project. In the case of a project for hurricane and storm damage reduction or flood damage reduction that includes periodic nourishment over the life of the project, the term includes the total cost of the nourishment.

(Pub. L. 110–114, title II, § 2034, Nov. 8, 2007, 121 Stat. 1086; Pub. L. 113–121, title I, § 1044, June 10, 2014, 128 Stat. 1250; Pub. L. 115–270, title I, § 1141, Oct. 23, 2018, 132 Stat. 3785; Pub. L. 117–286, § 4(a)(203), Dec. 27, 2022, 136 Stat. 4328.)
§ 2344. Safety assurance review
(a) Projects subject to safety assurance review

The Chief of Engineers shall ensure that the design and construction activities for hurricane and storm damage reduction and flood damage reduction projects are reviewed by independent experts under this section if the Chief of Engineers determines that a review by independent experts is necessary to assure public health, safety, and welfare.

(b) Factors
In determining whether a review of design and construction of a project is necessary under this section, the Chief of Engineers shall consider whether—
(1) the failure of the project would pose a significant threat to human life;
(2) the project involves the use of innovative materials or techniques;
(3) the project design lacks redundancy; or
(4) the project has a unique construction sequencing or a reduced or overlapping design construction schedule.
(c) Safety assurance review
(1) Initiation of review

At the appropriate point in the development of detailed engineering and design specifications for each water resources project subject to review under this section, the Chief of Engineers shall initiate a safety assurance review by independent experts on the design and construction activities for the project.

(2) Selection of reviewers

A safety assurance review under this section shall include participation by experts selected by the Chief of Engineers from among individuals who are distinguished experts in engineering, hydrology, or other appropriate disciplines. The Chief of Engineers shall apply the National Academy of Science’s policy for selecting reviewers to ensure that reviewers have no conflict of interest with the project being reviewed.

(3) Compensation

An individual serving as an independent reviewer under this section shall be compensated at a rate of pay to be determined by the Secretary and shall be allowed travel expenses.

(d) Scope of safety assurance reviews

A safety assurance review under this section shall include a review of the design and construction activities prior to the initiation of physical construction and periodically thereafter until construction activities are completed on a regular schedule sufficient to inform the Chief of Engineers on the adequacy, appropriateness, and acceptability of the design and construction activities for the purpose of assuring public health, safety, and welfare. The Chief of Engineers shall ensure that reviews under this section do not create any unnecessary delays in design and construction activities.

(e) Safety assurance review record

The written recommendations of a reviewer or panel of reviewers under this section and the responses of the Chief of Engineers shall be available to the public, including through electronic means on the Internet.

(f) Applicability

This section shall apply to any project in design or under construction on November 8, 2007, and to any project with respect to which design or construction is initiated during the period beginning on November 8, 2007, and ending 7 years after November 8, 2007.

(g) Nonapplicability of chapter 10 of title 5

Chapter 10 of title 5 shall not apply to a safety assurance review conducted under this section.

(Pub. L. 110–114, title II, § 2035, Nov. 8, 2007, 121 Stat. 1091; Pub. L. 113–121, title III, § 3028, June 10, 2014, 128 Stat. 1305; Pub. L. 117–286, § 4(a)(204), Dec. 27, 2022, 136 Stat. 4328.)
§ 2345. Electronic submission and tracking of permit applications
(a) Development of electronic system
(1) In general

The Secretary shall research, develop, and implement an electronic system to allow the electronic preparation and submission of applications for permits and requests for jurisdictional determinations under the jurisdiction of the Secretary.

(2) InclusionThe electronic system required under paragraph (1) shall address—
(A) applications for standard individual permits;
(B) applications for letters of permission;
(C) joint applications with States for State and Federal permits;
(D) applications for emergency permits;
(E) applications or requests for jurisdictional determinations; and
(F) preconstruction notification submissions, when required for a nationwide or other general permit.
(3) Improving existing data systems

The Secretary shall seek to incorporate the electronic system required under paragraph (1) into existing systems and databases of the Corps of Engineers to the maximum extent practicable.

(4) Protection of information

The electronic system required under paragraph (1) shall provide for the protection of personal, private, privileged, confidential, and proprietary information, and information the disclosure of which is otherwise prohibited by law.

(b) System requirementsThe electronic system required under subsection (a) shall—
(1) enable an applicant or requester to prepare electronically an application for a permit or request;
(2) enable an applicant or requester to submit to the Secretary, by email or other means through the Internet, the completed application form or request;
(3) enable an applicant or requester to submit to the Secretary, by email or other means through the Internet, data and other information in support of the permit application or request;
(4) provide an online interactive guide to provide assistance to an applicant or requester at any time while filling out the permit application or request; and
(5) enable an applicant or requester (or a designated agent) to track the status of a permit application or request in a manner that will—
(A) allow the applicant or requester to determine whether the application is pending or final and the disposition of the request;
(B) allow the applicant or requester to research previously submitted permit applications and requests within a given geographic area and the results of such applications or requests; and
(C) allow identification and display of the location of the activities subject to a permit or request through a map-based interface.
(c) Documentation

All permit decisions and jurisdictional determinations made by the Secretary shall be in writing and include documentation supporting the basis for the decision or determination. The Secretary shall prescribe means for documenting all decisions or determinations to be made by the Secretary.

(d) Record of determinations
(1) In general

The Secretary shall maintain, for a minimum of 5 years, a record of each permit decision and jurisdictional determination made by the Secretary, including documentation supporting the basis of the decision or determination.

(2) Archiving of information

The Secretary shall explore and implement an appropriate mechanism for archiving records of permit decisions and jurisdictional determinations, including documentation supporting the basis of the decisions and determinations, after the 5-year maintenance period described in paragraph (1).

(e) Availability of determinations
(1) In general

The Secretary shall make the records of all permit decisions and jurisdictional determinations made by the Secretary available to the public for review and reproduction.

(2) Protection of information

The Secretary shall provide for the protection of personal, private, privileged, confidential, and proprietary information, and information the disclosure of which is prohibited by law, which may be excluded from disclosure.

(f) Deadline for electronic system implementation
(1) In general

The Secretary shall develop and implement, to the maximum extent practicable, the electronic system required under subsection (a) not later than 2 years after December 23, 2022.

(2) Update on electronic system implementation

The Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Environment and Public Works of the Senate a quarterly update describing the status of the implementation of this section.

(g) Applicability

The requirements described in subsections (c), (d), and (e) shall apply to permit applications and requests for jurisdictional determinations submitted to the Secretary after December 16, 2016.

(h) Limitation

This section shall not preclude the submission to the Secretary, acting through the Chief of Engineers, of a physical copy of a permit application or a request for a jurisdictional determination.

(Pub. L. 110–114, title II, § 2040, Nov. 8, 2007, 121 Stat. 1100; Pub. L. 114–322, title I, § 1134(a), Dec. 16, 2016, 130 Stat. 1654; Pub. L. 117–263, div. H, title LXXXI, § 8226, Dec. 23, 2022, 136 Stat. 3764.)
§ 2346. Project administration
(a) Project tracking

The Secretary shall assign a unique tracking number to each water resources project under the jurisdiction of the Secretary to be used by each Federal agency throughout the life of the project.

(b) Report repository
(1) In general

The Secretary shall provide to the Library of Congress a copy of each final feasibility study, final environmental impact statement, final reevaluation report, final post-authorization change report, record of decision, and report to Congress prepared by the Corps of Engineers.

(2) Availability to public

Each document described in paragraph (1) shall be made available to the public, and an electronic copy of each document shall be made permanently available to the public through the Internet.

(Pub. L. 110–114, title II, § 2041, Nov. 8, 2007, 121 Stat. 1100; Pub. L. 114–322, title I, § 1136(b), Dec. 16, 2016, 130 Stat. 1657.)
§ 2347. Coordination and scheduling of Federal, State, and local actions
(a) Notice of intent

Upon request of the non-Federal interest in the form of a written notice of intent to construct or modify a non-Federal water supply, wastewater infrastructure, flood damage reduction, storm damage reduction, ecosystem restoration, or navigation project that requires the approval of the Secretary, the Secretary shall initiate, subject to subsection (c), procedures to establish a schedule for consolidating Federal, State, and local agency and Indian tribe environmental assessments, project reviews, and issuance of all permits for the construction or modification of the project. All States and Indian tribes having jurisdiction over the proposed project shall be invited by the Secretary, but shall not be required, to participate in carrying out this section with respect to the project.

(b) Coordination

The Secretary shall seek, to the extent practicable, to consolidate hearing and comment periods, procedures for data collection and report preparation, and the environmental review and permitting processes associated with the project and related activities. The Secretary shall notify, to the extent possible, the non-Federal interest of its responsibilities for data development and information that may be necessary to process each permit required for the project, including a schedule when the information and data should be provided to the appropriate Federal, State, or local agency or Indian tribe.

(c) Costs of coordination

The costs incurred by the Secretary to establish and carry out a schedule to consolidate Federal, State, and local agency and Indian tribe environmental assessments, project reviews, and permit issuance for a project under this section shall be paid by the non-Federal interest.

(d) Report on timesavings methods

Not later than 3 years after November 8, 2007, the Secretary shall prepare and transmit to Congress a report estimating the time required for the issuance of all Federal, State, local, and tribal permits for the construction of non-Federal projects for water supply, wastewater infrastructure, flood damage reduction, storm damage reduction, ecosystem restoration, and navigation.

(Pub. L. 110–114, title II, § 2044, Nov. 8, 2007, 121 Stat. 1102.)
§ 2347a. Determination of project completion
(a) In general

The Secretary shall notify the applicable non-Federal interest when construction of a water resources project or a functional portion of the project is completed so the non-Federal interest may commence responsibilities, as applicable, for operating and maintaining the project.

(b) Non-Federal interest appeal of determination
(1) In general

Not later than 7 days after receiving a notification under subsection (a), the non-Federal interest may appeal the completion determination of the Secretary in writing with a detailed explanation of the basis for questioning the completeness of the project or functional portion of the project.

(2) Independent review
(A) In general

On notification that a non-Federal interest has submitted an appeal under paragraph (1), the Secretary shall contract with 1 or more independent, non-Federal experts to evaluate whether the applicable water resources project or functional portion of the project is complete.

(B) Timeline

An independent review carried out under subparagraph (A) shall be completed not later than 180 days after the date on which the Secretary receives an appeal from a non-Federal interest under paragraph (1).

(Pub. L. 113–121, title I, § 1010, June 10, 2014,
§ 2347b. Purpose and need
(a) Purpose and need statements
(1) In general
Not later than 90 days after the date of receipt of a complete application for a water storage project, the District Engineer shall develop and provide to the applicant a purpose and need statement that describes—
(A) whether the District Engineer concurs with the assessment of the purpose of and need for the water storage project proposed by the applicant; and
(B) in any case in which the District Engineer does not concur as described in subparagraph (A), an assessment by the District Engineer of the purpose of and need for the project.
(2) Effect on environmental impact statements

No environmental impact statement or environmental assessment required under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.) shall substantially commence with respect to a water storage project until the date on which the District Engineer provides to the applicant a purpose and need statement as required under paragraph (1).

(b) Appeals request

A non-Federal interest may use the administrative appeals process described in part 331 of title 33, Code of Federal Regulations (or any succeeding regulation), in relation to a decision of the Secretary related to an application for a water storage project.

(Pub. L. 115–270, title I, § 1126, Oct. 23, 2018, 132 Stat. 3779.)
§ 2347c. Small water storage projects
(a) In general

The Secretary shall carry out a program to study and construct new, or enlarge existing, small water storage projects, in partnership with a non-Federal interest.

(b) RequirementsTo be eligible to participate in the program under this section, a small water storage project shall—
(1) in the case of a new small water storage project, have a water storage capacity of not less than 2,000 acre-feet and not more than 30,000 acre-feet;
(2) in the case of an enlargement of an existing small water storage project, be for an enlargement of not less than 1,000 acre-feet and not more than 30,000 acre-feet;
(3) provide—
(A) flood risk management benefits;
(B) ecological benefits; or
(C) water management, water conservation, or water supply; and
(4) be—
(A) economically justified, environmentally acceptable, and technically feasible; or
(B) in the case of a project providing ecological benefits, cost-effective with respect to such benefits.
(c) Scope

In carrying out the program under this section, the Secretary shall give preference to a small water storage project located in a State with a population of less than 1,000,000.

(d) Expedited projects

For the 10-year period beginning on December 27, 2020, the Secretary shall expedite small water storage projects under this section for which applicable Federal permitting requirements have been completed.

(e) Use of dataIn conducting a study under this section, to the maximum extent practicable, the Secretary shall—
(1) as the Secretary determines appropriate, consider and utilize any applicable hydrologic, economic, or environmental data that is prepared for a small water storage project under State law as the documentation, or part of the documentation, required to complete State water plans or other State planning documents relating to water resources management; and
(2) consider information developed by the non-Federal interest in relation to another study, to the extent the Secretary determines such information is applicable, appropriate, or otherwise authorized by law.
(f) Cost share
(1) StudyThe Federal share of the cost of a study conducted under this section shall be—
(A) 100 percent for costs not to exceed $100,000; and
(B) 50 percent for any costs above $100,000.
(2) ConstructionA small water storage project carried out under this section shall be subject to the cost-sharing requirements applicable to projects under section 2213 of this title, including—
(A) municipal and industrial water supply: 100 percent non-Federal;
(B) agricultural water supply: 35 percent non-Federal; and
(C) recreation, including recreational navigation: 50 percent of separable costs and, in the case of any harbor or inland harbor or channel project, 50 percent of joint and separable costs allocated to recreational navigation.
(g) OMRRR responsibility

The costs of operation, maintenance, repair, and replacement and rehabilitation for a small water storage project constructed under this section shall be the responsibility of the non-Federal interest.

(h) Individual project limit

Not more than $65,000,000 in Federal funds may be made available to a small water storage project under this section.

(i) Authorization of appropriations

There is authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section $130,000,000 annually through fiscal year 2030.

(Pub. L. 116–260, div. AA, title I, § 155, Dec. 27, 2020, 134 Stat. 2660.)
§ 2348. Project acceleration
(a) DefinitionsIn this section:
(1) Environmental impact statement

The term “environmental impact statement” means the detailed statement of environmental impacts of a project required to be prepared pursuant to the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.).

(2) Environmental review process
(A) In general

The term “environmental review process” means the process of preparing an environmental impact statement, environmental assessment, categorical exclusion, or other document under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.) for a project study.

(B) Inclusions

The term “environmental review process” includes the process for and completion of any environmental permit, approval, review, or study required for a project study under any Federal law other than the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.).

(3) Federal jurisdictional agency

The term “Federal jurisdictional agency” means a Federal agency with jurisdiction delegated by law, regulation, order, or otherwise over a review, analysis, opinion, statement, permit, license, or other approval or decision required for a project study under applicable Federal laws (including regulations).

(4) Federal lead agency

The term “Federal lead agency” means the Corps of Engineers.

(5) Project

The term “project” means a water resources development project to be carried out by the Secretary.

(6) Project sponsor

The term “project sponsor” has the meaning given the term “non-Federal interest” in section 1962d–5b(b) of title 42.

(7) Project study

The term “project study” means a feasibility study for a project carried out pursuant to section 2282 of this title.

(b) Applicability
(1) In generalThis section—
(A) shall apply to each project study that is initiated after June 10, 2014, and for which an environmental impact statement is prepared under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.); and
(B) may be applied, to the extent determined appropriate by the Secretary, to other project studies initiated after June 10, 2014, and for which an environmental review process document is prepared under that Act.
(2) Flexibility

Any authority granted under this section may be exercised, and any requirement established under this section may be satisfied, for the conduct of an environmental review process for a project study, a class of project studies, or a program of project studies.

(3) List of project studies
(A) In generalThe Secretary shall annually prepare, and make publicly available, a separate list of each study that the Secretary has determined—
(i) meets the standards described in paragraph (1); and
(ii) does not have adequate funding to make substantial progress toward the completion of the project study.
(B) Inclusions

The Secretary shall include for each project study on the list under subparagraph (A) a description of the estimated amounts necessary to make substantial progress on the project study.

(c) Project review process
(1) In general

The Secretary shall develop and implement a coordinated environmental review process for the development of project studies.

(2) Coordinated review

The coordinated environmental review process described in paragraph (1) shall require that any review, analysis, opinion, statement, permit, license, or other approval or decision issued or made by a Federal, State, or local governmental agency or an Indian tribe for a project study described in subsection (b) be conducted, to the maximum extent practicable, concurrently with any other applicable governmental agency or Indian tribe.

(3) Timing

The coordinated environmental review process under this subsection shall be completed not later than the date on which the Secretary, in consultation and concurrence with the agencies identified under subsection (e), establishes with respect to the project study.

(d) Lead agencies
(1) Joint lead agencies
(A) In general

At the discretion of the Secretary and subject to the requirements of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.) and the requirements of section 1506.8 of title 40, Code of Federal Regulations (or successor regulations), including the concurrence of the proposed joint lead agency, a project sponsor may serve as the joint lead agency.

(B) Project sponsor as joint lead agencyA project sponsor that is a State or local governmental entity may—
(i) with the concurrence of the Secretary, serve as a joint lead agency with the Federal lead agency for purposes of preparing any environmental document under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.); and
(ii) prepare any environmental review process document under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.) required in support of any action or approval by the Secretary if—(I) the Secretary provides guidance in the preparation process and independently evaluates that document;(II) the project sponsor complies with all requirements applicable to the Secretary under—(aa) the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.);(bb) any regulation implementing that Act; and(cc) any other applicable Federal law; and(III) the Secretary approves and adopts the document before the Secretary takes any subsequent action or makes any approval based on that document, regardless of whether the action or approval of the Secretary results in Federal funding.
(2) DutiesThe Secretary shall ensure that—
(A) the project sponsor complies with all design and mitigation commitments made jointly by the Secretary and the project sponsor in any environmental document prepared by the project sponsor in accordance with this subsection; and
(B) any environmental document prepared by the project sponsor is appropriately supplemented to address any changes to the project the Secretary determines are necessary.
(3) Adoption and use of documentsAny environmental document prepared in accordance with this subsection shall be adopted and used by any Federal agency making any determination related to the project study to the same extent that the Federal agency could adopt or use a document prepared by another Federal agency under—
(A) the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.); and
(B) parts 1500 through 1508 of title 40, Code of Federal Regulations (or successor regulations).
(4) Roles and responsibility of lead agencyWith respect to the environmental review process for any project study, the Federal lead agency shall have authority and responsibility—
(A) to take such actions as are necessary and proper and within the authority of the Federal lead agency to facilitate the expeditious resolution of the environmental review process for the project study; and
(B) to prepare or ensure that any required environmental impact statement or other environmental review document for a project study required to be completed under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.) is completed in accordance with this section and applicable Federal law.
(e) Participating and cooperating agencies
(1) Identification of jurisdictional agenciesWith respect to carrying out the environmental review process for a project study, the Secretary shall identify, as early as practicable in the environmental review process, all Federal, State, and local government agencies and Indian tribes that may—
(A) have jurisdiction over the project;
(B) be required by law to conduct or issue a review, analysis, opinion, or statement for the project study; or
(C) be required to make a determination on issuing a permit, license, or other approval or decision for the project study.
(2) State authorityIf the environmental review process is being implemented by the Secretary for a project study within the boundaries of a State, the State, consistent with State law, may choose to participate in the process and to make subject to the process all State agencies that—
(A) have jurisdiction over the project;
(B) are required to conduct or issue a review, analysis, opinion, or statement for the project study; or
(C) are required to make a determination on issuing a permit, license, or other approval or decision for the project study.
(3) Invitation
(A) In general

The Federal lead agency shall invite, as early as practicable in the environmental review process, any agency identified under paragraph (1) to become a participating or cooperating agency, as applicable, in the environmental review process for the project study.

(B) Deadline

An invitation to participate issued under subparagraph (A) shall set a deadline by which a response to the invitation shall be submitted, which may be extended by the Federal lead agency for good cause.

(4) Procedures

Section 1501.6 of title 40, Code of Federal Regulations (as in effect on June 10, 2014) shall govern the identification and the participation of a cooperating agency.

(5) Federal cooperating agenciesAny Federal agency that is invited by the Federal lead agency to participate in the environmental review process for a project study shall be designated as a cooperating agency by the Federal lead agency unless the invited agency informs the Federal lead agency, in writing, by the deadline specified in the invitation that the invited agency—
(A)
(i)(I) has no jurisdiction or authority with respect to the project;(II) has no expertise or information relevant to the project; or(III) does not have adequate funds to participate in the project; and
(ii) does not intend to submit comments on the project; or
(B) does not intend to submit comments on the project.
(6) Administration

A participating or cooperating agency shall comply with this section and any schedule established under this section.

(7) Effect of designationDesignation as a participating or cooperating agency under this subsection shall not imply that the participating or cooperating agency—
(A) supports a proposed project; or
(B) has any jurisdiction over, or special expertise with respect to evaluation of, the project.
(8) Concurrent reviewsEach participating or cooperating agency shall—
(A) carry out the obligations of that agency under other applicable law concurrently and in conjunction with the required environmental review process, unless doing so would prevent the participating or cooperating agency from conducting needed analysis or otherwise carrying out those obligations; and
(B) formulate and implement administrative, policy, and procedural mechanisms to enable the agency to ensure completion of the environmental review process in a timely, coordinated, and environmentally responsible manner.
(f) Programmatic compliance
(1) In generalThe Secretary shall issue guidance regarding the use of programmatic approaches to carry out the environmental review process that—
(A) eliminates repetitive discussions of the same issues;
(B) focuses on the actual issues ripe for analyses at each level of review;
(C) establishes a formal process for coordinating with participating and cooperating agencies, including the creation of a list of all data that is needed to carry out an environmental review process; and
(D) complies with—
(i) the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.); and
(ii) all other applicable laws.
(2) RequirementsIn carrying out paragraph (1), the Secretary shall—
(A) as the first step in drafting guidance under that paragraph, consult with relevant Federal, State, and local governmental agencies, Indian tribes, and the public on the appropriate use and scope of the programmatic approaches;
(B) emphasize the importance of collaboration among relevant Federal, State, and local governmental agencies, and Indian tribes in undertaking programmatic reviews, especially with respect to including reviews with a broad geographical scope;
(C) ensure that the programmatic reviews—
(i) promote transparency, including of the analyses and data used in the environmental review process, the treatment of any deferred issues raised by Federal, State, and local governmental agencies, Indian tribes, or the public, and the temporal and special scales to be used to analyze those issues;
(ii) use accurate and timely information in the environmental review process, including—(I) criteria for determining the general duration of the usefulness of the review; and(II) the timeline for updating any out-of-date review;
(iii) describe—(I) the relationship between programmatic analysis and future tiered analysis; and(II) the role of the public in the creation of future tiered analysis; and
(iv) are available to other relevant Federal, State, and local governmental agencies, Indian tribes, and the public;
(D) allow not fewer than 60 days of public notice and comment on any proposed guidance; and
(E) address any comments received under subparagraph (D).
(g) Coordinated reviews
(1) Coordination plan
(A) Establishment
(i) In general

The Federal lead agency shall, after consultation with and with the concurrence of each participating and cooperating agency and the project sponsor or joint lead agency, as applicable, establish a plan for coordinating public and agency participation in, and comment on, the environmental review process for a project study or a category of project studies.

(ii) Incorporation

The plan established under clause (i) shall be incorporated into the project schedule milestones set under section 2282(g)(2) of this title.

(B) Schedule
(i) In general

As soon as practicable but not later than 45 days after the close of the public comment period on a draft environmental impact statement, the Federal lead agency, after consultation with and the concurrence of each participating and cooperating agency and the project sponsor or joint lead agency, as applicable, shall establish, as part of the coordination plan established in subparagraph (A), a schedule for completion of the environmental review process for the project study.

(ii) Factors for considerationIn establishing a schedule, the Secretary shall consider factors such as—(I) the responsibilities of participating and cooperating agencies under applicable laws;(II) the resources available to the project sponsor, joint lead agency, and other relevant Federal and State agencies, as applicable;(III) the overall size and complexity of the project;(IV) the overall schedule for and cost of the project; and(V) the sensitivity of the natural and historical resources that could be affected by the project.
(iii) ModificationsThe Secretary may—(I) lengthen a schedule established under clause (i) for good cause; and(II) shorten a schedule only with concurrence of the affected participating and cooperating agencies and the project sponsor or joint lead agency, as applicable.
(iv) DisseminationA copy of a schedule established under clause (i) shall be—(I) provided to each participating and cooperating agency and the project sponsor or joint lead agency, as applicable; and(II) made available to the public.
(2) Comment deadlinesThe Federal lead agency shall establish the following deadlines for comment during the environmental review process for a project study:
(A) Draft environmental impact statementsFor comments by Federal and States 1
1 So in original. Probably should be “State”.
agencies and the public on a draft environmental impact statement, a period of not more than 60 days after publication in the Federal Register of notice of the date of public availability of the draft environmental impact statement, unless—
(i) a different deadline is established by agreement of the Federal lead agency, the project sponsor or joint lead agency, as applicable, and all participating and cooperating agencies; or
(ii) the deadline is extended by the Federal lead agency for good cause.
(B) Other environmental review processesFor all other comment periods established by the Federal lead agency for agency or public comments in the environmental review process, a period of not more than 30 days after the date on which the materials on which comment is requested are made available, unless—
(i) a different deadline is established by agreement of the Federal lead agency, the project sponsor, or joint lead agency, as applicable, and all participating and cooperating agencies; or
(ii) the deadline is extended by the Federal lead agency for good cause.
(3) Deadlines for decisions under other lawsIn any case in which a decision under any Federal law relating to a project study, including the issuance or denial of a permit or license, is required to be made by the date described in subsection (h)(5)(B)(ii), the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Environment and Public Works of the Senate and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives—
(A) as soon as practicable after the 180-day period described in subsection (h)(5)(B)(ii), an initial notice of the failure of the Federal agency to make the decision; and
(B) every 60 days thereafter until such date as all decisions of the Federal agency relating to the project study have been made by the Federal agency, an additional notice that describes the number of decisions of the Federal agency that remain outstanding as of the date of the additional notice.
(4) Involvement of the public

Nothing in this subsection reduces any time period provided for public comment in the environmental review process under applicable Federal law (including regulations).

(5) Transparency reporting
(A) Reporting requirements

Not later than 1 year after June 10, 2014, the Secretary shall establish and maintain an electronic database and, in coordination with other Federal and State agencies, issue reporting requirements to make publicly available the status and progress with respect to compliance with applicable requirements of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et. seq.) and any other Federal, State, or local approval or action required for a project study for which this section is applicable.

(B) Project study transparency

(h) Issue identification and resolution
(1) Cooperation

The Federal lead agency, the cooperating agencies, and any participating agencies shall work cooperatively in accordance with this section to identify and resolve issues that could delay completion of the environmental review process or result in the denial of any approval required for the project study under applicable laws.

(2) Federal lead agency responsibilities
(A) In general

The Federal lead agency shall make information available to the cooperating agencies and participating agencies as early as practicable in the environmental review process regarding the environmental and socioeconomic resources located within the project area and the general locations of the alternatives under consideration.

(B) Data sources

The information under subparagraph (A) may be based on existing data sources, including geographic information systems mapping.

(3) Cooperating and participating agency responsibilities

Based on information received from the Federal lead agency, cooperating and participating agencies shall identify, as early as practicable, any issues of concern regarding the potential environmental or socioeconomic impacts of the project, including any issues that could substantially delay or prevent an agency from granting a permit or other approval that is needed for the project study.

(4) Accelerated issue resolution and elevation
(A) In generalOn the request of a participating or cooperating agency or project sponsor, the Secretary shall convene an issue resolution meeting with the relevant participating and cooperating agencies and the project sponsor or joint lead agency, as applicable, to resolve issues that may—
(i) delay completion of the environmental review process; or
(ii) result in denial of any approval required for the project study under applicable laws.
(B) Meeting date

A meeting requested under this paragraph shall be held not later than 21 days after the date on which the Secretary receives the request for the meeting, unless the Secretary determines that there is good cause to extend that deadline.

(C) Notification

On receipt of a request for a meeting under this paragraph, the Secretary shall notify all relevant participating and cooperating agencies of the request, including the issue to be resolved and the date for the meeting.

(D) Elevation of issue resolution

If a resolution cannot be achieved within the 30 day-period beginning on the date of a meeting under this paragraph and a determination is made by the Secretary that all information necessary to resolve the issue has been obtained, the Secretary shall forward the dispute to the heads of the relevant agencies for resolution.

(E) Convention by Secretary

The Secretary may convene an issue resolution meeting under this paragraph at any time, at the discretion of the Secretary, regardless of whether a meeting is requested under subparagraph (A).

(5) Financial penalty provisions
(A) In general

A Federal jurisdictional agency shall complete any required approval or decision for the environmental review process on an expeditious basis using the shortest existing applicable process.

(B) Failure to decide
(i) In generalIf a Federal jurisdictional agency fails to render a decision required under any Federal law relating to a project study that requires the preparation of an environmental impact statement or environmental assessment, including the issuance or denial of a permit, license, statement, opinion, or other approval by the date described in clause (ii), the amount of funds made available to support the office of the head of the Federal jurisdictional agency shall be reduced by an amount of funding equal to the amounts specified in subclause (I) or (II) and those funds shall be made available to the division of the Federal jurisdictional agency charged with rendering the decision by not later than 1 day after the applicable date under clause (ii), and once each week thereafter until a final decision is rendered, subject to subparagraph (C)—(I) $20,000 for any project study requiring the preparation of an environmental assessment or environmental impact statement; or(II) $10,000 for any project study requiring any type of review under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.) other than an environmental assessment or environmental impact statement.
(ii) Description of dateThe date referred to in clause (i) is the later of—(I) the date that is 180 days after the date on which an application for the permit, license, or approval is complete; and(II) the date that is 180 days after the date on which the Federal lead agency issues a decision on the project under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.).
(C) Limitations
(i) In general

No transfer of funds under subparagraph (B) relating to an individual project study shall exceed, in any fiscal year, an amount equal to 1 percent of the funds made available for the applicable agency office.

(ii) Failure to decide

The total amount transferred in a fiscal year as a result of a failure by an agency to make a decision by an applicable deadline shall not exceed an amount equal to 5 percent of the funds made available for the applicable agency office for that fiscal year.

(iii) Aggregate

Notwithstanding any other provision of law, for each fiscal year, the aggregate amount of financial penalties assessed against each applicable agency office under the Water Resources Reform and Development Act of 2014 and any other Federal law as a result of a failure of the agency to make a decision by an applicable deadline for environmental review, including the total amount transferred under this paragraph, shall not exceed an amount equal to 9.5 percent of the funds made available for the agency office for that fiscal year.

(D) No fault of agency
(i) In generalA transfer of funds under this paragraph shall not be made if the applicable agency described in subparagraph (A) notifies, with a supporting explanation, the Federal lead agency, cooperating agencies, and project sponsor, as applicable, that—(I) the agency has not received necessary information or approvals from another entity in a manner that affects the ability of the agency to meet any requirements under Federal, State, or local law;(II) significant new information, including from public comments, or circumstances, including a major modification to an aspect of the project, requires additional analysis for the agency to make a decision on the project application; or(III) the agency lacks the financial resources to complete the review under the scheduled time frame, including a description of the number of full-time employees required to complete the review, the amount of funding required to complete the review, and a justification as to why not enough funding is available to complete the review by the deadline.
(ii) Lack of financial resourcesIf the agency provides notice under clause (i)(III), the Inspector General of the agency shall—(I) conduct a financial audit to review the notice; and(II) not later than 90 days after the date on which the review described in subclause (I) is completed, submit to the Committee on Environment and Public Works of the Senate and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives a report on the notice.
(E) Limitation

The Federal agency from which funds are transferred pursuant to this paragraph shall not reprogram funds to the office of the head of the agency, or equivalent office, to reimburse that office for the loss of the funds.

(F) Effect of paragraph

Nothing in this paragraph affects or limits the application of, or obligation to comply with, any Federal, State, local, or tribal law.

(i) Memorandum of agreements for early coordination
(1) Sense of CongressIt is the sense of Congress that—
(A) the Secretary and other Federal agencies with relevant jurisdiction in the environmental review process should cooperate with each other, State agencies, and Indian tribes on environmental review and project delivery activities at the earliest practicable time to avoid delays and duplication of effort later in the process, prevent potential conflicts, and ensure that planning and project development decisions reflect environmental values; and
(B) the cooperation referred to in subparagraph (A) should include the development of policies and the designation of staff that advise planning agencies and project sponsors of studies or other information foreseeably required for later Federal action and early consultation with appropriate State and local agencies and Indian tribes.
(2) Technical assistance

If requested at any time by a State or project sponsor, the Secretary and other Federal agencies with relevant jurisdiction in the environmental review process, shall, to the maximum extent practicable and appropriate, as determined by the agencies, provide technical assistance to the State or project sponsor in carrying out early coordination activities.

(3) Memorandum of agency agreement

If requested at any time by a State or project sponsor, the Federal lead agency, in consultation with other Federal agencies with relevant jurisdiction in the environmental review process, may establish memoranda of agreement with the project sponsor, Indian tribe, State and local governments, and other appropriate entities to carry out the early coordination activities, including providing technical assistance in identifying potential impacts and mitigation issues in an integrated fashion.

(j) LimitationsNothing in this section preempts or interferes with—
(1) any obligation to comply with the provisions of any Federal law, including—
(A) the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.); and
(B) any other Federal environmental law;
(2) the reviewability of any final Federal agency action in a court of the United States or in the court of any State;
(3) any requirement for seeking, considering, or responding to public comment; or
(4) any power, jurisdiction, responsibility, duty, or authority that a Federal, State, or local governmental agency, Indian tribe, or project sponsor has with respect to carrying out a project or any other provision of law applicable to projects.
(k) Timing of claims
(1) Timing
(A) In general

Notwithstanding any other provision of law, a claim arising under Federal law seeking judicial review of a permit, license, or other approval issued by a Federal agency for a project study shall be barred unless the claim is filed not later than 3 years after publication of a notice in the Federal Register announcing that the permit, license, or other approval is final pursuant to the law under which the agency action is taken, unless a shorter time is specified in the Federal law that allows judicial review.

(B) Applicability

Nothing in this subsection creates a right to judicial review or places any limit on filing a claim that a person has violated the terms of a permit, license, or other approval.

(2) New information
(A) In general

The Secretary shall consider new information received after the close of a comment period if the information satisfies the requirements for a supplemental environmental impact statement under title 40, Code of Federal Regulations (including successor regulations).

(B) Separate action

The preparation of a supplemental environmental impact statement or other environmental document, if required under this section, shall be considered a separate final agency action and the deadline for filing a claim for judicial review of the action shall be 3 years after the date of publication of a notice in the Federal Register announcing the action relating to such supplemental environmental impact statement or other environmental document.

(l) Categorical exclusions
(1) In generalNot later than 180 days after June 10, 2014, the Secretary shall—
(A) survey the use by the Corps of Engineers of categorical exclusions in projects since 2005;
(B) publish a review of the survey that includes a description of—
(i) the types of actions that were categorically excluded or could be the basis for developing a new categorical exclusion; and
(ii) any requests previously received by the Secretary for new categorical exclusions; and
(C) solicit requests from other Federal agencies and project sponsors for new categorical exclusions.
(2) New categorical exclusions

Not later than 1 year after June 10, 2014, if the Secretary has identified a category of activities that merit establishing a categorical exclusion that did not exist on the day before June 10, 2014, based on the review under paragraph (1), the Secretary shall publish a notice of proposed rulemaking to propose that new categorical exclusion, to the extent that the categorical exclusion meets the criteria for a categorical exclusion under section 1508.4 of title 40, Code of Federal Regulations (or successor regulation).

(m) Review of project acceleration reforms
(1) In generalThe Comptroller General of the United States shall—
(A) assess the reforms carried out under this section; and
(B) not later than 5 years and not later than 10 years after June 10, 2014, submit to the Committee on Environment and Public Works of the Senate and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives a report that describes the results of the assessment.
(2) ContentsThe reports under paragraph (1) shall include an evaluation of impacts of the reforms carried out under this section on—
(A) project delivery;
(B) compliance with environmental laws; and
(C) the environmental impact of projects.
(n) Performance measurement

The Secretary shall establish a program to measure and report on progress made toward improving and expediting the planning and environmental review process.

(o) Implementation guidance

The Secretary shall prepare, in consultation with the Council on Environmental Quality and other Federal agencies with jurisdiction over actions or resources that may be impacted by a project, guidance documents that describe the coordinated environmental review processes that the Secretary intends to use to implement this section for the planning of projects, in accordance with the civil works program of the Corps of Engineers and all applicable law.

(Pub. L. 110–114, title II, § 2045, Nov. 8, 2007, 121 Stat. 1103; Pub. L. 113–121, title I, § 1005(a)(1), June 10, 2014,
§ 2348a. NEPA reporting
(a) Definitions
In this section:
(1) Categorical exclusion

The term “categorical exclusion” has the meaning given the term in section 1508.1 of title 40, Code of Federal Regulations (or a successor regulation).

(2) Environmental assessment

The term “environmental assessment” has the meaning given the term in section 1508.1 of title 40, Code of Federal Regulations (or a successor regulation).

(3) Environmental impact statement

The term “environmental impact statement” means a detailed written statement required under section 102(2)(C) of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4332(2)(C)).

(4) Finding of no significant impact

The term “finding of no significant impact” has the meaning given the term in section 1508.1 of title 40, Code of Federal Regulations (or a successor regulation).

(5) Project study

The term “project study” means a feasibility study for a project carried out pursuant to section 2282 of this title for which a categorical exclusion may apply, or an environmental assessment or an environmental impact statement is required, pursuant to the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.).

(b) Reports
(1) NEPA data
(A) In general

The Secretary shall carry out a process to track, and annually submit to the Committee on Environment and Public Works of the Senate and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives, a report containing the information described in subparagraph (B).

(B) Information described
The information referred to in subparagraph (A) is, with respect to the Corps of Engineers—
(i) the number of project studies for which a categorical exclusion was used during the reporting period;
(ii) the number of project studies for which the decision to use a categorical exclusion, to prepare an environmental assessment, or to prepare an environmental impact statement is pending on the date on which the report is submitted;
(iii) the number of project studies for which an environmental assessment was issued during the reporting period, broken down by whether a finding of no significant impact, if applicable, was based on mitigation;
(iv) the length of time the Corps of Engineers took to complete each environmental assessment described in clause (iii);
(v) the number of project studies pending on the date on which the report is submitted for which an environmental assessment is being drafted;
(vi) the number of project studies for which an environmental impact statement was issued during the reporting period;
(vii) the length of time the Corps of Engineers took to complete each environmental impact statement described in clause (vi); and
(viii) the number of project studies pending on the date on which the report is submitted for which an environmental impact statement is being drafted.
(2) Public access to NEPA reports

The Secretary shall make each annual report required under paragraph (1) publicly available (including on a publicly available website).

(Pub. L. 117–263, div. H, title LXXXI, § 8134, Dec. 23, 2022, 136 Stat. 3721.)
§ 2349. Categorical exclusions in emergencies
For the repair, reconstruction, or rehabilitation of a water resources project that is in operation or under construction when damaged by an event or incident that results in a declaration by the President of a major disaster or emergency pursuant to the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 5121 et seq.), the Secretary shall treat such repair, reconstruction, or rehabilitation activity as a class of action categorically excluded from the requirements relating to environmental assessments or environmental impact statements under section 1508.4 of title 40, Code of Federal Regulations (or successor regulations), if the repair or reconstruction activity is—
(1) in the same location with the same capacity, dimensions, and design as the original water resources project as before the declaration described in this section; 1
1 See References in Text note below.
and
(2) commenced within a 2-year period beginning on the date of a declaration described in this section.
(Pub. L. 113–121, title I, § 1005(b), June 10, 2014, 128 Stat. 1212.)
§ 2350. Corrosion prevention
(a) In general

To the greatest extent practicable, the Secretary shall encourage and incorporate corrosion prevention activities at water resources development projects.

(b) ActivitiesIn carrying out subsection (a), the Secretary, to the greatest extent practicable, shall ensure that contractors performing work for water resources development projects—
(1) use best practices to carry out corrosion prevention activities in the field;
(2) use industry-recognized standards and corrosion mitigation and prevention methods when—
(A) determining protective coatings;
(B) selecting materials; and
(C) determining methods of cathodic protection, design, and engineering for corrosion prevention;
(3) use certified coating application specialists and cathodic protection technicians and engineers;
(4) use best practices in environmental protection to prevent environmental degradation and to ensure careful handling of all hazardous materials;
(5) demonstrate a history of employing industry-certified inspectors to ensure adherence to best practices and standards; and
(6) demonstrate a history of compliance with applicable requirements of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration.
(c) Corrosion prevention activities definedIn this section, the term “corrosion prevention activities” means—
(1) the application and inspection of protective coatings for complex work involving steel and cementitious structures, including structures that will be exposed in immersion;
(2) the installation, testing, and inspection of cathodic protection systems; and
(3) any other activities related to corrosion prevention the Secretary determines appropriate.
(d) ReportIn the first annual report submitted to Congress after December 16, 2016, in accordance with section 556 of this title, and section 2295(b) of this title, the Secretary shall report on the corrosion prevention activities encouraged under this section, including—
(1) a description of the actions the Secretary has taken to implement this section; and
(2) a description of the projects utilizing corrosion prevention activities, including which activities were undertaken.
(Pub. L. 113–121, title I, § 1033, June 10, 2014, 128 Stat. 1233; Pub. L. 114–322, title I, § 1142, Dec. 16, 2016, 130 Stat. 1658.)
§ 2351. Durability, sustainability, and resilienceIn carrying out the activities of the Corps of Engineers, the Secretary, to the maximum extent practicable, shall encourage the use of durable and sustainable materials and resilient construction techniques that—
(1) allow a water resources infrastructure project—
(A) to resist hazards due to a major disaster; and
(B) to continue to serve the primary function of the water resources infrastructure project following a major disaster;
(2) reduce the magnitude or duration of a disruptive event to a water resources infrastructure project; and
(3) have the absorptive capacity, adaptive capacity, and recoverability to withstand a potentially disruptive event.
(Pub. L. 113–121, title III, § 3022, June 10, 2014, 128 Stat. 1301.)
§ 2351a. Operation and maintenance of existing infrastructure

The Secretary shall improve the reliability, and operation and maintenance of, existing infrastructure of the Corps of Engineers, and, as necessary, improve its resilience to cyber-related threats.

(Pub. L. 115–270, title I, § 1113, Oct. 23, 2018, 132 Stat. 3775.)
§ 2351b. Federal breakwaters and jetties
(a) In general

In carrying out repair or maintenance activity of a Federal jetty or breakwater associated with an authorized navigation project, the Secretary shall, notwithstanding the authorized dimensions of the jetty or breakwater, ensure that such repair or maintenance activity is sufficient to meet the authorized purpose of such project, including ensuring that any harbor or inland harbor associated with the project is protected from projected changes in wave action or height (including changes that result from relative sea level change over the useful life of the project).

(b) Classification of activityThe Secretary may not classify any repair or maintenance activity of a Federal jetty or breakwater carried out under subsection (a) as major rehabilitation of such jetty or breakwater—
(1) if the Secretary determines that—
(A)
(B) such repair or maintenance activity is necessary to restore such functionality; or
(2) if—
(A) the Secretary has not carried out regular and routine Federal maintenance activity at the jetty or breakwater; and
(B) the structural integrity of the jetty or breakwater is degraded as a result of a lack of such regular and routine Federal maintenance activity.
(Pub. L. 117–263, div. H, title LXXXI, § 8101, Dec. 23, 2022, 136 Stat. 3695.)
§ 2352. Funding to process permits
(a) Funding to process permits
(1) DefinitionsIn this subsection:
(A) Natural gas company

The term “natural gas company” has the meaning given the term in section 16451 of title 42, except that the term also includes a person engaged in the transportation of natural gas in intrastate commerce.

(B) Public-utility company

The term “public-utility company” has the meaning given the term in section 16451 of title 42.

(C) Railroad carrier

The term “railroad carrier” has the meaning given the term in section 20102 of title 49.

(2) Permit processing
(A) In general

The Secretary, after public notice, may accept and expend funds contributed by a non-Federal public entity or a public-utility company, natural gas company, or railroad carrier to expedite the evaluation of a permit of that entity, company, or carrier related to a project or activity for a public purpose under the jurisdiction of the Department of the Army.

(B) Mitigation bank instrument processingAn activity carried out by the Secretary to expedite evaluation of a permit described in subparagraph (A) may include the evaluation of an instrument for a mitigation bank if—
(i) the non-Federal public entity, public-utility company, natural gas company, or railroad carrier applying for the permit described in that subparagraph is the sponsor of the mitigation bank; and
(ii) expediting evaluation of the instrument is necessary to expedite evaluation of the permit described in that subparagraph.
(3) Effect on other entities

To the maximum extent practicable, the Secretary shall ensure that expediting the evaluation of a permit through the use of funds accepted and expended under this section does not adversely affect the timeline for evaluation (in the Corps district in which the project or activity is located) of permits under the jurisdiction of the Department of the Army of other entities that have not contributed funds under this section.

(4) GAO study

Not later than December 31, 2022, the Comptroller General of the United States shall carry out a followup study of the implementation by the Secretary of the authority provided under paragraph (2) to public-utility companies, natural gas companies, and railroad carriers, including an evaluation of the compliance with the requirements of this section and, with respect to a permit for those entities, the requirements of applicable Federal laws.

(b) Effect on permitting
(1) In general

In carrying out this section, the Secretary shall ensure that the use of funds accepted under subsection (a) will not impact impartial decisionmaking with respect to permits, either substantively or procedurally.

(2) Impartial decisionmakingIn carrying out this section, the Secretary shall ensure that the evaluation of permits carried out using funds accepted under this section shall—
(A) be reviewed by—
(i) the District Commander, or the Commander’s designee, of the Corps District in which the project or activity is located; or
(ii) the Commander of the Corps Division in which the District is located if the evaluation of the permit is initially conducted by the District Commander; and
(B) utilize the same procedures for decisions that would otherwise be required for the evaluation of permits for similar projects or activities not carried out using funds authorized under this section.
(c) Limitation on use of funds

None of the funds accepted under this section shall be used to carry out a review of the evaluation of permits required under subsection (b)(2)(A).

(d) Public availability
(1) In general

The Secretary shall ensure that all final permit decisions carried out using funds authorized under this section are made available to the public in a common format, including on the Internet, and in a manner that distinguishes final permit decisions under this section from other final actions of the Secretary.

(2) Decision documentThe Secretary shall—
(A) use a standard decision document for evaluating all permits using funds accepted under this section; and
(B) make the standard decision document, along with all final permit decisions, available to the public, including on the Internet.
(3) Agreements

The Secretary shall make all active agreements to accept funds under this section available on a single public Internet site.

(e) Reporting
(1) In generalThe Secretary shall prepare an annual report on the implementation of this section, which, at a minimum, shall include for each district of the Corps of Engineers that accepts funds under this section—
(A) a comprehensive list of any funds accepted under this section during the previous fiscal year;
(B) a comprehensive list of the permits reviewed and approved using funds accepted under this section during the previous fiscal year, including a description of the size and type of resources impacted and the mitigation required for each permit; and
(C) a description of the training offered in the previous fiscal year for employees that is funded in whole or in part with funds accepted under this section.
(2) SubmissionNot later than 90 days after the end of each fiscal year, the Secretary shall—
(A) submit to the Committee on Environment and Public Works of the Senate and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives the annual report described in paragraph (1); and
(B) make each report received under subparagraph (A) available on a single publicly accessible Internet site.
(Pub. L. 106–541, title II, § 214, Dec. 11, 2000, 114 Stat. 2594; Pub. L. 108–137, title I, § 114, Dec. 1, 2003, 117 Stat. 1836; Pub. L. 109–99, § 1, Nov. 11, 2005, 119 Stat. 2169; Pub. L. 109–209, § 1, Mar. 24, 2006, 120 Stat. 318; Pub. L. 109–434, § 1, Dec. 20, 2006, 120 Stat. 3197; Pub. L. 110–114, title II, § 2002, Nov. 8, 2007, 121 Stat. 1067; Pub. L. 111–120, § 1, Dec. 22, 2009, 123 Stat. 3478; Pub. L. 111–315, § 1, Dec. 18, 2010, 124 Stat. 3450; Pub. L. 113–121, title I, § 1006, June 10, 2014, 128 Stat. 1212; Pub. L. 114–322, title I, § 1125, Dec. 16, 2016, 130 Stat. 1648; Pub. L. 115–270, title I, § 1145, Oct. 23, 2018, 132 Stat. 3785; Pub. L. 117–263, div. H, title LXXXI, § 8135, Dec. 23, 2022, 136 Stat. 3722.)
§ 2353. Structural health monitoring
(a) In general
The Secretary shall design and develop a structural health monitoring program to assess and improve the condition of infrastructure constructed and maintained by the Corps of Engineers, including research, design, and development of systems and frameworks for—
(1) response to flood and earthquake events;
(2) predisaster mitigation measures;
(3) lengthening the useful life of the infrastructure; and
(4) identifying risks due to sea level rise.
(b) Consultation and considerations
In developing the program under subsection (a), the Secretary shall—
(1) consult with academic and other experts; and
(2) consider models for maintenance and repair information, the development of degradation models for real-time measurements and environmental inputs, and research on qualitative inspection data as surrogate sensors.
(Pub. L. 114–322, title I, § 1151, Dec. 16, 2016, 130 Stat. 1661.)
§ 2353a. Aging infrastructure
(a) Definitions
In this section:
(1) Aging infrastructure

The term “aging infrastructure” means a water resources development project of the Corps of Engineers, or any other water resources, water storage, or irrigation project of another Federal agency, that is greater than 75 years old.

(2) Enhanced inspection

The term “enhanced inspection” means an inspection that uses current or innovative technology, including Light Detection and Ranging (commonly known as “LiDAR”), ground penetrating radar, subsurface imaging, or subsurface geophysical techniques, to detect whether the features of the aging infrastructure are structurally sound and can operate as intended, or are at risk of failure.

(b) Contracts for enhanced inspection
(1) In general

The Secretary may carry out enhanced inspections of aging infrastructure, pursuant to a contract with the owner or operator of the aging infrastructure.

(2) Certain circumstances
Subject to the availability of appropriations, or funds available pursuant to subsection (d), the Secretary shall enter into a contract described in paragraph (1), if—
(A) the owner or operator of the aging infrastructure requests that the Secretary carry out the enhanced inspections; and
(B) the inspection is at the full expense of such owner or operator.
(c) Limitation

The Secretary shall not require a non-Federal entity associated with a project under the jurisdiction of another Federal agency to carry out corrective or remedial actions in response to an enhanced inspection carried out under this section.

(d) Funding

The Secretary is authorized to accept funds from an owner or operator of aging infrastructure, and may use such funds to carry out an enhanced inspection pursuant to a contract entered into with such owner or operator under this section.

(Pub. L. 116–260, div. AA, title I, § 138, Dec. 27, 2020, 134 Stat. 2651.)
§ 2354. Easements for electric, telephone, or broadband service facilities
(a) Definition of water resources development project

In this section, the term “water resources development project” means a project under the administrative jurisdiction of the Corps of Engineers that is subject to part 327 of title 36, Code of Federal Regulations (or successor regulations).

(b) No consideration for easements

The Secretary may not collect consideration for an easement across water resources development project land for the electric, telephone, or broadband service facilities of nonprofit organizations eligible for financing under the Rural Electrification Act of 1936 (7 U.S.C. 901 et seq.).

(c) Administrative expenses

Nothing in this section affects the authority of the Secretary under section 2695 of title 10 or under section 9701 of title 31 to collect funds to cover reasonable administrative expenses incurred by the Secretary.

(Pub. L. 114–322, title I, § 1172, Dec. 16, 2016, 130 Stat. 1671.)
§ 2355. Prior project authorization

In any case in which a project under the jurisdiction of the Secretary is budgeted under a different business line than the business line under which the project was originally authorized, the Secretary shall ensure that the project is carried out in accordance with any requirements that apply to the business line under which the project was originally authorized.

(Pub. L. 115–270, title I, § 1127, Oct. 23, 2018, 132 Stat. 3780.)
§ 2356. Project consultation
(a) Reports required
Not later than 180 days after December 27, 2020, the Secretary shall submit the following reports:
(1) The report required under section 1214 of the Water Resources Development Act of 2018 (132 Stat. 3809).
(2) The report required under section 1120(a)(3) of the Water Resources Development Act of 2016 (130 Stat. 1643).
(b) Environmental justice updates
(1) In general

In the formulation of water development resources projects, the Secretary shall comply with any existing Executive order regarding environmental justice in effect as of December 27, 2020, to address any disproportionate and adverse human health or environmental effects on minority communities, low-income communities, and Indian Tribes.

(2) Update

Not later than 1 year after December 27, 2020, the Secretary shall review, and shall update, where appropriate, any policies, regulations, and guidance of the Corps of Engineers necessary to implement any Executive order described in paragraph (1) with respect to water resources development projects.

(3) Requirements
In updating the policies, regulations, or guidance under paragraph (2), the Secretary shall—
(A) provide notice to interested non-Federal stakeholders, including representatives of minority communities, low-income communities, and Indian Tribes;
(B) provide opportunities for interested stakeholders to comment on potential updates of policies, regulations, or guidance;
(C) consider the recommendations from the reports submitted under subsection (a); and
(D) promote the meaningful involvement of minority communities, low-income communities, and Indian Tribes.
(c) Community engagement
In carrying out a water resources development project, the Secretary shall, to the extent practicable—
(1) promote the meaningful involvement of minority communities, low-income communities, and Indian Tribes;
(2) provide guidance and technical assistance to such communities or Tribes to increase understanding of the project development and implementation activities, regulations, and policies of the Corps of Engineers; and
(3) cooperate with State, Tribal, and local governments with respect to activities carried out pursuant to this subsection.
(d) Tribal lands and consultation
In carrying out water resources development projects, the Secretary shall, to the extent practicable and in accordance with the Tribal Consultation Policy affirmed and formalized by the Secretary on November 1, 2012 (or a successor policy)—
(1) promote meaningful involvement with Indian Tribes specifically on any Tribal lands near or adjacent to any water resources development projects, for purposes of identifying lands of ancestral, cultural, or religious importance;
(2) consult with Indian Tribes specifically on any Tribal areas near or adjacent to any water resources development projects, for purposes of identifying lands, waters, and other resources critical to the livelihood of the Indian Tribes; and
(3) cooperate with Indian Tribes to avoid, or otherwise find alternate solutions with respect to, such areas.
(Pub. L. 116–260, div. AA, title I, § 112, Dec. 27, 2020, 134 Stat. 2625.)
§ 2357. Managed aquifer recharge study and working group
(a) Assessment
(1) In general

The Secretary shall, in consultation with applicable non-Federal interests, conduct a national assessment of carrying out managed aquifer recharge projects to address drought, water resiliency, and aquifer depletion at authorized water resources development projects.

(2) Requirements
In carrying out paragraph (1), the Secretary shall—
(A) assess and identify opportunities to support non-Federal interests, including Tribal communities, in carrying out managed aquifer recharge projects; and
(B) assess preliminarily local hydrogeologic conditions relevant to carrying out managed aquifer recharge projects.
(3) Coordination

In carrying out paragraph (1), the Secretary shall coordinate, as appropriate, with the heads of other Federal agencies, States, regional governmental agencies, units of local government, experts in managed aquifer recharge, and Tribes.

(b) Feasibility studies
(1) Authorization

The Secretary is authorized to carry out feasibility studies, at the request of a non-Federal interest, of managed aquifer recharge projects in areas that are experiencing, or have recently experienced, prolonged drought conditions, aquifer depletion, or water supply scarcity.

(2) Limitation

The Secretary may carry out not more than 10 feasibility studies under this subsection.

(3) Use of information

The Secretary shall, to the maximum extent practicable, use information gathered from the assessment conducted under subsection (a) in identifying and selecting feasibility studies to carry out under this subsection.

(4) Cost share

The Federal share of the cost of a feasibility study carried out under this subsection shall be 90 percent.

(c) Working group
(1) In general

Not later than 180 days after December 23, 2022, the Secretary shall establish a managed aquifer recharge working group made up of subject matter experts within the Corps of Engineers and relevant non-Federal stakeholders.

(2) Composition
In establishing the working group under paragraph (1), the Secretary shall ensure that members of the working group have expertise working with—
(A) projects providing water supply storage to meet regional water supply demand, particularly in regions experiencing drought;
(B) the protection of groundwater supply, including promoting infiltration and increased recharge in groundwater basins, and groundwater quality;
(C) aquifer storage, recharge, and recovery wells;
(D) dams that provide recharge enhancement benefits;
(E) groundwater hydrology;
(F) conjunctive use water systems; and
(G) agricultural water resources, including the use of aquifers for irrigation purposes.
(3) Duties
The working group established under this subsection shall—
(A) advise the Secretary regarding the development and execution of the assessment under subsection (a) and any feasibility studies under subsection (b);
(B) assist Corps of Engineers offices at the headquarter, division, and district levels with raising awareness of non-Federal interests of the potential benefits of carrying out managed aquifer recharge projects; and
(C) assist with the development of the report required to be submitted under subsection (d).
(d) Report to Congress
Not later than 2 years after December 23, 2022, the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Environment and Public Works of the Senate a report on managed aquifer recharge that includes—
(1) the results of the assessment conducted under subsection (a) and any feasibility studies carried out under subsection (b), including data collected under such assessment and studies and any recommendations on managed aquifer recharge opportunities for non-Federal interests, States, local governments, and Tribes;
(2) a status update on the implementation of the recommendations included in the report of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Institute for Water Resources entitled “Managed Aquifer Recharge and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers: Water Security through Resilience”, published in April 2020 (2020–WP–01); and
(3) an evaluation of the benefits of creating a new or modifying an existing planning center of expertise for managed aquifer recharge, and identify potential locations for such a center of expertise, if feasible.
(e) Savings provision

Nothing in this section affects the non-Federal share of the cost of construction of a managed aquifer recharge project under section 2213 of this title or any other provision of law.

(f) Definitions
In this section:
(1) Managed aquifer recharge

(2) Managed aquifer recharge project

The term “managed aquifer recharge project” means a project to incorporate managed aquifer recharge features into a water resources development project.

(Pub. L. 117–263, div. H, title LXXXI, § 8108, Dec. 23, 2022, 136 Stat. 3700.)