EXPLAINER: Western water projects in infrastructure deal

The sweeping $1 trillion infrastructure bill approved by the Senate this week includes funding for Western water projects that farmers, water providers and environmentalists say are badly needed across the parched region

WASHINGTON -- Included in the sweeping $1 trillion infrastructure bill approved by the Senate is funding for Western water projects that farmers, water providers and environmentalists say are badly needed across the parched region. The Senate voted this week in favor of the legislation that seeks to rebuild U.S. roads and highways, improve broadband internet access and modernize water pipes and public works systems. The bill’s future in the House is uncertain. The federal funding would come as the West bakes under a decadeslong drought that is straining water supplies. A look at some ways the $8.3 billion for water projects would help bring relief in coming years.