Regional coalition backs $45M investment in EL 22.1 irrigation project

A coalition of regional leaders across public, private and agricultural sectors is calling on the Washington State Legislature to approve $45 million in funding for the EL 22.1 Surface Water Irrigation Project. 

The funding, included in Senate Capital Budget Bill SB 5195, would jumpstart construction on a fully designed surface water system serving parts of Grant, Adams and Lincoln counties. The project is part of the broader Odessa Groundwater Replacement Program, created to address the severe depletion of the Odessa Aquifer. 

Supporters cite the project’s benefits for water sustainability, energy conservation and economic stability, including removal of 34 wells, protection of thousands of farmed acres, and the creation of jobs across construction and agribusiness sectors. 

Thirty-two letters of support—from local governments, utility providers, farm groups, and economic development councils—underscore the project’s broad regional backing. 

Stakeholders describe SB 5195 funding as “essential” for preserving eastern Washington’s farmland, food supply and rural economy.