News Release Archive

Reclamation Seeks Comments on Contracting and Charges for Non-Project Use of Excess Capacity in Reclamation Facilities

Media Contact: Peter Soeth, 303-445-3615

For Release: August 28, 2015

WASHINGTON - The Bureau of Reclamation is seeking comments on two draft policy updates on contracting and charges for non-project use of excess water capacity in Reclamation facilities.

When Reclamation has space available in its reservoirs or delivery systems, it can make that extra space (“excess capacity”) available for non-Reclamation project water storage and transport.

The draft policy, Contracting for Non-Project Use of Excess Capacity in Reclamation Project Facilities" (PEC 05-10), establishes the requirements for contracting for the use of excess capacity in Reclamation facilities, including identifying appropriate contracting authorities and addressing major rehabilitation and replacement needs of Reclamation facilities.

The draft policy, Charges for Non-Project Use of Excess Capacity in Bureau of Reclamation Project Facilities (PEC 05-11), promotes consistency and transparency of contract rates and helps ensure federal taxpayers are receiving a fair return for the value of the service provided.

These draft policies are new releases and supersede the provisions of the current Reclamation Manual Directives and Standards, Use of Excess Capacity in Reclamation Projects for the Impoundment, Storage, and Carriage of Non-Project Water, WTR 04-01.

The Reclamation Manual establishes requirements, assigns program responsibilities and establishes and documents business methods.

Please direct all comments or questions to Yolanda Smith at ysmith@usbr.gov, by September 30, 2015.

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The Bureau of Reclamation is a federal agency under the U.S. Department of the Interior and is the nation's largest wholesale water supplier and second largest producer of hydroelectric power. Our facilities also provide substantial flood control, recreation opportunities, and environmental benefits. Visit our website at https://www.usbr.gov and follow us on Twitter @USBR; Facebook @bureau.of.reclamation; LinkedIn @Bureau of Reclamation; Instagram @bureau_of_reclamation; and YouTube @reclamation.

Relevant Link:

www.usbr.gov/recman