Life-Cycle Analysis to Support Cost-Effective Enhanced Aquifer Recharge Informational Webinar

United States

New Funding Opportunity: Life-Cycle Analysis to Support Cost-Effective Enhanced Aquifer Recharge Request for Applications (RFA) and Informational Webinar

COVID-19 Update: EPA is providing flexibilities to applicants experiencing challenges related to COVID-19. Please see the Flexibilities Available to Organizations Impacted by COVID-19 clause in Section IV of EPA’s Solicitation Clauses.

URL: Life-Cycle Analysis to Support Cost-Effective Enhanced Aquifer Recharge

Open/Close Dates: October 27, 2021 - January 13, 2022 

Background: The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), as part of its Science to Achieve Results (STAR) program, is seeking applications proposing research to develop cost-benefit tools to support the use of Enhanced Aquifer Recharge (EAR) as a viable, safe, and cost-effective water management strategy. This research is needed to assist communities throughout the United States in evaluating whether to invest in EAR strategies to improve water management and security. This new funding opportunity is titled, “Life-Cycle Analysis to Support Cost-Effective Enhanced Aquifer Recharge Request for Applications (RFA)”.

Using too much groundwater can lead to many issues that impact water quality and water security. EAR is the practice of using excess surface water to replenish and supplement existing groundwater supplies for storage, potential reuse, and to augment water supplies. In many locations, EAR can be a cost-effective way to increase water resource resiliency to mitigate the impacts of drought exacerbated by climate change and can also provide ways to combat saltwater intrusion near coastal communities, among other benefits. However, the growing rate of groundwater extraction outpaces the rate of EAR implementation.

This RFA is intended to address the key economic, technological, institutional, and legal factors that affect the ability to implement EAR projects. The expected outcomes from this research include new tools, frameworks, and models that assist state, local and other decision-makers in understanding the costs and benefits of pursuing EAR strategies.

Applications should address both of the following two research areas:

• Research Area 1:  Identification of Priority Research and Development Needs to Support EAR
• Research Area 2: Development of Tools, Models, and Frameworks to Support EAR Implementation

For information on eligibility, project specifications, or how to apply, visit: Life-Cycle Analysis to Support Cost-Effective Enhanced Aquifer Recharge Request for Applications (RFA)

Learn more about EPA Research Grants.

Informational Webinar for Applicants

Date: Wednesday, December 1, 2021
Time: 1:00 p.m. EST

Join us for an informational webinar on this funding opportunity. The webinar will cover application information and provide an overview of what has already been provided in the RFA.

Webinar Objectives:

• Share general information and information on research areas for the RFA (EPA Project Officer)
• Learn about the submission, eligibility, relevancy review and peer review processes (EPA Eligibility, Submission, and Peer Review Officers)
• Question & answer session

A copy of the webinar presentation will be available on the Life-Cycle Analysis to Support Cost-Effective Enhanced Aquifer Recharge for those unable to participate in the scheduled webinar.