25 April 2022

TFG President Joins Panel of Experts, Addresses Urgent Water Solutions

Mark Limbaugh shared federal resources critical to Idaho and the Western US’ water future.

BOISE, ID.Mark Limbaugh, President of The Ferguson Group (TFG), returned to his alma mater to serve as a featured panelist at the University of Idaho’s Challenges and Opportunities for Idaho Water Resources Workshop. This meeting convened subject matter experts such as researchers, industry professionals, and political leaders to address pressing challenges facing water resources in Idaho. Prior to joining TFG, Mr. Limbaugh served as Assistant Secretary for Water and Science at the Department of the Interior and Deputy Commissioner for External and Intergovernmental Affairs at the Bureau of Reclamation in the George W. Bush Administration.

“Adapting to the accelerating impacts of climate change on water resources will be challenging. But the potential for technological innovation and implementation is exciting. The recent influx of federal dollars in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law provides a vital opportunity to reinvest in water infrastructure that will have a ripple effect for generations.” Mr. Limbaugh said.

"Idaho is in an advantageous position. A vast number of federal programs potentially could bring millions of dollars to support the state’s already extensive water resource innovations in water management and stakeholder cooperation.”

“Water is a critical resource and with the opportunities before us, we can forge a positive future in water for Idaho.”

An Idaho native, Mr. Limbaugh has specialized in federal advocacy and funding for water resources, infrastructure, and resiliency at TFG since 2007. Prior to his federal service and time at TFG, he accumulated over 22 years of on-the-ground experience in production agriculture, water, and natural resource issues, and has been actively involved in various state and federal water organizations throughout his career. Other key positions Mark has held include President of the Family Farm Alliance, Watermaster of Idaho’s Payette River Basin, and Executive Director of the Payette River Water Users Association.

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Overview

The Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) serves as the primary vehicle through which Congress authorizes U.S. Army Corps of Engineers civil works projects and establishes policy frameworks for water resource development nationwide. Enacted on a biennial schedule, WRDAs provide congressional authorization for USACE to conduct feasibility studies, construct flood risk reduction projects, improve navigation infrastructure, restore aquatic ecosystems, and assist with environmental infrastructure development.
Since the enactment of WRDA 1986, Congress has used these omnibus authorization bills to both create new USACE authorities and refine existing programs based on evolving national priorities and lessons learned from program implementation. Recent WRDAs have addressed critical issues including drought resilience, water supply development, infrastructure modernization, and support for economically disadvantaged communities.
The most recent legislation, the Water Resources Development Act of 2024 (WRDA 2024, P.L. 118-272), continued Congress's bipartisan commitment to strengthening America's water infrastructure by authorizing new construction projects, modifying existing authorities, and establishing updated policy guidance for USACE operations. WRDA 2024 also authorized five new regional environmental infrastructure programs, each incorporating flexible delivery mechanisms that allow federal assistance to be provided through grants or reimbursements to nonfederal sponsors.
Authorization through WRDA is typically a prerequisite for USACE activities to receive federal appropriations through the annual Energy and Water Development appropriations process. This two-step framework—authorization followed by appropriation—ensures congressional oversight of both program scope and funding levels.
Section 219 of WRDA 1992, as amended, represents one of USACE's most geographically expansive environmental infrastructure assistance authorities. Originally enacted to authorize design assistance for 18 specific projects, Section 219 has been amended by subsequent Congresses to authorize both design and construction assistance for water-related environmental infrastructure in hundreds of municipalities, counties, and states across the nation.
The Congressional Research Service has identified over 600 environmental infrastructure assistance authorities with cumulative authorizations of appropriations totaling approximately $18.1 billion. Section 219 authorities constitute the majority of these geographically specific project authorizations, covering at least 46 states, the District of Columbia, and four U.S. territories.
Section 219 projects address critical community needs including wastewater treatment facilities, water supply and distribution systems, stormwater management infrastructure, surface water protection, and environmental restoration. These projects support public health, environmental quality, and economic development in communities that have secured congressional authorization for USACE assistance.
Congress has continued to expand Section 219 in recent legislation. WRDA 2022 added 132 new Section 219 authorities and amended 24 existing authorities. WRDA 2024 authorized an additional 193 new Section 219 authorities and amended 53 existing authorities, providing a combined $5.4 billion increase in authorization of appropriations. WRDA 2024 also established a seven-year pilot program to increase the federal cost share from 75 percent to 90 percent for Section 219 projects benefiting economically disadvantaged communities.
Unlike traditional USACE water resource projects, Section 219 assistance does not require completion of the agency's standard feasibility study process. However, projects receiving Section 219 assistance must comply with applicable federal environmental laws, including the National Environmental Policy Act.
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US Congressional Calendar

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TFG Presents 2025 Congressional Calendar

The Ferguson Group (TFG) compiled a 2025 Congressional Calendar with session and recess dates for the U.S. House of Representatives and U.S. Senate 119th congressional session. 

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