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Amends the federal snow water forecasting program to prioritize measurement and integrated modeling of snowpack and runoff, adds modern technologies (including imaging spectroscopy and machine learning), and requires new reporting on basins and technology assessments. It also renames the program and sets authorized funding at $6,500,000 per year for fiscal years 2027 through 2031 to support those activities.
Amends the Snow Water Supply Forecasting Program Authorization Act (43 U.S.C. 1477).
In subsection (c)(2)(A): replace the phrase 'culminating in the report required under subsection (d)(3)' with text that emphasizes 'development and deployment of technologies that integrate snowpack measuring and modeling.'
In subsection (c)(2)(B): strike the existing clause (the snippet shows 'by striking ;').
In subsection (d)(1): change the text 'emerging technologies for snowpack measurement, such as' to 'technologies for snowpack measurements and models, including'.
In subsection (d)(1): change the listed technology subparagraphs by (i) removing the trailing 'and' from subparagraph (B) and (ii) replacing prior subparagraph (C) with a new ordered list: (C) imaging spectroscopy; (D) machine learning; (E) integrated snowpack and hydrologic modeling; and (F) other technologies that the Secretary determines are likely to provide more accurate or timely snowpack measurement data to inform water management and reservoir operations.
Primary federal implementers (agencies that run the snow and water forecasting program) will change procurement, grant, and research priorities to favor measurement systems and integrated modeling tools. Research institutions and private companies that develop imaging spectroscopy, remote sensing systems, machine learning algorithms, and hydrologic models are likely to see increased demand for pilot projects, deployments, and technology assessments funded through the program. State and local water managers, reservoir operators, hydropower operators, irrigation districts, and public water systems should receive improved basin-level forecasts and assessments over time, which can improve water allocation, flood and drought planning, and operations. Communities that rely on snowmelt-driven water supplies — including rural and agricultural areas — may benefit from more accurate and timely forecasts but will only see effects as projects are funded and implemented. The bill imposes new reporting requirements on the program but does not create direct regulatory or unfunded obligations for states or local governments. Authorized funding of $6.5M/year for FY2027–FY2031 provides a stable, but modest, federal investment to support technology development and deployment; actual impact depends on subsequent appropriations and program execution.
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Read twice and referred to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources.
Introduced July 24, 2025 by John Wright Hickenlooper · Last progress July 24, 2025
Committee on Energy and Natural Resources Subcommittee on Water and Power. Hearings held.
Read twice and referred to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources.
Introduced in Senate