NRCS Bullletins for FY’26 NWQI and MRBI Watershed Updates
The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) has published two new bulletins with action dates by April 28, 2025.
- National Water Quality Initiative (NWQI) Watershed and Source Water Protection Area Updates for FY 2026. Each year, the NRCS State Conservationists consult with state water quality agencies and partners, including drinking water providers, to evaluate NWQI watersheds and SWPAs and propose to add or withdraw them based on NWQI criteria, state priorities, and NRCS leadership approval. All states must participate in NWQI with at least three priority watersheds (HUC12) or SWPAs. The NWQI is one of several programs that can be used to meet the 2018 Farm Bill requirements for ten percent of NRCS conservation program funds to be aimed at source water protection.
- Mississippi River Basin Healthy Watersheds Initiative (MRBI) Watershed Updates for FY 2026. The MRBI aligns with the nutrient loss reduction strategies developed by member states in the Hypoxia Task Force. This guidance establishes criteria and action items for State Conservationists to propose new watersheds, withdraw watersheds, and/or update existing implementation projects. The MRBI tailors conservation practices to individual watersheds, many of which may provide co-benefits to drinking water sources.
If you haven’t already talked with your NRCS State Conservationists office, please reach out to them to collaborate. To find your state’s office, view the NRCS State Offices Directory.
