Dixie Valley Ground Water Export Study | Apply Online

Opportunity Summary:

The Dixie Valley Ground Water Export Study is a federal cooperative agreement funded by the Bureau of Reclamation (Denver Office) to figure out whether groundwater from Dixie Valley can be exported and, if so, how much could realistically be moved and delivered to different locations within Churchill County, Nevada. The project is structured as a multi-year technical feasibility effort that combines field data collection, hydrogeologic interpretation, numerical modeling, and preliminary engineering. In practical terms, the study is meant to answer two big questions: what is the amount of groundwater that could be developed for export without unacceptable impacts, and what would it take (and cost) to physically convey that water to where it is needed.

The work is organized into three phases over roughly six years, starting in late 2008 and extending through 2014. Phase 1 (2009 to 2012) focuses on building a solid scientific baseline for the Dixie Valley groundwater system. That includes developing the hydrogeologic framework using existing and newly gathered geologic and geophysical information, evaluating groundwater flow patterns using groundwater level measurements and estimates of subsurface inflow, and quantifying how water leaves the system. Discharge is estimated through multiple pathways, including spring flow, well flow, groundwater evapotranspiration from phreatophytes (deep-rooted vegetation that taps shallow groundwater), and evaporation from playas. A notable technical element is the use of remote sensing to scale up evapotranspiration estimates across the broader study area rather than relying only on small, localized measurements. Phase 1 also establishes water quality conditions by compiling existing datasets and periodically sampling major constituents in groundwater and springs, which helps identify any constraints on potential use or treatment needs.

Phase 2 (2012 to 2013) transitions from characterization to prediction and impact analysis. During this phase, the study develops and calibrates a steady-state groundwater model that includes a solute transport component, meaning it is designed not only to represent groundwater movement but also to simulate how dissolved constituents could move through the system. After that baseline model is in place, a transient (time-varying) model is built to simulate the hydrologic impacts of proposed groundwater export over time, such as changes in groundwater levels and potential effects on springs, vegetation, and other connected resources. Alongside the hydrologic modeling, Phase 2 includes evaluation of environmental impacts and an economic analysis of the proposed export concept, tying the scientific results to real-world feasibility and cost-benefit considerations.

Phase 3 (2013 to 2014) adds an engineering layer by producing a near appraisal-level pipeline design along with cost estimates. This is not described as final design, but rather a planning-level design sufficient to compare options, understand likely routing and major components, and develop credible capital cost ranges for conveying water to potential points of use in Churchill County.

Financially, the opportunity lists an estimated total funding amount of $1,251,674, with an award ceiling of $1,251,674 and no cost sharing or matching requirement. Only one award was expected, and the funding instrument is a cooperative agreement, indicating substantial federal involvement or collaboration during the project. Although it appeared as a posted funding opportunity (Funding Opportunity Number 09FC811472, posted November 7, 2008, closing November 21, 2008), it was explicitly designated for a specific recipient and was provided for informational purposes only, with instructions not to submit an application. The funding activity category is Natural Resources, consistent with the study's emphasis on groundwater availability, system impacts, and water conveyance feasibility. Contact information in the listing identifies Randale Jackson as the grant specialist at the Bureau of Reclamation.

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Previous opportunity: Water Resources Research National Competitive Grants Program

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