While NIDIS does not provide monetary relief resources, it does provide information and services to mitigate drought. Since no drought early warning system is perfect, a number of federal and state agencies provide relief and recovery support for drought impacts. The links on this page can help inform you about programs appropriate to your situation.
Short-Term Drought Relief and Recovery
U.S. Department of Agriculture
USDA provides financial and technical assistance to drought affected areas and services through:
I. Crop Production Losses
II. Natural Resource Protection/Private Lands
III. Community Water and Wastewater
U.S. Department of Interior
DOI resources are available through the:
- The Recovery Act
- The Drought Water Bank
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
NOAA provides short-term technical assistance and advice water managers on how to facilitate transfers of water. It also oversees the:
- Endangered Species Act
- NIDIS
Small Business Administration
The SBA can provide Economic Injury Disaster Loans
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
The USACE has the authority to transport water for human consumption and usage.
Department of Labor
The DOL offers National Emergency Grants to train workers so they can find new employment.
Long-Term Drought Relief and Recovery
U.S. Department of Agriculture
I. Crop Insurance
II. Natural Resource Protection/Private Lands
- Agricultural Water Enhancement Program
- Emergency Watershed Protection - Floodplain Easement
- Watershed Protection and Flood Prevention
- Wetlands Reserve Program
- Conservation Technical Assistance
III. Community Water and Wastewater
U.S. Department of Interior
DOI's Bureau of Reclamation administers the WaterSMART and water and Energy Efficieny Grants that aims to make more efficient use of existing water supplies through water conservation, efficiency and water marketing projects. Funding is also available to promote water use efficiency program projects like rebate programs, irrigation system upgrades, water conservation education programs and to address and improve Best Management Practices.
Environmental Protection Agency
EPA works with states to manage programs that provide financial assistance for projects that protect public health and water quality. EPA also manages the WaterSense Program, which helps consumers identify water-efficient products, practices and programs.
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
NOAA oversees the:
- Endangered Species Act
- NIDIS
Small Business Administration
The SBA can provide Economic Injury Disaster Loans.
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
The USACE has several water conservation and distribution projects underway.
Department of Labor
The DOL offers National Emergency Grants to train workers so they can find new employment.
Health
Health and Human Services
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) offers assistance on disaster behavioral health and economic impacts of drought. This includes a disaster distress hotline.