Rep. Simpson Advances Funding for Milner Dam Rehabilitation

WASHINGTON-Today, Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson highlighted the inclusion of $15,000,000 in funding for the Milner Dam Rehabilitation Project located in south central Idaho at his request through Community Project Funding (CPF) in the Fiscal Year 2027 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill.

"I've spoken to mayors, county commissioners, state elected officials, and countless others who all agree that the Milner Dam is one of the most important water control structures in southern Idaho," said Rep. Simpson. "During this critical time for water in our state, repairing and rehabilitating Milner Dam is of utmost importance for several southeastern Idaho rural communities. Advancing this funding will benefit 500,000 acres of irrigated farmland, support local residents and jobs, and ensure that future generations have access to safe drinking water. I'm proud to advocate for this project."

"Milner Dam is a critical structure for the management of the Snake River in Idaho. We are grateful for Congressman Simpson's support to obtain funding through the Community Project Funding program, which will be matched with state and local funds, for the rehabilitation of this 121-year-old dam," said Jeff Raybould, Chairman of the Idaho Water Resource Board.

This funding will be used to repair and rehabilitate the dam to ensure continued flood protection for surrounding communities, safeguard more than 500,000 acres of irrigated farmland, and maintain the dam's critical role in supporting 50-70% of the Idaho Water Resource Board's aquifer managed recharge program for the Eastern Snake Plain Aquifer (ESPA), the area's sole source potable water supply.

Despite claims that CPF projects are "wasteful earmarks," Community Project Funding gives Members of Congress like Congressman Simpson the opportunity to bring Idaho tax dollars back home for Idaho priorities. These projects fill a clear and present need in communities across Idaho and enjoy broad community support. The federal dollars designated for CPF projects exist within existing budget limits. Rather than that money going to fund projects in different states, CPF projects give Idahoans a critical voice in determining where budgeted funding goes.

As Idaho's only appropriator, Rep. Simpson has a unique opportunity to fight for Idaho's priorities and ensure Idahoans' hard-earned tax dollars return to Idaho.

The Milner Dam Rehabilitation Project is a part of the Fiscal Year 2027 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill. This measure has been approved by the House Appropriations Committee.