Rep. Watson Coleman Secures $715,000 in Federal Funding for Delaware River Basin Commission

Rep. Watson Coleman Secures $715,000 in Federal Funding for Delaware River Basin Commission

Today, Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12) announced $715,000 in federal funding for the Delaware River Basin Commission's (DRBC) work protecting water resources across the Delaware River Basin.

The Congresswoman was joined by DRBC Executive Director Kristen Bowman Kavanagh, DRBC Director of External Affairs Beth Brown, New Jersey State Geologist Steve Domber, Ewing Mayor Bert Steinmann, local officials, and community partners.

The funding will fulfill the federal government's signatory funding share for the DRBC, supporting its scientific research, water quality monitoring, engineering, and regulatory programs. The Commission's work helps maintain safe water supplies while preparing communities for the effects of climate change, including flooding and drought.

"As New Jersey's sole Appropriator, I have been committed to securing federal funding for the Delaware River Basin Commission because millions of people depend on this resource every day," said Congresswoman Watson Coleman. "We have a responsibility to protect the water our communities rely on and ensure that every community benefits from that investment. Environmental justice must be part of that work, particularly for communities that have faced a disproportionate share of environmental burdens. This funding will help the DRBC continue its work to engage in meaningful research and protect water quality while supporting sustainable water management throughout the basin."

"Throughout her time in Congress, Representative Watson Coleman has demonstrated a deep commitment to the communities and resources of the Delaware River Basin," said DRBC Executive Director Kristen Bowman Kavanagh. "The Congresswoman understands that protecting our shared water resources is essential to the prosperity and resilience of our region. We are proud to recognize her years of public service and grateful for her impactful leadership and support for the DRBC."

The Delaware River Basin spans 13,539 square miles across parts of Delaware, New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania. It includes all or parts of 42 counties and 868 municipalities across 22 congressional districts and provides water to more than 14.2 million people, including about 2 million New Jersey residents.

Established in 1961, the DRBC brings the federal government and the four basin states together to coordinate water resource management. Its responsibilities include water quality protection, water supply planning, flood loss reduction, drought management, conservation, and watershed planning.

Commission signatory funding supports the scientific and regulatory work needed to protect water resources over the long term. This work also supports environmental sustainability and water equity by helping communities prepare for changing conditions and ensuring that the benefits of clean, reliable water are shared across the basin.

Congresswoman Watson Coleman has continued to champion federal funding for the DRBC, recognizing the importance of regional cooperation in protecting the Delaware River Basin and the communities that depend on it.