(COLORADO SPRINGS) — The U.S. Bureau of Reclamation awarded the Fountain Creek Watershed two grants to support efforts to restore and conserve the watershed. On Wednesday, Jan. 8, the bureau awarded two grants totaling $700,000 funded by the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) and the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA). Both grants will support watershed restoration efforts to improve water quality, reduce erosion and flooding, and protect vital infrastructure and wildlife. “We’re thrilled that our region has received not one, but two WaterSmart grants to assess, restore, and protect the aquatic ecosystems along Fountain and Monument creeks,” said Colorado Springs Mayor Yemi Mobolade. “These projects are important to our COS Creek Plan, a collaborative effort between the Pikes Peak Waterways, Colorado Springs Utilities, and the City of Colorado Springs. And, they further our ongoing efforts to maintain and improve our natural and manmade infrastructure to keep up with the growth and enhance the vibrancy of our city." The bureau awarded the watershed district $300,000 to create a water strategy for the Monument Creek corridor in partnership with the City. The Monument Creek Water Strategy will work to ensure the watershed continues to benefit surrounding communities and addresses challenges like erosion, sediment buildup, and the impacts of recent wildfires. The bureau also awarded the City $400,000 to restore and protect a 1.5-mile stretch of Fountain Creek Basin in partnership with Fountain Creek District to create a healthier stream system and improve recreational access for the community. "This support for the Colorado Springs area will help one of Colorado’s most populated watersheds continue to provide clean, clear water for hardworking people in El Paso County and communities further downstream. We work closely with local partners to win important federal funding and better support Colorado communities, farms, and our water future," said Governor Jared Polis. The creek currently provides around 15% of the City's drinking water supply and is an agricultural water source for farmlands in Southeastern Colorado.