$30M Fund Announced for New Sardis Lake Water Treatment Facility

Major Investment Unveiled for Rural Oklahoma Water Infrastructure

In a significant move aimed at enhancing water infrastructure in rural Oklahoma, a coalition of federal, state, and tribal leaders announced a substantial funding boost. The Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma, alongside the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Oklahoma Water Resources Board, has committed more than $30 million to the Sardis Lake Water Authority (SLWA) for a new water treatment facility.

"This $30 million investment in the Sardis Lake Water Authority demonstrates the strength of collaboration among federal, state, and tribal leaders to address critical infrastructure needs in rural Oklahoma," said Gary Batton, Chief of the Choctaw Nation. He emphasized the importance of this project in ensuring the continued availability of safe and reliable water for residents and businesses, including schools and clinics, within their communities.

Zachary Swartz, Oklahoma State Director for the U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development, highlighted the partnership's potential to bolster rural Oklahoma. "Rural Oklahomans are best served when the federal government works together with our Tribal Nation partners and friends in our state government," Swartz stated. He acknowledged the leadership of Chief Batton and the Oklahoma Water Resource Board, affirming that the collaboration will ensure a secure water source for the Kiamichi Valley in the years to come.

The SLWA, which currently serves around 5,500 residents and businesses in Clayton, Nashoba, and several rural water districts in Pushmataha and Latimer counties, will see its capacity significantly increased. The new facility plans to expand its capacity from 1 million gallons per day to 3.3 million gallons per day, meeting future regional growth demands and boosting service reliability.

About The Choctaw Nation

The Choctaw Nation ranks as the third-largest Indian Nation in the United States, boasting over 230,000 members. With historical roots and an oral tradition stretching back over 13,000 years, the Nation's historic reservation spans 10,923 square miles in southeastern Oklahoma. The vision of the Nation, "Living out the Chahta Spirit of faith, family, and culture," underscores its commitment to fostering growth and prosperity.

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