Jason Mead, director of the Wyoming Water Development Office, outlined the state’s challenges in remarks Jan. 7 to the Legislature’s Joint Appropriations Committee. Water projects have been paid for by the state, by irrigation and municipal entities, and with federal funds. The $9.4 million for the Water Development Office biennium budget covers 21 staffers and their work. Now, sponsoring entities like towns and irrigation districts will pay half the cost of many projects, often backed by Water Office loans. Driskill called for changes, asking for lawmakers to investigate water office procedures as an interim topic after the budget session.