Evapotranspiration Data Act

The Evapotranspiration Data Act establishes the OpenET Data Program, which provides free, satellite-based data on evapotranspiration (water loss from soil and plants) to water managers, farmers, and agencies. The U.S. Geological Survey will administer the program, developing data systems, testing new technologies, and coordinating with federal agencies (like NASA and NOAA) and partners (including states, tribes, and universities). The bill authorizes $23 million annually for 2024-2028 to support this work and requires a report to Congress after five years on how the data is used for water management. This data aims to improve water conservation, drought planning, and sustainable water use by offering accurate, accessible information on water consumption.