NASA could pay to relocate Chincoteague drinking water wells off its land

What does this do?

This bill authorizes NASA to enter a five-year agreement with the Town of Chincoteague, Virginia to cover costs of planning and relocating three drinking water wells currently on NASA property to land the town owns, leases, or controls. The agreement must specify replacement well locations and provide a cost estimate covering land, engineering, design, permits, and construction. NASA must report any agreement to relevant congressional committees within 18 months of enactment.

Who does it affect?

Chincoteague, Virginia residents who rely on these wells for drinking water, and NASA, which operates the nearby Wallops Flight Facility.

Why does it matter?

Without this authority, NASA could not help fund moving wells off its property, potentially leaving the town to cover relocation costs itself. The bill does not resolve contamination fault or add environmental regulations.

What does it cost, and who pays?

• NASA funds well relocation costs
• covers land, design, permits, construction
• up to five-year agreement