Google announces $30 million for Oklahoma water projects

Google announced $30 million in funding to support community water sources, infrastructure, and access across Oklahoma.

The first project will provide a $2.3 million grant to the Oklahoma Conservation Commission. The funding will support the removal of invasive, water-intensive eastern red cedar trees in central Oklahoma and restore cropland to native playa wetlands in the Panhandle.

Google said the project aims to increase water availability in the Arkansas River watershed through improved groundwater recharge while restoring native habitats and supporting biodiversity.

“As data centers evolve to support our growing digital world, we have both an opportunity and a responsibility to protect community water resources while investing in watersheds and public water infrastructure,” said Ben Townsend, Google’s global head of infrastructure strategy and sustainability.

Oklahoma Conservation Commission Executive Director Trey Lam said the project will expand the agency’s work with landowners, communities, and other partners to protect the state’s soil and water resources.

“This project will allow us to continue working collaboratively with our partners, landowners, and communities to conserve and protect our state’s soil, water, and resources for future generations,” Lam said.

Google’s previous water projects in Oklahoma included rehabilitating a non-potable water system at Norman’s Water Reclamation Facility, supporting precision irrigation technology across approximately 27,000 acres of Panhandle farmland, and helping farmers implement regenerative agriculture practices on approximately 5,500 acres in north-central Oklahoma each year.

The company committed to replenishing more freshwater than it consumes across its offices and data centers by 2030. Google said it supports 165 water stewardship projects across 97 watersheds worldwide.