Watershed Funding Opportunities - PUB2196

Nonpoint source (NPS) pollution accounts for a significant amount of the pollution that enters our rivers, lakes and streams. Runoff from rainwater, snowmelt and irrigation can carry pollutants, such as fertilizers, pesticides, construction sedimentation and debris, automotive oil, yard and animal waste, into our drinking water. Polluted storm water runoff can also harm wildlife, devalue property and damage the landscape.

The Department of Natural Resources provides several opportunities for financial assistance to help improve water quality by addressing nonpoint source pollution.

Nonpoint Source Implementation Grants

There are several different types of grant programs aimed at addressing nonpoint source pollution, including Clean Water Act Section 319 Nonpoint Source Subgrants. These subgrants focus funding on water quality information and education, innovative pollution prevention practices, or remediation of an existing water quality problem or site.

Eligible organizations include local governments, educational institutions and not-for-profit organizations. The goal of the grant program is to provide citizens with the knowledge and ability to improve their common land-use practices and to protect water quality. Priority may be given to projects aimed at restoring waters on the 303(d) List.

Applying For Funds

• Awards typically range from $5,000 to $400,000.
• Grants require a non-federal match of at least 40% of the project total. Matching support can be project specific, in-kind contributions, such as use of equipment and volunteers.

Project Requirements

• Each project can last up to four years.
• Projects must include nonpoint source pollution information, education, prevention or correction of pollution impacts.
• Research or activities required under National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) are not eligible for 319 funding.

Applications for a Section 319 Nonpoint Source Subgrant can be requested by calling 573-751-7428.

State Revolving Fund Program (SRF)

The State Revolving Funds (SRF) provide low-interest loans to communities for wastewater and drinking water infrastructure projects. Projects may be new construction or the improvement or renovation of existing facilities.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency grants the “seed money” for these funds to the Department of Natural Resources. The Department, in turn, distributes the money, as low-interest loans, to communities that need assistance to complete their projects. Loans are made based upon a community’s demonstration of the environmental need and financial capability to repay the loan.

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Resources

Committed watershed organizations and state and local governments need adequate resources to achieve the goals of the Clean Water Act and improve our nation’s water quality. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has  provide tools, databases and information about sources of funding to practitioners and funders that serve to protect watersheds.