$800,000 in grants available to protect, enhance water quality

$800,000 in grants now available to protect and enhance water quality in Nevada

EPA funding supports NDEP’s efforts to: protect Nevada’s surface water from nonpoint source water pollution by supporting and advancing existing watershed management efforts; establishing new partnerships with agencies, environmental organizations, and other groups; planning, implementing and assessing nonpoint source controls; and expanding environmental education efforts throughout Nevada. 

CARSON CITY, NV – The Nevada Division of Environmental Protection’s (NDEP) Bureau of Water Quality Planning is pleased to announce that $800,000 in grant funding is now available for projects that prevent or control water pollution from “nonpoint sources,” a leading cause of water quality impairment in Nevada. Funded by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), these “Clean Water Act” grants are open to public and Tribal governments, nonprofit organizations, and educational institutions throughout Nevada. A non-federal match (cash and/or in-kind) of at least 50 percent of the total project cost is required. The grant application and instructions are available online at https://bit.ly/3DFNmyi. Applications are due by October 15, 2021 at 5pm. 

Examples of projects eligible for funding include the following:  

• Water quality improvement projects 
• Implementation of Best Management Practices to protect water quality  
• Public education programs aimed at reducing nonpoint source water pollution 
• Identified projects from an approved watershed-based plan and/or Total Maximum Daily Load implementation plan 

Nonpoint source water pollution impacts Nevada’s water resources when rain, snowmelt and irrigation water flows over developed or disturbed land, carrying with it pollutants like oil, sediment, pesticides, bacteria and other debris. This polluted water makes its way into Nevada’s waterways either directly or through storm drains, and can harm the overall water quality of area lakes, rivers, and groundwater. Nonpoint source pollution can be particularly challenging to manage since it cannot be traced to a specific source. Over the years, NDEP’s Bureau of Water Quality Planning has provided millions of dollars in US EPA grants to help fund projects that reduce water pollutants and protect drinking water supplies, natural ecosystems and wildlife across the state. Click here for more information on the grant program and projects