Funding Available for Montana Nonpoint Source Projects

The Montana Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) anticipates approximately $900,000 in funding for nonpoint source water pollution projects available under the Federal Clean Water Act.

Nonpoint source water pollution stems from many sources and is often generated by land use such as agricultural and forestry activities, urban and suburban development, and runoff from abandoned mine sites. Common pollutants include sediment, nutrients, pathogens, and toxic metals.

The recommended range for grants is $10,000-$300,000 per project, and a 40 percent cost share is required. The deadline for applications is September 18, 2017.

All projects must address nonpoint source pollution and implement actions identified in the 2012 Montana Nonpoint Source Management Plan.

“Projects that create significant, sustainable reductions in nonpoint source pollution will be a priority,” said Tim Davis, DEQ Water Division Administrator. “They should further Montana’s goal of restoring waters that do not meet the state water quality standards and are impaired by these pollutants.”

DEQ staff will be available, upon request, to provide feedback on project applications. The online application form and instructions are available on DEQ’s website: http://deq.mt.gov/Water/WPB/Nonpoint-Source-Program/Guidance-Documents-and-Resources

For more information on the grant funding, contact Robert Ray at 406-444-5319 or rray@mt.gov, or visit the website: http://deq.mt.gov/Water/WPB/Nonpoint-Source-Program/NPS-319-Project-Funding