EPA's Denver office announced that it will provide nearly $1.3 million to 20 water quality projects in the states of Colorado, North Dakota, South Dakota, Utah and Wyoming and three tribal nations. The grants, awarded under various Clean Water Act programs, will support research, monitoring, data collection, standard-setting, training and resource assessment, restoration and protection activities focused on rivers, streams, lakes, wetlands, ground water and other water resources.
"These projects illustrate the range and significance of the water quality issues being addressed by our partners," said EPA's regional administrator Robbie Roberts. "Collectively, these efforts will enhance our understanding of key issues and lead to practical solutions to water quality problems in communities across our Region."
The competitive awards include resources under five EPA programs. The Regional Geographic Initiative (RGI) is a grassroots approach for long-term environmental protection tailored to communities. It is a model of government partnering with communities and industries to develop long-term solutions to environmental protection. Wetlands Program Development Grants aid in the development of wetland protection programs. The goals of EPA's wetland program include increasing the quantity and quality of wetlands in the U.S. by conserving and restoring wetland acreage and improving wetland health. The Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) program funds are intended for states and nonprofit agencies toward making progress in fulfilling EPA's commitment to resolving pollution problems in water bodies that have been identified as impaired. National Pollution Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) -- Water Quality Cooperative Agreements make grant dollars available for research and innovative projects that will reduce or eliminate pollution discharges in surface waters. Source Water Protection funds help communities find ways to manage possible sources of contaminants in their watershed or above their aquifer to prevent pollution of the source of their drinking water supply.
Source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency