MT 319 Nonpoint Source Pollution Project Grants

The MT 319 Nonpoint Source Pollution Project Grants, administered by the Montana Department of Environmental Quality, aim to reduce nonpoint source pollution through competitive funding for eligible projects. This program supports various initiatives, including technical assistance and restoration efforts, to protect Montana's water quality. By implementing Best Management Practices and fostering community engagement, the program seeks to address diffuse pollution sources effectively. The 2012 Montana Nonpoint Source Management Plan outlines strategic goals to enhance these efforts.

NOTE: Applicants The DEQ Nonpoint Source and Wetlands section (NPSW) uses a two-phase application process: Draft Application Phase, and Final Application Phase. APPLICANTS MUST COMPLETE BOTH PHASES to be eligible to receive nonpoint source funding.
Introduction
The state of Montana receives funding annually from EPA through Section 319 of the Clean Water Act to distribute throughout the state to groups interested in implementing projects to reduce nonpoint source pollution to our waters. These funds support a wide variety of activities including technical assistance, financial assistance, education, training, restoration projects, and protection projects. DEQ solicits project proposals from eligible applicants and funds are distributed competitively to support the most effective and highest priority projects.
What is nonpoint source pollution?
Nonpoint source (NPS) pollution comes from diffuse sources such as polluted runoff and streambank erosion, or from polluting conditions such as the temperature changes that result from a loss of streambank vegetation and shading. For the purposes of this call, discharges from abandoned mine lands are also considered nonpoint source pollution, provided they are not covered under a discharge permit.
Goal of the 319 Program
The goal of Montana’s NPS Management Program is to protect and restore water quality from the harmful effects of nonpoint source pollution. This goal can be accomplished by implementing Best Management Practices and conducting Education and Outreach activities. DEQ strongly encourages the development and implementation of science-based, locally-supported Watershed Restoration Plans to guide these efforts. The 2012 Montana Nonpoint Source Management Plan (NPS Plan) describes how DEQ plans to see this goal achieved. The NPS Plan contains specific program goals, priorities, and identified BMPs