Nonpoint Source Grant for Pollution Control Projects Watershed-based Plan Implementation RFP

Nonpoint Source Grant for Pollution Control Projects Watershed-based Plan Implementation RFP

Status: ACTIVE
Funder: State of Maine Department of Environmental Protection
Amount: US $50,000 - US $150,000
Last Updated: April 30, 2025

Summary

The Nonpoint Source Grant for Pollution Control Projects aims to implement watershed-based plans to restore and protect waterbodies affected by nonpoint source pollution in Maine. Funded by the EPA under Section 319(h) of the Clean Water Act, this program supports projects that address pollution through strategic management plans. The Department of Environmental Protection oversees the application process and ensures that awarded projects align with state water quality standards.

Overview

Nonpoint Source Grant for Pollution Control Projects Watershed-based Plan Implementation A. Purpose and Background As defined in this Request for Applications (RFA) document, the Department of Environmental Protection (Department or DEP) is seeking applications to implement watershed projects to restore or protect waterbodies that are impacted by nonpoint source (NPS) pollution. Watershed projects funded under this RFA must be guided by Watershed-based Management Plans (WBP) accepted by the Department. WBPs provide assessment and management information and describe actions needed for restoration and/or protection. This document provides instructions for submitting applications, the procedure and criteria by which the applicants) will be selected, and the contractual terms which will govern the relationship between the State of Maine ("State") and the awarded applicant(s). Pursuant to Maine statutes (38 M.R.S.A. Article 1-F), the Department is charged with coordinating Maine's Nonpoint Source Management Program to prevent or reduce NPS water pollution so that lakes, streams, rivers and coastal waters are protected and attain their designated water quality standards. NPS pollution is caused when rainfall or snowmelt moves over and through the ground and picks up natural and human-made pollutants such as sediment, fertilizer, road salt, oil, and bacteria. Eventually these contaminants end up in waterbodies, where they can threaten drinking water supplies, cause nuisance algal blooms, diminish recreational activities, and endanger aquatic life and habitat. The Maine Nonpoint Source Management Program Plan 2025-2029 describes NPS pollution control programs, strategies, and actions needed to make progress controlling and preventing NPS pollution. DEP administers Maine's NPS program and awards and monitors subgrants for watershed projects in accordance with and using funding provided by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) under Section 319(h) of the Federal Clean Water Act (CWA). EPA's Nonpoint Source Program and Grants Guidelines requires states to use at least 50% of the annual appropriation of Section 319 funds to implement watershed projects guided by Watershed-based Plans (WBPs). Grants for projects selected under this FA will be funded with monies provided to the Department by EPA under Section 319(h); grant awards are subject to the availability of federal funds. Funding awarded to a subrecipient is considered a sub-award of federal funds. The Department will provide a draft of the award decision and work plan applications to EPA for review and approval and will then submit the proposed award decision to the State of Maine, Division of Procurement Services for approval.

Eligibility

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