DES MOINES — The DNR is now accepting pre-application questionnaires for grant funding that helps locally-led groups develop water quality improvement efforts in Iowa communities.
Offered by the DNR’s Watershed Improvement Program, Watershed Planning Grants help local groups passionate about improving water quality create a nine-element Watershed Management Plan, which identifies problems in the watershed and proposes solutions for better water quality. Making changes in the watershed (the land that drains to a lake, river or stream) can reduce pollution reaching our waters.
Those selected through the pre-application process will then be invited to apply for grant funding to perform a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Nine-element Watershed Planning process, funded by EPA Clean Water Act Section 319 grants to the Iowa DNR Watershed Improvement Section.
“With the pre-application process, we’re looking to learn more about groups’ vision for water quality and identify applicants that are motivated and able to complete a nine-element watershed plan,” said Steve Konrady, who coordinates DNR Watershed Improvement grants. “We want to help Iowans put their plans in action.”
The pre-application period remains open until close of business on Feb. 28. Pre-application documents are available at www.iowadnr.gov/watershed. Questions may be directed to Steve Konrady at 515-725-8388 or Steven.Konrady@dnr.iowa.gov.
Planning grants will likely be awarded to successful pre-applicants by June 30, 2019.
The Section 319 program of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency provides DNR funding for nonpoint pollution programs, including Watershed Planning Grants.