FRANKFORT — The Kentucky Division of Water announced Monday that grant funding is available through the Energy and Environment Cabinet for projects that help clean up polluted streams, rivers, lakes and groundwater and protect water resources. Funds are provided through the EPA’s Nonpoint Source Program and are distributed to states to support best management practices.

“Nonpoint source pollution, also known as runoff pollution, is the number one contributor to water pollution in Kentucky,” said Joanna Ashford, manager of the division’s Watershed Management Branch. “The grants can be used for watershed restoration projects, watershed plan development, and other projects that reduce and prevent runoff pollution.”

These funds can pay for up to 60% of the total cost for each project with a required 40% non-federal match. The division prioritizes projects that develop and implement watershed plans for impaired waters, source water protection areas, and special-use waters such as cold water aquatic habitat, state wild rivers and federal wild and scenic rivers with identified threats.

To determine stream designations, visit The Kentucky Watershed Explorer.

Letters of intent to apply are optional but highly recommended and are due Nov. 17. Project application forms must be submitted no later than Feb. 9, 2024. Division of Water staff will review and rank the project applications according to eligibility and priority criteria.

Various organizations, from federal, state and local governments to utilities, conservation districts, universities and nonprofits, are candidates for funding. Organizations can visit the grant funding program page to see eligibility and obtain the letter of intent form and other supporting documents.

Contact Michaela Lambert at 502-782-5282 or michaela.lambert@ky.gov for more information.