CWA 319(h) Grants
Nonpoint Source Grant Program
The Nevada Division of Environmental Protection (NDEP) 319(h) Nonpoint Source Program (NPS Program) provides grant funding to qualifying counties, conservation districts, higher education institutions, regional agencies, and nonprofit organizations to improve conditions of Nevada’s watersheds and protect against nonpoint source (NPS) water pollution. NPS grant funds originate from a US Environmental Protection Agency grant pursuant to the federal Clean Water Act (CWA).
The grants support water quality improvement projects, education and outreach efforts, and the development and implementation of watershed based plans that focus on reductions in NPS pollution. Proposals are reviewed by a Technical Advisory Committee and ranked on project merit. Projects located in watersheds with approved watershed based plans, and that are anticipated to measurably reduce pollutants released to streams, rivers, and lakes are given priority.
Project proponents are encouraged to work with NPS Program staff prior to submittal of a proposal to ensure that it is eligible, complete and competitive. Ongoing and past CWA section 319(h) projects can be found within the Nonpoint Source Management Program Annual Report.
In 2022, $890,992 in grants were awarded to qualifiying regional agencies, counties, conservation districts and nonprofit organizations for six implementation and six public outreach and/or watershed coordination projects throughout the state. Projects funded include restoring riverbanks on the Carson and West Walker Rivers, rehabilitation of riparian habitat on the Truckee River, supporting Las Vegas Wash revegetation Green-Up events, and educating Nevadan's about the importance of managing nonpoint source pollution.
NPS water pollution occurs when rain, snowmelt and irrigation water flows over developed or disturbed land, carrying with it contaminants including oil, sediment, pesticides, bacteria and nutrients. This contaminated water makes its way into Nevada’s waterways either directly or through storm drains. Nonpoint source pollution continues to be a significant threat to Nevada’s waterways. Implementing water quality restoration projects and educating our citizens on how they can help will reduce that threat.
For any questions or more information, please contact Jason Kuchnicki, Bureau of Water Quality Planning, Nevada Division of Environmental Protection at 775-687-9450 or jkuchnicki@ndep.nv.gov.