The Missouri Department of Natural Resources has funding available for projects that will protect Missouri’s waters from pollution caused by storm water runoff, also known as non-point source pollution.

DNR says non-point source pollution occurs when excess surface runoff from rainfall or snow-melt events carries pollutants, such as chemicals, bacteria, sediment and debris into nearby waters. Non-point source pollution is the greatest threat to water quality in Missouri and the nation. Controlling this type of pollution is particularly challenging. Since storm water runoff travels across the landscape collecting pollutants, it is difficult to pinpoint and address specific sources.

To be eligible for grant funding, an applicant must implement pollutant-reducing land-management practices from an EPA- and department-accepted watershed-based plan. Local governments, state agencies, educational institutions and 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations are eligible to apply. Research, land purchase and National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System permit requirements are not eligible.

Grant awards can range from $50,000 to $400,000, and projects can span up to three years. Authorized by Section 319 of the federal Clean Water Act, the grant funding is provided by the EPA and administered by the department.

Responses to the request for proposals for this federal grant funding are due April 1.

For more information and to respond to the request for proposals, visit dnr.mo.gov/water/what-were-doing/nonpoint-source-pollution-section-319/subgrants.