USDA Seeks Applications for Rural Water and Waste Disposal Infrastructure Projects, Planning Grants

Approximately $75 million is available in Oregon

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development is seeking applications for rural water and waste disposal infrastructure projects, including planning grants.

The Water and Waste Disposal Program provides loans, loan guarantees, and grants to fund the construction, upgrade, or expansion of clean and reliable drinking water systems, sanitary sewage or solid waste disposal infrastructure, and storm water drainage in rural areas. With the passage of the 2018 omnibus spending bill, up to $65 million in direct loans and $10 million in grants is available in Oregon this fiscal year, which concludes on September 30.

Most state and local government entities, private nonprofits, and federally-recognized tribes are eligible to apply. Projects must be located in a rural area with a population of 10,000 or less. Applications are accepted year-round.

The Water and Waste Disposal Predevelopment Planning Grant Program assists low-income communities with initial planning and development of applications for USDA Water and Waste Disposal loans, grants, or loan guarantees. Grants of up to $30,000 or 75 percent of the predevelopment planning costs are available. Most state and local government entities, nonprofits, and federally-recognized tribes serving an area with a median household income below the poverty line or less than 80 percent of the statewide non-metropolitan median household income are eligible to apply.

Additional planning grant funding is available for communities with a population of less than 2,500 and a median household income of less than $42,284 through the Special Evaluation Assistance for Rural Communities and Households (SEACH) Program.

Contact a local Community Programs Specialist near you today to discuss your project concepts and to learn more about submitting a successful application.

For more information...

Questions related to USDA Community Programs in Oregon may be directed to a local Community Programs Specialist.

For projects outside of Oregon...

Those with project proposals outside of Oregon should contact USDA Rural Development in the corresponding state.