- Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) – Source Water Protection Grants: These grants are specifically aimed at protecting drinking water sources from contamination. The MDH offers both competitive and non-competitive grant programs for public water suppliers to develop and implement source water protection plans.
- Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) – Clean Water Fund: This fund provides financial assistance for projects that aim to protect, enhance, and restore water quality in lakes, rivers, streams, and groundwater. Projects that prevent contamination of drinking water sources could be eligible for funding.
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) – Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF): Administered at the state level, this program provides low-interest loans and other types of assistance for water system improvements. States can use a portion of their DWSRF funds for grants or principal forgiveness to address water safety issues.
- Minnesota Clean Water Legacy Act (CWLA): This act supports projects that protect, enhance, and restore water quality in lakes, rivers, and streams, as well as groundwater. Grant programs under this act focus on a variety of water quality initiatives, including drinking water protection.
- Nonprofit Organizations and Foundations: Organizations such as the McKnight Foundation and the Initiative Foundation offer grants for environmental conservation, which may include water safety and protection projects.
- Local and Regional Initiatives: Some counties and regional organizations in Minnesota offer grants for water protection and environmental conservation projects. Checking with local watershed districts and regional planning organizations can uncover additional funding opportunities.
To pursue these grants, you can:
- Visit the respective websites of the Minnesota Department of Health, Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, and other relevant agencies.
- Reach out to local watershed districts or regional planning organizations for guidance and potential funding opportunities.
- Look into nonprofit foundations that focus on environmental conservation in Minnesota.
These options can provide a good starting point for securing funding to ensure the safety and protection of drinking water sources in Minnesota.