Purpose
To support the work of agencies and groups involved in conservation programs and projects, water quality issues, and flood reduction and mitigation projects, MWCD has developed the Nonpoint Source Implementation Strategy (NPS-IS) Development Fund. This fund aims to reimburse up to 75% of the cost associated with developing a NPS-IS proposal up to $9,000.00 per plan. This grant opportunity assists local agencies and groups involved in projects and programs that support the conservation and flood control aspects of MWCD’s mission.
A NPS-IS outlines environmental issues for small-scale watersheds, develops goals, and sets a plan in motion to address these issues with conservation practices rooted in the best science available. These plans work by describing the “what” and “where” of specific conservation strategies to best address and reduce the nonpoint source pollution and impairments of the specified watershed. Each watershed is unique and has its own attributes and impairments and as such, each plan will address those issues impacting water quality to ensure long term benefits are achieved.
NPS-IS developed through MWCD’s NPS-IS Development Fund will meet the 9 essential elements per the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Section 319 Program Guidance to ensure Ohio Section 319 funding eligibility. NPS-IS funded by MWCD will be submitted to, reviewed, and approved by the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency (OEPA). Once a NPS-IS is approved by OEPA, funding for projects described within the NPS-IS can become eligible for Ohio Section 319 funding.
MWCD is proud to support the OEPA and provide this fund as a catalyst for advancing restorative water quality improvements within the watersheds that make up the Muskingum River Basin. Through this fund, MWCD can ensure that our region is better equipped to identify environmental issues, understand the solutions, unlock funding, and achieve measurable water quality improvements and ecological uplift.

Eligible Projects
Funds may only be used for the costs associated with developing a NPS-IS for hydrologic unit code (HUC) 12 watersheds within the Muskingum River Watershed. Applicants must provide justifiable narratives demonstrating the need for additional features such as hydrologic modeling, and outreach efforts. Applications that demonstrate a cost effective NPS-IS will be prioritized.

Eligible Applicants
Eligible applicants include political subdivisions of the state, IRS Section 501 organizations, soil and water conservation districts (SWCDs), local governments, park districts, and regional councils of government involved in projects related to watershed management and water quality improvements in the Muskingum River Watershed. In addition, strategic alliances, multi-organization groups, or collaborative partners are encouraged to apply.

Application Process

Application materials are available below.

Please include a cover letter with a short description of the agency or group, a resolution from the governing body, IRS Determination Letter (if applicable), and any supporting documentation such as letters of support and commitment to any matching funds. 

If you have any questions about this process please contact Rome Marinelli-MWCD Watershed Coordinator at 234-801-7045 or [email protected]

Application Deadline

Original applications must be completed and submitted along with supporting documents, in PDF format by 5:00 pm on October 1, 2024.  Hard-copies will be accepted but must be postmarked on or before October 1, 2024 and must include a total of four (4) copies along with the original application and supporting documents.

Application Materials