From DNR’s EcoNewsWire, 12/13/2018

“DES MOINES — The DNR is now accepting pre-application questionnaires for grant funding that helps locally-led groups develop water quality improvement efforts in Iowa communities.

Offered by the DNR’s Watershed Improvement Program, Watershed Planning Grants help local groups passionate about improving water quality create a nine-element Watershed Management Plan, which identifies problems in the watershed and proposes solutions for better water quality. Making changes in the watershed (the land that drains to a lake, river or stream) can reduce pollution reaching our waters.

Those selected through the pre-application process will then be invited to apply for grant funding to perform a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Nine-element Watershed Planning process, funded by EPA Clean Water Act Section 319 grants to the Iowa DNR Watershed Improvement Section.

“With the pre-application process, we’re looking to learn more about groups’ vision for water quality and identify applicants that are motivated and able to complete a nine-element watershed plan,” said Steve Konrady, who coordinates DNR Watershed Improvement grants. “We want to help Iowans put their plans in action.”

Planning grants will likely be awarded to successful pre-applicants by June 30, 2019. The Section 319 program of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency provides DNR funding for nonpoint pollution programs, including Watershed Planning Grants.

The pre-application period remains open until close of business on Feb. 28. Pre-application documents are available at www.iowadnr.gov/watershed. Questions may be directed to Steve Konrady at 515-725-8388 or Steven.Konrady@dnr.iowa.gov.”