Epa Provides $9 Million For Watershed Protection

Twelve coalitions in as many states are finalists in the competition to apply for U.S. Environmental Protection Agency grants totaling $9 million to help protect and restore some of the nation’s key watersheds. These coalitions will join 34 others that have been selected over the past two years to share nearly $39 million in grants. The coalitions selected have been recognized for setting clear goals and comprehensive watershed plans. Projects include stream stabilization, culvert replacement, and habitat enhancement activities. Funds also will support agricultural management practices in rural areas and stormwater management practices in urban areas. Many of the projects this year will benefit spawning fish species and natural fisheries.

The Targeted Watersheds Grant Program fosters community-based initiatives to help protect, preserve, and restore local or regional watersheds. The goal of the program is to build on the successes of partners who have completed all of the watershed assessments and are ready to carry out their plans.

The selected watershedsinclude:

Cheat River, W.Va

Huff Run, Ohio

Lake Hopatcong, N.J.

Little River, Tenn.

Presumpscot River/Casco Bay, Maine

Skagit River, Wash.

Tangipahoa River, La.

Trinity River/Lower Klamath River, Calif.

Tuttle Creek Lake, Neb. and Kan.

Upper Sevier River, Utah

Vermillion River, Minn.