The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced it will provide up to $1.8 million for projects across the country to help restore urban waters by improving water quality and supporting community revitalization. The funding is part of the agency’s Urban Waters program, which supports communities in their efforts to access, improve and benefit from their urban waters, such as canals, rivers, lakes, aquifers, bays and more, and the surrounding land.

Many urban waterways have been polluted for years by sewage, runoff from city streets and contamination from abandoned industrial facilities. Healthy and accessible urban waters can help grow local businesses and enhance educational, recreational, employment and social opportunities in nearby communities. By promoting public access to urban waterways, EPA aims to help communities become active participants in restoration and protection.

Examples of projects eligible for funding may include:

• Education and training for water quality improvement or green infrastructure jobs;
• Public education about ways to reduce water pollution;
• Local water quality monitoring programs;
• Engaging diverse stakeholders to develop local watershed plans; and
• Innovative projects that promote local water quality and community revitalization goals.

EPA is accepting funding proposals by Jan. 23, 2012, and expects to award the grants in summer 2012.

Source: U.S. EPA