EPA makes $6M available for Tribes’ nutrient reduction projects

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced the availability of $6 million in funds to support reducing nutrient pollution on Tribal lands across the Mississippi/Atchafalaya River Basin (MARB).

With these awards, Tribes will support nutrient reduction demonstration projects, implement nonpoint source management programs, and build their capacity to conduct nutrient reduction activities.

Tribes should submit draft workplans to EPA staff by Feb. 10, 2023, with final workplans due May 5, 2023. The announcement includes an implementation memorandum that provides eligible Tribes with information on draft submission, how EPA will award and administer funds, priorities for nutrient reduction, and flexibility for Tribe-specific activities.

The funding comes from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which includes $60 million for actions to support water quality improvements in the Mississippi River watershed and Gulf of Mexico through the Gulf Hypoxia Program (GHP) over five years. EPA is allocating 10 percent of this funding — a total of $6 million — to up to 21 eligible Tribes to support capacity building activities and nutrient reduction demonstration projects that advance the goals of the Gulf Hypoxia Action Plan.

EPA has long supported the Hypoxia Task Force (HTF), with general support for Tribal and state water quality programs and targeted grants to states. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law provides for dedicated funding to support Tribal nations, make progress toward reducing nutrient loads, and improve water quality in the Mississippi/Atchafalaya River Basin.

“The Biden-Harris Administration is committed to working alongside Tribes to advance our shared goal of improved water quality,” says Assistant Administrator for Water Radhika Fox. “Thanks to the historic Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, Tribes across this critical watershed will have resources to restore the Mississippi River and Gulf of Mexico.”