The Soil and Water Conservation Society (SWCS), along with partner organizations, has sent a letter to key congressional leaders advocating for increased funding of $175.5 million for the EPA's Clean Water Act Section 319 Nonpoint Source Management Program in the Fiscal Year 2025 budget.
The 319 Grant Program has been instrumental in funding projects that address nonpoint source pollution, restore impaired waterways, and improve water quality nationwide. These initiatives have led to measurable reductions in pollutants like E. coli, lead, and cadmium, enhancing both ecosystem health and public safety.
SWCS CEO Clare Lindahl stated, "The 319 Grant Program is a cornerstone of our nation's efforts to protect and improve water quality. By urging Congress to increase funding to $175.5 million, we're investing in the dedicated conservation professionals who work tirelessly to safeguard our water resources. This funding is crucial for the continued success of water quality improvement projects across the country."
The letter highlights the program's success in fostering collaboration among local communities, government agencies, and stakeholders. It also emphasizes the need for timely funding approval to support effective project planning and execution.
Recent EPA guideline updates for the program include increased funding for tribal governments, optimized water quality data reporting, and consideration of climate change impacts. These enhancements are expected to further improve the program's effectiveness in addressing water quality challenges.
SWCS and its partners believe this increased funding will empower conservation workers and lead to even greater environmental improvements across the United States.
View the Letter of Support and List of Partner Supporters
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About the Soil and Water Conservation Society: For 79 years, the Soil and Water Conservation Society has been the premier international organization for professionals who practice and advance the science and art of natural resource conservation. SWCS believes sustainable land and water management is essential to the continued security of the earth and its people. SWCS’s goal is to cultivate an organization of informed, dynamic individuals whose contributions create a bright future for agriculture, the environment, and society. SWCS is headquartered in Ankeny, Iowa, with chapters across the United States and Canada.
For More Information:
If you have any questions, contact Emma Harper at emma.harper@swcs.org.