By Scout Nelson
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is amplifying its support for rural North Dakotans by granting extra funds to a pivotal water access project. Bryan Schmitt, from the North Dakota Department of Environmental Quality, shared that an additional $430,000 has been awarded, building on the prior $280,000 contribution.
The project, spearheaded by the Tri-County Water District, aims to transition those reliant on water hauling or wells to a regulated water system. This funding will primarily cater to equipment costs and the laying down of pipelines. The beneficiaries encompass residents of Walsh, Nelson, Grand Forks counties, and a segment of Ramsey County.
The monetary assistance is channeled through the Assistance for Small and Disadvantaged Communities Drinking Water grant program. This initiative specifically supports regions with populations under 10,000 - a criterion that the Tri-County Water District's coverage comfortably meets.
Though currently in its blueprint phase, Schmitt anticipates the project's launch in spring 2024, with completion expected by fall of the same year.
Photo Credit: environmental-protection-agency
Categories: North Dakota, Sustainable Agriculture