By Scout Nelson
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is providing new funding to support agriculture and community infrastructure projects in North Dakota. The agency has awarded a total of $684,000 to the North Dakota Department of Agriculture and the North Dakota Department of Environmental Quality.
The funding is intended to strengthen important public services that support farmers, rural communities, and environmental protection efforts across the state. The grants will help agencies continue programs that benefit both agriculture and local residents.
A major portion of the funding, $475,000, is being awarded to the North Dakota Department of Agriculture through the EPA’s Pesticide Program Performance Grant. This funding will support activities related to pesticide regulation and oversight. These efforts help ensure that pesticides are used safely and effectively while protecting human health, crops, livestock, and natural resources.
Pesticide regulation plays an important role in modern agriculture. State agencies work closely with producers, applicators, and industry partners to promote responsible pesticide use and compliance with federal and state regulations. The grant will help maintain these important services and support ongoing agricultural operations throughout North Dakota.
The remaining $209,000 is being awarded to the North Dakota Department of Environmental Quality through the Small, Underserved, and Disadvantaged Communities Grant Program. This funding will be used to support an engineering feasibility study and future upgrades to the water system in Maxbass, North Dakota.
Reliable water infrastructure is essential for communities of all sizes. The project will help local officials evaluate current system needs and identify improvements that can enhance water quality and service reliability for residents. Upgrading water systems also helps communities prepare for future growth and changing infrastructure demands.
Photo Credit: istock-laughingmango
Categories: North Dakota, Government & Policy