Nonpoint Source Water Quality Grants (Section 319)
Nonpoint Source (NPS) Grants
Under Section 319 of the federal Clean Water Act, the federal government provides funding to the Nebraska Department of Water, Energy, and Environment (DWEE) to support the prevention and reduction of nonpoint source water pollution.
Funding is distributed to local governments, educational institutions, and nonprofit organizations to support projects that implement the Nonpoint Source Management Plan.
Grant Categories
The Nonpoint Source Management Program provides Section 319 grants to eligible applicants in the following categories.
Small Project Assistance Grants
| Description | Provides rapid funding for small projects and time-sensitive opportunities. |
|---|---|
| Grant Limit | $15,000 |
| Non-Federal Match Requirement | 40% of total project cost |
| Sponsor Cash Match | 10% of total project cost (included in match) |
| Eligible Activities | Demonstration projects, pilot projects, and local initiatives that support future watershed or statewide efforts. |
| Application Period | Ongoing |
| Time Limit | 1 year |
| Eligible Applicants | Government entities, educational institutions, and nonprofit organizations |
Watershed-Based Projects
| Description | Supports large-scale projects that restore or protect water quality within a watershed or groundwater recharge area. |
|---|---|
| Grant Limit | Typically up to $300,000 (may vary based on project scope) |
| Non-Federal Match Requirement | 40% of total project cost |
| Sponsor Cash Match | 10% (included in match) |
| Eligible Activities | Best management practices, restoration, technical assistance, and education. |
| Application Period | Annual request for proposals (RFP) |
| Time Limit | Up to 3 years |
| Eligible Applicants | Government entities, educational institutions, and nonprofit organizations |
Match Requirements
Total project cost is calculated as:
Total Project Cost = Section 319 Funds + Required Match
- The required match must meet the specified percentage of total cost
- Additional non-federal funds may exceed the minimum match
- Other federal funds are not included in the total cost calculation
Section 319 Notice of Interest
Forms and Guidance
ALL Section 319 Project Sponsors are CONTACTUALLY OBLIGATED to submit a Semi-Annual Report to DWEE on each September 20th and March 20th for the duration of the project.
- Guidance for Writing Basin Management Plans
- Project Implementation Plan (PIP) Guidance
- Semi-annual Reporting Form (Excel format)
- Reimbursement Requests form (Excel format)
- MBE/WBE Reporting Form (Word format)
- Final Report Guidance
Contact the Nebraska Nonpoint Source Pollution Management Program at DWEE.NonPointSource@nebraska.gov