The Nevada state director for the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Rural Development, today announced the agency will provide about $20 million in loan and grant funding to the City of Winnemucca to develop a mechanized waste water treatment system.
"We are celebrating Earth Day here in Winnemucca to honor this community's commitment," said Nevada State Director Sarah Adler. "The efforts you are making will significantly enhance water quality in the Humboldt River which is so important to the community. We applaud your foresight to take action to protect the environment."
The community, USDA, and partners engaged with leadership students of Lowry High School in investigating the science, engineering, environmental protection and community leadership aspects of the project prior to the public announcement.
USDA Rural Development will provide $18.1 million in loans and a $2.3 million grant, funded by the Rural Utility Service Water and Environmental Programs. The City of Winnemucca is providing $8 million, for a total project cost of just over $28 million.
The City will decommission the existing wastewater pond treatment system and build the new treatment plant outside of the Humboldt River floodplain.
Funding:
USDA Water and Waste Disposal Loan Funds $18,195,000
USDA Waste and Waste Disposal Grant Funds $2,372,589
City of Winnemucca Funding $8,000,000