The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development is accepting applications for grants to help rural communities develop locally-based solutions and access financial resources to support water and waste infrastructure improvements. Grants are available through both the Solid Waste Management Program and the Water and Waste Disposal Technical Assistance and Training (TAT) Grant Program.
Grants awarded through the Solid Waste Management Program may be used to provide technical assistance or training to improve the planning or management of solid waste systems to reduce pollution of water resources. Most state and local government entities, nonprofits, federally-recognized tribes, and academic institutions are eligible to apply to assist rural communities with a population of 10,000 or less.
Through the Water and Waste Disposal Technical Assistance and Training (TAT) Grant Program, qualified, private nonprofits can provide technical assistance and training to help rural communities with a population of 10,000 or less identify and evaluate solutions to water problems, improve the operation and maintenance of water or waste disposal facilities, and prepare applications for Rural Development funding.
Applications for both programs are due by December 31, 2018. Applications may be submitted electronically through grants.gov. In Oregon, paper applications should be submitted to the USDA Rural Development state office:
USDA Rural Development
ATTN: Community Programs
1220 SW 3rd Avenue
Suite 1801
Portland, OR 97204
For questions, or to discuss a potential application, contact LaVonda Pernell, Community Programs Specialist, (202) 720-9635. General questions related to USDA Community Programs in Oregon may be directed to a local Community Programs Specialist.
