Emergency Community Water Assistance Grants in California

What does this program do?

This program helps eligible communities prepare, or recover from, an emergency that threatens the availability of safe, reliable drinking water.

Who may apply?

• Rurally located public bodies
• Nonprofit organizations
• Federally recognized tribes
• Applicants must show that a major decline in quantity or quality of water occurred within two years of the date of the application. Grants are also awarded when a significant decline in quality and quantity of water is imminent. 

What kind of event can qualify as an emergency?

• Drought or flood
• Earthquake
• Tornado or hurricane
• Disease outbreak
• Chemical spill, leak or seepage
• Other disasters

NOTE: A federal disaster declaration is not required.

What is an eligible area?

• Rural areas and towns with populations of 10,000 or less -- check eligible addresses
• Tribal lands in rural areas
• Colonias

The area to be served must also have a median household income less-than the state's median household income for non-metropolitan areas. Contact your local RD office for details.

How may the funds be used?

• Water transmission line grants up to $150,000 to construct waterline extensions, repair breaks or leaks in existing water distribution lines, and address related maintenance necessary to replenish the water supply
• Water source grants up to $1,000,000 for the construction of new wells, reservoirs, transmission lines, treatment plants, and/or other sources of water (water source up to and including the treatment plant)

Are matching funds required?

• Partnerships with other federal, state, local, private and nonprofit entities are encouraged

How do we get started?

• Applications for this program are accepted year round, 
  online through RD APPLY or through your local RD office.
• Program resources are available online (forms, guidance, certifications, etc.).

Who can answer questions?

• Staff in your local RD office
• Participating nonprofit associations

What governs this program?

• Code of Federal Regulation, 7 CFR 1778
• Section 306A of the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act

Why does USDA Rural Development do this?

This program helps prevent damage or restore households and business' access to clean, reliable drinking water in eligible rural areas and towns following natural disasters. Funding can improve the natural environment and encourage manufacturers and other businesses to locate or expand operations.