Nonpoint Source Pollution Grant Funding
Nonpoint Source Pollution Grant Funding supports nonprofits, Tribes, and public entities in watershed planning and restoration projects that reduce pollution and protect California waters.
Funder: California State Water Resources Control Board
Due Dates: December 18, 2026, at 5:00 PM Pacific Time (Proposal deadline)
Funding Amounts: Implementation: $250,000–$1,000,000 for up to 3.5 years | Planning: $50,000–$250,000 for up to 2 years
Summary: Supports watershed planning and on-the-ground projects that reduce nonpoint source pollution in California waters.
Key Information: Projects must address a Regional Water Board program preference, and applicants must consult their regional grant coordinator.
Description
The California State Water Resources Control Board administers this program using U.S. EPA funding under section 319 of the Clean Water Act, with possible section 604(b) funding for planning. The 2027 cycle supports projects that improve impaired waters, protect assessed high-quality waters, and restore fire-damaged landscapes within priority watersheds identified by Regional Water Boards. Most funding supports impaired waters and implementation of Total Maximum Daily Loads.
Supported work includes livestock exclusion fencing and off-stream watering, forest road improvements, stream and riparian restoration, agricultural nutrient and pesticide controls, irrigation improvements, sediment basins, and manure management. Planning funding supports nine-element watershed-based plans and preparation for implementation, including site selection, management practice selection, and design plans. Research studies and pilot projects are not eligible.
