Overboard Discharge Elimination Program (Grants)
This Maine DEP grant funds the removal of overboard wastewater discharges to protect water quality and public health, prioritizing projects in shellfishing and nuisance-affected areas.
Funder: Maine Department of Environmental Protection
Due Dates: Rolling (Applications accepted year-round; must apply before project starts)
Funding Amounts: Up to 100% of eligible costs for primary residences (income-based); up to 50% and $150,000 for publicly owned facilities; reimbursement after project completion.
Summary: Supports the removal of legally licensed overboard wastewater discharges in Maine to improve water quality and public health, with priority for shellfishing areas and nuisance conditions.
Key Information: Projects must be approved by DEP before construction; reimbursement only after work is completed and paid.
Description
This program provides grants to assist with the removal of legally licensed overboard discharges (OBDs) of treated wastewater in Maine. The goal is to protect water quality and public health by eliminating small, on-site wastewater treatment systems that discharge directly to surface waters. Priority is given to projects in shellfish harvesting areas or where nuisance conditions exist, but other eligible removals may also be funded as required by law. The program is open to municipalities, quasi-municipalities, county commissioners representing unorganized territories, and individual OBD owners.
