Section 319 Grants
Section 319 Grants fund science-based projects by local groups to reduce nonpoint source pollution and improve water quality across North Dakota, managed by the Department of Environmental Quality.
Funder: North Dakota Department of Environmental Quality
Due Dates: Deadlines vary by funding cycle; check the program page and application timeline for current details.
Funding Amounts: No fixed minimum/maximum; Section 319 funds can cover up to 60% of total project costs, with local/other non-federal match required.
Summary: Supports local projects in North Dakota to reduce nonpoint source pollution and improve water quality via competitive grants to eligible local sponsors.
Key Information: Individuals cannot apply directly—must partner with a local sponsor (e.g., conservation district, watershed group, or local government).
Description
The Section 319 Grants program is North Dakota’s primary funding mechanism for projects addressing nonpoint source (NPS) pollution under the Clean Water Act. Managed by the North Dakota Department of Environmental Quality (NDDEQ) and funded by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the program distributes grants competitively to local sponsors—including conservation districts, watershed groups, and local governments—to implement projects that reduce or prevent NPS pollution and enhance water quality in surface and groundwater. Supported activities include watershed-scale best management practice (BMP) implementation, information and education, environmental assessment, support activities, and demonstration or pilot projects. The overarching goal is to promote sustainable watershed management and restore or protect water resources throughout North Dakota.
