Water Quality Improvement Project (WQIP) Program
The WQIP Program funds construction and implementation projects in NY State to improve water quality, restore habitats, reduce flood risks, and enhance climate resiliency.
Funder: New York State Department of Environmental Conservation
Due Dates: July 31, 2026: Full application submission deadline (Applications due via CFA by 4:00 PM ET on July 31, 2026)
Funding Amounts: At least $75 million available annually; maximum awards range from $100,000 to $15 million depending on project type; 25% local match required.
Summary: Supports construction and implementation projects across NY State that improve water quality, restore habitats, reduce flood risks, and enhance climate resiliency.
Key Information: Applications must be submitted via the Consolidated Funding Application (CFA); all required attachments must be included at submission.
Description
The Water Quality Improvement Project (WQIP) Program is a competitive, statewide reimbursement grant initiative from the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. It funds construction and implementation projects that directly improve water quality or habitat, promote flood risk reduction, restoration, and climate resiliency, or protect drinking water sources. Eligible project types include wastewater treatment improvements, non-agricultural nonpoint source abatement and control, stormwater management, land acquisition for source water protection, salt storage and road salt reduction, dam safety repair or removal, aquatic connectivity, marine district habitat restoration, fish and wildlife habitat restoration and enhancement, and landfill leachate treatment.
The program is not intended for projects that are exclusively for planning or design; only implementation/construction activities are eligible.
