The USDA is awarding a $2.1M grant to the Winterport Water District. The agency also will provide a $1.1M loan to the District. Nationwide, USDA is investing $443 million through the Water and Waste Disposal Loans and Grants program to expand access to clean and reliable drinking water, sanitary waste disposal, and storm water drainage for people in 24 states.

“This project will alleviate potential health risks for Winterport and Penobscot Bay residents while helping to safeguard the environment," said Director Hampson, in a news release. "In the face of climate change, strong water infrastructure is even more critical to building resilient rural communities and maintaining strong local economies.”

This grant and loan from USDA Rural Development will help complete the funding plan for major work to upgrade the Winterport Water District’s wastewater treatment facility. The agency had previously awarded a $6.25M grant and $1.5M loan for the project. Given the facility’s vital need for upgrades and proximity to the Penobscot Bay, the Maine Department of Environmental Protection joined local leaders, Rural Development, and others to prioritize and fund this major upgrade. After years of planning, it is anticipated that work will begin soon.

Constructed more than 40 years ago, the Winterport wastewater treatment facility has been using a primary treatment process that does not meet modern standards. This project will add a second purification process for residential wastewater, using biological agents to remove pollutants. The result will be a significant reduction in potential pollution, human health risks, and environmental impacts. The work will bring the WWD into compliance with national standards and reinforce its commitment to “a strong environmental stewardship with the residents of Winterport to protect our valuable water resources,” (winterportmaine.org/).

Rural Development’s Water and Waste Disposal Loan and Grant Program in Maine serves communities with fewer than 10,000 residents. State and local governmental entities, private nonprofits, and federally recognized tribes may be eligible. Applications are accepted year-round. Visit www.rd.usda.gov/me (look under “Key Programs”) or contact Bob Nadeau, Community Programs Director (robert.nadeau@usda.gov or 207-990-9121) for more information.

Currently USDA is accepting applications through the Solid Waste Management Grants program and the Water and Waste Disposal Technical Assistance and Training Grants program. These programs are examples of the many ways USDA promotes healthy communities and environments. To subscribe to USDA Rural Development updates, visit GovDelivery subscriber page.