The state Department of Environmental Protection is now accepting applications for funding under the Growing Greener Plus Grants Program and the Watershed Planning and Restoration Grants Program. Both opportunities intend to improve and protect water from nonpoint source pollution associated with agricultural activities, abandoned mine drainage (AMD), stormwater runoff, energy resource extraction, and streambank and shoreline degradation. Townships are eligible to apply for both opportunities until June 22, 2026. 

DEP is prioritizing projects that reduce nonpoint source pollution in targeted watersheds, especially those that reduce nitrogen, phosphorous and sediment pollution from agricultural and stormwater runoff, along with AMD-related pollution from iron, aluminum and acidity. DEP is particularly interested in projects that implement effective best management practices (BMP) that reduce or eliminate stream impairments within WIP areas, leading to local water quality improvements. 

Questions regarding the Growing Greener grants can be directed to ra-epgrowinggreener@pa.gov. Questions regarding the Watershed Planning grants can be directed to RA-EP319grantfunding@pa.gov.