Water Quality Grant Proposals Now Accepted
Tennessee Department of Agriculture Announces Funding Opportunity
The Tennessee Department of Agriculture (TDA) is accepting proposals for projects aimed at addressing nonpoint source pollution (NPS) and enhancing or safeguarding water quality across the state. The deadline for submissions is December 1, 2026.
Funding is available through the Tennessee Nonpoint Source Program, with support from a grant by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency under Section 319(h) of the Clean Water Act.
"Water quality challenges vary from one watershed to another, and local projects can address those issues where they originate," said Agriculture Commissioner Andy Holt. "This funding provides communities and organizations with an opportunity to implement practical solutions in their watersheds."
Eligibility and Priorities
Eligible applicants include:
- Local governments
- Interstate agencies
- Nonprofit organizations and institutions
- Colleges and universities
- State government agencies
The highest priority will be given to projects targeting waters identified as impaired by NPS on Tennessee’s most recent list of impaired waters.
Project Focus
Projects should identify specific sources of pollution and propose practical solutions to address them. Examples of eligible project areas include:
- Water quality monitoring and assessment
- Best management practices (BMPs) implementation
- Public education and outreach
- Habitat restoration
- Planting and stewardship of riparian buffers
- Sediment and erosion control
- Urban stormwater management
- Wetland and stream restoration
How to Apply
Interested applicants should submit their proposals, including a detailed project description, budget, and timeline, to the TDA by the December 1st deadline.
For more information about the grant program and application process, please visit the Tennessee Nonpoint Source Program website or contact the TDA at [department contact information].