The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is offering grants through its Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 Funding Opportunity for Indian Tribes and Intertribal Consortia under Clean Water Act Section 319. These grants are intended to help eligible tribes and consortia implement Nonpoint Source (NPS) management programs that aim to control pollution from diffuse sources and improve the quality of navigable waters. The projects funded must include on-the-ground implementation of best management practices (BMPs) and can include up to 25% of federal funds for supporting activities like developing watershed-based plans or conducting related monitoring and outreach. Tribes and intertribal consortia may request up to $125,000 in federal funds, with a matching requirement of 40% of the total project cost unless undue hardship is demonstrated.

Applicants must be federally recognized tribes with an EPA-approved NPS assessment report and management program, and they must have "Treatment-in-a-manner-similar-to-a-State" (TAS) status by October 11, 2024. This funding opportunity is competitive, and the EPA will reserve a portion of funds to support approximately five new recipients who have not received a competitive grant under this program in the last five years. Applications must include well-defined outputs, such as the number of BMPs implemented, and measurable outcomes that demonstrate water quality improvements.

Eligible project activities focus on reducing pollution from various sources, such as road stabilization, streambank restoration, septic system rehabilitation, and nutrient management. The approach must be watershed-based, considering the impact on all relevant areas, including estuarine and coastal systems, if applicable. Projects may also include activities upstream or downstream of reservation waters, provided they impact tribal water quality.

To apply, applicants must submit a complete package through Grants.gov by December 11, 2024. The EPA will evaluate submissions based on project location, pollution problems, goals and environmental results, workplan, BMP technical merit, budget, and past performance. The workplan should detail tasks, responsible parties, and a timeline, and the project narrative should explain how the project aligns with the tribe’s NPS management program and EPA strategic goals. Outputs and outcomes should link directly to EPA's FY 2022-2026 Strategic Plan, Goal 5, which aims to ensure clean and safe water for all communities.