Federal Grant Award Summary

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 awarded the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources $13.224 million in formula grant funding under the Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation Small and Underserved Communities Emerging Contaminants Grant Program (CFDA 66.442) on July 1, 2025, with a performance period through June 30, 2029. This award supports Wisconsin's implementation of comprehensive initiatives to address per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and other emerging contaminants in drinking water systems serving small and disadvantaged communities. Products and services delivered through this grant include installation of emerging contaminant treatment systems, planning and design activities, technical assistance to public water systems, research and testing programs, source water protection activities, water system restructuring projects, household drinking water access programs, workforce training support, and community outreach and education initiatives.

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources will administer subgrants to eligible municipal water systems and public water authorities to fund sampling activities, infrastructure remediation projects, and treatment upgrades targeting PFAS, manganese, and other regulated contaminants. Anticipated deliverables include a ranked list of eligible municipalities, subawards to municipal water systems for infrastructure improvements, and technical assistance programming. These activities directly support compliance with the Safe Drinking Water Act while prioritizing equitable resource allocation to communities most in need of assistance for safe drinking water infrastructure.