Solid waste management grants

On August 25, 2025, the Rural Utilities Service (RUS) awarded a $353,000 Project Grant to Finger Lakes Reuse Inc. under the Solid Waste Management Grants program (CFDA 10.762) to support solid waste management initiatives in Ithaca, New York. The grant funds technical assistance and training services designed to reduce water resource pollution and improve solid waste disposal planning and management in rural communities. Expected deliverables under this award likely include services such as landfill condition evaluations, operator training for landfill maintenance and operations, waste reduction and recycling initiatives, and closure plan development for closed or closing landfills, with performance completion targeted for August 25, 2027.

The Solid Waste Management Grants program prioritizes funding regional and multi-state service providers that demonstrate capacity to serve small, low-income rural communities cost-effectively. Finger Lakes Reuse Inc.'s award reflects the program's focus on nonprofit organizations with proven regional technical assistance capabilities. Grant funds are distributed on a reimbursement basis following approval by Water and Environmental Programs staff in Washington, D.C., and recipients are required to maintain records in accordance with 2 CFR 200 and applicable USDA regulations to ensure proper use of federal resources.