DEP-BWR-FY21-WQM grant-announcement only

The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) is seeking grant proposals from eligible entities, defined as coalitions of three or more non-profit organizations such as watershed groups and lake/pond associations, for the purchase of water quality monitoring and analytical equipment and supplies. The goal is to increase the amount of high-quality surface water data available to support MassDEP's Clean Water Act programs across the Commonwealth. Eligible projects must provide a shared benefit to multiple watershed associations and directly monitor water quality. Grant awards may range from $25,000 to $100,000, with an estimated total of $100,000 in available funding. The application deadline is February 3, 2021, and MassDEP anticipates awarding one to four grants by May 2021, with all purchases to be completed by June 30, 2021. Proposals will be evaluated based on the ability to assist the greatest number of watershed associations, monitor water quality in environmental justice communities, and address MassDEP's priority data needs such as impaired waters for harmful algal blooms.

Academic institutions are not eligible for this grant round. The funding is available on a reimbursement basis, and eligible entities must submit a single invoice with receipts for all purchases by July 15, 2021. Proposals must describe the shared benefit among multiple watershed associations and the use of purchased equipment or supplies to monitor water quality in environmental justice communities. MassDEP will not provide design guidance to potential grantees during the proposal period but will work with awarded grantees on Quality Assurance Project Plans following the grant announcements.