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(This page last updated on 6/8/10.)
   
 

Attend a webcast on MAY 14, 2009, 2-4 PM EST to learn how to access State Revolving Fund Recovery Act funding for green and innovative projects. The Environmental Protection Agency’s Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF) programs would like to invite you to a webcast introducing and explaining the Green Project Reserve for CWSRF Recovery Act funding. To learn more about this webcast, or to register and attend, please visit the following website: https://www.eventbuilder.com/event_desc.asp?p_event=e7f4g7n2 Connections are limited, so if multiple individuals at your organization are interested in participating, please consider accessing the webcast from the same computer.

   
 

Information and Resources on the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (Stimulus – 2009)

   
Stimulus
   
  Stimulus Package Opportunities and Challenges
   
        by Jeanne Christie, Executive Director, Association of State Wetland ManagersMarch 2009
The stimulus bill was signed last week, but the federal agencies in many cases have been working for months to get ready to spend a great deal of money in a very short period of time. Some agencies such as the Federal Highways Administration posted information about spending stimulus monies even before the bill was signed. Agencies are rapidly finalizing and posting additional details on the criteria that will be used to fund “shovel ready” projects. ASWM has assembled information that identifies opportunities and challenges with respect to funding projects that will have an impact on wetlands and other water resources. This includes funding that can be used for wetland and aquatic restoration as well as projects that will require environmental review and permitting.
http://www.aswm.org/fwp/stimulus/stimulus_bill_022709.pdf
   
  The Administration’s main page for the Stimulus Bill is located at: http://www.recovery.gov/
   
  U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
   
        (From the Environmental Council of States (ECOS) Ecoswire February 13) The final stimulus bill, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, includes $4 billion for Clean Water State Revolving Fund projects and $2 billion for Drinking Water State Revolving Fund projects.
   
 

Projects must be on a state Intended Use Plan (IUP) through the appropriate state revolving fund (Clean Water or Drinking Water) to be eligible for funding. Many states have a long list of existing projects for important infrastructure including treatment plants, sewer lines, etc. that are already on the IUP.

   
 

The bill also includes the following provisions:

 
 
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Waives the mandatory 20 percent matching requirement for both funds.
 
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Requires that not less than 50 percent of the capitalization grants be used to provide assistance for additional subsidization in the form of forgiveness of principal, negative interest loans, or grants or any combination of these.
 
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Allows the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator to reallocate SRF monies where projects are not under contract or construction within 12 months.
 
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Requires not less than 20 percent of each revolving fund to be available for projects to address green infrastructure, water and/or energy efficiency, innovative water quality improvements, decentralized wastewater treatment, stormwater runoff mitigation, and water conservation.
 

Some states may be challenged to identify eligible green infrastructure projects, given the short time frame to submit state lists to EPA and the requirement that projects be ready-to-go. States now can review a list compiled by American Rivers and its partners that includes 253 green infrastructure projects in 33 states and the District of Columbia that appear ready to begin construction.

   
     

American River’s Website on Green Infrastructure Opportunities and EPA’s State Revolving Fund is located at: http://www.americanrivers.org/site/PageServer?pagename=
AR7_GreenInfrastructure_RiversStimulus

       
     

An excel spreadsheet of green infrastructure projects by state can be found on their website in the last bullet under “what you need to do” on this page.

       
      EPA Fact Sheets
     
  Protecting Wetlands with the Clean Water State Revolving Fund
http://www.aswm.org/fwp/stimulus/wetlands.pdf
  Funding Nonpoint Source Activities with the Clean Water State Revolving Fund
http://www.aswm.org/fwp/stimulus/nps.pdf
  Green Infrastructure Approaches to Managing Wet Weather with Clean Water State Revolving Funds
http://www.aswm.org/fwp/stimulus/green_infrastructure.pdf
      Clean Water State Revolving Fund What's in it for Watersheds?
http://www.aswm.org/fwp/stimulus/cwsrf_watersheds.pdf
       
      Final SRF ARRA Guidance
http://www.aswm.org/fwp/stimulus/arra_srf_guidance_030209.pdf
       
      Clean Water SRF Agencies - Names, Locations, and Contacts
http://www.aswm.org/fwp/stimulus/cw_srf_agencies.pdf
       
      American Recovery & Reinvesment Act Timeline
http://www.aswm.org/fwp/stimulus/american_recovery_reinvesment_act_timeline.pdf
       
      CWSRF Project Descriptions and Examples for Green Project Reserve
http://www.aswm.org/fwp/stimulus/cwsrf_project_descriptions_and_examples.pdf
       
      Draft Green Projects Funded by the CWSRF
http://www.aswm.org/fwp/stimulus/draft_cwsrf_project.pdf
       
      Federal Highway Administration
 
  $27.5 billion as supplemental formula grants (FHWA)
  Available through 09/30/2010
  $1.5 billion for discretionary grants program (OST)
  Available through 09/30/2011
The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) received $29 billion in funding. A summary of the provisions of the stimulus funding directed to the Federal Highway Administration can be found at:
http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/economicrecovery/summary.htm
 

The Federal Highway Administration has been working closely with state transportation agencies in anticipation of passage of the stimulus package. They have posted information about the stimulus including recommendations from FHWA on how to expedite the process to get projects implemented http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/economicrecovery/expedite.htm with questions and answers at http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/economicrecovery/index.htm

 

USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service

 

Under the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS), the Watershed and Flood Prevention Operations program was allocated $290 million, of which $145 million is to be used for purchasing and restoring floodplain easements. The NRCS’ Watershed Rehabilitation program was provided $50 million, which can be used for dam removal or rehabilitation. These programs fall under the Emergency Watershed Program. For more information, go to: http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/recovery/  More information about these programs is available on the NRCS website at: http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/programs/ under Water Resource Programs.

 

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

 

The U.S. Army Civil Works program includes funding for a number of navigation and other civil works projects. There will be traditional levee raising and other hard construction flood control projects. Cost share funding has been waived for inland waterways construction, but only for stimulus funding. Green projects can be funded by the Corps using stimulus funding under Section 1135 and Section 206.

 

Summary of U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Provisions American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009
(Special thanks to Melissa Samet from American Rivers for providing this.)

 

Overview: Provides funding for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) projects with some limitations. Funding is to be directed to project elements or activities that can be completed with the stimulus funding (and any existing funding within the appropriate account).

 

Total Funding: $4.6 billion to the Corps as follows:

  $25 million for investigations
  $2 billion for construction, general, with not less than $200 million for “water related environmental infrastructure assistance”
  $375 million to projects under the Mississippi River and Tributaries (MR&T) program
  $2.075 billion to operations and maintenance
  $25 million to the regulatory program
  $100 million to the formerly utilized sites remedial action program (FUSRAP)
For additional information go to www.defenselink.mil/recovery
 

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)

 
NOAA Seeking "Shovel-Ready" Habitat Restoration Proposals
 
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration announced today that it is seeking proposals for coastal habitat restoration projects under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 in an unprecedented effort to jumpstart the economy. The effort is designed to create resilient and healthy American communities by generating and saving jobs, employing several thousand people, and restoring valuable coastal and marine habitat.
 
NOAA is formally seeking proposals for a variety of habitat restoration projects - including wetlands restoration, dam removals, shellfish restoration, and coral reef restoration. To ensure relevance, readiness and accountability to the American public, the 30-day solicitation requires that projects be "shovel-ready." Proposals are due by April 6, 2009. For more information about this federal funding opportunity, please visit: http://www.habitat.noaa.gov/recovery.
 
Please look for more information in the coming weeks as NOAA rolls out its implementation plan. If you have any questions, please contact us at RC.Newsletter@noaa.gov or 301-713-0174.
 
NOAA received significant funding to address a backlog of research, restoration, navigation, conservation and management activities.
 
STIMULUS Bill Text from NOAA:
 

NATIONAL OCEANIC AND ATMOSPHERIC ADMINISTRATION OPERATIONS, RESEARCH, AND FACILITIES
For an additional amount for “Operations, Research, and Facilities”, $230,000,000

PROCUREMENT, ACQUISITION AND CONSTRUCTION
For an additional amount for “Procurement, Acquisition and Construction”, $600,000,000.

Joint House-Senate Conference report:

NATIONAL OCEANIC AND ATMOSPHERIC ADMINISTRATION OPERATIONS, RESEARCH, AND FACILITIES
The conference agreement includes $230,000,000 for NOAA operations, research, and facilities to address a backlog of research, restoration, navigation, conservation and management activities.

PROCUREMENT, ACQUISITION AND CONSTRUCTION
The conference agreement includes $600,000,000 for construction and repair of NOAA facilities, ships and equipment, to improve weather forecasting and to support satellite development. Of the amounts provided, $170,000,000 shall address critical gaps in climate modeling and establish climate data records for continuing research into the cause, effects and ways to mitigate climate change.

 
Department of Interior
 
The Bureau of Reclamation received $1 billion under the ARRA. The funding is be provided at the discretion of the agency and according to these priorities: (a) programs, projects, or activities that can be obligated/executed quickly; (b) Programs, projects, or activities that will result in high, immediate employment. $126 million was set aside for Water Reclamation and Reuse Program, $60 million for the Rural Water projects and separate money for the Central Utah and California Bay-Delta programs.
 
$280 million for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service will improve energy efficiency and renewable use at refuges, resulting in the "greening" of facilities throughout the nation. Funding also will be used to restore wetlands, riparian habitat, endangered species habitat, and other important landscapes. FWS also will restore facilities that are key to the management and restoration of wildlife and fisheries.
 
For additional information go to www.doi.gov/recovery  and for a department by department overview visit: http://www.doi.gov/recovery/plans.html#fws
 
Guidance Documents
 

OMB Provides Stimulus Guidelines to Agencies

 

On February 18, Office of Management and Budget Director Peter Orszag issued initial guidance to agencies for administering stimulus funds, providing information and requirements on financial reporting, risk management and contracting.  Included in the guidelines is the requirement to provide spending and performance data to the "Recovery.gov" website, allowing citizens to view where the stimulus funds have been used.  To view the initial guidance:
http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/assets/memoranda_fy2009/m09-10.pdf

 
Office of Management and Budget
 
  Implementing Guidance for the Reports on Use of Funds Pursuant to the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (June 22, 2009)
http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/asset.aspx?AssetId=1412
  Supplement 1, List of Programs Subject to Recipient Reporting http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/asset.aspx?AssetId=1411
  Supplement 2, Recipient Reporting Data Model
http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/asset.aspx?AssetId=1410
  Payments to State Grantees for Administrative Costs of Recovery Act Activities (May 11, 2009)
http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/asset.aspx?AssetId=1194
  Interim Guidance Regarding Communications With Registered Lobbyists About Recovery Act Funds (April 7, 2009)
http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/asset.aspx?AssetId=1078
  Updated Implementing Guidance for the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (April 3, 2009)
http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/asset.aspx?AssetId=1067
  Initial Implementing Guidance for the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (February 18, 2009)
http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/asset.aspx?AssetId=703
  Frequently Asked Questions:
American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009

http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/recovery_faqs/
  Registered Lobbyist Contact Disclosure Forms
http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/recovery_contact_disclosure_forms/
Office of Water
  Allocation Chart – Funding Levels for States and Territories (PDF)
http://www.epa.gov/water/eparecovery/docs/Final_SRF_eco_recovery_allotments.pdf
  Guidance for Award or Water Quality Management Planning Grants Funded Under the Recovery Act (PDF)
http://www.epa.gov/water/eparecovery/docs/604bARRA_guidance_memo_FINAL.pdf
  Guidance for Award of Recovery Act Funding to State Revolving Funds (PDF)
http://www.epa.gov/water/eparecovery/docs/2009-03-02_Final_ARRA_SRF_Guidance.pdf
  ARRA and SRF Questions and Answers Volume 1 (PDF)
http://www.epa.gov/water/eparecovery/docs/04-23-2009_ARRA_and_SRF_Q&As_Vol.%201.pdf
  Timeline for Clean Water State Revolving Fund Recovery Act Funding (PDF)
http://www.epa.gov/water/eparecovery/docs/STIMULUS_timeline.pdf

Green Project Reserve Information

  Webcast on Green Project Reserve – March 12, 2009 (PDF)
http://www.epa.gov/water/eparecovery/docs/STIMULUS_Green_Reserve_
Webcast_Slides 3-12-09.pdf
  Webcast on Accessing the Green Project Reserve – May 14, 2009 (PDF)
http://www.epa.gov/water/eparecovery/docs/2009_14_05_STIMULUS_Webcast_
Accessing_GPR.pdf
  Webcast on Funding Green Stormwater Infrastructure with the Green Project Reserve – May 21, 2009 (PDF)
http://www.epa.gov/water/eparecovery/docs/2009_21_05_STIMULUS_Green_
Stormwater_Webcast.pdf
  Adequate Green Reserve Project Solicitation Memo (PDF)
http://www.epa.gov/water/eparecovery/docs/05-14-2009_green_solicitation_memo.pdf
  Green Project Reserve Business Case Principles and Questions and Answers (PDF)
http://www.epa.gov/water/eparecovery/docs/2009_6_22_GPR_Q_A.pdf
  Sample Business Case for Energy Efficiency at Wastewater Pumping Systems for Green Project Reserve (PDF)
http://www.epa.gov/water/eparecovery/docs/STIMULUS_timeline.pdf
  Green Project Reserve Examples -Attachments 7 and 8 (PDF)
http://www.epa.gov/water/eparecovery/docs/STIMULUS_Guidance_Green_Reserve.pdf
 
Buy American
  Implementation of Buy American Provisions of the Recovery Act (PDF) http://www.epa.gov/water/eparecovery/docs/04-29-2009_BA_waiver_process_final.pdf
  Buy American Questions and Answers Part 1 (PDF)
http://www.epa.gov/water/eparecovery/docs/2009_07_02_BA_Q_As_Part1.pdf

Webcasts

  Buy American Waiver Process for ARRA - May 19, 2009 Webcast (PDF)
http://www.epa.gov/water/eparecovery/docs/2009_19_05_Webcast_
Slides_webvers.pdf
  Buy American Provisions for ARRA: Additional Information - June 4, 2009 Webcast (PDF)
http://www.epa.gov/water/eparecovery/docs/2009_04_06_Webcast_
Final_webvers.pdf
  Buy American Provisions for ARRA: Manufactured Goods and Substantial Transformation - June 11, 2009 Webcast (PDF)
http://www.epa.gov/water/eparecovery/docs/2009_11_06_Webcast_
final_webvers.pdf
  Complying with ARRA Buy American Provisions for SRF-Funded Projects – June 22, 2009 Webcast SLIDES (PDF)
http://www.epa.gov/water/eparecovery/docs/2009_6_22_09_Webcast_Final.pdf

National Waivers

  Waiver for projects with debt incurred between October 2008 and February 17, 2009 (PDF)
http://www.epa.gov/water/eparecovery/docs/04-07-2009_FR_Buy_Am_refi_waiver.pdf
  Waiver for projects that solicited bids between October 2008 and February 17, 2009 (PDF)
http://www.epa.gov/water/eparecovery/docs/BA_Bid_Solicitation_Waiver.pdf
  Waiver for projects for de minimis incidental components (PDF)
http://www.epa.gov/water/eparecovery/docs/BA_De_Minimus_Waiver.pdf

Recent Media Coverage of Stimulus Bill & Links to the ARRA

         
       

Corps fast tracks stimulus spending

By Mary Landers – Savannah Morning News – February 16, 2010
To encourage stimulus projects, the Savannah District of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has streamlined the permitting process for publicly funded projects such as bridges, roads and schools that impact streams and wetlands. The special permits allow local governments to move more efficiently to begin and complete public projects if they meet the basic goals of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, also known as the stimulus package, said Russ Kaiser, chief of the regulatory division. For full story, go to: http://savannahnow.com/news/2010-02-16/corps-fast-tracks-stimulus-spending

 
$90 Million in Recovery Act Funds to Bolster Water Services in Indian Country and Create Jobs
 
Contact Enesta Jones – EPA News Release – July 8, 2009
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Service’s (HHS) Indian Health Service (IHS) today announced $90 million in funds from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 for improved access to vital drinking water and wastewater services in the American Indian and Alaska Native communities. The funds will be invested in ‘shovel ready’ infrastructure projects designed to better protect human and environmental health in Indian Country and to create jobs. “This investment is win-win. Addressing long-standing water issues in tribal communities is also going to bring in new jobs and new opportunities – helping them get through the economic downturn and build a lasting foundation for prosperity,” said EPA Administrator Lisa P. Jackson. “EPA is committed to working with our tribal partners on solutions that benefit our environment, our health, and our economy.” For full story, go to:
http://yosemite.epa.gov/opa/admpress.nsf/d0cf6618525a9efb85257359003fb69d/d67f
8ff5e8f96881852575ed00593665!OpenDocument
 
NOAA Announces $167 million in Recovery Act Funding
 
CSO Weekly Report – July 2009
On June 30, Commerce Secretary Gary Locke announced 50 habitat restorations projects that will restore damaged wetlands, shellfish beds, coral reefs and reopen fish passages that boost the health and resiliency of the nation's coastal and Great Lakes communities.  The funding will be allocated from the $167 million provided to NOAA for marine and coastal habitat restoration under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.  The 50 projects are located in 22 states and two territories, and will restore more than 8,900 acres of habitat and remove obsolete and unsafe dams that will open more than 700 stream miles where fish migrate and spawn.  The projects will also remove more than 850 metric tons of debris, rebuild oyster and other shellfish habitat, and reduce threats to 11,750 acres of coral reefs.  To read about the projects: http://www.noaa.gov/recovery/.
 

WI: NOAA: Ozaukee County Awarded $4.7 Million in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act Funding for Fish Passage in the Milwaukee River Watershed

Contact: Andrew Struck (Ozaukee County Planning and Parks Department) – July 1, 2009
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) announced yesterday that Ozaukee County has been awarded $4.7 million in Recovery Act funding for its "Fish Passage in the Milwaukee River Watershed" (FPMRW) project. The FPMRW project involves modifying or removing stream obstructions and barriers to link naturally occurring high quality habitats in the Milwaukee River Watershed. The project's goal is to directly connect and allow fish to swim between 119,000 acres and 158 stream miles of the Milwaukee River Watershed, the Milwaukee Estuary Area of Concern, and Lake Michigan. NOAA's press release regarding the successful projects can be found at: http://www.noaanews.noaa.gov/stories2009/20090630_restoration.html

NOAA's interactive project map is on: http://www.noaa.gov/recovery/

 

EPA Waives ARRA ‘Buy American’ Requirement for Certain Water Projects

On June 2, U.S. EPA granted two more nationwide waivers of the Buy American requirements for Clean or Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (SRF) projects using American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA) funds. One waiver is for projects that had already begun the process of soliciting bids on or after October 1, 2008 and prior to the February 17, 2009 enactment of ARRA. The other waiver is for de minimis imported components. This action permits the use of non-domestic iron, steel, and manufactured goods when they occur in de minimis incidental components of such projects funded by ARRA that may otherwise be prohibited under section 1605(a).

The two new waivers can be found in the June 2 Federal Register at:
http://edocket.access.gpo.gov/2009/E9-12792.htm
.

In April, EPA had issued a nationwide waiver of the Buy American requirements for certain water projects refinanced through the SRFs. The scope of that waiver is limited to projects that incurred debt between October 1, 2008 and February 17, 2009 and that are refinanced through the SRFs using ARRA funds. [Garrigan]

 

Vilsack Announces Floodplain Easement Selections Through Recovery Act Funding

Terre Haute, Ind., June 2, 2009
http://www.usda.gov/wps/portal/!ut/p/_s.7_0_A/7_0_1OB?contentidonly=
true&contentid=2009/06/0191.xml

 
EPA announces more than $107 million in Recovery Act funds for water infrastructure projects in Minnesota to boost economy, create jobs and protect public health

CHICAGO (May 27, 2009) - In a move that stands to create jobs, boost local economies, improve aging drinking water and wastewater infrastructure and protect human health and the environment for people in the State of Minnesota, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has awarded more than $107 million to the Minnesota Public Facilities Authority. This new infusion of money provided by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 will help the state and local governments finance many of the overdue improvements to water projects that are essential to protecting public health and the environment across the state.

"EPA is pleased to provide more than $107 million in Recovery Act funds for much needed improvements to Minnesota's aging drinking water and waste water infrastructure, including sewer systems," said Bharat Mathur, Acting Regional Administrator.  "This money will protect human health and improve water quality while helping to create good jobs in the state."

The Recovery Act funds will go to the state's Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Funds programs.

The Clean Water State Revolving Fund program will receive $72,031,000.   It provides low-interest loans for water quality protection projects for wastewater treatment, non-point source pollution control, and watershed management. The Drinking Water State Revolving Fund program will receive $35,110,000. It provides low-interest loans for drinking water systems to finance infrastructure improvements. The program also emphasizes providing funds to small and disadvantaged communities and to programs that encourage pollution prevention as a tool for ensuring safe drinking water.

An unprecedented $6 billion dollars will be awarded to fund water and wastewater infrastructure projects across the country under the Recovery Act in the form of low-interest loans, principal forgiveness and grants. At least 20 percent of the funds provided under the Recovery Act are to be used for green infrastructure, water and energy efficiency improvements and other environmentally innovative projects.

President Obama signed the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 on February 17, 2009, and has directed that the Recovery Act be implemented with unprecedented transparency and accountability. To that end, the American people can see how every dollar is being invested at Recovery.gov.

Information on EPA's implementation of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 visit
http://www.epa.gov/recovery

 

EPA announces almost $257 million in Recovery Act funds for water infrastructure projects in Illinois to boost economy, create jobs and protect public health

CHICAGO (May 27, 2009) - In a move that stands to create jobs, boost local economies, improve aging drinking water and wastewater infrastructure and protect human health and the environment for people in the State of Illinois, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has awarded almost $257 million to the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency.  This new infusion of money provided by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 will help the state and local governments finance many of the overdue improvements to water projects that are essential to protecting public health and the environment across the state.

"EPA is pleased to provide almost $257 million in Recovery Act funds for much needed improvements to Illinois' aging drinking water and waste water infrastructure, including sewer systems," said Bharat Mathur, Acting Regional Administrator.  "This money will protect human health and improve water quality while helping to create good jobs in the state."

The Recovery Act funds will go to the state's Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Funds programs.

The Clean Water State Revolving Fund program will receive $177,243,100. It provides low-interest loans for water quality protection projects for wastewater treatment, non-point source pollution control, and watershed management. The Drinking Water State Revolving Fund program will receive $79,538,000. It provides low-interest loans for drinking water systems to finance infrastructure improvements. The program also emphasizes providing funds to small and disadvantaged communities and to programs that encourage pollution prevention as a tool for ensuring safe drinking water.

An unprecedented $6 billion dollars will be awarded to fund water and wastewater infrastructure projects across the country under the Recovery Act in the form of low-interest loans, principal forgiveness and grants. At least 20 percent of the funds provided under the Recovery Act are to be used for green infrastructure, water and energy efficiency improvements and other environmentally innovative projects.

President Obama signed the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 on February 17, 2009, and has directed that the Recovery Act be implemented with unprecedented transparency and accountability. To that end, the American people can see how every dollar is being invested at Recovery.gov.

Information on EPA's implementation of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 visit
http://www.epa.gov/recovery

 

Senate Letter Supports Increased Funding for Water Infrastructure

Northeast–Midwest Institute Weekly Update – May 4, 2009
Senators Jack Reed (D-RI) and Kit Bond (R-MO) are seeking co-signers on a letter requesting that the Appropriations Subcommittee on Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies increase funding for the Clean Water State Revolving Funds (CWSRF) and the Drinking Water State Revolving Funds (DWSRF). Congress made a large investment in the State Revolving Funds in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, including $4 billion for the CWSRF and $2 billion for the DWSRF.  This request — $2.4 billion for the CWSRF and $1.5 billion for the DWSRF — builds upon that investment and will help narrow the large gap between water infrastructure needs and spending. Contact Chris Hickling chris_hickling@reed.senate.gov or (202/224-0606) at the Northeast-Midwest Senate Coalition.

         
        ID: Stimulus cash headed to Blaine ranches

By Gregory Foley – Idaho Mountain Express – April 28, 2009
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service plans to direct $430,000 toward restoring and enhancing more than 1,000 acres of bird and wildlife habitat on the Crystal Creek and Spring Creek ranches in southern Blaine County. For full story, go to: http://www.mtexpress.com/vu_breaking_story.php?bid=7111
         
        CA: $17 million in stimulus cash to finish major wetlands restoration
         
        By Jeff Overley – Orange County Register – April 28, 2009
After slogging along for years with barely enough cash to keep work going, a major restoration of Upper Newport Bay has won more than $17 million in federal stimulus funding, enough to finish the project and preserve the estuary for decades, officials said today. For full story, go to: http://www.ocregister.com/articles/bay-newport-million-2379735-dredging-harbor
         
        Stimulus Money and Sprawl
         
        By Rebecca Williams – The Environment Report – April 13, 2009
Urban planners are watching to see how federal stimulus money is being spent. Rebecca Williams reports it could mean redeveloping city centers or urban sprawl: There's 8 billion dollars for mass transit in cities. But there's 28 billion dollars for roads and bridges everywhere. Jason Jordan is with the American Planning Association. He says money for roads and bridge projects could pretty easily end up encouraging people to move farther out from the city. But on the other hand Jordan says cities will be getting money for things like mass transit, high speed rail and fixing up old buildings and he thinks that money will at least start the process of rebuilding. For full story, go to: http://environmentreport.org/transcript.php3?story_id=4441
         
        American Rivers Calls on Georgia to Invest Stimulus Dollars Wisely to Protect Clean Water, Public Health
         
       

Contacts:  Betsy Otto – American Rivers Press Release – March 18, 2009
The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 has provided Georgia with an extraordinary opportunity to invest in clean water, public health, and improved water supplies, while creating good jobs.  $24 million in dedicated funding for green infrastructure, water, and energy efficiency projects is now available in Georgia, and American Rivers called on state leaders today to take advantage of this once in a lifetime opportunity. "Our water infrastructure is antiquated and crumbling and can’t cope with our drinking water, wastewater, and flood protection needs, and global warming will make the situation worse,” said Otto. “The good news is, investing in green solutions to these water infrastructure problems now will create jobs, stretch our water supplies and save money, and protect public health and safety in Georgia.” “Nature works best,” added Otto, “If Georgia does not embrace this unique and important opportunity to invest in 21st century solutions that benefit our communities, the money may be wasted on outdated and inefficient projects.  We urge Georgia communities to submit available green infrastructure projects for funding so taxpayer dollars are spent wisely and Georgia’s communities can reap all of the clean water supply, public health, and quality of life benefits.” For the American Rivers newsroom, go to:
http://www.americanrivers.org/site/PageServer?pagename=AR7_Newsroom

         
        Water Subcommittee Approves Major Bill to Invest in Water Infrastructure
         
        By Mary Kerr – House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Press Release – March 4, 2009
The Subcommittee on Water Resources and Environment approved by voice vote and reported out legislation today to address the nation’s ever-increasing water infrastructure needs. H.R. 1262, the Water Quality Investment Act of 2009, incorporates provisions from four bills that were approved by the House of Representatives in the 110th Congress but were not taken up by the Senate. It also increases the authorized funding levels for the cleanup of contaminated sediment in the Great Lakes, which was enacted into law in 2008 with funding levels below the House-passed version of the bill. H.R. 1262, which provides a total investment of $18.7 billion over five years, incorporates language from the following bills:

• H.R. 720, the Water Quality Financing Act of 2007, which passed the House in 2007 but was not taken up by the Senate. For the full press release, go to: http://transportation.house.gov/News/PRArticle.aspx?NewsID=847
         
        $740 Million Goes to States for Fish and Wildlife Projects
         
        Contact: Joshua Winchell – FWS News Release – February 23, 2009
Department of the Interior Secretary Ken Salazar announced today more than $740.9 million will be distributed to the fish and wildlife agencies of the 50 states, commonwealths, the District of Columbia, and territories to fund fish and wildlife conservation, boater access to public waters, and hunter and aquatic education. These Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration Program funds come from excise taxes and import duties on sporting firearms, ammunition, archery equipment, sportfishing equipment, electric outboard motors, and fuel taxes attributable to motorboats and small engines.  http://www.fws.gov/news/NewsReleases/showNews.cfm?newsId=
A383A17A-A587-E724-62E293452FE6DF6F
         
        Obama Signs $787 Billion Economic Stimulus Bill
         
        By William Branigin – Washington Post – February 17, 2009
President Obama today signed into law a $787 billion economic stimulus plan that he said begins "the essential work of keeping the American dream alive in our time." […] Before the signing, the president toured a solar panel installation on the museum's roof. For full story, go to: http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/02/17/AR20090
21700221.html?hpid=topnews


For a direct link to the bill, HR1, American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, visit: http://thomas.loc.gov/home/approp/app09.html#h1 If that link does not work, visit: www.thomas.gov and it should be highlighted at the top of the webpage.

For a summary of the Stimulus bill, go to: http://www.wildlifemanagementinstitute.org/
index.php?option=com_content&view=
article&id=335:stimulus-bill&catid=34:ONB%20Articles&Itemid=54


For related stories, go to: http://www.wef.org/GovernmentAffairs/StimulusFunding/ and
https://www.landtrustalliance.org/policy/advocates/adv-021309
         
       

Analysis: President Obama's New Green Stimulus Law
http://green.tmcnet.com/topics/green/articles/50701-analysis-president-obamas-new-
green-stimulus-law.htm

         
       

How's It Playing? – Summary of newspaper reports from different states on the Stimulus bill http://politics.theatlantic.com/2009/02/hows_it_playing_3.php

         
       

Clean Energy Aspects of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act
http://www.renewableenergyworld.com/rea/news/article/2009/02/clean-
energy-aspects-of-the-american-recovery-and-reinvestment-act

         
  Green Infrastructure
   
  Resources
   
  Added 6/8/10
Video on Building Green: A Success Story in Philadelphia (June 2010)

EPA's Office of Wetlands, Oceans and Watersheds (OWOW) announced the availability of a new 11-minute video, "Building Green: A Success Story in Philadelphia," which highlights innovative efforts by green builders in Philadelphia who are helping protect and restore environmental quality and beautify the city. By installing cisterns, green roofs, porous pavers, solar panels, and Energy Star appliances, the builders are capturing rainwater, reducing stormwater runoff, and saving energy. In the video, Howard Neukrug, Director of Philadelphia’s Office of Watersheds, explains the importance of green stormwater infrastructure. The city is now offering incentives to builders and developers to use green techniques to help meet clean water and other environmental goals. The video is available online at www.epa.gov/owow/nps/lid/video.html

   
 

Job Corps Ties Green Training Requirements to NCCER Curricula and Accreditation

   
 

Gainesville, Fla.— Effective Oct. 1, 2009, all Job Corps center-operated construction, advanced manufacturing, and automotive training programs are required to implement the Job Corps’ newly green Training Achievement Records (TARs). These TARs incorporate green elements based on NCCER’s “Your Role in the Green Environment” and were validated by a workgroup of industry experts and Job Corps management and construction instructors. To read full press release, go to: http://www.nccer.org/newsReleases.aspx or visit the NCCER website at http://www.nccer.org/

   
  Green Jobs training opportunities catalog
   
  EPA has compiled a catalog of Green Job training opportunities as related to wet weather management green infrastructure design, installation, operation and maintenance, etc.  National and state programs, universities, apprenticeships, and grant programs are included.  The catalog is a work in progress and we are looking for input on comparable programs in your region or state.  The catalog is available at http://www.epa.gov/greeninfrastructure .  Please send submissions to arazan.nancy@epa.gov
   
  EPA Funded Project Gives People Valuable Skills; a Shot at a Good Job
   
 

Contact: Beth Totman – EPA News Release – March 23, 2009
George Pavlou, Acting Regional Administrator of U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, will be joined by STRIVE/East Harlem’s founder Robert Carmona, as a new class of students begins an intensive job training program funded in part by a $200,000 EPA Brownfields job training grant.  Through this program, students will be learning invaluable job skills that will help them gain employment in green construction and remediation throughout New York City. There will be a press event on Tuesday, March 24, 2009 at 10:30am, STRIVE/East Harlem Offices – 240 East 123rd Street (between 2nd and 3rd Avenues), 3rd floor.  NOTE: building’s sign says “Harlem Charter School (Parking garage located at 122nd Street between 2nd and 3rd Avenues.)

   
  Reference Guides
   
  Pond/Wetland Management Guidebook – by EPA, Center for Watershed Protection, etc.
   
  EPA just released a new guidebook that describes maintenance and inspection practices for existing wet ponds and wetlands. The guide includes checklists for use during construction and routine maintenance of ponds/wetlands, and also includes a home owner pond inspection checklist. Maintenance profile sheets describe how to address eight different common maintenance issues. The Pond/Wetland Management Guidebook is available at:
http://www.epa.gov/npdes/pubs/pondmgmtguide.pdf  
   
  Industrial Storm Water Pollution Prevention Planning (SWPPP)
   
  EPA has released a guidance on how to develop a stormwater pollution prevention plan (SWPPP) that meets the requirements of EPA's 2008 MSGP. The version just posted is a prepublication copy. A formatted version (similar to the construction SWPPP Guide released in 2007) will be posted in a few weeks. The Industrial SWPPP Guide is available on the 2008 MSGP website ( www.epa.gov/npdes/stormwater/msgp ) or directly at:
http://www.epa.gov/npdes/pubs/industrial_swppp_guide.pdf  
   
  Opportunities for Nonprofit Organizations
   
 

News from the Foundation Center – Washington, DC – May 1, 2009
MapShot: Best ARRA Funding Resources by State
http://foundationcenter.org/libraries/newsletters/images/spacer.gif
The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) is a sweeping effort to bolster the nation's economy, create or save jobs, and address some of our most challenging issues. The Foundation Center has collected the best resources on how nonprofits may be able to access stimulus package funding. Our new map connects you to information about funding and other opportunities in each state. View the map»

April 27, 2009

From The Answer Desk: What Do Nonprofits Need to Know about the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (Stimulus Bill)?

A: The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA), signed into law by President Obama on February 17, 2009, will provide more than $787 billion in spending and tax cuts intended to help stimulate the national economy.

The Foundation Center has collected the best resources on how nonprofits may be able to access stimulus package funding and our new MapShot: Best ARRA Funding Resources by State connects you to information about funding and other current opportunities in each state.

The Act includes new or expanded government grant programs to provide funding for assistance to communities or individuals affected by the economic crisis. Nonprofit organizations interested in applying for grants provided by this Act should visit the Grants.gov website for a listing of Recovery Act funding opportunities. For-profit organizations can find recovery procurement and contracting opportunities at FedBizOpps.gov.

In order to provide full accountability and transparency for the distribution of stimulus funds, the Federal government has created the Recovery.gov website. Visitors to the site can read the full text of the Act, view a timeline of administrative deadlines, and find news and updates on funding opportunities from Federal agencies.

Most state governments and Federal agencies have also created their own economic recovery sites. Directories of these official sites can be found at Recovery.gov:

The National Council of Nonprofits has issued a series of special reports on the economic stimulus and recovery, including:

The National Council of Nonprofits also encourages organizations to contact their state nonprofit associations or their state and Congressional representatives for more information on local stimulus funding.

Selected resources below may also be helpful.

Independent Sector - Economic Recovery Act and Nonprofits - Provides this analysis and commentary on the Act at its site, along with tips for nonprofit organizations on establishing strong ties with policymakers.

American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009: State-By-State Estimates of Key Provisions Affecting Low- and Moderate-Income Individuals - This report, issued by the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, outlines key provisions of the Act affecting low- and moderate-income individuals and includes a state-by-state analysis of these funding provisions.

StateRecovery.org - A service of the Council on State Governments, StateRecovery.org is targeted towards officials in state government, but contains useful information on federal assistance, listings of grant opportunities, and a series of reports analyzing the prospective impact of stimulus funding at the state level.

National Conference of State Legislatures - Economic Stimulus 2009 - Provides summaries and analysis of major provisions of the Act for state legislators, but also includes information that can useful to the general public.

National Governors Association - American Recovery and Reinvestment Act - Created to provide information on state implementation of ARRA, analysis of the Act’s provisions for a range of topics, and links to additional resources.

   
 

Events - Conferences

   
  Please check back.
   
  Series of Webcasts on Green Infrastructure
   
  EPA webcast on How to Use Stimulus Funds to Finance Green Water Projects
This webcast originally aired on May 14, 2009. There was a great demand for the webcast, so they will offer it again. For a copy of the webcast or to express interest in being notified when the webcast is offered again, go to: https://www.eventbuilder.com/event_desc.asp?z=e0c2p8&eventid=e7f4g7n2
   
  Websites of Interest
   
 

Green Values Stormwater Toolbox
http://greenvalues.cnt.org/green-infrastructure

   
 

EPA’s NPDES
Managing Wet Weather with Green Infrastructure
http://cfpub.epa.gov/npdes/home.cfm?program_id=298

   
  EPA’s Green Infrastructure Policies and Resolutions
http://cfpub.epa.gov/npdes/greeninfrastructure/information.cfm#glossary
   
 

Green Infrastructure in Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana
http://www.greenmapping.org/

 
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