The South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources (DANR) recently announced a significant approval from the Board of Water and Natural Resources. A whopping $19,043,650 has been allocated for various projects in South Dakota aimed at improving drinking water, wastewater, and storm water systems.
This substantial funding comprises $64,362 in grants and $18,979,288 in low-interest loans, including a principal forgiveness of $3,683,938. DANR Secretary Hunter Roberts shared his satisfaction over this financial provision, emphasizing the crucial role of robust water and wastewater infrastructure in protecting the environment and fortifying communities for future generations.
The DANR has allocated funds from its Drinking Water State Revolving Fund Program, Clean Water State Revolving Fund Program, and Consolidated Water Facilities Construction Program to various projects across the state, benefiting towns and associations like Bowdle, Brookings-Deuel Rural Water System, Claremont, Clark Rural Water Systems, Garretson, Hartford, Medicine Mountain Scout Ranch, Weston Height Homeowners Association, and
Each recipient has a unique project, ranging from new water mains installation to wastewater treatment facilities, lift station replacements, and improvements to existing systems. These projects aim to meet growing demands, reduce water loss, improve pressures, and enhance wastewater treatment capabilities.
This initiative is not just a standalone effort but is complemented by additional funding packages received by several projects earlier in April 2022. The loans provided have diverse terms, with interest rates ranging from 2.125 percent to 3.25 percent for durations spanning 30 years.
The Consolidated Water Facilities Construction Program, which partially funds these efforts, derives its revenues from the Petroleum Release Compensation Tank Inspection fee and the sale of lotto tickets. This program is pivotal in providing grants and loans for water, wastewater, and watershed projects across South Dakota.
The Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Fund Programs, funded by the State of South Dakota and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, are crucial in offering low-interest loans for a variety of water-related projects. These programs receive funding through a blend of federal appropriations, loan repayments, and bonds.
The approval for this substantial funding was officially given the green light at a recent meeting held in Pierre, marking a significant step forward in supporting the community infrastructure and environmental protection endeavors in South Dakota.
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Categories: South Dakota, General