319 Nonpoint Source Grant Program

The 319 Nonpoint Source (NPS) Grant Program, administered by the Tennessee Department of Agriculture (TDA), offers funding for projects aimed at reducing nonpoint source pollution in Tennessee’s watersheds. Funded through Section 319(h) of the federal Clean Water Act and provided by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the program supports efforts that mitigate diffuse sources of pollution such as agricultural runoff, failing septic systems, construction-related erosion, and urban stormwater. This grant program emphasizes voluntary, non-regulatory, incentive-based solutions for water quality improvement. Funding supports two primary categories of projects: watershed restoration efforts targeting impaired or threatened waters, and educational/outreach programs that raise public awareness and change behaviors contributing to NPS pollution. All projects must align with TDA’s long-term water quality goals and address sources listed in Tennessee’s official List of Impaired Waters. The 319 NPS Program operates on a cost-share basis, covering up to 60% of total project costs, with the remaining 40% to be provided by the grantee through nonfederal sources, including cash or in-kind contributions. Projects may span up to 36 months and must not exceed this term. Higher priority is given to projects located in smaller, more manageable watersheds and those involving installation of Best Management Practices (BMPs) based on approved watershed-based plans (WBPs). Educational projects must focus on specific audiences and aim to inform decision-making around NPS prevention. Eligibility is open to local governments, interstate agencies, nonprofit organizations, soil conservation districts, state agencies, and academic institutions. Projects involving BMP installation must follow TDA’s Prescribed Rate Payment System, which aligns cost-share payments with NRCS EQIP standards and may offer additional incentives for high-priority practices or implementation in Tennessee’s distressed or at-risk counties. Applications must be submitted by December 1, 2025, via email or mail. Successful proposals will be under contract by fall 2026. All reimbursement will occur post-expenditure, and all match funding must occur within the project timeline. Applicants must adhere to Tennessee’s procurement guidelines and federal conflict of interest policies. Proposals should be written in accordance with the provided TN-NPS template and must include a detailed work plan, budget, timeline, and watershed plan if applicable. For more information, applicants may contact Heidi McIntyre-Wilkinson at [email protected] or (615) 837-5492. Additional program resources and planning tools are available through the Tennessee Department of Agriculture’s Land & Water Stewardship Section.

Limit salary/benefit requests to under 25% of total funds; maximize on-the-ground BMP impact; coordinate with TDEC for monitoring; follow proposal template closely.