Baseline Water Quality Data Program

The Baseline Water Quality Data Program (BWQDP), administered by the Commonwealth Financing Authority (CFA) through the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED), is a state-funded initiative established under Act 13 of 2012. This Act created the Marcellus Legacy Fund, which allocates resources for various environmental and infrastructure projects across Pennsylvania. The BWQDP specifically supports statewide efforts to collect and analyze baseline water quality data from private water supplies in areas impacted by natural gas drilling. Its primary objective is to generate scientific evidence that documents existing groundwater conditions, ensuring a reliable environmental baseline prior to potential impacts from drilling activities. Eligible applicants under this program include a broad array of entities. These include municipalities such as counties, cities, boroughs, and townships; councils of governments; 501(c)(3) nonprofits engaged in environmental or conservation work; institutions of higher education; recognized watershed organizations; and for-profit businesses, with the exclusion of natural gas producers. These groups may apply for funding to support activities such as water sample collection, analysis, and the preparation of comprehensive reports that reflect pre-drilling groundwater conditions. Importantly, all work must adhere to accepted scientific principles and EPA-approved water testing methodologies. The program offers grant awards up to a maximum of $250,000 per project. All applicants are required to contribute a local cash match equal to at least 15% of the total project cost. This cost share may cover eligible expenses incurred up to one year before the application deadline, provided they are directly tied to the proposed project. Ineligible uses of funds include public relations, lobbying, litigation, and fees for application preparation or securing financing. Application to the BWQDP requires a detailed scope of work prepared by a licensed professional geologist, including lab selection, sampling protocols, field parameters, and plans for data reporting and storage. Additional documentation such as cost estimates, letters of matching fund commitment, financial statements, and a resolution from governing boards (for public entities) must accompany the application. Applications must be submitted via DCED’s Electronic Single Application for Assistance portal at grants.pa.gov. The submission window is open from February 1 through May 31 each year. A non-refundable application fee of $100 is required and must be paid electronically at the time of application submission. Any work initiated before CFA approval will render the project ineligible for funding. Only costs incurred within the grant agreement period are reimbursable. Once an application is approved, CFA will issue a grant agreement and commitment letter electronically. The applicant must return the signed agreement within 45 days. Funds are disbursed at intervals of no less than 30 days. All grantees must maintain thorough records and comply with prevailing wage, nondiscrimination, and procurement regulations. Water sample data collection must include DEP’s recommended parameters, be conducted by PA-accredited labs using EPA-approved methods, and all personal well data must be kept confidential. Applications are evaluated on cost-effectiveness, strategic importance, and anticipated impact. For inquiries, applicants may contact the Office of Business Finance and Workforce Development at (717) 787-6245 or via email at [email protected]. The official program guidelines and application materials can be accessed online at dced.pa.gov. Given the annual application window, the next anticipated cycle is expected to open in February 2027.