Pennsylvania Dirt, Gravel, and Low Volume Road Maintenance Program

The Dirt, Gravel, and Low Volume Road Maintenance Program offers a unique approach to controlling non-point source pollution associated with runoff and sediment from dirt, gravel, and low volume roads. Administered by the State Conservation Commission, this program distributes grant funding through county conservation districts to state and local entities for projects that eliminate stream pollution caused by road runoff. These grants support the implementation of environmentally sound road maintenance practices, addressing pollution issues and reducing road maintenance costs over time. Applicants seeking grant funds are required to attend a two-day "Environmentally Sensitive Maintenance" (ESM) training. The program is designed for public road-owning entities, with federal and privately owned roads being ineligible. Annually, $28 million is appropriated for this initiative, with at least $8 million earmarked for paved low volume roads.