Delaware Section 319 Grants

The Delaware Nonpoint Source Program administers a competitive grant program made possible through Section 319 of the Clean Water Act. The grant provides funding for projects designed to reduce nonpoint source (NPS) pollution in Delaware.

Nonpoint source pollution is any pollution that originates from a diffuse source (such as an open field or a road) and is transported to surface or ground waters through leaching or runoff.

A good way to reduce nonpoint source pollution is to incorporate specific best management practices (BMPs) into project workplans. Projects may target any source of NPS pollution, but most frequently involve agriculture, silviculture, construction, marinas, septic systems, and hydromodification activities.

Clean Water Act (CWA) Section 319 grants are awarded to the state based on the federal fiscal year (October through September). A request for proposals for each awarded fiscal year grant is posted, and advertised, in December of each calendar year and/or at the NPS Program’s discretion.

Projects can be sponsored by both public and private entities, including local governments (county, city, or town), conservation districts, tribal authorities, regional development centers, local school systems, colleges and universities, local nonprofit organizations, state agencies, federal agencies, watershed groups, for-profit groups, homeowner's associations, and individuals. Project grants to individuals are limited to demonstration projects.

Priority will be given to those projects whose goal is to improve the water quality of water bodies identified as having nonpoint source pollution impairments and implemented in those watersheds that have approved watershed management plans.

Proposals are reviewed and evaluated, and those which are determined to meet specific requirements are eligible for funding. All projects must include matching funding from a non-Federal source totaling at least 40% of the federal grant funds requested.

An electronic copy of the proposal and supporting materials (e.g., project support letters from partners, aerial maps, etc.) must be submitted to the NPS Program, following the Grant Proposal Format detailed in the current fiscal year's RFP. Proposals will not be accepted by facsimile. Email proposals to NPS.Grants@delaware.gov, Attn: Ben Coverdale, with the subject line "FY26 Clean Water Act Section 319 Grant Proposal" (update the FY each cycle), by 4:30 PM on the RFP's stated due date. The full RFP document and Grant Application Form are posted at https://de.gov/319grants. For questions, contact Ben Coverdale (Michael.Coverdale@delaware.gov) and/or Catie Soriano (Cathryn.Soriano@delaware.gov).

• FY26 CWA Section 319 Grant RFP (PDF)

• FY26 NPS 319 Grant Proposal Form (PDF)

• Watershed Management Plans