Washington Department of Ecology proposes $137 million in funding for water quality projects

The Washington Department of Ecology (Ecology) recently released a list of 103 projects it proposes to fund through its Water Quality Program, which if fully enacted would mean a total of $137 million in funding for communities across the state.

“Our grant and loan program is a steadfast source of financial assistance to local communities, helping them make investments that last well into the future to protect water quality,” Heather Bartlett, manager of Ecology’s Water Quality Program, said. “We financially support communities that might not otherwise be able to afford these projects and create jobs at the same time. We are fixing wastewater systems, preventing nonpoint sources of pollution, and addressing stormwater pollution problems that threaten our waters.”

The projects are all intended to improve water quality throughout the state through measures like improving wastewater treatment plants, taking homes off septic systems, and containing stormwater. The proposed funding would also generate jobs in the state, with an estimated 11 jobs created for every $1 million in funding for infrastructure projects.

Ecology is accepting public comments on the proposed funding until Feb. 21, and will host a public meeting on the topic on Feb. 5 in Tacoma, Washington.