Program 101

What does this program do?

It provides access to safe reliable drinking water and waste disposal facilities and services to low-income communities that face significant health risks.

Who may apply?

  • State and local governmental entities serving eligible areas
  • Non-profit organizations
  • Utility districts serving Colonias i
  • Federally Recognized Tribes  i

What is an eligible Area?

  • Federally Recognized Tribal Lands  i
  • Areas recognized as Colonias before October 1, 1989  Rural areas and towns with a population of 10,000 or less

Residents of the area to be served must face significant health risks due to a lack of access to, or use of adequate, affordable water or waste disposal

NOTE: Areas not located in a Colonia must meet per capita income and unemployment rate requirements.  Contact your local RD office for information.

What may the funds be used for?

  • Construction of basic drinking water and waste disposal systems including storm drainage
  • Utility district may also be able to provide grants to individual households to install indoor plumbing and connect to the system

Are matching funds required?

Partnerships with other federal, state and local entities are encouraged; however, a 100% grant may be offered in some circumstances if funds are available

How do we get started?

  • Applications for this program are accepted through the local RD office year round.
  • Program Resources (includes forms needed, guidance, certifications, etc.)

What if we have questions?

  • Contact our local RD office
  • Participating non-profits may also offer assistance and training

What governs this program?

i Colonias – This is a term used to describe subdivisions located outside incorporated areas along the U.S.-Mexico border where residents face significant health risks due to a significant portion of the community lacking access to clean, reliable, affordable drinking water and/or waste disposal systems.

i Federally Recognized Tribe - Federally Recognized Tribes are eligible for many USDA Rural Development programs. A current list of all Federally Recognized Tribes is published in the Federal Register and posted at www.bia.gov/WhoWeAre/BIA/OIS/TribalGovernmentServices/TribalDirectory. Additionally, a few RD Programs include Tribes on State Reservations as eligible applicants. More information on those programs is available at the GAO site.

i Tribal Lands – USDA Rural Development can help finance projects on Indian lands in rural areas. For further information on Indian lands and other American Indian/Alaska Native topics visit: www.bia.gov/FAQs.”