Heather Syverson

Grants Available for Montana Water Quality Projects

by

The Montana Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is seeking grant applications from nonprofit organizations and government entities for approximately $1.5 million in funding for nonpoint source pollution reduction projects. The deadline for eligible applicants to submit draft applications is February 20, 2026.  The Montana DEQ says nonpoint source pollution is the largest cause of water quality impairment in the state’s lakes … Read more

$3 Billion Announced to Reduce Lead in Drinking Water

by

Funding is on the way for lead service line identification, planning and design, as well as replacement projects. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) announced $3 billion in 2026 state capitalization grant funds through the State Revolving Fund (SRF) program to reduce exposure to lead in drinking water. The $3 billion is from Bipartisan Infrastructure … Read more

Annual Utility Rate Survey Results: Communicating Utility Rate Increases

by

Effective communication with customers is an important part of utility management. One of the best ways to build trust with your customers is to communicate in a transparent way. Rate increases are necessary to fund infrastructure improvements and maintain service quality. Sharing information about upcoming rate increases can be stressful, but it doesn’t need to … Read more

Free Webinar Series for Small Wastewater Systems

by

Small wastewater systems staff have the opportunity to attend a free webinar series to help small wastewater systems access Federal funding. The organizers, Environmental Finance Center Network and the Capacity Collaborative, says the sessions are designed for decision-makers for wastewater utilities, including mayors, finance officers, utility managers, public works directors, city council/commission members, board members, … Read more

$9 Million Available to Protect Drinking Water from Cybersecurity Threats

by

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) recently announced over $9 million in grant funding for midsize and large water systems to help protect drinking water from cybersecurity threats and improve resiliency for extreme weather events. USEPA also published a report highlighting 10 recommendations to strengthen resiliency to cyberattacks in the water sector.  The Midsize and Large Drinking Water System Infrastructure Resilience and Sustainability grant … Read more

Federal Funding Freeze, Layoffs, and Delayed Budget Approval Create Questions

by

A funding freeze aimed at pausing the disbursement of federal loans, grants, and other financial assistance is among a flurry of executive orders President Donald Trump issued shortly after returning to office.  Abby Ritz, AE2S Nexus Senior Funding Programs Specialist, is focused on finding answers for clients who are wondering how project funding could be … Read more