The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), under the Gulf Hypoxia Action Plan, has made federal funding available for eligible Tribes to reduce nutrient pollution on Tribal lands across the Mississippi / Atchafalaya River Basin (MARB).
The implementation memorandum accompanying the announcement provides information on nutrient reduction priorities, eligibility, and flexibility for Tribe-specific activities. In addition, the EPA memo outlines the application, award and fund administration process.
The deadline for draft workplans is February 10, 2023; final workplans are due May 5, 2023.
Funding results from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (2022) and in particular, the $60 million allocation to improve water quality in the Mississippi River watershed and Gulf of Mexico through the Gulf Hypoxia Program (GHP) over five years.
The EPA has designated 10% of this funding to up to 21 eligible Tribes whose actions advance the goals of the Gulf Hypoxia Action Plan.
In addition to the EPA’s long-time support of the Hypoxia Task Force (HTF), including general support for Tribal and state water quality programs, this new stream of funding is dedicated to empowering tribal nations.