Wanda Norris from the Marshall County Soil and Water Conservation District (MCSWCD) appeared before the Marshall County Commissioners to discuss the 319 Grant. As part of the Federal Clean Water Act, the 319 grant provides funding for various types of projects that work to reduce nonpoint source water pollution. Funds may be used to conduct assessments, develop and implement TMDLs and watershed management plans, provide technical assistance, demonstrate new technology and provide education and outreach. A 40 percent in-kind or cash match of the total project cost must be provided.
The Marshall County Soil and Water Conservation District would like to get a diagnostic study of the Yellow River headwaters. The estimated cost of the study is $255,000. Their last two attempts at the grant were unsuccessful but Norris believes this time they will be awarded it.
The MCSWCD has applied for a $60,000 LARE Grant from the State of Indiana. They also have $25,000 from the Kankakee River Basin Commission, $4,000 from the Arrow Head Country RC&D and $50 from the Cattle Association.
Norris was hopeful that the County would provide in-kind services of approximately $12,000 through the Surveyor’s office. County Surveyor Larry Fisher explained his services run from $75 to $125 an hour for surveyor work and the County Drainage Board approved the request of in-kind services.
