EPA announces $3.8M to protect Northwest waterways from sewage overflows
SEATTLE (May 1, 2026) – U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recently announced the availability of approximately $80 million through the Sewer Overflow and Stormwater Reuse Municipal Grant program to help communities address stormwater and sewer infrastructure needs. These grants will strengthen systems that safely capture and manage stormwater to help prevent contaminants, including untreated sewage, from polluting nearby waterways.
The agency will provide funding from both fiscal years 2025 and 2026, totaling $3.8 million to Alaska, Idaho, Oregon, and Washington.
| State | FY25 Allotment | FY26 Allotment | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alaska | $203,000 | $204,000 | $407,000 |
| Idaho | $203,000 | $203,000 | $406,000 |
| Oregon | $572,000 | $572,000 | $1,144,000 |
| Washington | $945,000 | $945,000 | $1,890,000 |
"These grant awards represent EPA’s commitment to clean air, land, and water for our communities in the Pacific Northwest,” said EPA Region 10 Administrator Emma Pokon.
Stormwater can be a significant source of water pollution and a public health concern. It can collect various pollutants, including trash, chemicals, oils, and dirt/sediment, and convey them to nearby waterways. When mixed with domestic and industrial wastewater in combined sewers, stormwater can also contribute to combined sewer overflows during heavy storm events.
Safely and effectively managing stormwater to reduce pollution before it reaches local waterways is essential. However, the cost to construct, operate, and maintain stormwater infrastructure can be significant, which can strain wastewater systems and their customers, especially in small and financially distressed communities.
The agency’s Sewer Overflow and Stormwater Reuse Municipal Grant program will prioritize projects for small and/or financially distressed communities. Under the existing regulations, state grantees are not required to contribute cost shares for projects located in small and/or financially distressed communities.
Learn more: Sewer Overflow and Stormwater Reuse Municipal Grants Program