Surface Water Management Grant

Surface Water Management Grant Program

The Mahoning Soil & Water Conservation District (SWCD) is committed to making a positive impact in Mahoning County communities through our comprehensive stormwater management and backyard conservation program. Our goal is to encourage and support residents in implementing approved stormwater management and backyard conservation solutions on their properties. The Mahoning SWCD Surface Water Management (SWM) Grant Program offers reimbursement of up to $500 for the installation of Best Management Practices (BMPs) or approved conservation projects.

What are Best Management Practices?

Best Management Practices are approaches to water management that protect the natural water cycle from pollution and help achieve healthy water quality. They are effective, economical, enhance public safety and the quality of life for residents and wildlife. BMPs can include shrinking lawns by planting native trees and plants, restoring wetlands by creating rain gardens, installing pervious pavers, and/or installing rain barrels.

Eligibility

The Mahoning SWCD Surface Water Management Grant Program targets primarily residential homeowners, but other properties are eligible to apply as well, including:

– Homeowner Associations
– Schools
– Places of Worship
– Parks or other locally owned spaces
– Private or commercial spaces
– Non-profits

This includes urban, suburban, or rural land.

State or federally-owned properties are not eligible.

BMP may NOT be installed on new or active construction sites. One year after the developed site has been completed, stabilized, and an occupancy permit has been issued, an applicant is eligible to submit an application.

SWM practices are NOT intended to meet any local, state, or federal regulatory requirements.

All practices must be maintained for their entire contracted lifespan.

Examples of Practices

Grant Program Criteria

    • Maximum award per proposal: $500
    • Application period: May 1, 2024 – May 31, 2024
    • Project approval notification by June 28, 2024
    • Limit of one proposal per location per year
    • Projects must be completed by October 30, 2024, for reimbursement
    • Submission of itemized receipts and visits by a Mahoning SWCD representative required
    • Reimbursement checks must be collected by December 31, 2024
    • Allow Mahoning SWCD representative’s access to installed BMPs for up to one year after installation to inspect for proper maintenance.
    • Maintain the BMP, including adequate watering of any installed plants and weeding for at least 3 years so the BMPs continue to function properly.

Application Details

The grant application will be available starting May 1, 2024. For more information, please contact Zachary Felger at zachary.felger@mahoningcountyoh.gov or call 330-740-7995.

Application Process

  1. Connect: Prospective applicants are encouraged to reach out to Mahoning SWCD to discuss their interest and program eligibility. If applicants wish to proceed with their application, they must complete a Site Review Request Form and submit it to zachary.felger@mahoningcountyoh.gov.
  2. Assessment: SWCD Staff will review the Site Review Request Form. If necessary, a site visit will be conducted to determine the best-fit practice and assess if the project meets the minimum ranking score.
  3. Design & Apply: Applicants are required to develop a design plan detailing construction, materials, operation, maintenance, and a total itemized cost. The district and the applicant should collaborate to ensure all required forms are completed and compiled for the application. Applications must be submitted to the Mahoning SWCD office by 4 pm on Friday, May 31, 2024.
  4. Review: Completed applications will undergo review by SWCD staff and approval by the local SWCD Board. Once approved, installation can commence.
  5. Installation: Following SWCD approval, project installation may commence. Applicants have until October 31, 2024, to complete their project post-approval. It is advisable to schedule a pre-construction meeting with SWCD staff to discuss design specifications.
  6. Inspection & Reimbursement: SWCD staff will inspect the project post-installation. Applicants must submit a Payment Request Form for approval. Upon approval, the district will issue a check to the applicant for the approved reimbursement amount.

Additional Information & Resources

 

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