Related Topics:
Water Finance Clearinghouse

    Alert

    Filter Bar


    Resource Search Results:
    There are 129 resources that have ALL selected filters applied
    Filters -
      Special Topics contains
    • Small Systems  
    • Remove all Filters  

      Resources Report

      This page provides links to non-EPA web sites that provide additional information to support Water Finance Clearinghouse. You will leave the EPA.gov domain and enter another page with more information. EPA cannot attest to the accuracy of information on that non-EPA page. Providing links to a non-EPA Web site is not an endorsement of the other site or the information it contains by EPA or any of its employees. Also, be aware that the privacy protection provided on the EPA.gov domain (see Privacy and Security Notice) may not be available at the external link.

      The following links exit the site (link will open in a new browser tab or window) Exit
      • 1 - 50 of 129
      Resource TitleAuthorDescriptionResource TypeYear
      Drinking Water Source Protection ResourcesAlaska Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Division of Environmental Health (DEH)Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Division of Environmental Health (DEH) published a resource list for drinking water source protection and contamination information.Resource List,Website2020
      Water Justice Toolkit: A Guide to Address Environmental Inequities in Frontline Communities (PDF)American RiversThis toolkit includes six legal and policy guides developed by American Rivers to assist communities in addressing environmental injustices, particularly those related to water quality and access. Aimed at aiding low-income and communities of color in the U.S., which are disproportionately affected by climate change-induced droughts, storms, and flooding, these resources offer a starting point for advancing environmental justice. These communities are often subject to greater exposure to pollutants like lead and industrial waste, which can lead to serious health issues including lead poisoning and asthma. By providing this toolkit, American Rivers seeks to combat these inequities and support community efforts to improve water-related conditions.Case Study,Guide,Resource List,Tool2021
      Report Card for America's InfrastructureAmerican Society of Civil EngineersThis report highlights that the majority of the United States' over 16,000 wastewater treatment plants are currently operating at 81% capacity, with 15% already at or beyond their designed capacity. This trend is indicative of a growing strain on these facilities due to expanding urban populations. Despite significant investments in addressing sanitary sewer overflows, aging infrastructure and escalating maintenance costs pose financial challenges. In 2019, for example, the sector spent $3 billion on pipeline replacement alone. Additionally, the report notes that recent efforts in the sector are focused on resilience-related planning and innovative practices to enhance wastewater treatment efficiency and cost-effectiveness.Report2021
      Financial Sustainability for Small SystemsAmerican Water Works Association (AWWA)eLearning course focusing on 3 major areas needed by small systems to achieve financial sustainability; including understanding enterprise funds and their revenues, as well as an overview of what is needed to protect public health through safe water. The course is free to small water systems serving populations under 10,000. Registration is required.Training2020
      American Water Works Association (AWWA) Resources and ToolsAmerican Water Works Association (AWWA)Resources providing information on technical, managerial, and financial training available to help small public water systems maintain compliance with the Safe Drinking Water Act. Links are provided for available Workshops, eLearning, and Webinars. Training is for small public water systems, either community or non-community, serving a population of 10,000 persons or fewer.Training,Website2016
      Washington State Public Works BoardBarbara SmithLow-interest loans for local governments to finance public infrastructure construction and rehabilitation. Eligible projects must improve public health and safety, respond to environmental issues, promote economic development, or upgrade system performance.Outreach,Presentation,Report,Resource List,Training,Video,Webinars & Videos,Website2017
      Sustainable Wastewater of the Future (SWIFt) AcceleratorBetter Buildings, U.S. Department of EnergyThis website provides resources and a tool based on the Sustainable Wastewater of the Future (SWIFt) Accelerator, a program that empowered water resource recovery facilities to achieve sustainability. SWIFt focused on accelerating the adoption of best practices in data management, advanced technologies, and financing, helping partners improve energy efficiency by at least 25% and integrate resource recovery measures. Whether you're a facility operator, engineer, or simply interested in sustainable water management, this website offers valuable insights and practical tools to guide your journey toward a more sustainable future.Resource List,Tool,Website2023
      Local Infrastructure HubBloomberg Philanthropies and the Bloomberg Center for Public Innovation at Johns Hopkins UniversityTool to identify the opportunities that best match your community's infrastructure objectives. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law offers almost 400 funding options.Resource List,Tool,Website2024
      NJ Infrastructure Bank (NJ I-Bank)Caroline KirklandThe New Jersey Infrastructure Bank is an independent State Financing Authority responsible for providing and administering low interest rate loans to qualified municipalities, counties, regional authorities and water purveyors in New Jersey for the purpose of financing local transportation and water quality infrastructure projects. Our mission is to enhance ground and surface water resources, ensure the safety of drinking water supplies, protect the public health, reduce roadway congestion, improve highway safety and contribute to New Jersey’s role as a critical channel for commerce. The benefits of investing in infrastructure include stimulating the economy and reducing environmental and health impacts, while enhancing communities and beautifying their neighborhoods.Other Resource Type,Website2018
      Public Education for Septic Tank and Cesspool (PDF)City and County of HonoluluFree and downloadable information to help maintain septic tanks and cesspools for citizens of Hawaii.Resource List2020
      Cheyenne Water ResourcesCity of Cheyenne Board of Public UtilitiesThe City of Cheyenne's Board of Public Utilities published a list of water resources for the city to ensure that the city's water is safe and meets federal and local drinking water standards.Resource List,Website2023
      Clean Water Action Environmental JusticeClean Water ActionWebsite for Clean Water Action which works with partners across the country to address environmental racism that disproportionately impacts Black, Indigenous, and other communities of color, working towards healthier and safer communities for future generations.Website2024
      Small Town Economic Assistance ProgramConnecticut Office of Policy and ManagementWebsite providing information on Small Town Economic Assistance Program (STEAP). STEAP funds are issued by the State Bond Commission and can only be used for capital projects. Project costs can include the cost of land, engineering, architectural planning, and contract services needed to complete the project.Website2023
      Top Cyber Actions for Securing Water Systems (PDF)Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA)This fact sheet outlines the following cyber actions Water and Wastewater Systems Sector entities can take to reduce risk and improve resilience to malicious cyber activity and provides free services, resources, and tools to support these actions: Reduce Exposure to the Public-Facing Internet, Conduct Regular Cybersecurity Assessments, Change Default Passwords Immediately, Conduct an Inventory of Operational Technology/Information Technology Assets, Develop and Exercise, Cybersecurity Incident Response and Recovery Plans, Backup OT/IT Systems, Reduce Exposure to Vulnerabilities, Conduct Cybersecurity Awareness Training.Fact sheet,Guide,Resource List,Tool2024
      Addressing and Mitigating Drought with the DWSRF (PDF)EPACommunities may use the DWSRF to address and mitigate impacts of drought on their drinking water systemsCase Study,Fact sheet2021
      Developing Water System Partnerships with the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (PDF)EPACommunities may use the DWSRF to develop partnerships for their drinking water systems.Case Study,Fact sheet2021
      Addressing Water Affordability with the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (PDF)EPAThe DWSRF provides cost-saving opportunities for communities to address water affordability for their drinking water customers.Case Study,Fact sheet2021
      Addressing Manganese in Drinking Water with the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (PDF)EPACommunities may use the DWSRF to address manganese contamination in their drinking water systems.Case Study,Fact sheet2021
      Funding Strategies for Decentralized Wastewater Systems (PDF)EPA Environmental Finance Advisory Board (EFAB)EFAB report that details existing financing options for decentralized wastewater systems and suggests new financing strategies through direct SRF financing, Water Infrastructure Pooled Loan Financing Program,"PACE"/Tax Lien Financing Program, Linked Deposit loan program, and subsidized warranty programs.Report2017
      Financial Capacity Development for Small Water Systems (PDF)EPA Environmental Financial Advisory Board (EFAB)Report analyzing strategies on how the Water Infrastructure and Resiliency Finance Center (WIRFC) can best support small systems in developing financial capacity. EFAB believes WIRFC should make financial capacity development one of its main activities. The Board's recommendations include maintaining a list of financial capacity resources, serving as a clearinghouse of resources and providing peer to peer exchange to share information between systems, and working on complicated projects/issues needed to facilitate systems restructuring.Report,Resource List2016
      Small Water Systems in Puerto Rico (PDF)EPA Environmental Financial Advisory Board (EFAB)Report analyzing ideas for leveraging information and resources to improve the environmental compliance of small, independent community water systems in Puerto Rico. In its work, EFAB found that the Puerto Rico Department of State has developed a work plan to support communal drinking water systems via self management and training and identified 17 communities in which to pilot the effort. In support of the plan, the Board recommended education on costs and fees, mandated billing and collection, using students to develop business plans, and the creation of regional systems.Report2015
      Water Loss Reduction: Financing Mechanisms for Drinking Water Distribution Systems (PDF)EPA Environmental Financial Advisory Board (EFAB)Report providing information on the scope of water loss; practices, benefits, and obstacles to implementing water loss controls; case studies of successful water loss control programs; and an overview of available funding mechanisms. The Board recommends improved asset and environmental management; increased funding for water loss controls using existing mechanisms and better coordinating their use; full-cost pricing coupled with a household affordability focus; and financial assistance for small systems along with a facilitation of regionalization, consolidation, and cooperative partnerships.Case Study,Report2010
      Application of Innovative Finance Techniques in the Transportation Infrastructure & Financial Innovation Act of 1998 (PDF)EPA Environmental Financial Advisory Board (EFAB)Report examining the Transportation Infrastructure & Financial Innovation Act of 1998 (TIFIA). The Board determines that innovative financing techniques authorized in TIFIA could be of value to EPA in a number of environmental areas.Report2005
      Small Communities Financing Strategies for Environmental Facilities (PDF)EPA Environmental Financial Advisory Board (EFAB)Report examining financing strategies to improve the ability of small communities to provide environmental facilities and services. The Board concludes that EPA should address the special challenges facing small communities and recommends improving coordination among small community financial assistance programs, using bond banks to improve small communities' access to the bond market, and improving financial assistance to small communities under Title VI SRFs.Report1991
      Financing Green Infrastructure in Blair County, Pennsylvania (PDF)Environmental Finance Center (EFC) at the University of MarylandThe EFC worked with a team led by the Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay and American Rivers to accelerate the implementation of green infrastructure in Pennsylvania’s Juniata watershed.  As a part of this effort, the EFC worked with more than a dozen MS4 communities in Blair County to develop a regional stormwater financing strategy with a goal of improving efficiencies and reducing costs.Case Study,Report2016
      Homepage of the Environmental Finance Center Network (EFCN)Environmental Finance Center Network (EFCN)Website providing information on the Environmental Finance Center Network (EFCN). The EFCN is a university and non-profit based organization creating innovative solutions to the difficult how-to-pay issues of environmental protection and improvement. The EFCN works with the public and private sectors to promote sustainable environmental solutions while bolstering efforts to manage costs.Website2019
      Communicating with the Public About Water InfrastructureEnvironmental Finance Center Network (EFCN)Webinar addressing how best to communicate with the public in a way that will garner support and encourage public engagement. Participants learn tools for communicating with their customers directly and through media outlets, as well as effective messaging for maximum impact.Webinars & Videos2017
      Are your Rates too High? Looking at Affordability of Water RatesEnvironmental Finance Center Network (EFCN)Webinar demonstrating use of the Water and Wastewater Residential Rates Affordability Assessment Tool, which can be used to assess the level of affordability in the community, using parameters beyond the Median Household Income (MHI). The webinar also includes information and resources on how to design an assistance program for those customers who cannot afford their water bills. The programs highlighted include options related to rates, as well as water efficiency.Webinars & Videos2016
      Navigating Funding Options for Water InfrastructureEnvironmental Finance Center Network (EFCN)Webinar introducing common financing programs that small drinking water systems across the country can utilize to access financing in order to rehabilitate or expand their water infrastructure. Includes several programs established at the federal or state level to finance such projects and a demonstration of where to access information on these programs online.Webinars & Videos2016
      North Carolina Water and Wastewater Funding Sources (PDF)Environmental Finance Center Network (EFCN)Document listing various sources of funding for water and wastewater improvements available in North Carolina.Resource List2016
      Financial Management for Water and Wastewater Funding Program Applicants in MinnesotaEnvironmental Finance Center Network (EFCN), American Water Works Association (AWWA)Webinar exploring ways that water and wastewater systems can learn about and improve their financial position. Explores how to measure the financial position of water and wastewater systems by discussing how to calculate key financial indicators and what they mean. Also explores ways that systems can raise the appropriate revenues needed for operations, capital expenses, and debt service.Webinars & Videos2017
      Water Technical Assistance: Ensuring Access to Water Infrastructure Funding (PDF)Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)The Water Technical Assistance (TA) Fact Sheet provides an overview of the agency's technical assistance programs aimed at supporting water systems and communities. This resource outlines the various types of assistance available, including guidance on infrastructure improvement, regulatory compliance, and operational efficiency. The fact sheet emphasizes the importance of technical assistance in enhancing water quality, ensuring the sustainability of water systems, and addressing challenges such as aging infrastructure and climate impacts.Fact sheet,Resource List2024
      Small Drinking Water Systems Webinar SeriesEnvironmental Protection Agency (EPA)The "Small Drinking Water Systems Webinar Series" is an educational resource designed to support small drinking water systems in enhancing their management and operational practices. This series features a range of webinars that cover critical topics such as regulatory requirements, best practices for water quality monitoring, funding opportunities, and innovative technologies. Aimed at water system operators, managers, and stakeholders, the series provides valuable insights and practical strategies to help improve the sustainability and safety of drinking water in small communities. Participants can access recorded sessions and supplementary materials to further their understanding of the challenges and solutions relevant to small drinking water systems.Resource List,Webinars & Videos,Website2024
      EPA and DOJ Reach Agreement with Ponce to Upgrade Stormwater Infrastructure and Protect Water QualityEnvironmental Protection Agency (EPA)The EPA news release details an agreement reached with the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the city of Ponce, Puerto Rico, aimed at upgrading the stormwater infrastructure to enhance water quality and protect public health. This agreement addresses long-standing issues related to inadequate stormwater management, which can lead to water pollution and flooding. The release outlines the specific improvements that will be made to the city's stormwater systems, including investments in green infrastructure and enhanced maintenance practices.Article,Other Resource Type2024
      EPA Announces $49 million in Technical Assistance to Help Rural, Small, and Tribal Communities Address Wastewater ChallengesEnvironmental Protection Agency (EPA)The EPA news release announcing $49 million in technical assistance funding focuses on supporting rural, small, and tribal communities in improving their water infrastructure and environmental health. This financial assistance is designed to provide resources and expertise to address critical challenges related to drinking water, wastewater management, and other environmental issues. The release outlines the types of projects that will be eligible for funding, emphasizing the importance of building capacity and resilience in underserved communities.Article,Other Resource Type2024
      EPA, Hopi Tribe, federal partners reach milestone on safe drinking water, conclude Administrative OrdersEnvironmental Protection Agency (EPA)The EPA's news release announces a significant milestone reached in collaboration with the Hopi Tribe and federal partners focused on improving access to safe drinking water for the community. This achievement marks the conclusion of key initiatives aimed at enhancing water quality and infrastructure within the Hopi Tribe, addressing longstanding challenges related to water access.Article,Other Resource Type2024
      Biden-Harris Administration Announces $30.7 million to Support Water Systems in Small and Rural CommunitiesEnvironmental Protection Agency (EPA)This news release highlights the U.S. government's commitment to improving water infrastructure in underserved areas. The announcement details the allocation of $30.7 million in funding aimed at enhancing drinking water and wastewater systems, particularly in small and disadvantaged communities facing significant infrastructure challenges. The release outlines how this financial support will help address critical water quality issues, improve public health, and foster economic growth. It also emphasizes the administration's broader goals of promoting environmental justice and ensuring that all communities have access to safe and reliable water services.Article,Other Resource Type2024
      Lagoon Wastewater Treatment SystemsEnvironmental Protection Agency (EPA)The EPA's Lagoon Wastewater Treatment Systems webpage provides valuable resources and tools for small and rural communities managing lagoon-based wastewater treatment systems. This section offers guidance on best practices for the design, operation, and maintenance of lagoon systems, ensuring effective wastewater treatment and environmental protection. Users can access various tools, including technical manuals, case studies, and regulatory information, to enhance their understanding and capabilities in managing lagoon systems.Case Study,Fact sheet,Tool,Website2024
      Large-Capacity CesspoolsEnvironmental Protection Agency (EPA)The EPA's Large Capacity Cesspools webpage provides information and regulations regarding large capacity cesspools (LCCs), which are wastewater disposal systems that can pose environmental and public health risks. The site outlines the definition of LCCs, their environmental impacts, and the regulatory framework governing their operation and closure. It includes guidance for owners and operators on compliance with the Underground Injection Control (UIC) program, as well as information on alternatives for wastewater management. Additionally, the webpage provides resources to help communities understand the importance of transitioning away from cesspools to more sustainable wastewater treatment solutions.Resource List,Website2024
      Enforcement Alert: Drinking Water Systems to Address Cybersecurity VulnerabilitiesEnvironmental Protection Agency (EPA)The EPA's "Enforcement Alert: Drinking Water Systems Address Cybersecurity Vulnerabilities" provides guidance for drinking water systems on identifying and mitigating cybersecurity risks. This document emphasizes the importance of cybersecurity in protecting public health and the integrity of water supply systems in the face of increasing cyber threats. It outlines specific vulnerabilities often found in drinking water systems and recommends proactive measures that operators should implement to enhance their cybersecurity posture. The alert also discusses the EPA’s enforcement authority regarding compliance and highlights resources available to assist water systems in addressing these vulnerabilities.Article,Other Resource Type2024
      Revised Lead and Copper RuleEnvironmental Protection Agency (EPA)The EPA's webpage on the Revised Lead and Copper Rule provides comprehensive information about the updated regulations aimed at reducing lead and copper levels in drinking water. This rule establishes new requirements for water systems to monitor and control these contaminants, ensuring safer drinking water for communities across the United States. The site outlines key provisions of the rule, including lead service line replacement, water quality monitoring, and public education initiatives.Fact sheet,Guide,Resource List,Tool,Webinars & Videos,Website2024
      Water Technical Assistance ProgramsEnvironmental Protection Agency (EPA)The EPA's "Water Technical Assistance Programs" page offers an overview of various initiatives designed to provide support and resources for communities working to enhance their water infrastructure. This resource details the technical assistance available to help local governments, tribes, and utilities address challenges related to drinking water, wastewater, and stormwater management. It highlights the goals of improving water quality, ensuring regulatory compliance, and promoting sustainable practices. By showcasing the range of programs and services offered, the page serves as a resource for stakeholders seeking guidance on effectively managing and upgrading their water systems.Resource List2024
      Training and Technical Assistance (TA) Program for Rural, Small, and Tribal Wastewater SystemsEnvironmental Protection Agency (EPA)The Training and Technical Assistance (TTA) Program for Rural and Small Wastewater Systems is designed to support small and rural communities in managing their wastewater systems effectively. This resource provides access to training materials, technical assistance, and expert guidance to enhance the operational capacity and sustainability of wastewater treatment facilities. The program focuses on addressing unique challenges faced by these communities, such as limited financial resources and technical expertise, and aims to improve compliance with environmental regulations.Resource List,Training,Website2024
      PFAS Communications ToolkitEnvironmental Protection Agency (EPA)The PFAS Communications Toolkit is a comprehensive resource designed to assist communities, organizations, and government entities in communicating effectively about per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). This toolkit provides information, strategies, and materials to raise awareness and educate the public about the risks associated with PFAS contamination in drinking water and the environment. The toolkit includes a variety of resources such as fact sheets, infographics, and brochures that explain what PFAS are, their potential health effects, and how they can impact water quality and public health. It offers guidelines and best practices for effectively communicating about PFAS, including tips for engaging with stakeholders, addressing community concerns, and disseminating information through various channels. Users can access sample messages and templates that can be customized for different audiences, helping to ensure that communication is clear, accurate, and tailored to specific community needs. The toolkit provides links to relevant research, regulatory updates, and additional resources to support stakeholders in understanding and addressing PFAS issues.Fact sheet,Resource List,Tool,Video2024
      Emerging Contaminants (EC) in Small or Disadvantaged Communities Grant (SDC)Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)The EPA's Emerging Contaminants Grant for Small or Disadvantaged Communities webpage provides essential information about funding opportunities aimed at addressing the presence of emerging contaminants in drinking water systems. This resource is specifically designed to assist small and disadvantaged communities in identifying, monitoring, and managing these contaminants, which can pose risks to public health and the environment. The webpage outlines grant eligibility requirements, application procedures, and the types of projects that can be funded, including those focused on assessment, treatment, and community engagement.Fact sheet,Resource List,Webinars & Videos,Website2024
      Cesspools in HawaiiEnvironmental Protection Agency (EPA)The EPA's Cesspools in Hawaii webpage offers information regarding cesspools, particularly those located in Hawaii, where they are prevalent for wastewater disposal. The site discusses the environmental and health risks associated with cesspools, highlighting their potential to contaminate groundwater and coastal waters. It outlines the federal and state regulations that govern cesspool management and provides guidance for homeowners and operators on compliance and transition to safer alternatives, such as septic systems or other wastewater treatment options.Resource List,Website2024
      EPA Launches New Initiative to Tackle PFAS, Identify Emerging Contaminants in WaterEnvironmental Protection Agency (EPA)The EPA's news release announces the launch of a new initiative aimed at addressing the challenges posed by per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and other emerging contaminants in water. This initiative focuses on identifying and mitigating the risks associated with these pollutants to protect public health and the environment. The release outlines the strategic actions the EPA will undertake, including enhanced research, monitoring, and partnerships with state and local agencies to improve detection and remediation efforts.Article,Other Resource Type2024
      WaterFirstGeorgia Environmental Finance Authority (GEFA)Becoming a WaterFirst Community demonstrates a local government's commitment to responsible water stewardship for environmental and economic benefits. Communities that earn the WaterFirst designation are eligible for financial and other benefits from the state of Georgia. WaterFirst benefits include: statewide recognition for environmental stewardship, 1 percent interest rate reduction on GEFA loans, annual eligibility for water-related project applications to the CDBG Program through the Georgia DCA, and priority status for the 319 Grant Program administered by the Georgia EPD. A community must pass an onsite review to receive the WaterFirst designation. Readiness for the onsite review is determined through the WaterFirst application process and a water resources management audit.Fact sheet,Guide,Other Resource Type,Presentation,Resource List,Tool,Webinars & Videos,Website2022
      Proposal NCRP Tribal Planning Grant (PDF)Hoopa Valley Public Utilities DistrictThe Hoopa Vally Tribe submitted a proposal to use existing wastewater management practices on Hoopa lands as a case study to: 1) develop an understanding of new technologies available to treat wastewater in remote, rural areas; and 2) develop evaluation criteria and management models to implement decentralized wastewater treatment systems.Case Study2015
      Funding SummaryIndiana Department of Environmental ManagementSpreadsheet listing information about several funding sources for projects in Indiana.Resource ListUndated
      • 1 - 50 of 129
      Processing