2023 Request for Applications (RFA)
The nonpoint source program funds projects that help restore and protect waterbodies from nonpoint source pollution impacts.
2023 Request for Applications (RFA)
We are now accepting applications for 1) watershed-based plan projects in the San Juan and Dolores River Basins (Regulation 34) and Gunnison River/Lower Dolores River Basins (Regulation 35) and 2) watershed implementation projects that restore waterbodies impaired by nonpoint sources of selenium, sediment, pathogens and/or nutrients AND/OR protect waterbodies from nonpoint sources of pollution.
Application deadline 5 p.m. (MST) on Dec. 2, 2022.
Applications must be submitted electronically to: cdphe_wqcd_nonpointsource+managers@state.co.us
Answers to RFA #41051
Required application documents
- Request for Applications (RFA), Nonpoint Source Funding Announcement
- Attachment A: NPS Program Watershed-Based Plan Application (with instructions)
- Attachment B: NPS Program Implementation Project Application (with instructions)
- Attachment C: Nonpoint Source Project Budget Spreadsheet
- Attachment D: Financial Risk Assessment
Other documents for applicant review only
- Attachment E: Proposal Priority
- Attachment F: RFA Evaluation Criteria Matrix
- Attachment G: Watershed Planning Guidance
- Attachment H: Colorado Watershed Plans and Pending Watershed Plans
- Attachment I: Urban Stormwater Runoff Guidance
- Attachment J: FAQs Budgeting Indirect Costs
- Attachment K: FAQs Financial Risk Assessment
- Current information about waterbodies in the state is available at: Clean Water GIS Map
- Information on TMDLs
- Disproportionately Impacted Communities Map for 2022
- RFA business documents
- Deadlines and Milestones
NPS Mini Grant Program
The NPS Mini Grant Program supports small, locally-sponsored outreach and education projects that range from conferences and events to bike tours and exploring opportunities to form watershed groups. These “Mini grants” are awarded on a cost-reimbursement basis. Typically, mini grants range from $1,000 to $2,500, with a maximum of $5,000. Non-federal matching funds are required. Proposals can be submitted year-round using the following instructions and template:
Other Funding Opportunities
Information on this website may not constitute the most up-to-date information.
Colorado Healthy Rivers Fund
Senate Bill 02-087 allowed Colorado citizens to make a voluntary contribution on their state income tax returns to support local watershed protection efforts in the state through the Colorado Healthy Rivers Fund. Application requirements are available on https://www.coloradowater.org.
Colorado Environmental Justice Grants Program: Community Solutions to Improve Environmental Health
This grant opportunity was created by the Environmental Justice Act to provide funding to communities disproportionately impacted by pollution and climate change. The Environmental Justice Advisory Board oversees the EJ Grants Program and will serve as the selection committee for the grants.
You can apply for this grant if you are part of a: non-profit organization, local government, federally-recognized Tribal government, university, other educational institution, for-profit corporation, or grassroots organization.
Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS)
Programs include the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP), Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP), Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP), Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP), and the Watershed Operations PL-566 Program.
Source Water Assessment and Protection (SWAP)
CDPHE’s SWAP program's main objective is to minimize potential contaminant threats to public drinking water supplies. To engage in this effort, public water systems and governmental entities can apply for a $5,000 protection planning grant through the SWAP program. The SWAP program also supports Wildland Fire Decision Support System work and post-wildfire recovery efforts. SWAP program staff assisted in the development of the Post Fire Playbook to assist local recovery groups in navigating the complexities surrounding post-wildfire recovery. For more information visit the SWAP page.
Water Quality Grants and Loans Unit
CDPHE’s Grants and Loans Unit offers small community grants and water quality improvement fund grants to protect public health and water quality. They also administer the State Revolving Fund (SRF) Loan Program to finance the design and construction of public drinking water and wastewater infrastructure projects. More information on eligible drinking water, wastewater, and stormwater projects is available on the water quality grants and loans page.