Projects that will protect or improve ground and surface waters may be eligible for funding under the water quality portion of East Hampton Town’s community preservation fund.
Applications for the first of two 2022 funding cycles will be accepted through Feb. 15 at 4 p.m.
Up to 20 percent of the preservation fund, established as a revenue source for land acquisition and historic preservation through a 2-percent tax on real-estate transfers, may be used for water quality projects, ranging from wastewater treatment improvement to the abatement of pollutants and aquatic habitat restoration.
Recently funded projects include the installation of low-nitrogen septic systems at public buildings and restaurants; floating wetlands that remove nutrients that can cause algal blooms, and systems to prevent pollutants in stormwater from reaching surface waters, including rain gardens, bioswales, and permeable reactive barriers.
There is approximately $1 million available for the first round of 2022. Criteria for eligible projects are defined in the state’s community preservation fund law, and applications are reviewed and scored by the town’s water quality technical advisory committee, which makes recommendations to the town board regarding grant awards.
Additional information, and the form to request an application, can be found on the town’s website on the Natural Resources Department’s “Clean Water East Hampton” page. Information can also be sent by email; requests should be directed to [email protected].
The town has encouraged any eligible organization or property owner interested in improving water quality and protecting lakes, harbors, and ponds to apply for the opportunity to fund a project. Questions or application submissions should be directed to the Natural Resources Department by email at the above address or by phone at 631-324-0496.
