The DNR is still taking applications for a new grant program aimed to help improve urban water quality while also creating jobs for Iowans.
Announced in September, the I-JOBS Green Urban Stormwater grant program has more than $1.4 million to help Iowa organizations design and build post-construction green urban stormwater practices.
Urban green stormwater practices, such as bioswales, rain gardens and permeable pavement, help slow and filter rain water as it runs off urban surfaces. As it runs across lawns and pavement, stormwater can pick up pollutants like soil, fertilizers, pet waste and oil. Rain water washes into storm sewers, which dump the water into a local stream or lake without any treatment.
Materials to help applicants have been added to the DNR Web site, including editable application forms and an FAQ document with answers to the most common questions received. The application and other materials can be accessed at www.iowadnr.gov/rfp.html under the title “I-JOBS Improved Green Urban Stormwater Best Management Practices.” The deadline for all applications is 4:30 p.m. on Dec. 1, 2009.