Program offers loan/grant funds in Nevada

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Rural Utilities Service has more than $4 billion in direct loan funds and $1 billion in grant funds available for rural community water and wastewater system improvements, nearly triple the normal annual obligation, officials announced.

The funding is available for small towns (population of 10,000 or fewer) to construct a water tank, install new water or sewer lines, or build a wastewater-treatment plant along with numerous other projects. USDA’s Water and Environmental Program in Nevada offers long-term, low-interest loans and grants.

USDA Rural Development Nevada State Director Phil Cowee called the funding a tremendous opportunity to replace old lines or outdated, inefficient systems. “New systems enhance efficiency and conserve water, and water is essential for communities to thrive. Our funds work together with state partners’ programs that provide drinking water or wastewater-treatment funding...”