Contact: Jim Waters (302) 697-4324

CAMDEN, December 11, 2001 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture, Rural Development announced the availability of $3.5 million in competitive grants for projects that will reduce or eliminate pollution of water resources and improve planning and management of solid waste sites. Organizations that are eligible to apply are not-for-profit organizations and local governmental organizations such as development districts, councils of government and regional planning commissions. Priority consideration is given to proposals that provide hands-on assistance to small, low-income communities. This assistance is available in rural areas and towns with a population not in excess of 10,000 according to USDA Rural Development State Director, Marlene Elliott.

"This investment of public funds will help protect our nation’s natural resources and the health of all Americans," Elliott said. "The Bush Administration is committed to making these programs a good, sound investment for U.S. taxpayers and has charged USDA -Rural Development, Rural Utilities Service as the agency that will administer this program."

The grants may be used to:

Evaluate current landfill conditions to determine threats to water resources.

Provide technical assistance and/or training to enhance operator skills in the maintenance and operation of active landfills.

Provide technical assistance and /or training to help communities reduce the solid waste stream.

Provide technical assistance and/or training for operators of landfills which are closed or will be closed in the near future with the development and/or implementation of closure plans, future land use plans, safety and maintenance planning, and closure scheduling within permit requirements.

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Further information regarding this program and the application process can be obtained by calling or visiting the USDA Rural Development office at (302) 697-4324 located at 4607 South DuPont Highway, Camden, DE.