Southeast Tennessee RC&D

GRANT Funding Available For Water Quality Improvement projects in the Conasauga River Watershed

Southeast Tennessee RC&D is working to protect and improve the water quality of the Conasauga River, one of Tennessee’s most diverse and ecologically important rivers. Healthy waterways are vital to local communities, wildlife habitat, and agricultural operations. We are committed to supporting these efforts through available financial assistance.

Funding is currently available for residents and landowners within the Conasauga River watershed. To see if your property is eligible, view the project area map here: Conasauga River Tributaries Project Area

We are currently accepting applications for cost-share incentive payments to help offset the cost of conservation improvements that reduce runoff and pollution.

Eligible projects include but are not limited to:

• Alternative watering systems

• Heavy-use area protection

• Riparian area plantings

• Livestock exclusion fencing

• Nutrient management improvements

• Septic system repairs*

*Septic pump-outs are eligible only when needed to complete an approved repair. Alternative treatment systems, such as Aerobic Treatment Units (ATUs), may be considered on a case-by-case basis. Funding is not available for new septic systems for new construction.

About the Funding

This project is funded through a Section 319 Nonpoint Source Grant from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and is administered in Tennessee by the Tennessee Department of Agriculture (TDA). These funds support efforts to reduce nonpoint source pollution and improve water quality in watersheds that are not meeting state water quality standards.

Funding is available on a first-come, first-served basis through August 2026.

If you live or work in the watershed and are interested in making improvements to your land while protecting local water resources, we encourage you to apply.

Questions or interested in learning more?
Please contact: Mattheath.wc@gmail.com