Wastewater and drinking water systems in small and rural communities across America will receive an extra funding boost to improve water quality, per an announcement from the Environmental Protection Agency Tuesday. The EPA will distribute $30.7 million in technical assistance grants to help small, underfunded public water systems comply with the Safe Drinking Water Act and Clean Water Act. The funds can also be used to help private well owners in rural areas improve their water quality and update small public wastewater septic systems. “Small and rural communities are the backbone of our country, and they face unique challenges when it comes to ensuring clean and safe water,” EPA Senior Advisor Jessica Kramer said. 

Other EPA news:

• Smart Water Magazine: EPA announces $30 million in grant funding to strengthen rural water systems
• Bloomberg: EPA dodges suit over water standards lists after circuit ruling
• The Hill: Opinion: No one voted for more pollution — so why is the EPA trying to cut half its budget?
• Agrinews: Opinion: Another call for WOTUS clarity