DEC Releases Guidelines for Algal Bloom Prevention Funding

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) has released draft guidelines for public review and comment to implement funding under the Clean Water, Clean Air, and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act of 2022 (Bond Act). These guidelines aim to support infrastructure projects that protect drinking water supplies from the impacts of harmful algal blooms (HABs).

Environmental Concerns

Harmful algal blooms are overgrowths of algae in water that can produce dangerous toxins, posing risks to human health, aquatic ecosystems, and local economies. When HABs contaminate drinking water supplies, they create serious challenges for public health and environmental safety.

On December 11, 2024, NYSDEC Interim Commissioner Sean Mahar noted that “the draft guidelines released today for public comment bolster the State’s sustained commitment to invest in critical environmental projects and water infrastructure improvements under the Clean Water, Clean Air and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act.”

Funding Opportunities

The Bond Act allocates $4.2 billion to support environmental projects across New York State. Eligible entities, including municipalities, Indian Nations, soil and water conservation districts, not-for-profit corporations, and state agencies, can apply for funding to implement projects that reduce the adverse impacts of HABs on water quality.

At least $200 million of the $4.2 billion of Bond Act funding is allocated for projects dealing with protecting our water supply, which includes preventing HABs.

Priority will be given to projects that directly protect drinking water supplies and improve water quality in their respective watersheds. Further priority will be given to disadvantaged communities, with a target of 35–40% of the funding going to those communities across NY State.

Eligible Projects

Examples of eligible water quality projects to be funded under the Bond Act include, but are not limited to:

• Improving water intake systems that directly impact drinking water supply by:
  • Upgrading or repositioning drinking water supply intakes.
  • Improving filtration/technology.
  • Improving lake circulation.
  • Reducing water stagnation.
  • Promoting fallout of nutrients/sediment.
• Runoff reduction measures: Implementing best management practices on agricultural and non-agricultural lands to reduce stormwater and nutrient runoff.
• Septic system upgrades: Replacing or repairing failing septic systems to minimize nutrient contributions that fuel HABs.
• Riparian buffers and wetlands: Creating or enhancing vegetated buffers and wetlands to reduce the impact of nutrient and sediment overload.
• Land acquisition: Purchasing lands to protect and maintain existing vegetated buffers along waterways and wetlands.

Public Participation

Public comments on the draft guidelines will be accepted until Friday, January 10, 2025 at 5 p.m., and can be submitted in writing, either by mail to: Stephanie June, NYSDEC, Division of Water, 625 Broadway, Albany, NY 12233-3502 or by e-mail to: user.water@dec.ny.gov.

Residents and stakeholders are encouraged to review the proposals and provide comments/feedback. This collaboration ensures funds are allocated to the most impactful projects that benefit water quality and community health.

How Walden Can Help

Walden’s team of experts is ready to assist in navigating the application process for Bond Act funding. Contact us today at 516-980-5508 to learn how we can support your efforts to protect drinking water supplies from harmful algal blooms.