"ROAD CLOSED" signs are a common sight in the southwest corner of Ipswich while storm sewer construction continues.
The South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources (DANR) announced the Board of Water and Natural Resources has approved $64,768,104 in grants and loans for drinking water, wastewater, stormwater, and solid waste projects in South Dakota.
The $64,768,104 total consists of $768,000 in grants and $64,000,104 in low-interest loans, including $16,169,000 in principal forgiveness to be administered by the Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources.
"I am pleased to announce this financial assistance is available," said DANR Secretary Hunter Roberts. "Safe and reliable water, wastewater, and solid waste infrastructure help protect our environment and strengthen communities for our kids and grandkids."
Funds were awarded from DANR's Drinking Water State Revolving Fund Program, Clean Water State Revolving Fund Program, Solid Waste Management Program, Consolidated Water Facilities Construction Program, and the Water Environment Fund.
Ipswich was among the communities receiving grants. Ipswich received a $390,100 Clean Water State Revolving Fund loan with $100,000 in principal forgiveness to construct a storm sewer system to help alleviate stormwater conveyance issues throughout the city. Previous funding was awarded in June 2022. Loan terms are 3.75 percent for 30 years.
Appropriations from the Water Environment Fund and Consolidated Water Facilities Construction Program are funded in part by revenues from the Petroleum Release Compensation Tank Inspection Fee and the sale of lotto tickets. These appropriations provide funding for water, wastewater, and watershed projects. The Legislature annually appropriates dedicated water and waste funding for the Consolidated Water Facilities Construction Program through the Governor's Omnibus Water Funding Bill.
The State of South Dakota and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency fund the Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Fund Programs, which provide low-interest loans for wastewater, stormwater, water conservation, nonpoint source projects, and public drinking water system projects. The programs are funded through a combination of federal appropriations, loan repayments, and bonds.
The board approved the funding at June 27 meeting in Pierre.
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