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Stabilized Streambank
2025--North Saluda Success Story
stream restoration site
2024--Smith Branch Success Story
Failing Septic Tank
2023--Horry County Success Story
Grant Application Status: Application Period Closed. FY26 application period is expected to open in June 2026

SCDES receives an annual grant allocation from EPA under Section 319(h) of the Clean Water Act to help prevent, control and/or abate nonpoint source pollution (NPS) in support of the state's NPS Management Plan. In addition to regulatory efforts, SCDES passes a portion of these funds to organizations through the Section 319 program. These 319 projects implement an approved watershed plan containing EPA’s nine elements, and are intended to reduce pollutant loads, leading to measurable water quality improvements in the target watershed.

South Carolina public organizations such as state agencies, local governments, public universities, soil and water conservation districts, regional planning commissions, watershed organizations and nonprofit organizations are eligible to receive NPS grants.

319 Projects must include best management practices (BMPs) that implement an approved watershed plan which meets EPA's nine elements. Projects may implement a portion of a plan, or a complete plan. 

  • Projects must implement recommendations from an approved watershed plan that addresses EPA's nine elements for watershed planning
  • On-the-ground BMP implementation must make up a minimum of 75% of the federal funds requested
  • Projects must include a 40% non-federal cash or in-kind match

About EPA NPS Success Stories
Clean Water Act (CWA) Section (§) 319 nonpoint source pollution success stories highlight water bodies identified by states as being primarily nonpoint source-impaired and having achieved documented water quality improvements. Projects described on these pages have received funding from CWA §319 and/or other funding sources dedicated to solving nonpoint source (NPS) impairments. These stories also describe innovative strategies used to reduce NPS pollution, the growth of partnerships and a diversity of funding sources.

Search for SC NPS Success Stories on EPA's interactive map