The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has awarded Pennsylvania a $5,900,100 grant to help control stormwater runoff throughout the state.

The EPA grant was matched with $3,933,400 from the state, supports the state’s nonpoint source water pollution control program, which includes numerous storm water projects designed to protect Pennsylvania waterways.

Projects supported by the program will help improve farm management practices to reduce nutrients and sediment from entering nearby water bodies, aid in the treatment of streams affected by acid mine drainage from active or abandoned coal mines, and reduce storm water runoff from urban and suburban development.

“EPA is pleased to support Pennsylvania’s effort to cleaning up waterways that have been impaired by stormwater related runoff. This funding will be used to support projects that are vital to protecting and improving water quality for drinking water, recreational activities and to preserve the natural habitat,” said Donald S. Welsh, administrator for EPA’s mid-Atlantic Region.

9/16/2005