Water Quality Combined Funding Program

The Water Quality Combined Funding Program is administered by the Washington State Department of Ecology, a state-level agency responsible for protecting, preserving, and enhancing Washington’s environment. The program represents a coordinated funding approach that consolidates multiple state and federal funding sources into a single, unified process. By combining grants and loans into one application cycle, the Department of Ecology simplifies access to financial resources for projects that improve and protect water quality across the state. In addition to funding, the agency provides technical assistance to applicants to help them navigate requirements and improve the quality of submissions. The primary purpose of this program is to support projects that address a wide range of water quality challenges, including wastewater treatment, stormwater management, nonpoint source pollution, and onsite sewage systems. Eligible projects include planning, design, and construction of infrastructure such as sewer systems, treatment plants, stormwater control facilities, and reclaimed water systems. The program also funds pollution prevention initiatives, watershed-based planning efforts, and implementation of state or local environmental plans such as Total Maximum Daily Load strategies, salmon recovery plans, and other water quality improvement frameworks. Funding availability varies annually based on the state budget, with total program funding typically ranging between 100 million and 200 million dollars each year. Individual award amounts are not fixed and depend on the specific funding source and project type. The program may include both grant funding and low-interest loans, with loan terms varying by duration, such as 5-year, 20-year, or 30-year repayment structures with corresponding interest rates. Matching fund requirements depend on the specific funding source but may require recipients to contribute up to 25 percent of total project costs. Eligibility for the program is limited to specific entity types, including counties, cities, towns, federally recognized tribal governments, special purpose districts, conservation districts, and certain nonprofit organizations that qualify under specific federal funding provisions. Nonprofits are eligible only in cases where they meet criteria associated with particular funding streams, such as Section 319 nonpoint source grants. Detailed eligibility requirements and project criteria vary by project category and are further defined in program guidelines and applicant workshop materials. The application process follows a single, competitive cycle each year. Applicants submit one application that is evaluated across all applicable funding sources. The review process includes evaluation, rating, and ranking of applications, followed by the publication of a draft funding list for public comment. After incorporating feedback, the Department of Ecology releases a final funding list and proceeds to develop funding agreements with selected recipients. The process is structured to ensure transparency, efficiency, and equitable distribution of resources. For the state fiscal year 2027 cycle, applications were accepted between July 22 and September 3, 2025. Applications were evaluated between October and December 2025, with a draft funding list released in January 2026 and final funding decisions expected in July 2026. Following award announcements, funding agreements are developed between July 2026 and January 2027, with project implementation required to begin no later than April 2027. Project durations vary, with activities lasting up to three years and infrastructure projects extending up to five years. Closeout activities occur during the final three months of the agreement period. Program staff are available to support applicants throughout the process. Key contacts include the Water Quality Combined Funding Planner and the State Revolving Fund Coordinator, who provide guidance on application requirements, funding eligibility, and program expectations. Additional resources such as applicant workshops, preparation tools, and scoring guidance are provided to ensure applicants are well-prepared to submit competitive proposals. The program operates on an annual cycle, with recurring opportunities expected each fiscal year.

Attend applicant workshops review scoring criteria carefully and align projects with state water quality plans and priorities