Department of Natural Resources awards $98,000 in grants to Bucklin and …

City and district will evaluate wastewater system improvements

JEFFERSON CITY, MO, AUG. 16, 2024 - The Missouri Department of Natural Resources has awarded a total of $98,000 in Clean Water Engineering Report grants to the city of Bucklin ($50,000) and to Lincoln County Public Water District #2 ($48,000). Both the city and district will use the funding to evaluate their respective wastewater treatment systems for needed improvements.

The grant offers funding to qualified communities to help cover engineering costs of evaluating potential wastewater system improvements. Bucklin will use its grant to identify improvements needed to continue reliable service to the area, meet permit requirements and reduce stormwater infiltration into sewer collection pipes. The facility plan should be complete in December 2025. The Lincoln County district will use its grant to evaluate wastewater treatment alternatives and deficiencies within the collection system, including stormwater infiltration and potential expansion of the collection lines. The district's plan should be complete in January 2026.

"Water and wastewater systems are essential infrastructure that support the health and economic vitality of every thriving community," said Dru Buntin, director of the Department of Natural Resources. "This grant allows both communities to assess their wastewater treatment facilities and identify improvements that will result in more effective, efficient operation. This will help them determine what actions are needed to address their current wastewater needs, as well as plan for future development."

The department is committed to assisting Missouri communities with water and wastewater infrastructure improvement projects. Through its Financial Assistance Center, the department provides funding opportunities for qualified communities with water quality, wastewater and drinking water infrastructure needs. This project will be funded wholly or in part with monies received from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

For more information on wastewater and drinking water funding opportunities, visit dnr.mo.gov/water/business-industry-other-entities/financial-opportunities/financial-assistance-center.