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Maryland faces significant challenges with stormwater runoff, impacting local waterways and the Chesapeake Bay. To address this, several grant programs offer financial support for projects that improve water quality and manage stormwater effectively. Here’s a quick overview of the top funding options:
- Whole Watershed Act Grant Funding: Focuses on restoring waterways in targeted watersheds with funding from multiple state programs. Supports projects like wetland construction, shoreline restoration, and tree planting.
- Prince George’s County Stormwater Stewardship Grant Program: Funds community-based projects, including rain gardens and tree canopy expansion, to improve water quality in Prince George’s County.
- Water Quality State Revolving Loan Fund & Bay Restoration Fund Grants: Offers low-interest loans and grants for projects like flood control, stormwater system upgrades, and watershed restoration.
- Watershed Assistance Grant Program: Supports planning and design for water quality projects in Maryland and parts of West Virginia within the Chesapeake Bay watershed.
- Chesapeake Bay Trust Community Engagement and Restoration Grants: Provides small grants for grassroots projects, such as tree planting, rain gardens, and stream cleanups.
Each program has specific eligibility requirements, funding ranges, and project types. Deadlines vary, so planning ahead is essential. These grants empower communities, nonprofits, and local governments to tackle stormwater issues while improving local ecosystems.
A-StoRM Watershed Studies Technical Advisory Group (WS-TAG) Meeting – June 4 (2024)
1. Whole Watershed Act Grant Funding
The Whole Watershed Act Grant Funding program is Maryland’s flagship initiative for improving water quality across the state. Created through legislation SB 969/HB 1165, this five-year effort targets five distinct watersheds, each reflecting Maryland’s varied landscapes and environmental challenges [1][2].
This program brings together funding from multiple state sources, including the Maryland Cost Share Program (MACS), Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation Foundation (MALPF), the Bay Restoration Fund, the Clean Water Commerce Act, the Chesapeake and Atlantic Coastal Bays Trust Fund, and the Waterway Improvement Fund. Together, these resources provide solid financial support for approved projects. The program also serves as a model for future stormwater funding strategies in Maryland [2].
Eligibility Requirements
The program partners with watershed teams made up of community organizations, local governments, and private firms, chosen through a competitive process. This selection followed a request for proposals issued in October 2024 [2].
To ensure a balanced approach, the chosen watersheds must meet specific criteria: one predominantly urban area, one suburban area, at least two agricultural regions to address runoff concerns, and one area involving collaboration with a neighboring state. Watersheds like Antietam Creek, Baltimore Harbor, and the Upper Choptank River are among those selected, with a strong focus on aiding underserved or overburdened communities [2].
Project Types Supported
The program supports a range of projects aimed at restoring and protecting waterways, including creeks, streams, and rivers [2][3]. Examples include wetland construction, shoreline restoration, green infrastructure updates, and flood mitigation projects. These efforts incorporate practices to enhance climate resilience and sustainability [2][3][4].
Other supported projects include creating trails to connect neighborhoods, reducing stormwater flooding in residential areas, planting trees to strengthen climate defenses, and collaborating with farmers to improve conservation techniques [2][3].
Application Process and Deadlines
The initial application period closed on December 3, 2024, through the Chesapeake Bay Trust’s online system. Local governments involved in restoration projects were required to give public notice and commit to five years of monitoring the outcomes [4][5][6].
The State Management Team may approve up to five responses to each request for proposals [2][5]. Although this funding cycle has ended, those interested in future opportunities should keep an eye on the Chesapeake Bay Trust website for updates on upcoming funding rounds and program news [6].
2. Prince George’s County Stormwater Stewardship Grant Program
The Prince George’s County Stormwater Stewardship Grant Program addresses water quality challenges in Prince George’s County. This initiative, a collaboration between the Prince George’s County Government and the Chesapeake Bay Trust, provides funding for community-driven stormwater projects that aim to improve local water conditions while involving residents in the process [8][9].
The program has already made a noticeable impact. For instance, the City of College Park received $66,180 to install two micro-bioretention areas along Narragansett Parkway, helping to filter stormwater runoff and prevent pollutants from entering waterways [7]. Similarly, DuVal High School secured $26,207 to create a rain garden in its main courtyard, combining practical stormwater management with educational opportunities [7].
Eligibility Requirements
Eligible applicants include nonprofits, municipalities within the county, watershed organizations, schools, community associations, faith-based groups, and civic organizations [8]. Organizations outside the county can also apply, provided they partner with a Prince George’s County-based group. In such cases, the proposal must clearly outline the partner’s role and include a Letter of Commitment [7]. It’s important to note that the City of Bowie is excluded from the program, as it manages its own stormwater initiatives [7][8]. Additionally, the program encourages new groups to apply, especially those with projects that align with the county’s goals for community engagement and water quality improvement [8]. Applicants can choose from five funding tracks designed for different types of projects.
Funding Range and Scope
The program offers five funding tracks, each tailored to specific project needs:
- Track 1: $50,000–$150,000 for water quality improvement projects
- Track 2: $50,000–$300,000 for tree canopy expansion
- Track 3: $10,000–$60,000 for community engagement initiatives
- Track 4: $10,000–$50,000 for illegal dumping analysis
- Track 5: $500–$5,000 for additional support [7]
Project Types Supported
This program funds projects that not only enhance water quality but also engage residents in protecting local waterways [9]. Examples of eligible projects under Track 1 include bioretention cells, bioswales, rain gardens, conservation landscaping, permeable pavement, rainwater harvesting systems, stormwater wetlands, and streamside forest buffers [7].
Several funded projects illustrate the program’s scope. The Alice Ferguson Foundation received $187,697 to integrate stormwater management practices at its Potomac Watershed Study Center, combining environmental improvements with educational activities. ECO City Farms used a $45,000 grant to implement a comprehensive stormwater system at its urban farm in Edmonston. The Anacostia Riverkeeper secured $200,000 to install an in-stream litter trap in Mount Rainier, tackling pollution before it enters the Anacostia River. Accokeek First Church of God received $75,000 for stormwater management and educational outreach [7].
Projects required solely to meet regulatory or permit compliance, such as those for new developments, are not eligible for funding [7].
Application Process and Deadlines
The application process is managed online through the Chesapeake Bay Trust’s platform, which oversees the program for Prince George’s County [7][8][9]. Applications are reviewed by funding partners and an external Technical Review Committee to ensure they align with program goals and meet technical standards [9].
For the 2024 cycle, applications were due by December 12, 2024, at 4:00 PM EST, with draft submissions accepted until December 5 for feedback [7][10].
An important update: As of March 27, 2025, the Rain Check Rebate Program and Stormwater Stewardship Grant Program are proposed to be suspended for fiscal year 2026 (July 1, 2025 – June 30, 2026). However, previously funded projects will proceed as planned [7].
Applicants are encouraged to collaborate with the county’s Supplier Development and Diversity Division and to consult the Commitment to Business policy when working with certified small businesses in Prince George’s County [7].
3. Water Quality State Revolving Loan Fund & Bay Restoration Fund Grants
Maryland’s efforts to improve stormwater management get a boost from two vital funding programs. Managed by the Water Infrastructure Financing Administration (WIFA), these programs provide financial support for water quality projects. The Water Quality State Revolving Loan Fund offers low-interest loans for water and drinking water initiatives, while the Bay Restoration Fund provides grants for projects with measurable outcomes, such as Enhanced Nutrient Removal (ENR), flood control, and watershed restoration [11][12]. Let’s look at who can take advantage of these funding opportunities.
Eligibility Requirements
Eligibility is primarily open to municipal governments, county agencies, and public utilities. Private entities can also apply but only when partnered with a public agency. For Bay Restoration Fund grants, projects must clearly demonstrate environmental benefits, such as Enhanced Nutrient Removal (ENR) or flood mitigation [11].
Funding Range and Scope
The State Revolving Loan Fund provides affordable loans to support water projects [11][12]. Meanwhile, the Bay Restoration Fund helps offset costs for initiatives that deliver specific environmental improvements. Together, these programs help fund comprehensive upgrades to Maryland’s water infrastructure.
Project Types Supported
These programs cover a variety of project types, including:
- Stormwater system upgrades
- Flood mitigation efforts
- Watershed restoration projects
- Improvements to wastewater conveyance systems
- Sewer extensions to connect homes with septic systems to wastewater treatment plants [11]
4. Watershed Assistance Grant Program
The Watershed Assistance Grant Program provides funding for community-led initiatives aimed at improving watershed health. This program is managed through a partnership involving the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, the Maryland Department of the Environment, and West Virginia’s Department of Environmental Protection. Its focus is on supporting local efforts to enhance water quality across Maryland and parts of the Chesapeake Bay watershed in West Virginia [13][14].
Eligibility Requirements
Applications are open to a variety of organizations based in Maryland and the Chesapeake Bay watershed in West Virginia. Eligible groups include local and regional agencies, nonprofits, faith-based organizations, community associations, soil and water conservation districts, forestry boards, and institutions of higher education. If an organization falls outside these categories, they are encouraged to contact the Chesapeake Bay Trust to confirm their eligibility [13].
Application Process and Deadlines
To apply, eligible organizations must submit their applications online using the Chesapeake Bay Trust’s system. The application period opens in the fall, with the deadline for 2024 set for December 6, 2024, at 4:00 PM EST. To assist applicants, virtual workshops are available to explain the program’s details and requirements [13][14].
Supported Project Types
The program funds initiatives that directly improve water quality and promote healthier watersheds throughout Maryland. Projects must align with the Chesapeake Bay Trust’s watershed improvement guidelines and demonstrate clear benefits to watershed health and sustainable stormwater management.
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5. Chesapeake Bay Trust Community Engagement and Restoration Grants
Maryland continues to lead the way in addressing stormwater challenges with the Chesapeake Bay Trust’s Mini Grant program, which emphasizes community involvement and restoration efforts.
This program is designed to support grassroots projects that enhance water quality and encourage organizations that may not have traditionally engaged with environmental initiatives. By doing so, it helps drive local stormwater management solutions while expanding participation in environmental stewardship [15].
Eligibility Requirements
The Mini Grant program is open to nonprofit organizations, community associations, and faith-based groups located in Maryland and the Chesapeake Bay watershed portion of West Virginia. To ensure funding reaches a diverse range of groups, eligibility is limited to organizations that have received three or fewer grants from the Trust in the past. This approach provides newer organizations with access to vital resources, complementing the larger-scale programs mentioned earlier [15].
Funding Range and Scope
Grants of up to $5,000 are available for small-scale projects that aim to improve neighborhoods and encourage hands-on community involvement [15].
Project Types Supported
The program funds a variety of initiatives focused on enhancing communities and managing stormwater. Supported activities include tree planting, creating rain gardens, conducting stream cleanups, and stenciling storm drains. For instance:
- The Tuscany Lombardy Community Corporation received $4,500 to plant native trees, shrubs, and groundcovers along Linkwood Road, with the help of 25 volunteers.
- The Tanglewood Homeowners Association was awarded $4,682 to replace invasive Bradford Pear Trees with native species, planting 18 trees, three shrubs, and five pollinator plants, also involving 25 volunteers [15].
These examples highlight how the program fosters ecological improvements and community collaboration.
Application Process and Deadlines
Applications are accepted online starting in July and remain open until funds are depleted. First-time applicants can receive guidance and mentorship throughout the process. For questions, Maryland-based projects can contact Grace Dho at gdho@cbtrust.org or 410-974-2941 ext. 145, while West Virginia projects should reach out to Kayleigh Katzenberger at kkatzenberger@cbtrust.org or 410-974-2941 ext. 127 [15].
Looking ahead, the Chesapeake Bay Trust will update its award management portal in August 2025, transitioning to Blackbaud‘s Grantmaking software. Current and prospective awardees will need to create new login accounts once this system goes live [16].
Grant Comparison Table
Compare the details of various stormwater grants to determine which one aligns best with your project needs.
| Grant Program | Funding Range | Eligible Applicants | Project Types Supported | Application Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Prince George’s County Stormwater Stewardship Grant Program | $500 – $300,000 | 501(c) nonprofits, municipalities, faith-based organizations, educational institutions, community associations, homeowners, businesses [9] | Water quality implementation, tree canopy projects, community awareness, illegal dumping analysis [7] | Varies by program |
| Watershed Assistance Grant Program | Up to $150,000 (design), up to $75,000 (planning) [13] | Government entities, nonprofits, educational institutions | BMP, stream and wetland restoration, living shorelines [13] | Varies annually |
| Chesapeake Bay Trust Community Engagement and Restoration Grants | Up to $5,000 [16] | Nonprofits, community associations, faith-based groups in MD and WV | Community engagement or local natural resource restoration projects [16] | Varies |
Important Notes:
- Projects located in the City of Bowie are not eligible [8][7].
- The Mini Grant program is aimed at organizations that have received three or fewer grants from the Chesapeake Bay Trust, offering newer groups an opportunity to secure funding [15].
- Application deadlines differ across programs. Some accept applications on a rolling basis, while others follow fixed annual deadlines.
- The Watershed Assistance Grant Program provides up to $150,000 for BMP design work, with up to $75,000 available for planning and development efforts [13]. This structure supports preliminary project phases, paving the way for future implementation funding.
- Nonprofits in Montgomery County must collaborate with a local stakeholder to qualify [6].
This overview helps you narrow down grant options before considering how Pro Landscapes MD can assist with stormwater project implementation.
Pro Landscapes MD‘s Role in Stormwater Projects
Pro Landscapes MD specializes in turning grant funding into practical stormwater management solutions through expert drainage, grading, and hardscaping services. Their work is tailored to Maryland’s specific stormwater challenges, offering a range of solutions designed to meet local needs.
Their key offerings include installing efficient drainage systems and performing precise land grading – both essential for managing water effectively. From French drains to expertly executed grading, Pro Landscapes MD ensures water is directed away from structures and into designated collection areas. They also handle drain pipe placement, along with drainage repairs and installations that enhance water quality. These services align closely with the objectives of many grant programs.
They also offer environmental paver installations, which promote sustainable practices by allowing water to filter naturally into the ground rather than creating surface runoff. This method supports efforts to restore local waterways and meets the green infrastructure standards often required by Maryland’s grant initiatives.
Another effective solution they provide is dry riverbed installations. These features manage stormwater runoff by capturing and directing water during heavy rains, helping to prevent erosion and easing the strain on municipal stormwater systems.
Pro Landscapes MD serves central Maryland and the greater Baltimore/Washington area [17], including Howard County, Montgomery County, Carroll County, Frederick County, Prince George’s County, and Baltimore County – regions frequently targeted by stormwater grant programs.
Additionally, their retaining wall and garden wall construction services not only control erosion but also enhance the visual appeal of landscapes. Complementing these hardscaping elements, tree planting and landscape restoration services increase natural water absorption and reduce surface runoff. Together, these services amplify the effectiveness of grant-funded stormwater projects.
Conclusion
Maryland’s grant programs provide property owners with a practical way to tackle water management issues while contributing to environmental restoration efforts. With stormwater management fees expected to generate around $482 million annually for local remediation projects once fully implemented, the potential for impactful change is significant [18]. Programs like Prince George’s County’s Stormwater Stewardship Grant have already shown how community-driven solutions can improve water quality and encourage residents to take an active role in protecting local waterways [7].
To ensure these grants deliver long-term benefits, proper execution is essential. This is where professional expertise plays a critical role. Pro Landscapes MD specializes in drainage solutions, environmental pavers, and stormwater management systems, helping property owners navigate the complexities of grant-funded projects. Their in-depth understanding of central Maryland’s unique stormwater challenges – paired with their experience in counties targeted by these grant programs – positions them as a valuable partner in achieving effective, compliant solutions.
FAQs
Who is eligible to apply for the Whole Watershed Act Grant Funding program in Maryland?
To be eligible for the Whole Watershed Act Grant Funding program, applicants must be U.S.-based organizations working within Maryland or the Chesapeake Bay watershed. The program prioritizes projects aimed at restoring watersheds, especially those that assist underserved or overburdened communities. Applicants are required to provide a matching contribution of up to 50% of the total project costs. Additionally, all project activities must start after July 1, 2025, and applications from foreign entities will not be accepted.
How can organizations in Prince George’s County apply for the Stormwater Stewardship Grant Program, and what types of projects are typically funded?
Organizations in Prince George’s County can now apply for the Stormwater Stewardship Grant Program, administered online by the Chesapeake Bay Trust. This program provides funding for projects aimed at improving water quality, involving the local community, and generating job opportunities. Grants range from $500 to $300,000, making it accessible for a variety of initiatives.
The program prioritizes community-focused projects like stormwater retrofits, tree planting, and other hands-on restoration activities that align with both environmental and social objectives. Proposals should emphasize clear, measurable environmental improvements while encouraging local participation and collaboration.
What types of projects are supported by the Water Quality State Revolving Loan Fund and Bay Restoration Fund Grants, and who can apply?
The Water Quality State Revolving Loan Fund (WQRLF) helps fund projects such as upgrading wastewater treatment facilities, restoring streams, and protecting wellheads. Meanwhile, the Bay Restoration Fund offers grants specifically for improving wastewater treatment systems.
Municipalities, public entities, and water utilities throughout Maryland can apply for these programs. Their goal is to enhance water quality and support environmentally responsible practices within local communities.
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