Micheal Clements, NAFB News Service

The Department of Agriculture Monday announced $462 million in funding to modernize drinking water and wastewater infrastructure across rural America. USDA Deputy Under Secretary for Rural Development Bette Brand says the upgrades “will improve public health and drive economic development.” USDA is funding 161 projects through the Water and Waste Disposal Loan and Grant Program. The program provides funding for clean and reliable drinking water systems, sanitary sewage disposal, sanitary solid waste disposal, and stormwater drainage to households and businesses in rural areas. The funding includes projects in rural communities in more than 40 U.S. states and will benefit 467,000 residents. Projects include constructing reservoirs, upgrading outdated water systems, and creating and improving sanitary sewer systems. USDA Rural Development provides loans and grants to help expand economic opportunities and create jobs in rural areas. This assistance supports infrastructure, business development, housing, community facilities and high-speed internet access in rural areas.