News Releases - 1996

Clean Lakes Program Grant Applications Due

Springfield, Ill. -- The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency is currently accepting applications for funding assistance offered through the Conservation 2000-Illinois Clean Lakes Program (ICLP).

Through the ICLP, Illinois EPA provides technical and financial assistance primarily to governmental entities that manage publicly-owned lakes with extensive public access and utilization. Controlling sources of pollution affecting water quality, restoring lakes that have deteriorated in recreational and ecological quality, and protecting high quality lake resources are the primary objectives of the program. Approximately $500,000 will be available for distribution this year.

State funding for the program is made available under Conservation 2000 legislation signed into law by Gov. Jim Edgar last year. In the first year of the program, $290,000 were allocated to five project sites.

Two types of grant awards are authorized under ICLP. Phase I lake study grants are awarded to identify problems and sources of pollution, and to develop a feasible course of action to correct identified problems. A typical Phase I study period last two years. Phase II implementation grants support the implementation of procedures recommended in the Phase I report to improve water quality and recreational and ecological aspects of the lake. Phase I grants are awarded on a 60 percent state, 40 percent local cost-share basis. Phase II grants are awarded on a 50/50 basis. Illinois EPA evaluates all applications on three primary factors, including an assessment of the lake‘s overall water quality, its potential for improved water quality, and public benefits.

Those wishing to apply for Clean Lakes Program funding or are interested in learning more about the program should contact Gregg Good at Illinois EPA located in Springfield (217/782-3362). Pre-applications for funding will be due by Aug. 31, with final applications due by Oct. 31, 1996.