The 319 Grant was an award from the Maine DEP resulting from the 2021 Watershed Survey. These funds were “use it or lose it” and over the past 2 years, BLAI has worked diligently to resolve some of the improvement areas identified in the Watershed Survey. And we are happy to announce that all the 319 Grant Funds have been successfully awarded! In doing so, the completed projects are estimated to prevent 22 tons of NPSP, as well as 12 pounds of phosphorus and 30.5 pounds of nitrogen, annually flowing into the lake.
In conjunction with Harriman Pond, 18 projects were completed including work on 4 public roads, 8 Road Association roads, 2 driveways and 4 residential sites. Overall, $187,511 in construction costs were spent to improve the Branch Lake Watershed, with $59,367 funded by the 319 Grant.
This task was only completed through true teamwork. Jeff Norment of the Hancock County Soil and Water Conservation conducted 41 site visits, completed 32 plans and obtained 12 signed cost share agreements. In addition, our LakeSmart team, Alan Stinchfield, Win Joy and Rand Griffin, conducted 15 LakeSmart property evaluations, which was the first step necessary to qualify for a 319 Grant. To see the Final Report on this project, click REPORT.
Is there more we can do? We have assessed the continuing need for improvements to reduce NPSP and have determined that over $180,000 of direct construction expenditures remain that could positively impact our Branch Lake Watershed. We are evaluating how to apply for a 2026-2028 319 Grant, which seems uncertain today, given the current political and financial environment. We will keep you posted as BLAI continues to focus keeping Branch Lake CLEAR, CLEAN and HEALTHY!
Let’s work together to maintain and improve the quality of Branch Lake’s water. If you are interested in having your property surveyed by our Team for LakeSmart or suggestions on how you can reduce or eliminate erosion on your property, request a survey below.
We look forward to hearing from you!
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