Opportunity Information: Apply for S24AS00291
The Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement (OSMRE) Watershed Cooperative Agreement Program (WCAP) Not-for-Profit Acid Mine Drainage (AMD) Reclamation Projects opportunity (Funding Opportunity Number S24AS00291) provides federal assistance through a cooperative agreement to help local nonprofit organizations carry out on-the-ground projects that reduce or eliminate acid mine drainage impacts on streams. The program is rooted in Section 404 of the Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act of 1977 (SMCRA), as amended, which limits eligible work to abandoned coal mining-related problems tied to mining and coal processing activities that occurred prior to August 3, 1977. In practical terms, the focus is on legacy sites that were left unclaimed or inadequately reclaimed and for which no ongoing reclamation responsibility exists under state or other federal laws.
WCAP is meant to complement, not replace, other funding sources, and it is especially aimed at helping smaller watershed groups and community-based organizations finish local AMD reclamation efforts that might otherwise stall due to funding gaps. The central objective is improved water quality in streams impaired by acid mine drainage, with an emphasis on restoring these waters to a condition capable of supporting a diverse biological community. The announcement also highlights public-facing outcomes such as improved recreational opportunities, reflecting an interest in tangible community benefits alongside ecological recovery.
The types of activities supported are specifically tied to AMD problems associated with SMCRA-defined abandoned coal mining activities and processes. Eligible projects can include remediation of AMD itself, addressing the sources of AMD, and the installation of passive or active water treatment systems. The scope also covers repairs and renovations to existing treatment systems, which is important for watersheds where older systems need rehabilitation rather than brand-new construction. In addition, projects may include reclamation of lands that contribute sediment or acid-forming materials to streams, recognizing that erosion and spoil materials can be part of the ongoing pollution load. The opportunity notes that additional statutory provisions about eligible lands and waters are found in SMCRA sections referenced in the notice (including Sections 402(g)(4), 403(b)(1), and 409 of Public Law 95-87), reinforcing that project design must stay within SMCRA eligibility boundaries.
Eligibility is tightly defined. Applicants must be nonprofits with IRS 501(c)(3) status (and the opportunity explicitly excludes institutions of higher education under the eligible applicant category listed). To qualify, an applicant must provide proof of nonprofit status as determined by the IRS (or an authorizing tribal resolution where applicable). Projects must also receive State or Tribal certification of project eligibility under SMCRA Section 404, meaning the work must be confirmed as fitting within the abandoned mine land eligibility framework. Proposals must clearly explain how the project benefits communities and ecosystems affected by polluted streams and/or acid mine drainage, making community and environmental outcomes a required part of the narrative rather than optional add-ons. Because access to sites is often a limiting factor for reclamation work, applicants must secure a written agreement with the property owner(s) establishing right of access. Finally, applications must include letters of support from local community groups, businesses, and individuals, signaling that OSMRE expects visible local buy-in and stakeholder backing.
From a funding and administrative standpoint, this is a discretionary opportunity in the environment category (CFDA/Assistance Listing 15.253) administered by OSMRE. The award ceiling listed is $100,000, with an expected 13 awards, indicating relatively small, project-oriented grants intended to move specific reclamation actions forward rather than fund large multi-watershed programs. The original closing date shown is May 1, 2024, and the opportunity was created March 1, 2024. The cooperative agreement instrument type typically implies more federal involvement than a standard grant, so applicants should anticipate coordination with the agency on technical, reporting, or oversight elements as the project proceeds.
Overall, the WCAP nonprofit AMD reclamation opportunity is a targeted funding source for community-based 501(c)(3) organizations working on legacy coal mine drainage problems. It prioritizes practical restoration outcomes: cleaner water, healthier aquatic ecosystems, and restored stream uses that communities can see and benefit from, while requiring clear eligibility certification, secured site access, and demonstrated local support.Apply for S24AS00291
- The Office of Surface Mining in the environment sector is offering a public funding opportunity titled "OSMRE Watershed Cooperative Agreement Program (WCAP) Not-for-Profit Acid Mine Drainage (AMD) Reclamation Projects" and is now available to receive applicants.
- Interested and eligible applicants and submit their applications by referencing the CFDA number(s): 15.253.
- This funding opportunity was created on 2024-03-01.
- Applicants must submit their applications by 2024-05-01. (Agency may still review applications by suitable applicants for the remaining/unused allocated funding in 2026.)
- Each selected applicant is eligible to receive up to $100,000.00 in funding.
- The number of recipients for this funding is limited to 13 candidate(s).
- Eligible applicants include: Nonprofits having a 501 (c) (3) status with the IRS, other than institutions of higher education.
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