(AP Photo/Steven Senne, File)
BOSTON – The Town of Gosnold is receiving a slice of state funds to protect drinking water resources.
The Baker-Polito Administration awarded $1,119,362 to six Massachusetts public water suppliers through the Drinking Water Supply Protection Grant Program (DWSP).
The grant awards, administered by the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs’ (EEA) Division of Conservation Services, will enable water suppliers to protect existing or new wells and surface drinking water supply systems, such as reservoirs and other water bodies.
“Supporting local efforts to protect critical water resources ensures that all residents across the Commonwealth have access to safe, clean drinking water,” said Governor Charlie Baker.
“Our Administration is proud to award these grants and work with municipalities protect drinking water supplies and safeguard water systems for years to come.”
The Town of Gosnold will receive $300,000 for the Cuttyhunk Island Wellhead Project. The grant award will be used to conserve 20-acres of the town’s sole aquifer.
“Cuttyhunk Island is one of the most uniquely beautiful communities in the Commonwealth and this $300,000 grant will help preserve its natural resources and unparalleled beauty for generations to come,” said State Representative Dylan Fernandes (D-Falmouth).
Since 2004, the DWSP Grant Program has offered grants to municipal and public water systems to be used for water supply protection and land conservation purposes, such as the acquisition of land, the placing of a conservation restriction, or the assignment of a watershed preservation restriction.
Land acquired through the program must be located within existing Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection-approved drinking water supply areas, in estimated protection areas for new sources, or in an area identified through an appropriate planning process as suitable for groundwater recharge to an aquifer. Projects funded under this grant program should also provide appropriate public recreational opportunities to the residents of the Commonwealth.
“This grant program provides local water suppliers the necessary financial resources to protect critical water resources and provide their residents high-quality drinking water,” said Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Matthew Beaton.
“By conserving these important natural resources, we can protect both public health and the environment across the Commonwealth.”
By TIM DUNN, CapeCod.com News Center
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