Best Water Grants in South Carolina

South Carolina agricultural producers, forest landowners, Tribes, and water management entities seeking to improve water quality and conserve water resources can access funding through USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service’s Environmental Quality Incentives Program. EQIP provides technical and financial assistance for on-farm conservation practices that enhance soil health, reduce pollution, and protect freshwater and other natural resources on working lands.

South Carolina agricultural and forest producers seeking support for water resource management and broader environmental stewardship can receive financial and technical assistance to enhance conservation on working lands. USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service offers multi-year CSP contracts with annual payments of more than US $4,000 to improve soil health, water quality, and wildlife habitat across entire operations.

South Carolina organizations managing watershed-based water projects can access funding through the South Carolina Department of Environmental Services to implement best management practices that reduce nonpoint source pollution. Projects must follow an SCDES-approved watershed plan meeting EPA’s nine elements, with at least 75% of federal funds for on-the-ground BMPs and a 40% non-federal match.

State and local governments, private nonprofits, and federally recognized tribes in rural South Carolina can obtain funding for water and waste infrastructure, including drinking water, sewer, solid waste, and stormwater systems. USDA Rural Development also supports related costs like land, permits, engineering, and start-up operations for eligible projects in communities of 10,000 or fewer residents.

South Carolina Department of Environmental Services

The South Carolina Department of Environmental Services (SCDES) is a team of environmental subject matter experts whose work impacts every South Carolinian, every day. We use science and data to drive our decisions and actions. Our work supports a resilient and sustainable South Carolina, and our efforts safeguard our air, land, water and coasts for generations to come.

Dam Repair Assistance Grant Program

Program Description

SCDES is soliciting applications from eligible applicants for pre-construction and construction efforts associated with dam repair and removal for eligible High and Significant Hazard dams regulated by the South Carolina Dams and Reservoirs Safety Act. This grant program aims to reduce or eliminate risk to the public by providing financial assistance for the repair or removal of High and Significant Hazard dams that fail to meet minimum dam safety standards and pose an unacceptable risk to downstream life and property.

The Dam Repair Assistance Grant Program aims to:

• Reduce or eliminate risk to the public associated with dams (see “Risk” in Definitions);
• Improve accessibility of financial assistance to dam owners who may not be eligible to apply for other dam safety grants; and,
• Provide financial assistance for the repair or removal of High and Significant Hazard dams that fail to meet minimum dam safety standards and pose an unacceptable risk to downstream life and property.

South Carolina water and watershed organizations can access funding through the Laird Norton Family Foundation for freshwater conservation and water resource management efforts. U.S.-based nonprofits working on watershed stewardship, environmental stewardship, and long-term social and ecological resilience may be eligible, with current watershed priorities in Minnesota, Wisconsin, and select Western U.S. locations.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations across the U.S., including South Carolina, can seek $500 to $5,000 for water stewardship projects such as freshwater conservation, watershed protection, and climate-resilient water management. Focused on environmental stewardship, Bell's Brewery invites grassroots projects that strengthen ecosystem health, protect water resources for public health, and support frontline communities facing climate-related water risks.

Roy A. Hunt Foundation provides South Carolina water and environmental organizations with US $25,000 - US $75,000 for multi-state or national projects improving freshwater, coastal, and nearby oceanic water quality. Eligible U.S.-based initiatives may include applied research, education and outreach, project management, and policy-oriented innovations that address clean water, pollution, and broader environmental systems.

U.S. nonprofit organizations working on land, water, and climate-related conservation, including freshwater conservation and water resource management in South Carolina, can apply for Doris Duke Foundation’s Environment Program funding; awards US $100,000 - US $1,000,000 for large-scale conservation, natural climate solutions, and equity-focused environmental initiatives. Projects must be submitted via letter of inquiry.

Individuals conducting innovative water quality and water environment research with practical applications in South Carolina can receive support to advance their work. With a mission to advance applied water research, Water Research Foundation provides a grant of up to US $100,000, performed in conjunction with a U.S.-based firm, university, or organization.

Organizations or individuals engaged in freshwater conservation and lake management work in South Carolina may be eligible for recognition through the Secchi Disk Award, which honors significant contributions to the North American Lake Management Society’s goals. Grants from North American Lake Management Society help South Carolina water resource management advocates gain national visibility for their lake and watershed stewardship efforts.

Corporations engaged in freshwater conservation and water resource management in South Carolina can be nominated for this annual achievement award recognizing major contributions to lake and watershed management. The North American Lake Management Society honors companies that advance information exchange, public awareness, professional practice, and research supporting healthy lake and reservoir ecosystems across North America.

Undergraduate students interested in marine, coastal, estuarine, or water resource issues in South Carolina and beyond can access funding through the Doyle Undergraduate Fellowship, earning up to US $5,000 for a 10-week summer placement. Fellows work on fisheries, aquaculture, coastal ecosystems, and water resource management projects with mentoring and professional development.

Nonprofit organizations and public institutions working on freshwater conservation and water resource management in South Carolina can access funding through the Biophilia Foundation, which focuses its giving on U.S. projects. Grants from Biophilia Foundation help support ecosystem restoration, private land conservation, and restorative economies, with typical first-time awards ranging from US $5,000 - US $25,000.

Freshwater science researchers and professionals working on conservation, water resource management, or related ecology fields in South Carolina can apply for Society for Freshwater Science Fellows recognition, which includes US $2,000 in support. This international program honors sustained excellence in freshwater research, policy, or management, with nominations submitted by SFS members.

Nonprofits, local governments, Tribal and religious organizations in South Carolina working on freshwater conservation, water resource management, or basic health and human needs can apply for the Doree Taylor Charitable Foundation’s grants. Funding may support programs addressing clean water access, environmental stewardship, or health services for underserved communities, with a broader focus on organizations across Maine and occasionally nationwide.

The SEARCH Grant provides essential support for very small, financially distressed rural communities by funding predevelopment feasibility studies and technical assistance for water and waste disposal projects. Eligible applicants include state and local governments, nonprofits, and federally recognized tribes. Funds can be used for feasibility studies, design analysis, and technical help in securing financial assistance, ensuring improvements in rural infrastructure and community health.

The John Lenard Civil Engineering Scholarship, established in 2008 by John Lenard, P.E., F.ASCE, supports undergraduate students pursuing civil engineering with a focus on water supply or environmental engineering. The scholarship aims to assist deserving students in covering tuition expenses. Awarded annually, it is limited to two recipients who demonstrate commitment to their field. The American Society of Civil Engineers, founded in 1852, oversees this scholarship, fostering excellence in civil engineering education.

The RNRF Planning and Small Grants program provides funding up to $50,000 to support projects that enhance collaboration among community partners in addressing critical environmental issues. Eligible applicants must be 501c3 organizations in the U.S. and demonstrate multidisciplinary cooperation. Projects should align with RNRF's mission and focus areas, including air quality, biodiversity, and renewable energy. The initiative aims to create sustainable and impactful outcomes by bridging research and practical implementation.

The RNRF Implementation/Collaboration Grants support innovative projects that enhance collaboration among stakeholders to address critical challenges in environmental, social, and economic systems. Offering up to $200,000 for initiatives lasting 12 months or more, these grants aim to implement evidence-based practices and facilitate multidisciplinary teamwork. Eligible applicants must be from 501c3 organizations in the U.S., ensuring alignment with RNRF's mission and focus areas, fostering sustainable and impactful outcomes.

The USDA Rural Development program provides essential loans and grants to improve water and waste disposal services in low-income communities, specifically targeting Colonias recognized before 1989. This initiative aims to alleviate health risks associated with inadequate access to safe drinking water and waste management. Eligible applicants include federally-recognized tribes and local governments, with funds supporting the construction of vital infrastructure to ensure community health and sustainability.

The W. Wesley Eckenfelder Graduate Research Award, administered by the AEESP Foundation, recognizes outstanding graduate students in environmental engineering and science whose research enhances wastewater management knowledge. This prestigious annual award offers a $1,500 honorarium and a plaque for winners, along with a $500 travel stipend for attending the AAEES awards ceremony. Eligible candidates include both Master’s and Ph.D. students who demonstrate exemplary academic performance and innovative research contributions.

Federally recognized Tribes, eligible governments, and nonprofits in South Carolina can seek funding to build basic drinking water, wastewater, and storm-water systems in low-income Tribal communities. Focused on water and public health, USDA Rural Development supports rural areas where at least half of residents are Tribal members facing significant health risks.

The NACD Technical Assistance Grants program, in partnership with NRCS, has been enhancing conservation district support since 2018. By funding staff hires, it aims to improve service for agricultural producers and address conservation workload challenges. The initiative focuses on outreach, education, and civic engagement to empower local communities, promote sustainability, and support historically underserved producers in implementing conservation practices, thereby fostering both individual and community resilience.

Eligible not-for-profit organizations dedicated to supporting, conserving, or promoting wild waterfowl can apply for up to US $500,000 to develop waterfowl propagation areas in Manitoba and Saskatchewan within the Mississippi Flyway. Canada Department of Natural Resources funds projects that preserve, restore, and manage high-quality breeding habitat, which may interest South Carolina water resource and wetland conservation groups.

The Hazen and Sawyer Scholarship, valued at $10,000, is awarded annually to a graduate-level candidate dedicated to addressing critical challenges in drinking water, water reuse, and water resources. Sponsored by the American Water Works Association (AWWA), this scholarship supports students who are permanent residents of the U.S., Mexico, or Canada. Eligible funds cover tuition, books, and related educational expenses, enhancing the recipient's ability to contribute to the water industry.

The AWWA Scholarship Program, specifically the Veolia Water Technologies & Solutions Vernon D. Lucy III Scholarship, offers a $5000 award to undergraduate students pursuing careers in the water sector. Established by the American Water Works Association, this scholarship honors the mentorship of Vernon D. Lucy III and aims to support the next generation of water industry professionals. Eligible candidates must demonstrate interest in water-related fields, underscoring AWWA's commitment to fostering future leaders.