BRS, Inc. October 2021 Newsletter

Brownfields are generally defined as property whose expansion, reuse, or redevelopment is complicated by real or perceived environmental contamination. For many years, the fall has been the time that USEPA solicits applications for their Brownfield Grants, and BRS has offered "tips" for applications in years past.

The program is very competitive, with typically only a quarter to a third of the applications received actually ending up with an award. Having a better understanding of how this funding can be used in your community before you apply can result in a clearer plan and a more competitive application.

Here's a breakdown of the types of activities eligible for funding under each type of grant:

Assessment Activities

Cleanup Activities

Assessment and Cleanup Activities

Hopefully this provides some inspiration as to how your community could make use of EPA funding.

FEMA - Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) Grants

Focus of Award: BRIC grants, formerly the Pre-Disaster Mitigation program, offer federal funds toward proactive investments in risk mitigation and community resilience that would occur before a disaster happens.

Eligible Entities: Any unit or subdivision of local government, Indian tribe, or regional or state government is eligible to apply.

Municipalities and counties need to issue subapplications to their States to be included in State applications to FEMA. Some of these subapplication dates are as early as November so check with your State's emergency management office for more details. State applications are due by January 28, 2022. Click here for more information.

FEMA - Flood Mitigation Assistance Grants

Focus of Awards: The Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA) Program makes available federal funds to reduce or eliminate the risk of repetitive flood damage to buildings and structures insured under the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).

Eligible Entities: Any unit or subdivision of local government, Indian tribe, or regional or state government is eligible to apply.

Municipalities and counties need to issue subapplications to their States to be included in State applications to FEMA. Some of these subapplication dates are as early as November so check with your State's emergency management office for more details. State applications are due by January 28, 2022. Click here for more information.

Environmental Protection Agency - Brownfield Grants (Cleanup, Assessment, Revolving Loan Fund)

Focus of Award: These grants provide funding to conduct a range of activities related to brownfield sites, including brownfield inventories, planning, environmental assessments, community outreach, cleanup activities, and brownfield planning.

Eligible Entities: Any unit or subdivision of local government, Indian tribe, regional or state government, or non-profit organization is eligible to apply.

Applications are due by December 1, 2021. Click here for more information.

Don't miss the next BCONE Northeast Sustainable Communities Workshop, "Opportunities Abound," taking place October 26-27. This virtual conference and expo connects environmental experts and commercial real estate developers in PA, DE, MD, and NJ to advance the shared goal of brownfield remediation.

Expand your network and knowledge, including the possibility of continuing education credits!

The Watershed Institute hosts its 5th Annual Watershed Conference November 3-5 in a virtual/in-person hybrid format at the Watershed Center and Reserve in Hopewell Township, Mercer County, NJ.

The conference offers a chance to hear the experts weigh in on topics including climate change, stormwater management, harmful algal blooms, dam removals, water quality issues, recent court rulings, watershed health, water quality, flooding, green infrastructure, environmental justice, and more, along with fun activities and networking opportunities.

https://thewatershed.org/fifth-annual-watershed-conference/

BRS is seeking an Assistant Engineering/ Economic Analyst for our Energy and Environmental Divisions for a part-time or full-time position. This is a unique opportunity to join a growing woman-owned firm. We offer flexibility with hours and the opportunity to work from home independently. The candidate ideally lives in the greater New Jersey / Philadelphia area.

P lease apply by October 18, 2021.