Septic repair and conservation work update given by H2Ozarks

Erin Scott, program director of H2Ozarks, a nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting water quality in the region, appeared before the Newton County Quorum Court May 5 to report on the organization's activities in the county over the past year.
Two programs were noted specifically, One offers financial assistance for septic system repair or replacement. The other offers financial assistance to implement conservation practices.
The septic system program is available to homeowners in the upper White River and Buffalo River watersheds. H2Ozarks provides up to 90% of the cost to repair or replace a septic system. Scott reported eight of these projects have been completed in Newton County so far. Seven of the projects received 90% grants.
Grants begin at 50%. Homeowners can take out a 0 interest loan for up to 10 years to meet the balance of the cost of repairs or replacement, but not new construction.
The average cost in Newton County to repair or replace a septic system is $13,900. "That's a big chunk of change," Scott said. "We're grateful that we can help folks out." That ends up being about $12,500 just free money for homeowners at the 90% grant level.
In Newton County, H2Ozarks has spent over $111,000 on total project costs. That includes $98,500 in grants to homeowners.
H2Ozarks' mission is related to protecting and improving water quality. It is accomplished by working with homeowners and through this partnership 134 acres of land haves been impacted.

Scott said nine more projects have already been approved. There are a few homeowners in Newton County that are on a wait list because funds are beginning to run out. The money comes through the Arkansas Department of Agriculture. "We are hoping to get more funds because this is a continuing need."
In the area of conservation practices, a series of four workshops were held last fall for landowners in the Mill Creek watershed area of Boone and Newton counties. Participants expressed interest in improving land management, but often cited funding as a barrier. H2Ozarks is offering 80%-100% cost coverage (up to a maximum of $7,500) for eligible projects such as livestock fencing, prescribed burns, and riparian plantings.
The first application was approved just a few weeks ago for lime application for improving the cropland, Scott said.
H2Ozarks is planning to assist 10 landowners carry out projects. This is being viewed as a pilot program and if more interest is generated projects may be expanded in scope, Scott concluded.
This cost-share program is part of a larger initiative to reduce non-point source pollution and promote sustainable land use in Mill Creek and Crooked Creek. Funding is provided by the Arkansas Department of Agriculture Natural Resources Division (ANRD) through the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency 319 Non-point Source Pollution Program. This program is also made possible through partnership with Boone County Conservation District, NRCS, Quail Forever, and other valued partners. How to Apply
Interested landowners can learn more and apply by visiting www.h2ozarks.org/landowner-assistance-program or by contacting Ayla Grace at Ayla@h2ozarks.org.