WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King today announced more than $6 million in federal grant and loan funding from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) to improve rural water systems in Maine. The investments announced today are provided through USDA's Rural Utilities Service Water and Environmental Program, which assists rural communities with water and wastewater infrastructure. 

“We are pleased that USDA is making this significant investment in Maine’s rural water infrastructure,” Senators Collins and King said.  “By making clean water more accessible, this funding will improve public health, create jobs, and attract new businesses.”

Below is a list of funding recipients:

• Eagle Lake Water and Sewer District will receive $300,000 in loans and $230,000 in grants
• City of Gardiner will receive $188,000 in loans and $77,000 in grants
• Town of Hartland will receive $1,200,000 in loans and $3,600,000 in grants
• Indian Township Passamaquoddy Reservation will receive $249,400 in grants
• Town of Bingham will receive $118,000 in loans and $177,000 in grants

"These investments are critical for our health and safety, and in the long term for sustainable economic development," USDA Secretary Vilsack said. "Investments like these in the nation's water infrastructure also are critical to address the impact of climate change on our water supplies. The projects supported with these resources will ensure rural families have access to clean water and create jobs in communities across the country."

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