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Danville gets federal funding for Dix River watershed

September 16, 2010

Danville is one of 10 communities and organizations across the state that will share $3.3 million in federal pollution control grants.

Danville will receive $200,460 for Phase I of the Dix River Watershed Implementation Project and must match it with $133,640, according to an announcement from Gov. Steve Beshear. The money will be used to target pollutants from failing wastewater systems and storm-related runoff and perform public outreach and education.

The 10 projects selected for funding must provide 40 percent in matching funds.

Pollution from runoff, or nonpoint source pollution, is the main cause of impairments to streams, lakes and rivers in Kentucky. It results when rainfall or snowmelt moves over and through the ground, picking up loose soil and pollutants along its way. The waterborne pollutants often travel through storm sewers that discharge directly into streams — bypassing treatment at a municipal water treatment facility.

Examples of nonpoint source pollutants include:

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* Excess fertilizers, herbicides and insecticides from agricultural lands and residential areas.

* Oil, grease and toxic chemicals from urban runoff.

* Sediment from improperly managed construction sites, crops, forestlands and eroding stream banks.

* Acid drainage from abandoned coal mines.

* Bacteria and nutrients from livestock, pet wastes and faulty septic systems.

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