BALTIMORE, MD (June 13, 2013) - The Maryland Board of Public Works yesterday approved more than $16 million in grants to reduce pollution and improve water quality by upgrading septic systems and replacing meters in a drinking water system. The Board is composed of Governor Martin O’Malley, Treasurer Nancy K. Kopp and Comptroller Peter Franchot.

“Projects such as these are an important part of our effort to improve Maryland waterways, including the Chesapeake Bay,” said Governor O’Malley. “These projects reduce pollution and protect the environment and public health while creating jobs for more Marylanders.”

The following projects were approved yesterday:

Upgrade Septic Systems – Statewide

Grants from the Bay Restoration Fund totaling $15,733,000 will provide funding for counties to upgrade on-site sewage disposal (septic) systems to significantly reduce the discharge of nitrogen, the most serious pollutant in the Chesapeake Bay. Counties will focus on upgrading septic systems located within the Critical Area. A typical septic system that does not remove nitrogen delivers about 23 pounds of nitrogen per year to the groundwater. An upgraded, nitrogen-removing septic system cuts a system’s nitrogen load at least in half. All Maryland counties will benefit from the grants.

Oakland Water Meter Replacement project – Town of Oakland, Garrett County

A $385,700 Drinking Water State Revolving Loan Fund Program green grant to the Town of Oakland will help fund the Oakland Water Meter Replacement project. The project involves the purchase and installation of new radio-read-capable water meters and necessary accessories throughout the Town of Oakland service area to promote water conservation by more accurately tracking water consumption and helping to detect leaks. 

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