USDA Rural Development State Director Terry Brunner, Ed Avalos, USDA Undersecretary for Regulation and Marketing and Max Finberg, USDA Director of Faith-Based Programs traveled to Mescalero, New Mexico Thursday to celebrate the recent awarding of over $3.6 million in funds to develop a new wastewater system on tribal lands.
The celebration was highlighted with the presentation of a certificate of congratulations to Mescalero Apache Tribal President Frederick Chino, Sr. for the tribe’s successful application of funds for this project.
During the presentation, State Director Terry Brunner said, “The funding for this project is extremely important to the Obama administration because it shows the commitment we have to make sure the residents have good wastewater service while at the same time eliminating the possibility of contaminating the water table.” Brunner added, “It is also evident that this administration is serious about making sure that even the smallest of communities get the service they need because we have Ed Avalos, USDA Undersecretary for Regulation and Marketing and Max Finberg, USDA Director of Faith-Based Programs traveling from Washington to help you celebrate the funding of this project.
Known as the Mud Canon Sanitary Sewer project the obligation of funds for this project is being made through USDA Rural Development’s Water and Environment Program (WEP). The Tribe was awarded a $3,428,500 Colonia’s Grant and $213,920 Direct Grant in conjunction with the $482,000 funds provided by Indian Health Services, for a total project cost of $4,124,420.
When completed the project will see over 65-thousand feet of sewer line installed to provide service to homes in Mud Canyon, Sanspear Drive and San Juan Drive. The sewer line will also provide homes located along the US 70 corridor and residents residing in Blank Canyon, Misquez Lane, Forest Road and Soldier Canyon with service. Ultimately the sewer line will be connected with the town of Mescalero collection system to be treated at the existing wastewater treatment facility operated and maintained by the tribe.
When completed the sewer service will eliminate the use of old septic systems, which will eliminate the possibility of the pollution of the existing groundwater table.
USDA Rural Development’s mission is to increase economic opportunity and improve the quality of life for rural residents. Rural Development fosters growth in homeownership, finances business development, and supports the creation of critical community and technology infrastructure. Further information on rural programs is available at any local USDA Rural Development office or by visiting USDA Rural Development’s web site at http://www.rurdev.usda.gov