Maryland Officials OK $1.2M For Water Quality Projects

ANNAPOLIS, Md. (AP) -- Maryland officials have approved more than $1.2 million for efforts to improve water quality and conserve energy.

The Board of Public Works approved the funds Wednesday for projects that include upgrading septic systems and a sewage treatment plant and stabilizing a stream.

The panel approved $750,000 in Bay Restoration Fund grants to upgrade septic systems in 18 counties. The Maryland Department of the Environment says the upgrades, which will be focused within the critical area, can halve the amount of nitrogen the systems deliver into groundwater.

The panel also approved a $356,800 grant to help stabilize an eroded section of a Henson Creek tributary in Prince George's County and a $164,800 loan to the City of Bowie to help renovate and upgrade its wastewater treatment plant to cut energy usage.

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