Community Conservation Assistance Program (CCAP)
Purpose
The North Carolina Department of Environment & Natural Resources has identified nonpoint source pollution as the primary source of degradation of freshwater rivers and streams in NC. One of the most widespread sources of nonpoint source pollution is an urban runoff. Excess nitrogen and phosphorus from improper fertilizer use can cause algal blooms which result in fish kills. Sediment - the number one pollutant in North Carolina waters - degrades aquatic habitat, fills our drinking water reservoirs, and can reduce outdoor recreational opportunities such as fishing, boating, and swimming.
Community Conservation Assistance Program
Landowners who have issues with drainage and erosion my be elligible for the Community Conservation Assitance Program (CCAP). CCAP is a voluntary program that assists urban, suburban, and rural landowners in reducing contributions of nonpoint source pollution to local waterways. Projects are reimbursable for to up to 75% of the average installation cost.
Durham Soil & Water offers free technical assistance to evaluate drainage and erosion issues. Staff is also avaible to give water quality and CCAP-related presentations at community meetings.
The Community Conservation Assistance Program (CCAP) is a program initiated by the NC Division of Soil and Water Conservation Districts, funded by the NC General Assembly, and administered by local Soil and Water Districts.
Eligible Practices for Cost Share Under CCAP
- Backyard Rain Gardens
- Backyard Wetlands
- Cistern
- Critical Area Planting
- Bioretention Area
- Stormwater Wetland
- Well Closure – hand dug only
- Impervious Surface Conversion
- Riparian Buffer
- Streambank Stabilization
- Diversion
- Grassed Swale
- Pet Waste Receptacle
- Permeable Pavement
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply for CCAP?
Landowners in Durham County can apply for CCAP. This includes homeowners, businesses, schools, parks, and publicly owned lands.
What kind of financial assistance is available?
The CCAP program is a cost-share program. The state may reimburse qualified participants up to 75% of the average cost of installation of a specific best management practice.
How do I receive the reimbursement?
If you have an approved CCAP contract, you will submit all receipts for the BMP to your district board after the installation is complete. A request for payment form will be completed and submitted to the state. Then you will be issued a payment reimbursing you for up to 75% of the average cost of installation for the BMP.
Do I automatically get funding if I qualify for a water quality concern?
No. Due to extremely limited funding, each application will be ranked to determine the impact the recommended best management practice will have on water quality. Highest ranking projects will be prioritized for funding. Depending on available funding, the district may set:
- A limit on funds per applicant, per BMP, per year, and/or
- A time limit for when applications will be accepted.
How do I qualify for CCAP?
To qualify for the program:
- The site must have been developed for 3 or more years.
- The site is in Durham County.
- A documented natural resource concern is identified by Durham Soil and Water Staff.
- A qualified CCAP staff representative assesses the property.
Since the program targets water quality issues on properties, staff will have to assess the property to officially determine qualification. Specific criteria used to assess CCAP eligibility include soil erosion due to heavy runoff and/or direct runoff (often via a downspout) into a storm drain/stream/body of water.
Please be aware that the presence or absence of this criteria will not automatically include or exclude you from the program. Only a qualified CCAP staff representative can make that determination.
Contact Jack Brown to schedule an assessment: jackbrown@dconc.gov or 919-560-0558.
Who handles the permits?
The landowner is responsible for all necessary permits for construction or installation. The permit fees required for any CCAP best management practice are not eligible for cost-share assistance.
Who designs the best management practice?
The practice will be designed and sized by the SWCD/Division of SWC. Installation of the BMP must follow the specifications of the design to be approved for requested reimbursement payment.
Is there a maintenance period?
There is a maintenance period for each best management practice:
- Single family home sites: 5 years.
- All other sites: 10 years
The practice can be inspected by Durham Soil and Water at any time during this period. If found out of compliance, the landowner may be required to repay the state a pro-rated amount of the original cost. CCAP staff will provide maintenance guidelines so that you can successfully maintain your practice through the contract period.
Impaired Stream Improvement Program
In some cases, landowners may be eligible for the Durham County’s Impaired Stream Improvement Program (ISIP). The ISIP is a cost-share program that provides a 100% reimbursement for the installation of stormwater management funds.
Applying for ISIP
A qualified Durham Soil and Water Conservation staff member will perform a site assessment to determine if a homeowner is eligible for ISIP. Once eligibility is confirmed, the homeowner will receive an application that will be reviewed by the District Board. Applicants must await a notification of contract approval before beginning construction.
Staff Contact
Jack Brown
201 E Main Street, Fl 5
Durham, NC 27701