Water and Wastewater Technical Assistance for Rural Communities with RCAP
The Rural Community Assistance Partnership (RCAP) is a national network of nonprofit partners with over 350 technical assistance providers across the country. RCAP is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in rural and tribal communities through various environment-focused programs. By providing essential technical assistance and training, RCAP aims to build resilience, sustainability, and ensure that these communities have access to critical services like drinking water, wastewater management, and solid waste disposal.
Serving Vulnerable Populations
Small and rural communities often face significant challenges related to water and wastewater management. RCAP prioritizes those in the greatest need by assisting communities with populations under 10,000. Their mission is to ensure that everyone has access to safe drinking water and sanitary wastewater systems, which is especially crucial as 72% of the nation’s public water systems serve communities of 500 or fewer residents.
A resident from Evarts, Kentucky, expressed gratitude, saying, “Whenever an issue arises, we know that RCAP is willing and able to assist us with whatever we need. They care about our city.”
Comprehensive Water and Wastewater Programs
RCAP works with various federal agencies like the USDA, EPA, and HHS to manage to provide hands-on, community-specific technical support to small water and wastewater systems serving less than 10,000 residents. By helping communities manage their assets and maintain regulatory compliance, RCAP fosters long-term sustainability and ensures successful infrastructure projects.
Spectrum of Support
Private Wells: RCAP offers an EPA-funded program that provides training and technical assistance to private well owners. This initiative helps improve water quality and public health.
Onsite and Decentralized Wastewater Systems: For homeowners and communities relying on failing septic systems, RCAP offers guidance on maintenance and explores long-term solutions. This includes technical assistance and financial resources.
Rural Water and Wastewater Assistance: RCAP’s USDA-funded program provides culturally relevant technical support to rural communities. This program aims to protect public health and foster economic development by improving water and waste disposal facilities.
Colonias Program: This USDA program supports communities along the U.S./Mexico border. RCAP provides bilingual technical assistance and training to improve water and wastewater services in these areas.
Rural Community Development: Funded by HHS, this program helps the smallest and lowest-income rural communities access safe water supplies and waste disposal services.
Solid Waste Management: Supported by the USDA’s Solid Waste Management Program, RCAP assists communities in reducing water resource pollution through better solid waste planning and management.
Disaster Recovery: RCAP has a wealth of experience in helping small and rural water and wastewater systems recover after natural disasters. They focus on building resiliency, developing emergency response plans, and providing immediate and long-term recovery assistance.
By addressing these key areas, RCAP continues to improve the living conditions and sustainability of rural communities across the United States. Their comprehensive approach ensures that even the smallest and most vulnerable populations receive the support they need to thrive.