To become eligible for the assistance program, a landowner must apply for assistance, and must own land on which a legal potable water or sewer system existed and was in operation during 2005. They must also demonstrate that the system(s) has been or will be adversely affected by the increased releases from Lewiston Dam for fishery restoration purposes which began April 22, 2006.

As of January 2008, 32 households and businesses along the Trinity River have taken advantage of this program, with over $275,000 in assistance provided to qualifying property owners to upgrade their systems. Over 90 applications have been received since the inception of the assistance program. Of those applicants, most have been determined eligible and those who submitted valid cost estimates have been determined qualified.

Applications, instructions, and additional information on eligibility and qualification requirements are available from Trinity County Planning Department - Natural Resources Division, 60 Glen Road, Weaverville, or by calling Joshua Allen, Assistant Planner at 530-623-1351 x 222. You may also obtain this information from the TRRP, located adjacent to Top’s Supermarket or by calling Diana Clifton at 530-623-1804. The application and requirements are also located on the TRRP website. The application form can be filled out on-line or hand written for submittal.

Applications for the program will be available only through June 30, 2008. All work by qualified applicants must be completed with paid invoices for reimbursement submitted to Trinity County or the TRRP no later than August 1, 2009. Funding for the AP will expire September 30, 2009.