Residents in targeted areas of, Middlesex, Mathews and upper Gloucester counties are now eligible for grant funds to help reimburse them for costs associated with proposed septic tank repairs, inspections, replacement and more as part of an effort to help address bacteria pollution in nearby waters.

The funds, provided by the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality and administered by the Middle Peninsula Planning District Commission, are part of a project to address bacteria pollution that’s led to reductions in shellfish harvesting in the Piankatank River, around Gwynn’s Island and the Milford Haven watershed area.

The upper Piankatank River watershed is located between the Rappahannock and York rivers in Mathews and upper Gloucester counties. The lower Piankatank River watershed touches Mathews and Middlesex counties, with Gwynn’s Island and Milford Haven located in Mathews County.

Grant funds are available to reimburse 50 percent of the costs of septic tank pump-outs...