CONCORD -- New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services has $400,000 to distribute in grants for communities and nonprofits to improve watersheds in 2013.

The Watershed Assistance Grants will support local initiatives to restore impaired or protect high quality waters.

The grants are offered to municipalities, nonprofit organizations, state agencies, regional planning commission and county conservation districts.

The application deadline is Nov. 21.

Funds can be used to develop and implement approved watershed plans that address specific water pollution problems. Solutions can include a range of activities, such as installing rain gardens, green roofs, and porous pavement, stabilizing stream banks and implementing storm water utilities.

For more information and a copy of the proposal form, visit des.nh.gov.