DETROIT — The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency says up to $13.9 million is being made available in Great Lakes Restoration Initiative grants.

The agency says it’s seeking proposals for new projects for the 2015 funding cycle. They’re available to state, tribal, interstate and local governmental agencies, as well as colleges, universities and nonprofits.

Applications are due Sept. 28. EPA Region 5 Administrator/Great Lakes National Program Manager Susan Hedman says in a statement this round of funding will be used to target invasive species and to reduce runoff in urban and agricultural watersheds.

Congresswoman Brenda Lawrence of Michigan says it’s “a great opportunity to increase our efforts to protect and restore our Great Lakes.”