Applications will be reviewed based primarily on the following criteria:
The project must be consistent with the Missouri Nonpoint Source Management Plan and must be eligible for funding under Section 319 of the Clean Water Act.
The project must demonstrate a high likelihood of success based on quality of the proposal, previous successes, appropriateness of goals, support of partners, manageable size, appropriate and adoptable practices, adequate funding, competent management, etc. If possible, a project coordinator should be designated.
Preference may be given to projects that address restoration of high priority or 303(d)-listed waters by implementing control measures of the specific contaminant(s) for which the water is listed.
Projects should treat a complete watershed or sub-watershed of manageable size and address all significant nonpoint pollutant sources. Critical areas should be identified and be the focus of best management practices and monitoring.
A funding match of at least 40 percent nonfederal / 60 percent 319 support is required. Soil and Water Conservation Districts need not show nonfederal match on agricultural projects.
All projects must have a technology transfer (information sharing) component. This may include tours, field days, booklets, brochures, etc.
Projects must have clearly stated, measurable objectives that are appropriate for the issue being addressed.
The project must include a method of measuring success. The evaluation method must be appropriate for the type of project and must relate to the project objectives. Evaluation measures should go beyond merely stating that an activity happened, but rather show the impact of the project. For example, restoration projects should include a measurement of the amount of pollution reduced by the practices. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has a preferred model called STEPL, which can be downloaded at http://it.tetratech-ffx.com/stepl/. Other models approved for load reduction estimates may be accepted upon review.
Cost-effectiveness of the project will be a significant factor. Projects that include a high percentage of funds for administrative, overhead or indirect costs will be considered a lower priority. Indirect rates may be funded up to a maximum of 13 percent.
Proposals that also address the under-representation of minorities and their concerns for water quality issues are encouraged.
Submittal of a pre-proposal for major subgrants is highly recommended. Please review the Pre-proposal Guidance Document PDF for more information.
All major subgrant applications must explain how they will address nonpoint source pollution in at least one of the following ways:
Increase public knowledge of nonpoint source water pollutants and their impact on surface and groundwater quality.
Increase public awareness of alternatives that can prevent nonpoint source water pollution.
Stimulate individuals to assess and modify practices and behaviors that contribute to nonpoint source water pollution.
Develop tools and programs to encourage behavioral changes toward sound preventive practices.
Encourage local partnerships and public participation in efforts to restore, conserve, and protect water resources threatened by nonpoint source water pollution.
