Eligible projects must be located within New York State. Preference will be given to projects within the Great Lakes Watershed and direct drainage to the ocean, as identified on page 3 of this RFP. All proposed projects must meet the following criteria to be evaluated and scored: • The project must fit appropriately within one of the four funding Tracks. • The project must improve or protect water quality. • The project must have the capability of being completed and invoiced within three years of the contract start date. • The project must be consistent with New York State guidance and NRCS standards as appropriate. • The project must have defined measurable outcomes and deliverables. If applicable, measurable sediment and/or nutrient reduction must be estimated at time of application. Tracks 1 - 3 Projects proposed for Tracks 1, 2, or 3 must be for the implementation of conservation practices. All practices proposed for implementation must be designed and approved by a New York State licensed engineer or individual with appropriate Job Approval Authority. Proposals must identify relevant permits and confirm the ability to acquire such permits. Track 4 Projects proposed for Track 4 must be pertinent to statewide education and/or outreach of stream corridor health, restoration, and/or protection. Such projects must include a realistic goal for information dissemination. The District must agree to make all printed/posted material available for review by the State Committee staff. Track 4 projects may target a specific audience. The project may include printed material, social media, and/or in-person education and training.
