Specifications include, but are not limited to: The contractor will compile and assess the latest information available to accomplish the tasks below. Particular attention will be paid to data, research, technical information and other resources about projects in northern cold climates (with less emphasis on warmer climates) that can be translated to conditions in Vermont. The contractor is encouraged to review all existing VTDEC documents, datasets, guidelines, and standards. An advisory team will be created to assist the contractor when conflicts exist between VTDEC standard operating procedures and what the contractor determines to be the best available science on a particular clean water project type. 1. Establish standard costs per clean water project output metric: Research and develop method(s) to determine a standard cost per project output metric for clean water project types with an emphasis on including natural resource restoration projects (see “subset” of clean water project types in Attachment A) by project step (i.e., project identification, design, implementation, and O&M). Cost estimates should use project output metrics as a surrogate to phosphorus reduced, such as acres treated. The Department will later translate cost per project output metric to cost per phosphorus reduction unit based on its phosphorus accounting methods.3 Attachment A defines clean water project types and standard project output metrics. For example, the consultant should answer the question: what is the average cost to treat stormwater runoff from one acre of impervious surface or to restore one acre of floodplain? The standard cost calculation can be in the format of an equation, or other simple tool, that is scalable for site conditions and design parameters that account for a difference in cost (e.g., storage volume, project size, infiltration rate, etc.). 2. Establish operation and maintenance (O&M) standards: Research and develop a manual of O&M requirements for each project type in Attachment A, including maintenance tasks and frequencies. Specify any maintenance items, the frequency of the maintenance activity and describe any specialized equipment necessary to complete the maintenance activity. The contractor shall utilize published DEC reference materials (e.g., Vermont Stormwater Management Manual) related to O&M and engage the advisory team as needed. The recommended maintenance standards should be consistent with any existing DEC standards for the same practice. When there are questions of consistency the contractor should submit them to the advisory team for resolution. Identify and describe any operational tasks for each project type in Attachment A that are either required for effective performance of the project or recommended. These operational tasks are in addition to routine maintenance tasks that may be needed for the effective operation of the project. The draft manual should include the approximate cost of O&M and how that relates to the design life of a project.