(a)

1. (1) As soon as practicable after the close of the application period, the applications received shall be reviewed.

2. (2) In making a decision concerning an application, consideration shall be given to the proposed project furtherance of:

   1. (A) The local district's annual plan;
   2. (B) The Arkansas Water Plan developed by the Department of Agriculture; and
   3. (C) Any other applicable plan of the Department of Agriculture or the Department of Energy and Environment.

(b)

1. (1) All applications shall be prioritized as to benefits to be received in accordance with subsection (a) of this section.
2. (2) Applications shall be approved based upon this prioritization.