1. (a) The State Board adopts rules establishing:

   1. (1) criteria for accepting project proposals; and
   2. (2) a system to prioritize projects for each funding cycle, giving priority to projects that balance the most critical water conservation need and the highest projected water yield.
2. (b) The criteria required by subsection (a)(1) of this section includes a requirement that each proposal state the projected water yield of the proposed project, as modeled by a person with expertise in hydrology, water resources or another technical area pertinent to the evaluation of water supply.
3. (c) The board shall consult with stakeholders, including hydrologist and representatives from soil and water conservation districts.

4. (d) In prioritizing projects under subsection (a)(2) of this section, the board shall consider:

   1. (1) the need for conservation of water resources within the territory of the project based on the state water plan adopted under §16.051, Water Code;
   2. (2) projected water yield of areas of the project, based on soil, slope, land use types and distribution of trees, brush and other vegetative matter and proximity of trees, brush and other vegetative matter to rivers, streams and channels;
   3. (3) any method the project may use to control brush;
   4. (4) cost-sharing contract rates within the territory of the project;
   5. (5) the location and size of the project;
   6. (6) the budget of the project and any associated requests for grant funds submitted under this title;
   7. (7) the implementation schedule of the project; and
   8. (8) the administrative capacities of the board and the entity that will manage the project.

5. (e) In prioritizing projects under subsection (a)(2) of this section the board may consider:

   1. (1) scientific research on the effects of brush removal on water supply; and
   2. (2) any other criteria that the board considers relevant to assure that the water supply enhancement program can be effectively, efficiently and economically implemented.

Source Note:The provisions of this §517.25 adopted to be effective February 13, 2003, 28 TexReg 1209; amended to be effective March 21, 2004, 29 TexReg 2651; amended to be effective April 16, 2012, 37 TexReg 2679.