How to Apply
How can our state apply and how will the states be selected?
This program has a two-step application and selection process to choose the partner states.
Expression of Interest:
We are looking for two states that can lead the country in developing and showcasing innovative ways to protect drinking water sources through improved coordination among state land use management and water protection programs. (Review selection criteria here.) This program has a two-step application and selection process to choose the partner states.
Step 1: Expression of Interest Interested parties within states should submit the two-page Expression of Interest form. (Download the Expression of Interest form here.) Please submit the completed form by email to Elizabeth Schilling on or before close of business your time February 5, 2010.Any state agency may submit the form. Submissions may come from the Governor's office and/or state level departments related to environmental protection, public health, natural resources, or planning and growth management.
Because this program may be of interest to other national organizations related to land use, water protection and natural resources, there may be other agencies or organizations in your state that will also be interested in this project. We would prefer (but do not require) the coordination of efforts within a state into a single Expression of Interest submission. Should we receive more than one Expression of Interest from a state, we will contact all submitters and request that you work together to submit a joint Expression of Interest within one week of notification.
State agencies may also want to coordinate their submission with watershed groups, state smart growth or growth management organizations, extension agencies, and other non-profit organizations working on source water. Organizations outside state government should coordinate with state officials to apply.
Step 2: Formal Application
We will review all expressions of interest and select the states that offer the strongest commitment to the project and most potential for undertaking cross-program analysis. These states will be asked to submit a more detailed, formal application on or before close of business your time March 19, 2010. We anticipate selecting two partner states in this year, and expect to announce the selections by March 31, 2010.