Code of Federal Regulations Title 43. Public Lands:  Interior § 43.404.49 What criteria will Reclamation use to determine whether to recommend that a proposed rural water supply project be authorized for construction?

(1) A clearly defined Federal nexus to a proposed project;

(2) The Federal cost of the project in relation to the amount of Federal resources likely to be available;  and

(1) Addresses near and long-term water demand;

(2) Advances public health and safety and consideration of other benefits of the proposed rural water supply project;

(3) Addresses environmental quality and source water protection issues;

(4) Addresses opportunities to treat and use low-quality or non-potable water, water-reuse based supplies, and brackish and saline waters, through innovative and economically viable treatment technologies;

(5) Addresses opportunities for water conservation through structural or non-structural approaches and demonstration technologies to reduce water use and water system costs;

(6) Addresses opportunities to take advantage of economic incentives and the use of market-based mechanisms;

(7) Includes a reasonable and supported estimate of construction costs and operation, maintenance, and replacement costs;

(8) Is consistent with the Principles and Guidelines (incorporated by reference at § 404.4).

(9) Includes a reasonable and supported operation, maintenance, and replacement plan to assist the project sponsor in establishing rates and fees and a schedule identifying how those costs should be allocated to each non–Federal project sponsor;

(10) Demonstrates your financial capability to pay at least 25 percent of the design and construction costs and 100 percent of the operation, maintenance, and replacement costs;

(11) Is eligible for guaranteed loans;

(12) Includes adequate administrative and financial controls to manage construction and operation, maintenance, and replacement of the project;

(13) Is eligible for assistance under other Federal authorities to pay for discrete features or portions of the project;

(14) Is technically feasible and can be constructed within industry standards;

(15) Involves partnerships with other state, local, or tribal governments or Federal entities;  and

(16) In the case of Indian tribes and tribal organizations, the extent to which the alternative addresses the goal of economic self-sufficiency;

(17) The degree to which the proposed project demonstrates that it has clear deliverables, will be accomplished within a reasonable schedule, within budget, and is well managed;  and

(18) Other factors and criteria that Reclamation deems appropriate.