Understanding the Project Selection Process

The Merced MLRP project evaluation process is designed to be comprehensive, objective, and impartial. The information provided below describes the project review and selection process for implementation project applications received through the project solicitation that was released on November 15, 2024 and closed on March 14, 2025.

An overview of the Merced MLRP Project Review and Selection Process is illustrated by the graphic below. Following, is a written description of the six-step process, which is expected to take place from March through April 2025.

Six Steps to Project Selection

The project selection process aligns with Department of Conservation (DOC) program guidelines and reflects the Merced MLRP's commitment to inclusive planning for multibenefit projects in the Merced Subbasin:

Step 1: Eligibility Screening

Valley Eco will conduct initial reviews of all submitted projects. Eligible proposals will advance to the Technical Committee, with all submissions being available for committee member review.

Step 2: Project Scoring Phase 1

Our Technical Committee, consisting of four experts with specialized knowledge in water quality, disadvantaged communities, agricultural resilience, and ecological benefits, will score eligible projects using the project selection criteria that was developed with input from the Stakeholder Advisory Committee. If more than 15 applications are received, this committee will narrow submissions to the top 15 projects using the agreed-upon selection criteria.

Step 3: Project Scoring Phase 2

The MSGSA MLRP Project Selection Committee, composed of three MSGSA Board members, will score the top 15 projects and provide feedback or modification requests. Each project will receive a total of seven scores (four from the Technical Committee and three from MSGSA Board members), which will be averaged for final rankings. Based on these scores, the committee will select project finalists plus two runner-ups.

Step 4: Stakeholder Review

The Stakeholder Advisory Committee (SAC) will review the highest-ranking projects and provide additional feedback, which will be incorporated into project modification requests.

Step 5: MSGSA Board Review

Projects with incorporated modifications will be presented to the MSGSA Board for funding approval, including two runner-up projects.

Step 6: DOC Approval

The final step involves submitting MSGSA Board-approved projects to the Department of Conservation for final authorization of funding.

Ensuring Objectivity and Expertise

To maintain the integrity of our selection process, we've implemented clear conflict of interest guidelines. Anyone with a project application, including project partners, is precluded from sitting on the selection committee. Additionally, individuals providing technical assistance on projects cannot participate in the technical project selection committee.

What Happens After Approval?

Once projects pass DOC's review, Valley Eco will collaborate with project applicants and MSGSA's legal counsel to draft project contracts. These contracts will then be presented to the MSGSA Board for final approval before implementation begins.

Please note that this is a competitive process and submitting a project application does not guarantee funding. Project applicants should not begin project implementation or incur project-related expenditures before entering into a contract for a funding award.

We're committed to selecting projects that deliver multiple benefits to our community, water resources, and environment. Stay tuned for updates as we progress through this selection process over the coming weeks!