(1) After the closing date for submittal of requests for funding, complete and timely project requests meeting the requirements of Fl. Admin. Code R. 62-554.200, shall be evaluated and ranked on the criteria in this section in accordance with the Department solicitation issued pursuant to subsection 62-554.200(3), F.A.C.
    (2) In developing the solicitation criteria, the Department shall give priority to the following criteria:
    (a) Projects that provide for the development of alternative water supply projects and management techniques in areas where existing source waters are limited or threatened by saltwater intrusion, excessive drawdowns, contamination, or other problems;
    (b) Projects that contribute to the sustainability of regional water sources;
    (c) Projects that produce additional water available for consumptive uses or natural systems;
    (d) Projects that diversify water supply so that the needs of consumptive uses and the natural system are met during wet and dry conditions;
    (e) Projects that provide flexibility in addressing the unpredictability of water conditions from water year to water year.
    (3) In addition to the above criteria, projects must be the following:
    (a) Cost-effective, environmentally sound, and implementable, and
    (b) Self-supporting if the project is primarily for the purpose of water supply for consumptive use.
Rulemaking Authority 373.475 FS. Law Implemented Florida Statutes § 373.475. History-New 7-19-18.