Understanding the Project Selection Process

The Kaweah MLRP project evaluation process is designed to be inclusive and impartial. The information provided below describes the project review and selection process for project applications received through the Development Project solicitation. 

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

Five Steps to Project Selection

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

Step 1: Eligibility Screening

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

Step 2: Project Scoring

The Kaweah MLRP Core Partners will review and score the projects using the project selection criteria that was developed with input from the Stakeholder Advisory Committee. The Core Partners include the Kaweah Delta Water Conservation District (KDWCD), East Kaweah GSA, Greater Kaweah GSA, Mid-Kaweah GSA, and Sequoia Riverlands Trust. Core Partners are prohibited from evaluating any project applications that they have submitted, or are included on as a project partner. Each project will receive a total of five scores, which will be averaged for final rankings. Based on these scores, the Core Partners will select project finalists to move on in the process.

Step 3: Stakeholder Review

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

Step 4: Kaweah Delta Water Conservation District Board Review

Projects, with incorporated modifications, will be presented to the KDWCD Board for funding approval.

Step 5: DOC Review

The final step involves submitting KDWCD Board-approved projects to the Department of Conservation for a final review.

What Happens After Approval?

Once the KDWCD Board approves a suite of Development Projects, Valley Eco will collaborate with project applicants and KDWCD's legal counsel to draft project contracts. These contracts will then be presented to the KDWCD Board for final approval before project development begins.

Please note that this is a competitive process and submitting a project application does not guarantee funding. Project applicants should not begin project development 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 months.