Understanding the Project Selection Process

The Merced MLRP project evaluation process is designed to be comprehensive, inclusive, and impartial. The information provided below describes the project review and selection process for development project applications received through the project solicitation that was released on October 24, 2025 and closed on January 30, 2026.

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 February through March, 2026.

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. The Technical Committee will provide feedback and modification requests for project applicants.

Step 3: Project Scoring Phase 2

Next, the MSGSA MLRP Project Selection Committee, composed of three MSGSA Board members, will score all 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.

Step 4: Stakeholder Review

The Stakeholder Advisory Committee (SAC) will review the project finalists and provide additional feedback, which will be incorporated into project modification requests. Any SAC members that were involved with a project application must recuse themselves from review of that project.

Step 5: MSGSA Board Review

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

Step 6: Project Contracting

Valley Eco will collaborate with project applicants and MSGSA's legal counsel to draft project contracts for approved contracts. These contracts will then be presented to the MSGSA Board for final approval before project development activities begin.

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.

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!