Once NOAA determines that it can accept a new nomination, the lead agency may submit an application to NOAA for site selection funding (50/50 match requirement). A state is eligible for a total of $100,000 in federal funds for pre-designation activities, which includes site selection; preparation of the required Draft Environmental Impact Statement/Draft Management Plan (DEIS/DMP and the Final Environmental Impact Statement/Final Management Plan (FEIS/FMP); and a limited basic characterization of the physical, chemical and biological characteristics of the site. It is recommended that the preliminary application for the site selection phase request $25-40K.

The application must identify the site selection agency, the potential managing agency, and a proposed site selection process that incorporates public participation. Steps for selecting a site include:

• The state develops a process to develop the site selection criteria. It is recommended that the state establish a site selection committee comprised of key interested individuals (e.g. scientists, educators, resource managers, NGOs) for this purpose.
  
• The site selection process should cover the entire biogeographic subregion within the state and then narrow down the options. A site must contribute to the biogeographic and typological balance of the National Estuarine Research Reserve System and be adequately protected from significant ecological change by existing state authorities.
  
• Contacts must be made with affected landowners, local governments, and state and federal agencies early in the site selection process.
  
• The state, in conjunction with NOAA, holds a public meeting in the vicinity of the site being considered. The meeting is publicized in a local newspaper and in the Federal Register at least 15 days prior to being held.
  
• The state normally submits preliminary and final site selection documents. NOAA may request additional information or suggest changes to the nomination.
  

The Governor submits to the NOAA Administrator a site selection document and a nomination letter identifying the proposed site and confirming the lead state agency. NOAA reviews the site selection document and sends a letter to the Governor accepting or rejecting the nomination.

Menu

Back

Next

For more information contact: Laurie.McGilvray@noaa.gov.