18 CFR §2.19

1. (a)In determining whether the proposed hydroelectric project is best adapted to a comprehensive plan under section (10)(a)(1) of the Federal Power Act for improving or developing a waterway, the Commission will consider the extent to which the project is consistent with a comprehensive plan (where one exists) for improving, developing, or conserving a waterway or waterways affected by the project that is prepared by:
   1. (1)An agency established pursuant to Federal law that has the authority to prepare such a plan, or
   2. (2)A state agency, of the state in which the facility is or will be located, authorized to conduct such planning pursuant to state law.
2. (b)The Commission will treat as a state or Federal comprehensive plan a plan that:
   1. (1)Is a comprehensive study of one or more of the beneficial uses of a waterway or waterways;
   2. (2)Includes a description of the standards applied, the data relied upon, and the methodology used in preparing the plan; and
   3. (3)Is filed with the Secretary of the Commission.