43 CFR §404.13

1. (a)Whether there is an urgent and compelling need for a rural water supply project that would:
   1. (1)Address present or future water supply needs; or
   2. (2)Promote public health and safety by addressing present and preventing future violations of drinking water standards;
2. (b)The extent to which a rural water supply project promotes and applies a regional or watershed perspective to water resources management as defined in § 404.2;
3. (c)The financial need of the project sponsors for assistance with the planning, design, and construction of a rural water supply project, as demonstrated by readily available local and regional economic indicators;
4. (d)The extent to which Reclamation is uniquely qualified to plan, design, and build the project;
5. (e)Whether a rural water supply project helps meet applicable requirements established by law;
6. (f)The extent to which a rural water supply project serves Indian tribes that have nonexistent or inadequate water systems;
7. (g)The extent to which a rural water supply project is ineligible for comprehensive funding (sufficient to fully fund planning and construction of the entire project) through other assistance programs;
8. (h)The extent to which a rural water supply project is identified as a priority by state, tribal or local governments;
9. (i)Whether a rural water supply project incorporates an innovative approach that effectively addresses water supply problems and needs, either by applying new technology or by employing a creative administrative or cooperative solution; and
10. (j)Other criteria that Reclamation deems appropriate.