(a) CIG applications must describe the use of innovative approaches or technologies to address announced national or State program priorities.

(b) NRCS may consider as eligible for CIG any individual or non-federal entity; however, all agricultural producers receiving a direct or indirect payment through participation in a CIG project to address announced national or State program priorities must—

(1) Be in compliance with the highly erodible land and wetland conservation provisions of 7 CFR part 12;

(2) Be a producer as determined by NRCS; and

(3) Have control of the land for the term of the proposed contract unless an exception is made by the Chief in the case of land administered by the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA), Indian lands, or other instances in which the Chief determines that there is sufficient assurance of control.

(c) NRCS will annually publish detailed guidance on how to apply for the grants competition(s) to address announced national or State program priorities.