Rhode Island State Technical Team (STT) Meeting notes

EQIP/WHIP Ranking Tool Discussion

December 14, 2006
USDA Conference Room
Warwick, RI

Attendees: J. Eric Scherer, SRC, Joe Bachand, WHIP Program Manager, Mike Kenyon, Lower Bay DC, Mike Coombs, Acting EQIP Program Manager, Reena Shaw, State Economist,NRCS; Marguerite Pryor, RI EPA Greg Manesto, USFWS, Brian Tefft, RI DEM Fish and Wildlife Division.

EQIP Ranking Tool

Mike Coombs explained the workings of the EQIP ranking tool to the attendees. The STT reviewed the questions drafted for Local and State Issues and National Priorities. Changes were suggested to clearly define some of the terms listed within the questions for the State Issues.

Mike Coombs and Reena Shaw were directed to work together to make the changes to the wording as directed by the attendees.

A draft of the method to be used to determine which projects will be funded was presented to the committee.
 

WHIP Ranking Tool

Joe Bachand led the discussion on the WHIP ranking tool. Jo reviewed the RI Bulletin 300-7-5 with the attendees.

Brian Tefft noted that the Comprehensive wetland Strategy was accepted by USFWS and is now the Comprehensive Wildlife Action Plan.

Joe continued on to review the WHIP ranking tool.

Joe explained that the resource concerns relate to practices—the resource concern is what is addressed by the practice we pay for—the practice fixes the problem with the resource concern.

Brian Tefft asked if the HIS was the same sheet that was used last year and Joe B., confirmed that it is the same sheet.

Marguerite asked for a definition of an urban habitat. Joe responded that it is small pockets of natural areas or buffers in urban areas—typically they are smaller and/or narrower due to constraints such as congestion. These projects get some points, but not as many as practices in non-urban habitat.

Greg Manesto asked why more points are given for less cost share. Joe responded because then it leaves NRCS with more money to fund other projects.

Brian Tefft asked why State projects have to generate a large score than private owners. Joe responded because our primary purpose is to work with private land owners. Brian and Joe discussed this issue.

The meeting adjourned at about 3:10 pm.
 

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