(1) Enhancement activities will be reviewed and prioritized based on current species distribution and the potential to increase numbers of upland game birds.

(2) Project proposals will be evaluated before being accepted by the department using the following criteria:

(a) species present on the project and species that would benefit from the project;

(b) the proximity and number of acres of similar or essential habitat components to the project;

(c) the status of adjacent property regarding hunter access and benefits provided upland birds;

(d) the number of acres open to hunting;

(e) expected benefits for upland birds and hunters from the proposed project;

(f) additional consideration will be given to projects that:

(i) offer longer contract terms or additional landowner cost-share; or

(ii) offer land with special or unique components (such as wetlands) for enhancement.

(3) Emphasis will be given to projects on private lands; however, projects on public land will be pursued where opportunities for cooperative cost-share projects exist.

(4) Approved projects will be funded on a first come, first served basis.

(5) Projects may not interfere with or duplicate other state or federal assistance programs. However, projects specific to the matching portion of other state or federal assistance programs will be considered.

(6) Participation in federal farm programs, state agricultural programs, hunter management programs, the hunting access enhancement program or other programs that provide for habitat or access enhancement does not preclude eligibility for landowners to also enroll property in the upland bird enhancement program.