Step 1: Build Partnerships (cont.)

Collaborating with Existing Programs

Watershed plans will most likely involve a combination of at least some local, state, tribal and federal partners. Therefore, it is important to identify any potential programs and activities that might be relevant to your watershed planning effort and to determine if you want to try to partner with them (e.g., existing monitoring programs in your watershed, point sources, Total Maximum Daily Loads (TMDLs) completed in the watershed, Clean Water Act 319 Nonpoint Source grants, Farm Bill programs, etc.). Also, if you are working in a watershed with hazardous waste issues, refer to EPA’s Integrating Water and Waste Programs to Restore Watersheds: A Guide for Federal and State Project Managers.

Many of these programs can offer assistance with planning, data collection, implementing controls, or even assist with developing regulations. In addition, some states have developed multi-agency partnerships for the support of monitoring and management practice implementation, which local groups can access. Including partners from these organizations in the watershed management process can help to ensure that any available datasets are identified and that any potential funding opportunities are noted.