Guidance Memoranda

Programmatic Regulations
Guidance Memoranda

Read Comments on the Guidance Memoranda (Jan 2008)
View Revised Final Draft CERP Guidance Memoranda (July 2007)
Read the CERP Guidance Memoranda FAQs

Section 385.5 of the Programmatic Regulations for Implementation of the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan specifically requires the Corps of Engineers and the South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) to develop six program-wide guidance memoranda, in consultation with the Department of the Interior and other entities, that establish additional procedures to achieve the goals and purposes of the Plan.

The guidance memoranda are fundamental to the integrated framework of tools, processes, and a n enforcement mechanism for ensuring that the goals and purposes of the Plan are achieved. The guidance memoranda document illustrates the interrelationship bet ween the tools and technical guidance used to implement the tools. The guidance memoranda address numerous topics including common methods, general procedures, and guidance to implement the Plan. The six program-wide subjects for the guidance memoranda as set forth in the programmatic regulations are:

GM #1:	Project Implementation Reports
GM #2:	Formulation and Evaluation of Alternatives for Project Implementation Reports
GM #3:	Savings Clause Requirements
GM #4:	Identifying Water Made Available for the Natural System and for Other Water Related Needs
GM #5:	Format and Content of Project Operating Manuals
GM #6:	Assessment Activities for Adaptive Management

The Corps and the SFWMD have posted the Guidance Memoranda for an informal review to allow interested parties the opportunity to begin the review process prior to the formal 60-day public comment period beginning Oct. 17 and ending Dec 17, 2007.

CERP Guidance Memoranda
Frequently Asked Questions
August 2007

Why are guidance and regulations for Everglades Restoration needed?
The programmatic regulations that guide CERP implementation require the development of more detailed planning and implementation guidance memoranda for CERP implementation. These procedures and guidelines provide the necessary technical, legal, and policy details for CERP projects.

May the public comment on the draft memoranda?
Yes. The public has the opportunity to comment on the revised final draft of the guidance memoranda. This comment period will last until 60 days after the notice of availability is published in the Federal Register.

Who approves the guidance memoranda?
The Secretary of the Army, after notice and opportunity for public comment, and with the concurrence of the Secretary of the Interior and the Governor of Florida, will approve the guidance memoranda.

What projects are affected by these new guidance memoranda?
These guidance memoranda are “programmatic,” meaning they apply to all CERP projects. The guidance and procedures provide consistency for all projects, while also providing flexibility for consideration of unique project features.

Will these additional regulations delay the implementation of CERP?
No. In fact, the guidance provides procedures for streamlining CERP projects and will enable project teams to expedite the reevaluation and design of CERP components.

How can I view the revised final draft guidance?
The documents are available directly below in the "Documents & Reports" box.

Final Draft Guidance Memoranda

Documents