Comprehensive: The CIDMP framework makes it possible to for pilot project partners to combine fragmented and overlapping environmental requirements (ESA, CWA, instream flow, water permitting, HPA) into a single, comprehensive plan and agenda for coordinated action. Furthermore, following the sustainable development principle of the "triple bottom line," it allows for economic and community goals and objectives to be factored into the comprehensive management plan along with environmental goals and objectives.

Science-driven, Performance-based: The first criteria for selection of a CIDMP pilot is that it have good data - sufficient to make scientifically informed decisions regarding watershed processes (the delivery and flow of water, heat, nutrients, sediment, toxicants), functions, and restoration and protection priorities. Such data and analysis makes it possible to move responsibly from a prescriptive regime that dictates broadly applied "solutions" to a performance-based regime. Watershed data and analysis (from 2514 & 2496 watershed assessment and planning processes, TMDLs, SSHIAP, EDT, etc.) of this caliber across a number of watersheds is a relatively recent achievement, providing a new opportunity to develop performance-based approaches. Instead of looking at environmental needs through statutory "stove pipes", the CIDMP framework makes it possible to weave these requirements, as well as other needs, into quantifiable goals and specific performance measures. For example, instead of a prescriptive requirement for wide riparian buffers to address stream temperature, CIDMP pilot applicants could meet a performance measure for temperature by choosing from an array of options that provide the best local fit for efficiency and effectiveness. Under this example, applicants might combine smaller buffers and aquifer recharge through strategically located ponds and infiltration areas - and at the same time address instream flow and water quality needs. The CIDMP Technical Advisory Team (TAT), working with farmers and other local interests, is designed to help develop performance measures that meet a range of statutory and other requirements in the watershed context, and to develop a monitoring and evaluation system.

Coordinated: The CIDMP framework encourages ecosystem planning at sub-basin or watershed scales and envisions individual landowners coordinating, or pooling, their resources and efforts for maximum benefit in the planning area. For example, CIDMP partners might design a "watershed improvement district" under the authority of the State's enabling statute for irrigation districts (RCW Section 87.03). The watershed improvement district could pool water rights and reallocate water for agricultural needs and boost instream flows. The district could also engage in high priority habitat restoration and protection, irrigation efficiency measures, aquifer recharge, and replacement of surface diversions with appropriately located wells. The incentive for participation in this coordinated effort is the flexibility and cost-effectiveness of designing watershed solutions that result in streamlined and certified compliance with key environmental requirements.

Collaborative: The CIDMP model requires agencies, tribes, landowners, and other interests to jointly develop a strategic plan that meets environmental, economic, and community needs. The CIDMP sub-basin pilots are targeted in areas where traditional adversaries are working together in a collaborative manner and where the building blocks of a successful approach are present.

These features provide a unique opportunity for CIDMP pilot project partners in the to demonstrate that they can make rapid and dramatic progress toward recovering threatened and endangered species, improving ecosystem health, and receiving the certainty and efficiencies they need to sustain agricultural and community values.