As one element of project review, the Council developed a step review process for review of major investments, including new fish hatchery programs and facilities. Step review allows for review of scientific soundness, possible fish or wildlife benefits, environmental impacts, and design and fiscal considerations at appropriate stages in project development.
Step review includes a thorough review by the ISRP and the Council at three different phases: (1) master or conceptual planning; (2) preliminary design; and (3) final design. Projects may move to the next phase based on a favorable review and a Council recommendation to move to the next phase. The Council intends the step review process to be flexible and cost efficient. Depending on the nature and status of the proposed project, the Council may allow for a review that combines two or more of the steps in a single submission and review, or for a submission and review that addresses just part of a step in the review process.
