Progress Evaluation of the National Estuary Program
The 2021 Program Evaluation Guidance was updated in 2023 to capture efforts and accomplishments supported through funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL). In addition to the BIL requirements, language was added to convey that the EPA is also assessing the entire program, not just individual NEPs; results are used cumulatively to help the national program demonstrate its impact and help design the next generation of Comprehensive Conservation Management Plans. This guidance is to be used for programs undergoing Program Evaluations in 2024 and 2025.
To assess NEP progress in achieving long-term program goals, EPA conducts a Program Evaluation for each NEP. EPA developed NEP Program Evaluation Guidance that covers how to assess the effectiveness of NEP actions. The Guidance presented below includes performance measures, describes a process for conducting site visits, and provides a feedback loop which helps ensure that recommendations for improvement are implemented. This guidance was used for programs undergoing Program Evaluations in 2022 and 2023.