A.__The board, in accordance with the rule-making provisions of the Maine Administrative Procedure Act and in consultation with natural resources agencies, shall adopt a strategic plan for each of the funding categories listed in section 10307.__The board may cooperate with other state or federal agencies in developing the plan or carrying out other functions under this subchapter.__The strategic plan must identify the priority areas for funding for 6 years using the criteria listed in section 10309.__The board may amend the strategic plan.

B.__The board shall review and award annually funding requests for specific projects from natural resources agencies.__The board may award grants only to proposals that conform to the strategic plan adopted pursuant to paragraph A.__Grant proposals that establish a public-private partnership are encouraged.__Grant proposals must include a stated purpose, a time line, potential outcomes, a budget and an explanation of need.

C.__The board shall submit an annual report to the Governor and the joint standing committees of the Legislature having jurisdiction over energy matters, natural resources matters and inland fisheries and wildlife matters.__In the annual report, the board shall detail expenditures made from the fund and the board's progress in implementing the strategic plan.

D.__Responsibility for administration of the board lies with the chair.__The board shall hire an executive director.__The executive director may hire an additional staff person, if the board determines it necessary.__The executive director directs the daily operation of the board.__Staff positions may be part-time.__The executive director position is unclassified and the executive director serves at the pleasure of the board.__The board shall prepare and adopt an annual budget to be included with the report required under paragraph C.__The board may obtain the services of consultants as necessary to carry out its functions under this subchapter.__The board may spend money to cover administrative costs.__The board shall endeavor to keep the level of administrative expenses as low as practicable and include, in its annual report, discussion of efforts to minimize administrative expenses.__State natural resources agencies shall provide staff support and assistance as determined necessary by the board.

§10309.__Fund distribution criteria for strategic