Technical Assistance Categories

Updated 02/28/2008

Planning

Any activities associated with assisting a landowner in applying for permits and other land rights issues. Includes I&E and surveys not also necessary for design. Working with a landowner to ascertain (if not already planned) what variation of a practice is best for their site. For example, what type of grade stabilization structure or type of stacking area? Planning is done first, on a land-use basis. Then individual practices are selected.

Design

Surveys, geologic investigations, inventories, interviews, etc., necessary to perform the design. Design computations, preparation of plans, drawings and specifications or job sheets. Sealing plans, (if required by state Code). Certifying that plans, drawings and specifications or job sheets are completed in compliance with all provisions of state and NRCS standards and specifications.

Installation

Surveys and measurements for construction layout. Pre-construction conferences. Tests and measurements during construction, including surveys, compaction tests, concrete tests, gathering load tickets and certifications. Obtaining photographs to document steel placement, mulch cover, pre-construction conditions, etc.

Checkout

Surveys, measurements, observations to document completed practice complies with approved plans. Includes job sheets, photos and job diaries. Material certifications, weigh tickets,etc. that document installation. AS BUILT plans, where appropriate. Certificates of completion, acceptance letters or other necessary approvals from regulatory authorities.

Travel

Time going to and from the site to implement the selected practice. This category is a necessary part of getting the job done. The time estimated by field office specialists is multiplied by the average staff year cost. Does NOT reflect mileage, vehicle, or transportation related costs, meals, or lodging. Travel Costs will be allocated into the above three categories.

Other

Includes activities that do not clearly fit the application steps for conservation practices. In some cases state or local municipalities have requirements that must be fulfilled before work can proceed. One example is the need to contact a utility company before digging can start.

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