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Resource Science Division Guidelines for Proposals to

Evaluate Natural Resource Issues in Missouri

Missouri Department of Conservation

Resource Science Division

(Revised 25 May 2004)

INTRODUCTION

Scientific evaluations done well provide the credible information and accountability needed by

Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) decision makers to address a host of natural

resource issues. Such evaluations hinge on well-defined objectives and efficient study designs.

The guidelines herein discuss essential steps for developing evaluation proposals to be

considered for full or partial funding by Resource Science Division (RSD); the guidelines are

flexible provided the quality of the study is ensured. Every proposal will be represented by a

project leader, who is a RSD staff member functioning as the primary principal investigator or as

the primary administrative contact for evaluations not conducted by RSD staff. Project leaders

will use a team approach beginning early in proposal development. The team may consist of

MDC scientists, college/university scientists and students, MDC regional staff, biometricians,

data managers, scientists from other agencies, and other key professionals. Constructive critical

review is expected at all stages of the proposal development process.

PROPOSAL DEVELOPMENT GUIDELINES

The primary steps of the proposal process include defining a focused information need,

reviewing previous information (literature and data), developing a one-page project concept

(with explicit study objectives), developing a preliminary proposal for “Round I” and, if

necessary, “Round II” critical review by staff, and preparing a full evaluation proposal for

funding consideration by the RSD Leadership Team.

1. The Focused Information Need

The information need is clearly defined. The project leader will consult with a RSD

supervisor to discuss the relevance and timeliness of the need as well as available RSD staff

time in light of current workloads. Generally speaking, an information need will have more

weight if it is consistent with the MDC and RSD strategic plans compared to a need that is

not. Questions to consider include:

 Can the information need be met with current information?

 How will this information be used to improve management or policy decision making?

 Is the information vital or peripheral at the department, division, or regional level?

Research Project Planning System