nrcs used watershed prioritization to determine specific areas eligible for accepting csp applications in each sign-up. the nrcs nationally prioritizes the watershed based on a score derived from a composite index of existing natural resource, environmental quality, and agricultural activity data. the watershed prioritization and identification process considers several factors. some of these factors include vulnerability of surface and ground water quality. also, potential for excessive soil quality degradation and condition of grazing land are also factors that are considering in determining the watersheds used for the conservation security program (4,6).