(1) The terms and conditions for an acceptable project will be set forth in a written contract between the department and the volunteer group and provide specifics for project implementation. Agreements may be for up to five years.

(2) Each approved agreement will include the following, when determined by the department to be necessary or appropriate:

(a) Permit to release fish or wildlife.

(b) Procedures for applying for a hydraulic project approval (HPA).

(c) Description of methods that will be used to provide the volunteer group with fish, eggs, wildlife, fish food or other available supplies which will be obtained from the department.

(3) If a proposal is rejected, the department must provide in writing to the volunteer group the reasons for the rejection. The volunteer group may appeal any decision rejecting a proposal to the director or the director's designee.

(4) Proposals accepted by the department may not commence until the volunteer group has executed a contract to undertake the project and that contract has been signed by the person within the department with the authority to do so. Any funds expended prior to the acceptance of a cooperative project contract, or orders for supplies or other action by the volunteer group after the completion date which would constitute a financial obligation will be considered the responsibility of the volunteer group.