(1) Earlier releases of credits may be awarded by the department, in consultation with the signatories, as long as the maximum percentages for the release of potential credits specified in WAC 173-700-331 through 173-700-334 are not exceeded.

(2) Earlier releases of credits may be awarded by the department, in consultation with the signatories, if the sponsor performs approved actions beyond those identified in the instrument in order to increase the projected functions of the site. Earlier releases of credits will not be awarded for implementation of management activities that are necessary to attain the performance standards required in the instrument.

(3) Any deviation from the credit release schedule shall be documented in an amendment to the instrument.