; and (3) result in achieving the conservation goals of relevant statutes. (d) Eligibility In carrying out the pilot program established under subsection (b), the Secretary may not select more than 15 eligible projects to participate in the program. (e) Application process (1) In general The Secretary and the affected agency shall be jointly responsible for reviewing and approving applications for participation in the program, as set forth in this subsection. (2) Application The applicant shall submit a written application, in a form prescribed by the Secretary, requesting use of one or more innovative practices in the environmental review process for the project or proposal and identifying any flexibilities needed to carry out those innovative practices. (3) Written recommendation If the Secretary recommends approval of the application, the Secretary shall submit a written recommendation to the affected agency for review. The Secretary’s recommendation may include modifications to the applicant’s proposal. (4) Approval or denial of application The affected agency shall approve or deny the application, or approve the application with conditions. (5) Communication of decision Upon the final approval decision by the Secretary and affected agency, the Secretary shall communicate the decision in writing to the project sponsor, the affected State (if not the project sponsor), and each affected agency, and shall post the decision on the agency’s public website, and publish the decision in the Federal Register. The Secretary’s notice shall identify, with specificity, each Federal requirement that has been waived or otherwise modified. This decision shall be final. (f) Implementation Upon publication of the decision in the Federal Register pursuant to subsection (e)(5), the Secretary may initiate the proposal or the environmental review process for the project. Each Federal agency with responsibility for review, consultation, approval, or other role in the environmental review process for the project or proposal shall