(a) To be eligible for assistance from the Fund, an animal waste technology project shall have strong potential for:

(1) Improving the public health and the environment;

(2) Preserving the viability of the agricultural industry; and

(3) Having a positive economic development impact in the State.

(b) If the amount of financial assistance requested exceeds the amount of money available in the Fund, the Department shall give preference to the animal waste technology projects that demonstrate the greatest potential for:

(1) Improving the public health and the environment;

(2) Preserving the viability of the agricultural industry; and

(3) Having a positive economic development impact in the State.