(a) Arrangement. O&M is a prerequisite for approval of Federal emergency assistance when:
(1) The emergency measure needs to be operated and maintained in order to serve its intended purpose, or
(2) The emergency measure needs to be operated and maintained to insure that it will not become hazardous.
(b) Time of operation and maintenance. The sponsor(s)' obligations for O&M begin when the measure is installed and extend for the duration of the time required for the emergency measure to serve the purpose for which it is installed.
(c) Performance. Operation and maintenance is to be performed in a manner that will protect the environment and otherwise comply with NRCS, State, and local requirements. The method of performing O&M is at the option of the sponsor(s).