The USPP is a collaborative that thrives because of the wisdom and experience of the participating organizations and their respective representatives. As a true collaborative partnership, it is committed to robust discussions by a diverse group of people and organizations. There is no single governing body and no single fiscal agent of the USPP. USPP activities and functions are supported by active partnering entities, a dedicated Watershed Coordinator position, professional third-party meeting facilitators, and college-level interns. 

USPP consists of three decision-making teams:

• Goals, Strategies, and Funding Team (GSFT)
• Management and Science Team (MST)
• Engagement, Communication, and Outreach (ECO) Team

Participating entities contribute what time and resources they are able to provide with consideration to funding and jurisdictional limitations. Group decisions within USPP teams (GSFT, MST, & ECO Team) are made by consensus whenever possible or by super-majority (2/3 of the members in attendance) for any major decision. 

Active USPP participants are committed to a “no surprises” rule. Members support the direction determined by the team, even if it is not their desired outcome. If they are unable to honor the decision and/or do not intend to abide by it, members are responsible for stating this and the associated reasoning clearly to the team. Members will also inform each other prior to taking any funding, project, public relations, or other action that could impact the work or reputation of the USPP. 

USPP’s teams (GSFT, MST, and ECO) will annually review USPP’s structure and protocols to ensure they continue to serve the group’s needs and expectations.