Using cost-effectiveness is one of the factors required to rank EQIP applications specified in the EQIP Final Rule. This measure is calculated by dividing the total cost of implementing the BMP by the estimated environmental outcome(s) derived. While some state ranking systems incorporate cost-effectiveness in determining the ranking of applicants for funding, many others do not consider cost-effectiveness at all. Ranking applications based on cost-effectiveness will enable conservation programs to achieve greater environmental outcomes at lower cost. Furthermore, the precision in estimating the cost-effectiveness of a BMP can be improved by taking a more quantitative approach as discussed above. All states must routinely include and use the cost-effectiveness ranking criteria to allocate EQIP funds.