42 U.S.C. § 12655h

(a) In general In the consideration of applications submitted under section 12655b of this title , the Corporation shall give preference to programs that— (1) will provide long-term benefits to the public; (2) will instill a work ethic and a sense of public service in the participants; (3) will be labor intensive, and involve youth operating in crews; (4) can be planned and initiated promptly; and (5) will enhance skills development and educational level and opportunities for the participants. (b) Special rule In the consideration of applications under this division the Corporation shall ensure the equitable treatment of both urban and rural areas.