(a) In assigning discharge restriction categories, the department will consider factors including the size of the waterbody, the nature of the surrounding district including the watershed, and the uses and quality of the waters. The department will also weigh the need for the additional water quality protection of the discharge restriction categories as compared with the assigned standards and best uses and the likelihood that the discharge restriction category will contribute to achieving the protection goals.

(b) As appropriate, additional consideration may be given to:

(c) Substantial weight will be given to obtaining consistency with provisions of existing watershed management or protection plans adopted or certified by the State or an entity of local government.