FY21-22 WCFSP FOA_Final.pdf

Department of the Interior Bureau of Reclamation Region 8: Lower Colorado Basin Region Boulder City, NV

Notice of Funding Opportunity No. BOR-LC-21-F002

Water Conservation Field Services Program Region 8: Lower Colorado Basin Region Financial Assistance for Fiscal Year 2021-2022

Mission Statements

The Department of the Interior (DOI) conserves and manages the Nation’s natural resources and cultural heritage for the benefit and enjoyment of the American people, provides scientific and other information about natural resources and natural hazards to address societal challenges and create opportunities for the American people, and honors the Nation’s trust responsibilities or special commitments to American Indians, Alaska Natives, and affiliated island communities to help them prosper.

The mission of the Bureau of Reclamation is to manage, develop, and protect water and related resources in an environmentally and economically sound manner in the interest of the American public.

NOFO No. BOR-LC-21-F002 i

Synopsis Federal Agency Name: U.S. Department of the Interior, Bureau of Reclamation, Region 8: Lower Colorado Basin Region Funding Opportunity Title:

Lower Colorado Basin Region Water Conservation Field Services Program (WCFSP) Financial Assistance for Fiscal Year (FY) 2021-2022

Announcement Type: Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) Funding Opportunity Number: BOR-LC-21-F002

Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) Number:

15.530

Application Due Date:

(See NOFO Sec. D.4)

Proposals will be accepted, evaluated, and selected on a rolling-basis until the final application submission deadlines:

the first closing date is December 7, 2020, at 4:00 p.m. Pacific Standard Time (PST) for FY 2021 proposals and the second closing date is October 8, 2021, at 4:00 p.m. PST for FY 2022 proposals. The NOFO will remain open between closing dates.

The tentative selection and announcement timeframe will be 60 days after each closing period.

Eligible Applicants:

(See NOFO Sec. C.1)

States, Indian tribes, irrigation districts, water districts, or other organizations with water or power delivery authority located in the Lower Colorado Basin Region as required by Sections 9502 and 9504(a) of Public Law 111-11.

Recipient Cost Share:

(See NOFO Sec. C.2)

50 percent or more of total activity costs must be met with non-Federal funds.

Federal Funding Amount:

(See NOFO Sec. B.2)

Up to $100,000 per entity per fiscal year. Multiple applications for funding may be submitted for consideration;

however, no more than $100,000 will be awarded to any one entity in any given fiscal year.

Estimated Number of Agreements to be Awarded:

(See NOFO Sec. B.1)

8 to 15 awards, per application submittal period, depending on submittals and authorized budget.

ii

Application Checklist The following table contains a summary of the information that you are required to submit with a WCFSP Grant application.

√ What to submit Form or format When to submit

Disclosure of Lobbying Activities

Form SF-LLL, available at http://www.grants.gov/web/grants/ forms/r-r-family.html#sortby=1 NOFO Page 10

Form SF-424 (Submitted as the cover page)

Form SF-424, available at http://www.grants.gov/web/grants/

Assurances Form

Form SF-424B or SF-424D, as applicable, available at http://www.grants.gov/web/grants/

Budget Form

Form SF-424A or SF-424C, as applicable, available at http://www.grants.gov/web/grants/

Title Page NOFO Page 10

Table of Contents NOFO Page 10

Technical Proposal: *

• Executive Summary NOFO Page 10

• Technical Project Description

NOFO Page 10

• Evaluation Criteria NOFO Pages 11 & 24

Environmental/Regulatory Compliance Information NOFO Pages 12 & 39 *

Required Permits and Approvals NOFO Page 13 * http://www.grants.gov/web/grants/forms/r-r-family.html#sortby=1 http://www.grants.gov/web/grants/forms/r-r-family.html#sortby=1 http://www.grants.gov/web/grants/forms/r-r-family.html#sortby=1 http://www.grants.gov/web/grants/forms/r-r-family.html#sortby=1 http://www.grants.gov/web/grants/forms/r-r-family.html#sortby=1 iii

√ What to submit Form or format When to submit

Funding Plan NOFO Page 14 *

Commitment Letters (if applicable) NOFO Page 14 **

Project Budget Proposal NOFO Page 15 *

• Sample Budget Format

• Budget Narrative

NOFO Page 16

NOFO Page 17

* December 7, 2020, at 4:00 p.m. Pacific Standard Time (PST) for FY 2021 proposals and October 8, 2021, at 4:00 p.m. Pacific Standard Time (PST) for FY 2022 proposals.

** Submit Commitment letters prior to award (see page 14 for instructions on how to submit) iv

Acronyms and Abbreviations ARC Application Review Committee ASAP Automated Standard Application for Payments CFDA Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance CFR Code of Federal Regulations CWA Clean Water Act DOI Department of the Interior DUNS Data Universal Number System ESA Endangered Species Act FY Fiscal year (Federal FY is from October 1-September 30) LCB Lower Colorado Basin Region NEPA National Environmental Policy Act NHPA National Historic Preservation Act NOFO Notice of Funding Opportunity P.L. Public Law PST Pacific Standard Time Reclamation Bureau of Reclamation RRA Reclamation Reform Act of 1982 SAM System for Awards Management SCADA Supervisory control and data acquisition SF Standard Form SPOC Single point of contact SOR System Optimization Review SHPO State Historic Preservation Office SWEP Small-Scale Water Efficiency Projects U.S.C. United States Code U.S. United States WCFSP Water Conservation Field Services Program v

Table of Contents Page

Section A: Funding Opportunity Description A.1. Water Conservation Field Services Program (WCFSP) Overview A.2. Objective of this Funding Opportunity Announcement A.3. Statutory Authority A.4. Other Related Funding Opportunities

Section B: Award Information B.1. Total Project Funding B.2. Project Funding Limitations B.3. Assistance Instrument

Section C: Eligibility Information C.1. Eligible Applicants C.2. Cost-Sharing Requirements

C.2.1. Cost-Share Regulations C.2.2. Donations and In-Kind Contributions

C.3. Eligible Projects C.3.1. Water Management Planning C.3.2. System Optimization Reviews (SOR) C.3.3. Designing Water Management Improvements C.3.4. Demonstrating Conservation Project Technologies

C.4. Ineligible Projects C.5. Length of Projects

Section D: Application and Submission Information D.1. Address to Request Application Package D.2. Content and Format of Application Submission

D.2.1. Application Format and Length D.2.2. Application Content

D.2.2.1. Mandatory Federal Forms D.2.2.2. Title Page D.2.2.3. Table of Contents D.2.2.4. Technical Proposal and Evaluation Criteria

Executive Summary Technical Project Description Evaluation Criteria

D.2.2.5. Environmental and Cultural Resources Compliance D.2.2.6. Required Permits or Approvals D.2.2.7. Letters of Support D.2.2.8. Project Budget

Funding Plan and Letters of Commitment Budget Budget Narrative vi

D.3. Unique Entity Identifier and System for Award Management (SAM) D.4. Instructions for Submission of Project Application

D.4.1. Submission Date and Time D.4.2. Application Delivery Instructions

D.4.2.1. Applications Submitted by Mail, Express Delivery or Courier Services D.4.2.2. Applications Submitted Electronically D.4.2.3. Acknowledgement of Application Receipt

D.5. Intergovernmental Review D.6. Funding Restrictions: Pre-award Costs D.7. Automated Standard Application for Payments (ASAP) Registration

Section E: Application Review Information E.1. Technical Proposal: Evaluation Criteria

E.1.1. Water Management Planning – 100 Points Available E.1.2. SOR – 100 Points Available E.1.3. Designing Water Management Improvements – 100 Points Available E.1.4. Demonstrating Conservation Project Technologies – 100 Points Available E.1.5. Table 4 - Evaluation Categories and Point Distribution

E.2. Review and Selection Process E.2.1. Initial Screening E.2.2. Application Review Committee (ARC) Review E.2.3. Red-Flag Review E.2.4. Managerial Review E.2.5. Pre-Award Clearances and Approvals

E.3. Anticipated Announcement and Federal Award Date Section F: Federal Award Administration Information

F.1. Federal Award Notices F.2. Administrative and National Policy Requirements

F.2.1 Environmental and Cultural Resources Compliance F.2.2. Title to Improvements (P.L. 111-11, Section 9504(a)(3)(D)) F.2.3. Liability under P.L. 111-11, Section 9504(a)(3)(F)

In General Tort Claims Act

F.2.3. Requirements for Agricultural Operations under P.L. 111-11, Section 9504(a)(3)(B)

F.3. Reporting Requirements and Distribution F.3.1. Financial Reports F.3.2. Program Performance Reports

F.4. Conflicts of Interest F.4.1. Applicability F.4.2. Requirements F.4.3. Notification F.4.4. Restrictions on Lobbying F.4.5. Review Procedures F.4.6. Enforcement

F.5. Data Availability F.5.1. Applicability vii

F.5.2. Use of Data F.5.3. Availability of Data

F.6. Releasing Applications Section G: Agency Contacts

G.1. Reclamation Financial Assistance Management Contact G.2. Reclamation Program Coordinator Contact viii

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Section A: Funding Opportunity Description

A.1. Water Conservation Field Services Program Overview

Through the WaterSMART programs, the Bureau of Reclamation (Reclamation) leverages Federal and non-Federal funding to work cooperatively with states, tribes, and local entities as they plan for and implement actions to increase water supply reliability through investments in existing infrastructure and attention to local water conflicts. WaterSMART provides support for the Department of the Interior’s (DOI) priorities, including creating a legacy of conservation stewardship, sustainably developing our energy and natural resources, modernizing our infrastructure through public-private partnerships, striking a regulatory balance, and restoring trust with local communities by improving relationships and communication with states, tribes, local governments, communities, landowners and water users. WaterSMART also supports Reclamation’s priorities, including increasing water supplies, leveraging science and technology to improve water supply reliability, addressing ongoing drought, and improving water supplies for tribal and rural communities.

Reclamation established the WCFSP in 1996 to proactively encourage water conservation in the operations of recipients of water from Federal water projects and to assist agricultural and urban water districts in preparing and implementing water conservation plans in accordance with the Reclamation Reform Act of 1982 (RRA). Through the WCFSP, which is managed by each of Reclamation’s regional offices, Reclamation makes cost-shared financial assistance available for the development of water conservation plans, the design of water management improvements, identifying needed water management improvements through System Optimization Reviews (SORs), and improving the understanding of water conservation techniques and technologies through demonstration projects.

Through this NOFO, Reclamation will provide funding for the planning of projects that, when implemented, will increase water reliability and improve water management through the use of expanded technologies and improved modeling capabilities, consistent with the goals of the October 19, 2018 Presidential Memorandum on Promoting the Reliable Supply and Delivery of Water in the West. For further information on the WaterSMART Program, please see www.usbr.gov/WaterSMART. Reclamation’s Lower Colorado Basin Region (LCB) is requesting proposals to fund activities in support of its WCFSP within the LCB.

In November 2018, DOI completed a realignment of regional boundaries. The LCB, formerly bounded by the lower Colorado River hydrologic basin, shifted slightly as a result. It is now primarily comprised of southern Nevada, the entire state of Arizona, and southern California.

Please see the map below for areas covered under this NOFO. In addition to the areas on this map, LCB will accept applications from Washington County, Utah (which has historically been part of this NOFO), and the State of Hawaii.

http://www.usbr.gov/WaterSMART

A.2. Objective of this Funding Opportunity Announcement

The objective of this NOFO is to invite states, Indian tribes, irrigation districts, water districts, cities and towns, or other organizations with water or power delivery authority located within the LCB to leverage their money and resources by cost-sharing water conservation planning activities with Reclamation to make more efficient use of existing water supplies.

A.3. Statutory Authority

This NOFO is issued under the authority of Section 9504(a) of the Secure Water Act, Subtitle F of Title IX of the Omnibus Public Land Management Act of 2009, Public Law [P.L.] 111-11 (42 United States Code [U.S.C.] 10364).

A.4. Other Related Funding Opportunities

The WaterSMART Grants: Small-Scale Water Efficiency Projects (SWEP) NOFO provides cost-shared financial assistance for small-scale water management projects (up to $75,000 in Federal funding for each project) that have been identified through previous planning efforts.

Reclamation has developed a streamlined selection and review process to reflect the small-scale nature of these projects.

The WaterSMART Grants: Water and Energy Efficiency Grants NOFO provides cost-shared financial assistance for larger water conservation projects (up to $1.5 million in Federal funding for each project) resulting in quantifiable and sustained water savings.

Section B: Award Information

B.1. Total Project Funding

The President’s FY 2021 budget request includes $695,000 for WCFSP Grants within the LCB.

Reclamation will determine the final amount of funding available for award under this NOFO once final FY 2021 appropriations have been made. Information about FY 2022 funding will be provided when appropriations information is released. The amount of funding available for awards under this NOFO will depend on the demand for funding under this and other components of the LCB WCFSP.

Applications submitted under this NOFO may also be considered for additional funding should it become available in FY 2021 or thereafter.

B.2. Project Funding Limitations

The Federal share (Reclamation’s share in addition to any other sources of Federal funding) for any project shall not exceed 50 percent of the total costs.

A maximum of $100,000 per entity per FY in Federal funding may be allocated to proposals awarded funding under this NOFO. Multiple applications for funding may be submitted for consideration; however, no more than $100,000 per FY will be awarded to any one entity.

B.3. Assistance Instrument

Project awards will be made through grants or cooperative agreements as applicable to each project. If a cooperative agreement is awarded, the recipient should expect Reclamation to have substantial involvement in the project. Substantial involvement by Reclamation may include:

• Collaboration and participation with the recipient in the management of the project and close oversight of the recipient’s activities to ensure that the program objectives are being achieved.

• Oversight may include review, input, and approval at key interim stages of the project.

Upon the request of the recipient, Reclamation can provide technical assistance after award of the project. If an entity receives Reclamation’s assistance, that entity must account for these costs in its budget. To discuss available assistance and these costs, contact the program coordinator identified in Section G: Agency Contacts.

Section C: Eligibility Information

C.1. Eligible Applicants

Applicants eligible to receive an award under P.L. 111-11, Sec. 9502, to fund activities include:

• States

• Indian tribes

• Irrigation districts

• Water districts

• Other organizations with water or power delivery authority

In addition, applicants must be located in the LCB; Washington County, Utah; or the State of Hawaii. Please see the location map in Section A.1 of this NOFO.

Those not eligible include, but are not limited to, the following entities:

• Federal governmental entities

• Institutions of higher education

• Individuals

• 501(c)(4) organizations

• 501(c)(6) organizations

C.2. Cost-Sharing Requirements

Applicants must be capable of cost-sharing 50 percent or more of the total project costs. Cost-sharing may be made through cash or in-kind contributions or donations from the applicant or third-party partners. Cost-share funding from sources outside the applicant’s organization (e.g., loans or state grants) should be secured and available to the applicant prior to award. Please see Section D.2.2.8. Funding Plan and Letters of Commitment for more information regarding the documentation required to verify commitments to meet cost-sharing requirements.

C.2.1. Cost-Share Regulations

All cost-share contributions must meet the applicable administrative and cost principles criteria established in 2 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 200, available at www.ecfr.gov.

C.2.2. Donations and In-Kind Contributions

Donations and in-kind contributions constitute the value of noncash contributions that benefit a Federally assisted project. If provided, these contributions may be in the form of real property, equipment, supplies, and other expendable property, as well as the value of goods and services (e.g., volunteer labor) directly benefiting and specifically identifiable to the project or program.

The cost or value of donations and in-kind contributions that have been or will be relied on to satisfy a cost-sharing or matching requirement for another Federal financial assistance http://www.ecfr.gov/ agreement, a Federal procurement contract, or any other award of Federal funds may not be relied on to satisfy the cost-share requirement for an award under this NOFO. The exception to this requirement is where the Federal statute authorizing a program specifically provides that Federal funds made available for such program can be applied to matching or cost sharing requirements of other Federal programs, such as awards to tribal organizations under P.L. 93- 638, as amended. Applicants should refer to 2 CFR §200.434 for regulations regarding the valuation of in-kind donations and contributions, available at www.ecfr.gov.

C.3. Eligible Projects

All proposals will be evaluated against the Evaluation Criteria stated in Section E of this NOFO.

Projects to be considered should address one of the following task component areas:

C.3.1. Water Management Planning

A Water Management and Conservation Plan provides an entity with an opportunity to document data on current water supply and demand, prepare a forecast for future water demands, identify water conservation goals, and determine conservation measures (e.g., cost/pricing of water, water accounting, landscape efficiency, information and education, water use regulation). This component involves the development of written water management and/or conservation plan.

Water conservation plans are required for entities having a contract with the United States for the delivery of Colorado River water in the LCB in accordance with the RRA. The water conservation plan may be modeled after plans described in Achieving Efficient Water Management: A Guidebook for Preparing Municipal Water Conservation Plans, and Achieving Efficient Water Management: A Guidebook for Preparing Agricultural Water Conservation Plans, Second Edition (Guidebooks). These publications are available at https://www.usbr.gov/lc/region/g4000/conservation/manuals.html. The proposed planning activity/project should address one or more of the planning tasks discussed in these guidebooks.

Please note: Priority is preferentially given to an entity having a water delivery contract in the LCB that is required to develop a water conservation plan. For an applicant existing as a sub-agency under or receiving Colorado River water from a Reclamation water contractor (e.g., The Metropolitan Water District of Southern California, Southern Nevada Water Authority, etc.), the applicant should explain its link to the Reclamation water contractor and its system to receive the maximum amount of points for this section.

C.3.2. System Optimization Reviews (SOR)

A SOR is a review of an applicant’s water delivery system and processes. The SOR assesses the potential for water management improvements and identifies a plan of action containing recommendations for implementing specific improvements having the potential to enhance water management. The review can include an analysis of the entire water delivery system, district, watershed, or a portion thereof. SORs are intended to take a broad look at system-wide efficiency and are not focused on single project-specific planning (e.g., an irrigation district evaluating its delivery system or a municipality or utility performing a system-wide water audit).

https://www.usbr.gov/lc/region/g4000/conservation/manuals.html

SORs allow an entity to assess its systems efficiency and identify issues determined by the system analysis that will assist in the selection of potential improvement projects (e.g., supervisory control and data acquisition [SCADA] and other automation to reduce specific issues such as spills, over-deliveries, and seepage).

The following are components of a SOR:

● Gather information (e.g., surveying, data searches, literature reviews, site visits);

● Identify, describe, and prioritize water management issues;

● Establish goals; and

● Identify, evaluate, and prioritize potential improvement projects with the ability to mitigate the identified issues and accomplish goals.

o The evaluation of improvement projects could consider: the water management benefits associated with the improvement, anticipated construction and operating costs (as applicable), as well as environmental, regulatory, cultural, and economic impacts.

o An effort to better quantify the associated benefits of the proposed improvement projects and eligible subtasks (e.g., soil infiltration tests, required monitoring activities).

If an applicant’s previous planning efforts have addressed one or more of the components above, the applicant can propose funding for the remaining components for a complete system analysis.

The SOR final report will serve as the final product of the SOR analysis, and will summarize the analysis performed.

C.3.3. Designing Water Management Improvements

The designing of improvement projects may include the design of projects such as pipelines, canal lining, water measurement structures, or other improvement projects that enhance water management. Upon completion of prior planning efforts (e.g., water management and conservation plans or SOR) to identify solutions for water management issues, this activity provides for the funding for the design of identified water management improvement projects.

This includes the performing of necessary preliminary tasks needed in preparation for a design such as surveying and gathering pertinent site specific information (e.g., hydraulic head available at site, soil testing, groundwater level). Eligible subtasks under this activity also include peer-review for the design, development of a cost estimate including cost scoping for regulatory compliance activities (e.g., environmental, cultural), and identification of necessary regulatory requirements (i.e., permits).

Examples of eligible design activities include, but are not limited to:

● Design for conversion of an open conveyance system (e.g., canal) to a closed conveyance system (e.g., pipeline) resulting in conserved water (i.e., reduced evaporation);

● Design for lining of canal with proven materials or technology resulting in conserved water (i.e., reduced/eliminating seepage);

● Design of weirs, flumes, ramps, and other irrigation flow measurement devices in an open channel;

● Design of control structures for an irrigation system (e.g., check structures, drop structures, division structures);

● Design for installation of meters within a distribution system resulting in improved water management (i.e., leakage quantification);

● Design for system implementation of SCADA and automation components intended to result in improved water management (i.e., reduced spills, over-deliveries, and seepage);

● Design of irrigation system regulating reservoirs resulting in improved management of water supply (i.e., reduced spills, more flexibility in water delivery operations, excess water interception at end of system);

● Design for aquifer storage recovery ponds; and

● Design for water storage ponds.

Land/title acquisition and environmental/cultural resources compliance work is not eligible under this activity.

C.3.4. Demonstrating Conservation Project Technologies

Demonstrating Conservation Project Technologies are activities that include the installation or application of a particular technology in a new innovative way, or in a new setting, with the intent of answering questions with regards to the reliability of the technology and broadcasting the results to others for wider adoption. The activity should demonstrate innovative technologies in water conservation that increase technical understanding of unfamiliar water management and practices that have not been previously used locally.

This type of project is often required because there are questions of whether a particular technology will be effective for application to an entire full service area. Therefore, a demonstration, or pilot project, is used to answer these questions or address doubts of whether it would be cost effective to pursue use of the technology in the agency’s water conservation program.

The proposed activity/project should not only publicly demonstrate a new or unfamiliar practice;

it should contain a process for public outreach or informing interested individuals and organizations about the demonstration’s outcome. In order to qualify as a demonstration program, the applicant must not have conducted any portion of the proposed project or used the technology in the past. For projects that have been tested in the past but warrant further assessment prior to full-scale implementation, SWEP grants may be a funding program that is appropriate for this type of project (see posted NOFO under www.grants.gov).

Please Note: Reclamation recognizes that education is an important part of any water conservation program; however, no education activities will be funded until clear authority from Reclamation exists for education grants under the WCFSP. Please ensure education activities are not included in the proposal. However, outreach meetings to distribute demonstration findings or provide details to customers about the program rules and guidelines are appropriate.

http://www.grants.gov/

C.4. Ineligible Projects

Proposals for the development of planning studies are not eligible for funding under this WCFSP NOFO. This includes proposals for the development of appraisal investigations, feasibility studies, special studies, drought contingency plans, Basin Studies, or studies authorized under the Title XVI Water Recycling and Reuse Program, through P.L.102-575, as amended (43 U.S.C.

390h et seq.), or under the Rural Water Program, pursuant to the Rural Water Supply Act of 2006, P.L.109-451 ( https://www.usbr.gov/ruralwater/general/index.html ).

Proposals for on-the-ground construction activities are also ineligible for funding under this

NOFO.

Projects that are considered normal operations, maintenance and replacement (OM&R) are not eligible under any WaterSMART Program, including this NOFO. OM&R is described as system improvements that replace or repair existing infrastructure or function without providing increased efficiency or effectiveness of water distribution over the expected life of the improvement. Examples of ineligible OM&R projects include:

• Replacing malfunctioning components of an existing facility with the same components

• Improving an existing facility to operate as originally designed

• Performing an activity on a recurring basis, even if that period is extended (e.g., 10-year interval)

• Sealing expansion joints of concrete lining because the original sealer or the water stops have failed

• Sealing cracks in canals and/or pipes, including those sealant projects intending to improve facilities with inherent design and construction flaws

• Replacing broken meters with new meters of the same type

• Replacing leaky pipes with new pipes of the same type

Applicants that have questions regarding OM&R are encouraged to contact the Program Coordinator listed in Section G: Agency Contacts, prior to the application deadline for further information.

C.5. Length of Projects

In general, applicants should propose activities/projects that can be completed within 2 years from of the estimated project start date. Any proposal extending a project’s completion date beyond 2 years shall explain the need for additional time.

https://www.usbr.gov/ruralwater/general/index.html

Section D: Application and Submission Information

D.1. Address to Request Application Package

This NOFO contains all information, forms, and electronic addresses required to obtain the information required for submission of an application.

If you are unable to access this information electronically, you can request paper copies of any of the documents referenced in this NOFO by contacting the following grants management specialist:

By mail: Bureau of Reclamation

Acquisition and Assistance Management Office Attn: Ms. Sharon Opfermann, LC-105074 P.O. Box 61470 Boulder City, NV 89006-1470

By e-mail: sopfermann@usbr.gov

By telephone: 702-293-8449

D.2. Content and Format of Application Submission

All applications must conform to the requirements set forth below.

D.2.1. Application Format and Length

All pages shall be consecutively numbered, including tables, appendices, and exhibits. The font used should be easy to read and at least 11 point. The Project Narrative/Technical Proposal shall be limited to no more than 15, one sided, single spaced, 8 ½ by 11 inch pages, excluding any forms required in these instructions. Oversized pages will not be accepted. The Standard Form (SF)-424 (used as the cover page), Assurances (SF-424B or SF-424D, as applicable), Budget Form (SF-424A or SF-424C, as applicable), Disclosure of Lobbying Activities Form (SF-LLL), blank pages, title page, blueprints, appendices, environmental compliance documentation, budget narrative, funding plans, and table of contents pages will not be counted towards the 15 page limit.

Please do not include a cover letter, organization literature, and/or brochures with your proposal.

Do not place proposals in binders or plastic covers.

All applications will be prescreened for compliance with the page number limitations. If the proposal narrative exceeds 15, only the first 15 pages will be evaluated.

D.2.2. Application Content

The application must include the following elements to be considered complete:

D.2.2.1. Mandatory Federal Forms

• SF-424 Application for Federal Assistance;

• SF-424 Budget Information (A or C Form, as applicable to the project);

• SF-424 Assurances (B or D Form, as applicable to the project); and

• SF-LLL Disclosure of Lobbying Activities.

The above forms may be obtained at http://www.grants.gov/web/grants/forms/r-r-family.html#sortby=1.

D.2.2.2. Title Page

Provide a brief, informative, descriptive title for the proposed work that indicates the nature of the project. Include the name and address of the applicant, and the name, address, e-mail address, and telephone number of the project manager.

D.2.2.3. Table of Contents

List all major sections of the technical proposal in the table of contents.

D.2.2.4. Technical Proposal and Evaluation Criteria

Executive Summary

The Executive Summary should include:

• Submission date, applicant name, city, county, and state;

• A one-paragraph project summary that specifies the work proposed, including how project funds will be used to accomplish specific project activities, and briefly identifies how the proposed project contributes to accomplishing the goals of this NOFO (see Section C.3. Eligible Projects); and

• A statement of the estimated length of time and completion date for the project.

Technical Project Description

On a separate line, on the first page of the Project Narrative, clearly identify which task area component will be addressed through the proposed activity/project. To ensure the proposal receives the points it merits, applicants are strongly encouraged to explain how the proposed project relates to the Evaluation Criteria outlined in Section E. DO NOT attempt to address ALL of the criteria. Applicants must select the ONE task area component that most directly applies to the proposed activity/project and address the criteria for that ONE component. If a project has aspects of more than one area of emphasis, choose which one that best describes the primary reason for the project.

Briefly discuss the background and location of the applicant’s organization. Identify the objective of the proposed project, and identify whether the project is a component of an approved conservation or management plan. Include a map showing the precise location of the proposed project.

In detail, describe the technical work to be performed. Applicants should break down the proposed work into major tasks/milestones, and discuss the approach and evaluation techniques that will be used to accomplish the proposed work. This discussion should provide sufficient detail to permit a comprehensive evaluation of the proposal and its outcomes. Include engineering plans, designs, and analyses as part of the proposal as applicable. Plans and designs should be included as an appendix to the proposal. Multi-year applications should include such information for each year of the proposed activity.

Project Schedule – Provide the anticipated schedule for each milestone (see Table 1) by identifying the anticipated start and end dates of all major stages/tasks/milestones of the project proposal. Explain any variations from proposed start dates shown in Section E.3., under Anticipated Award Date. Multi-year applications should include such information for each year of the proposed activity. Be sure to include any milestones for environmental and cultural reviews, if applicable.

Table 1. Milestones

Milestone/Task/Activity Planned Start Date Planned Completion Date

Evaluation Criteria

It is suggested that applicants ‘copy and paste’ the evaluation criteria and subcriteria listed in Section E into their application to ensure all necessary information is adequately addressed and easy to find. As identified above, the applicant should address criteria from the one component that most pertains to the proposed project.

(See Section E for a detailed description of each criterion and subcriterion and the points associated with each.) The evaluation criteria portion of the application should thoroughly address each criterion and subcriterion in the order presented to assist in the complete and accurate evaluation of the proposal.

D.2.2.5. Environmental and Cultural Resources Compliance

To allow Reclamation to assess probable environmental and cultural resources impacts and costs associated with each application, all applicants must respond to the following list of questions focusing on the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), Endangered Species Act (ESA), and National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA) requirements. If the application is for planning, a SOR, or design, the environmental and cultural questions may not be applicable to the effort;

however, the applicant should address the questions in terms as to how they will be addressed during the project.

Proposals requiring ground-disturbing work must address the questions to the best of the applicants’ knowledge. If any question is not applicable to the project, please explain why. These questions must be addressed for any project submitted for funding under another NOFO;

therefore, the questions should be considered during design and planning activities.

• Will the proposed project impact the surrounding environment (e.g., soil [dust], air, water [quality and quantity], animal habitat)? Briefly describe all earth-disturbing work and any work that will affect the air, water, or animal habitat in the project area. Also explain the impacts of such work on the surrounding environment and any steps that could be taken to minimize the impacts.

• Are you aware of any species listed or proposed to be listed as Federal threatened or endangered species, or designated critical habitat in the project area? If so, would they be affected by any activities associated with the proposed project?

• Are there wetlands or other surface waters inside the project boundaries that potentially fall under Clean Water Act (CWA) jurisdiction as “Waters of the United States?” If so, please describe and estimate any impacts the proposed project may have.

• When was the water delivery system constructed?

• Will the proposed project result in any modification of, or effects to, individual features of an irrigation system (e.g., headgates, canals, or flumes)? If so, state when those features were constructed and describe the nature and timing of any extensive alterations or modifications to those features completed previously.

• Are any buildings, structures, or features in the irrigation district listed or eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic Places? A cultural resources specialist at your local Reclamation office or State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) can assist in answering this question.

• Are there any known archeological sites in the proposed project area?

• Will the proposed project have a disproportionately high or adverse effect on low income or minority populations?

• Will the proposed project limit access to, and ceremonial use of, Indian sacred sites or result in other impacts on tribal lands?

• Will the proposed project contribute to the introduction, continued existence, or spread of noxious weeds or non-native invasive species known to occur in the area?

Please contact Reclamation’s regional or an area office (https://www.usbr.gov/lc/region/g4000/wtrconsv.html) with questions regarding ESA compliance issues or contact Mr. Kenneth Isakson at 702-293-8537 for further information.

Please Note: If mitigation is required to lessen environmental impacts, the applicant may, at Reclamation’s discretion, be required to report on progress and completion of these commitments. Reclamation will coordinate with the applicant to establish reporting requirements and intervals accordingly.

Generally, if a building or structure is 50 years old or older, or if there is any ground disturbance, assume some environmental compliance costs will be required in the budget. At a minimum, assume at least 2 percent of total cost of the project to cover environmental compliance. This amount can always be removed from the budget should the applicant be selected and it is determined not to be needed.

Under no circumstances may an applicant begin any ground-disturbing activities (including grading, clearing, and other preliminary activities) on a project before environmental compliance is complete and until Reclamation provides written notice to proceed to the Recipient from the Grants Officer that all such clearances have been obtained. This pertains to all components of the proposed project, including those that are part of the applicant’s non- Federal cost-share. Reclamation will provide a successful applicant with information once environmental compliance is complete. An applicant that proceeds before environmental compliance is complete may risk forfeiting Reclamation funding under this NOFO.

D.2.2.6. Required Permits or Approvals

Applicants must state in the application whether any permits or approvals are required and explain the plan for obtaining such permits or approvals. Note that improvements to Federal facilities that are implemented through any project awarded funding through this NOFO must comply with additional requirements. The Federal government will continue to hold title to the Federal facility and any improvement that is integral to the existing operations of that facility (see P.L. 111-11, Section 9504(a)(3)(B)). Reclamation may also require additional reviews and approvals prior to award to ensure that any necessary easements, land use authorizations, or special permits can be approved consistent with the requirements of 43 CFR Section 429, and that the development will not impact or impair project operations or efficiency.

D.2.2.7. Letters of Support

Please include letters from interested stakeholders supporting the proposed project. To ensure the proposal is accurately reviewed, please attach all letters of support/partnership letters as an appendix. Note: letters of support will not count against the application page limit. Letters of https://www.usbr.gov/lc/region/g4000/wtrconsv.html support received after the application deadline for this NOFO will not be included with the application.

D.2.2.8. Project Budget

The project budget shall include:

• Funding plan and letters of commitment;

• Budget; and

• Budget narrative.

Funding Plan and Letters of Commitment

Describe how the non-Federal share of project costs will be secured. Reclamation will use this information in making a determination of financial capability.

Project funding provided by a source other than the applicant shall be supported with letters of commitment from these additional sources. This is a mandatory requirement. Letters of commitment shall identify the following elements:

• The amount of funding commitment;

• The date the funds will be available to the applicant;

• Any time constraints on the availability of funds; and

• Any other contingencies associated with the funding commitment.

Commitment letters from third party funding sources should be submitted with the project application. If commitment letters are not available at the time of the application submission, please submit the commitment letters to Ms. Sharon Opfernmann at the address provided below.

Proof of cost-share funding from sources outside the applicant’s organization (e.g., loans or state grants), should be secured and available to the applicant prior to award.

By mail: Bureau of Reclamation

Acquisition and Assistance Management Office Attn: Ms. Sharon Opfermann, LC-105047 P.O. Box 61470 Boulder City, NV 89006-1470

Reclamation will not make funds available for a financial assistance project until the recipient has secured non-Federal cost-share. Reclamation will execute a financial assistance agreement once non-Federal funding has been secured, or Reclamation determines there is sufficient evidence and likelihood that non-Federal funds will be available to the applicant subsequent to executing the agreement.

The funding plan must include all project costs, as follows:

1) Describe how the applicant will contribute to the cost-share requirement, such as monetary and/or in-kind contributions and/or source funds contributed by the applicant (e.g., reserve account, tax revenue, and/or assessments).

2) Describe any in-kind costs incurred before the anticipated project start date sought to be included as project costs.

3) Identify what per-award project expenses have been incurred and describe the amount of the expense. Include:

a) The benefit to the project and

b) The date of cost incurrence.

4) Provide the identity and amount of funding to be provided by funding partners, as well as the required letters of commitment.

5) Describe any funding requested or received from other Federal partners. Note, other sources of Federal funding may not be counted towards the 50 percent cost-share unless otherwise allowed by statute.

6) Describe any pending funding requests that have not yet been approved, and explain how the project will be affected if such funding is denied.

Please include the following chart (Table 2) to summarize the non-Federal and other Federal funding sources. Denote in-kind contributions with an asterisk (*). Please ensure the total Federal funding (Reclamation and all other Federal sources) does not exceed 50 percent of the total estimated project cost.

Table 2—Summary of non-Federal and Federal funding sources Funding sources Funding amount

Non-Federal entities

Non-Federal subtotal:

Other Federal entities

Other Federal subtotal:

Requested Reclamation funding:

Total project funding:

Budget

The project budget shall include detailed information on the categories listed below and must clearly identify all project costs. Unit costs shall be provided for all budget items including the cost of work to be provided by contractors. Additionally, applicants shall include a narrative description of the items included in the project budget, including the value of in-kind contributions of goods and services provided to complete the proposed project. It is strongly advised that applicants use the budget proposal format shown in Table 3 below or a similar format that provides the detailed information for each catagory. If selected for award, successful applicants shall submit detailed supporting documentation for all budgeted costs.

Table 3 - Sample Budget Format

BUDGET ITEM DESCRIPTION COMPUTATION Quantity Type

TOTAL

COST $/Unit Quantity

Salaries and Wages Employee 1 $

Employee 2 $

Subtotal $

Fringe Benefits Full-Time Employees $

Part-Time Employees $

Subtotal $

Travel Trip 1 $

Trip 2 $

Subtotal $

Equipment Item A $

Item B $

Subtotal $

Supplies and Materials

Item A $

Item B $

Subtotal $

Contractual/Construction

Contractor A $

Contractor B $

Subtotal $

Other Other $ Subtotal $

TOTAL DIRECT COSTS $

Indirect Costs Type of rate percentage $base $

TOTAL ESTIMATED PROJECT COSTS $

Budget Narrative

Submission of a budget narrative is mandatory. An award will not be made to any applicant who fails to fully disclose this information. The budget narrative provides a discussion of, or explanation for, items included in the budget proposal. Include the value of in-kind contributions of goods and services and sources of funds provided to complete the proposed project. Costs, including the valuation of in-kind contributions and donations, must comply with the applicable cost principles contained in 2 CFR Part §200, available at the electronic CFR website (www.ecfr.gov).

The types of information to describe in the budget narrative include, but are not limited to, those listed in the following subsections:

Salaries and Wages Indicate program manager and other key personnel by name and title. Other personnel may be indicated by title alone. For all positions, indicate salaries and wages, estimated hours, and rate of compensation proposed. The labor rates should identify the direct labor rate separate from the fringe rate or fringe cost for each category. All labor estimates, including any proposed subcontractors, shall be allocated to specific tasks as outlined in the recipient’s technical project description. Labor rates and proposed hours shall be displayed for each task.

Include estimated hours for compliance with reporting requirements, including final project and evaluation. Please see Section F.3. Reporting Requirements and Distribution for information on types and frequency of reports required.

Clearly identify any proposed salary increases and the effective dates.

Generally, salaries of administrative and/or clerical personnel will be included as a portion of the stated indirect costs. If these salaries can be adequately documented as direct costs, they should be included in this section; however, a justification should be included in the budget narrative.

Fringe Benefits Indicate rates/amounts, what costs are included in this category, and the basis of the rate computations. Indicate whether these rates are used for application purposes only or whether they are fixed or provisional rates for billing purposes. Federally approved rate agreements are acceptable for compliance with this item.

Travel Travel estimates need to include the purpose of the trip, destination, number of persons traveling, length of stay, airfare (basis for rate used), per diem, lodging, and miscellaneous travel expenses. For local travel, include mileage and rate of compensation.

Equipment Itemize costs of all equipment having a value of over $5,000 and include information as to the need for this equipment, as well as how the equipment was priced if being purchased for the agreement. If equipment is being rented, specify the number of hours and the hourly rate.

Local rental rates are only accepted for equipment actually being rented or leased for the project. If equipment currently owned by the applicant is anticipated for use under the proposed project, and the cost to use that equipment is being included in the budget as in-kind cost share, provide the rates and hours for each piece of equipment owned and budgeted. These should be ownership rates developed by the recipient for each piece of equipment. If these rates are not available, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ recommended equipment rates for the region are acceptable. Blue book, Federal Emergency Management Agency, and other databases should not be used.

Materials and Supplies Itemize supplies by major category, unit price, quantity, and purpose, such as whether the items are needed for office use, research, or construction. Identify how these costs were estimated (e.g., quotes, past experience, engineering estimates, or other methodology).

Contractual Identify all work that will be accomplished by sub-recipients, consultants, or contractors, including a breakdown of all tasks to be completed, and a detailed budget estimate of time, rates, supplies, and materials that will be required for each task. If a sub-recipient, consultant, or contractor is proposed and approved at time of award, no other approvals will be required.

Any changes or additions will require a request for approval. Identify how the budgeted costs for sub-recipients, consultants, or contractors were determined to be fair and reasonable.

Environmental and Regulatory Compliance Costs Applicants must include a line item in their budget to cover environmental compliance costs.

“Environmental compliance costs” refer to costs incurred by Reclamation or…