BOR-CGB-20-F002 SacRHabitat FINAL 03.18.2020.pdf

U.S. Department of the Interior Bureau of Reclamation Interior Region 10 California Great Basin January 2020

Notice of Funding Opportunity Announcement No.

BOR-CGB-20-F002

Sacramento River Salmonid Habitat Restoration

Mission Statements The Department of the Interior 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.

Synopsis i

Synopsis Federal Agency Name: Department of the Interior, Bureau of Reclamation,Interior

Region 10, California Great Basin Funding Opportunity Title: Sacramento River Salmonid Habitat Restoration Announcement Type: Notice of Funding Opportunity Announcement (NOFO) Funding Opportunity Number:

BOR-CGB-20-F002

Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) Number:

15.512

Dates:

(See NOFO Sec. D.4)

This NOFO covers one application submittal period.

Application due date for Fiscal Year (FY) 2020 funding:

Thursday May 21, 2020, at 2:00 p.m. Pacific Standard Time

Funding available for projects submitted under the submittal period is contingent on available appropriations.

Eligible Applicants:

(See NOFO Sec. C.1)

The State of California or an agency or subdivision thereof, an Indian tribe, or a non-profit entity

Recipient Cost Share:

(See NOFO Sec. C.2)

Costs associated with implementation of Public Law 102-575, Section 3406 (b)(13) shall be reimbursed in accordance with the following formulas: 37.5 percent shall be reimbursed as main project features, 37.5 percent shall be considered a nonreimbursable Federal expenditure, and 25 percent shall be paid by the State of California Costs associated with Section 3406(b)(1) shall be reimbursable pursuant to existing statutory and regulatory procedures.

Federal Funding Amount:

(See NOFO Sec. B)

Up to $10,000,000 per agreement for a project that can be completed within five years.

Estimated Number of Agreements to be Awarded:

(See NOFO Sec. B)

Approximately 1-4 projects per application submittal period contingent upon available Federal appropriations.

Intergovernmental Review:

(See NOFO Sec. D.5)

This NOFO is subject to Executive Order 12372, “Intergovernmental Review of Federal Programs.” A list of states that have elected to participate in the intergovernmental review process is at www.whitehouse.gov/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/SPOC-February-2019.pdf.

http://www.whitehouse.gov/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/SPOC-February-2019.pdf

Application Checklist iii

Application Checklist

The following table contains a summary of the information that you are required to submit with your application.

What to submit

Required content

Form or format

When to submit

Mandatory Federal Forms:

Application for Federal Financial Assistance

Budget Information

Assurances

Disclosure of Lobbying Activities

See Sec. D.2.2.1 SF-424, SF-424A, SF-424B and SF-LLL forms may be obtained at www.grants.gov/web/grants/forms/sf- 424-family.html

Title page See Sec. D.2.2.2 * Table of contents See Sec. D.2.2.3 * Technical proposal: * Executive summary See Sec. D.2.2.4 * Background data See Sec. D.2.2.4 *

Project location See Sec. D.2.2.4

Project description See Sec. D.2.2.4 *

Evaluation criteria See Sec. E.1 * Project Budget: * Funding plan See Sec. D.2.2.5 Page 15 * Budget proposal See Sec. D.2.2.5 Page 16 * Budget narrative See Sec. D.2.2.5 Page 17 * Required permits or approvals See Sec. D.2.2.6 *

Unique Entity Identifier and System for Award Management

See Sec. D.3 ***

* Submit materials with your application.

** Document should be submitted with your application; however, please refer to the applicable section of the NOFO for extended submission date.

*** Should be completed prior to the application deadline; however, please refer to the applicable section of the NOFO for extended completion date.

https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/forms/sf-424-family.html https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/forms/sf-424-family.html

Acronyms and Abbreviations v

Acronyms and Abbreviations

ASAP Automated Standard Application for Payments ARC Application Review Committee CFDA Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance CFR Code of Federal Regulations CVP Central Valley Project CVPIA Central Valley Project Improvement Act Department U.S. Department of the Interior DUNS Data Universal Number System EA Environmental Assessment EIS Environmental Impact Statement ESA Endangered Species Act FAPIIS Federal Award Performance Integrity Information System FEMA Federal Emergency Management Agency NOFO Notice of Funding Opportunity FOIA Freedom of Information Act FY fiscal year GSA Government Services Administration NHPA National Historic Preservation Act P.L. Public Law Reclamation Bureau of Reclamation ROD Record of Decision SAM System of Award Management SF Standard Form SHPO State Historic Preservation Officer SPOC Single Point of Contact USACE United States Army Corps of Engineers U.S.C. United States Code

Contents vii

Contents

Page Section A. Funding Opportunity Description

A.1. Program Information A.2. Objective of this Notice of Funding Opportunity Announcement A.3. Statutory Authority

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.3. Eligible Projects

Section D. Application and Submission Information D.1. Address to Request Application Package D.2. Content and Form of Application Submission D.3. Unique Entity Identifier and System for Award Management D.4. Submission Date and Time D.5. Intergovernmental Review D.6. Automated Standard Application for Payments Registration

Section E. Application Review Information E.1. Evaluation Criteria E.2. Review and Selection Process E.3. Federal Award Performance Integrity Information System E.4. 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.3. Reporting—Requirements and Distribution F.4. Conflicts of Interest F.5. Data Availability F.6. Releasing Applications

Section G. Agency Contacts G.1. Financial Assistance Contact G.2. Program Coordinator Contact

Section A. Funding Opportunity Description

Section A. Funding Opportunity Description A.1. Program Information The Sacramento River contains populations of Chinook salmon and steelhead trout, some of which are listed under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). Flow regulation and stream channel manipulations have modified the salmonid habitat. Gravel is regularly lost from spawning sites on the river and rearing habitat is degraded.

Through this Notice of Funding Opportunity Announcement (NOFO), the Bureau of Reclamation (Reclamation) provides funding for projects that restore, maintain and improve the Chinook Salmon and steelhead habitats consistent with the goals of Public Law (P.L.) 102-575, Title XXXIV, Central Valley Project Improvement Act, Sections 3406(b)(13), (b)(1), and 3407(e).

A.2. Objective of this Notice of Funding Opportunity Announcement

The objective of this NOFO is to restore, maintain and improve Chinook Salmon and steelhead habitats and thereby improve the status of the species in California.

Actions can include:

• Create new side channels and modify existing side channels to create and/or improve rearing habitats for the juvenile life stages of anadromous salmonids in the Sacramento River and tributaries;

• Place woody material, boulders, and other structures as appropriate, to provide habitat for salmonids;

• Create/enhance incrementally inundating floodplain habitat;

• Provide spawning habitat/coarse substrate;

• Provide passage to and from disconnected habitats;

• Conduct pre-and post-project site surveys and monitoring to document the effectiveness of projects at improving salmonid habitat; and

• Coordinate activities with an interagency restoration group consisting of agencies and local stakeholders. Projects will be selected through a competitive process that will focus on achieving the outcomes identified in this NOFO.

A.3. Statutory Authority This NOFO is issued under the authority of P.L. 102-575, Title XXXIV of the Central Valley Project Improvement Act, Sections 3406(b)(13), (b)(1)(a), and 3407(e).

Funding Opportunity Announcement No. BOR-MP-20-F002

The habitat projects in the Sacramento River upstream of Red Bluff Diversion Dam will use the 3406(b)(13) authority and other projects will use 3406(b)(1).

Section D. Application and Submission Information

Section B. Award Information B.1. Total Project Funding Up to $40 million is available for award under this NOFO through the CVPIA Program. Project funds are limited to eligible applicants. See Section C.1 for more information.

B.2. Project Funding Limitations Up to $10 million in Federal funds could be available in fiscal year (FY) 2020, with up to approximately $40 million available over the next five years.

B.3. Assistance Instrument Awards will be made through cooperative agreements. Recipients should expect Reclamation to have substantial involvement in the project. Substantial involvement by Reclamation will include:

• Providing survey, design, and biological services as needed. Reclamation will oversee project implementation in coordination with the recipient.

• Coordination with the recipient on biological and engineering support for project planning, design, and implementation to ensure projects are implemented effectively.

• Participation in the Sacramento River Restoration Technical Team and make decisions as needed on project implementation.

• Working with the recipient to obtain permits, hold permits and serve as Federal lead for the project.

• Providing technical information including habitat criteria, permitting information, and construction guidance for projects.

• Providing access to Reclamation-owned facilities and/or properties.

At the request of the recipient, Reclamation can provide technical assistance after award of the project. If you receive Reclamation’s assistance, you must account for these costs in your 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 As specified in CVPIA Section 3407(e) an eligible applicant is the State of California or an agency or subdivision thereof, an Indian tribe, or a non-profit entity concerned with restoration, protection, or enhancement of fish, wildlife, habitat, or environmental values who is able to assist in implementing any action authorized by this title in an efficient, timely, and cost effective manner. The Secretary is authorized to provide funding to such entity on such terms and conditions as he deems necessary to assist in implementing the identified actions.

To be eligible under this NOFO, applicants must participate in a technical consultation with Reclamation staff prior to development of a proposal.

To schedule a technical consultation, contact the program coordinator identified in Section G. Agency Contacts.

C.2. Cost Sharing Requirements Costs associated with implementation of P.L. 102-575, Section 3406 (b)(13) shall be reimbursed in accordance with the following formulas: 37.5 percent shall be reimbursed as main project features, 37.5 percent shall be considered a nonreimbursable Federal expenditure, and 25 percent shall be paid by the State of California.

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. Third-Party In-Kind Contributions

Third-party in-kind contributions may be in the form of equipment, supplies, and other expendable property, as well as the value of services directly benefiting and specifically identifiable to the proposed project. The cost or value of third-party in-kind contributions that have been or will be relied on to satisfy a cost-sharing or matching requirement for another Federal financial assistance 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 Contributions and donations for regulations regarding the valuation of third-party in-kind contributions, available at www.ecfr.gov.

http://www.ecfr.gov/ https://www.ecfr.gov/

C.3. Eligible Projects C.3.1 Eligible Projects

Projects should seek to restore, maintain and improve the Chinook Salmon and steelhead habitats in the Sacramento River and its tributaries to improve the status of the species. Projects should result in quantifiable and reliable benefit to the species.

The following are current CVPIA project priorities in the Sacramento River area.

All Chinook Runs:

• Increase perennially inundated juvenile habitat, Sacramento River above the American River confluence;

• Increase seasonally inundated juvenile habitat at two-year frequency Sacramento River above American River confluence;

• Increase spawning habitat, Upper Sacramento River;

• Adaptively manage juvenile habitat restoration to allow the evaluation of the effect of habitat restoration on wild juvenile Chinook salmon survival in the Sacramento River;

• Increase access to juvenile rearing habitat in Sutter and Yolo Bypasses;

and

• Maintain spawning habitat in the CVP streams.

Previously funded projects in the Sacramento River include:

• Re-opening of historic side channels to provide habitat year-round and particularly during low flow periods, when these types of habitats are most limited;

• Incorporating large and fine woody material into projects to provide juvenile cover;

• Addition of anchored juvenile rearing structure in deep-water and pond-like areas where juvenile cover is limited;

• Spawning gravel placement to provide immediately usable spawning habitat;

• Coarse sediment augmentation to provide a source of material to be transported downstream under high flows and make up for that blocked by the dams; and

• Monitoring effectiveness of projects using a before-after, control-treatment framework.

Specific projects prioritized by the Sacramento River Restoration Technical Team and not yet underway are the following listed by project name and river mile. The tiers represent priorities of the group with Tier 1 being highest priority and Tier 3 being lowest priority. Other project sites not listed below and otherwise meeting the criteria could also be funded. The authority covering each project site follows each site name.

Tier 1:

• Keswick gravel placement 302 (b)(13)

• Redding Riffle gravel placement 297.7 (b)(13)

• Turtle Bay Island gravel and juvenile rearing habitat 297 (b)(13)

• Kapusta 1b 287.5(b)(13)

• Kapusta Island 288.1 (b)(13)

• Battle Creek Levee ~3 miles up Battle Creek (b)(1)

• Mooney Unit 235 (b)(1)

• Blethen Island 223 (b)(1)

• Blackberry Island 239.5 (b)(1)

Tier 2:

• Wyndham 293.8 (b)(13)

• Tobiasson Island 291.6 (b)(13)

• I-5 280.4 (b)(13)

• Dog Island 246 (b)(13)

• La Barranca 239.7 (b)(1)

• Oklahoma Island 238 (b)(1)

• McClure Creek 226.5 (b)(1)

• Foster Island 211 (b)(1)

Tier 3:

• Salt Creek gravel 300.7 (b)(13)

• Cow Creek 280.6 (b)(13)

• China Garden 279.2 (b)(13)

• Rancho Breisgau 274.4 (b)(13)

• Battle Creek Floodplain 271.4 (b)(13)

• Jellys Ferry 268 (b)(13)

• Altube Island 242.5 (b)(1)

• Flynn Unit 231 (b)(1)

Applications may include any one, or combination of the types of projects below.

In general, if an applicant is seeking funding for multiple projects and those projects are interralated or closely related, they should be combined into one application. Conversely, if the projects can be completed independently and are easily separated or phased, they should be applied for separately.

Applicants may submit multiple project proposals or multiple projects within a single proposal.

Points may be awarded for proposals with planning efforts that provide support for the proposed project.

The following types of projects can be proposed in the Sacramento River and Sacramento River tributaries in suitable locations.

• Create New Side Channels/Modify Existing Side Channels: create and/or improve rearing habitats for the juvenile life stages of anadromous salmonids in the Sacramento River watershed.

• Place Woody Material, Boulders, and Other Structures: to provide and increase cover habitat for salmonids.

• Create/Enhance Incrementally Inundating Floodplain Habitat: to provide and increase rearing habitat and food availability for salmonid juveniles under elevated flow conditions.

• Provide Spawning Gravel/Course Substrate in the River: to maintain and increase spawning habitat for salmonids.

• Provide Fish Passage into Disconnected Habitats: to provide access to currently inaccessible habitat for salmonids.

C.3.2. Ineligible Projects

Projects specifically not identified in C.3.1. Eligible Projects, will not be eligible for funding consideration.

C.3.3. Length of Projects

Projects funded under this NOFO should be completed within five years of award.

Section D. Application and Submission Information

D.1. Address to Request Application Package This document 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:

By mail: Bureau of Reclamation

Financial Assistance Branch Attn: Ms. Christina Muñoz 2800 Cottage Way, Room E-1815 Sacramento, CA 95825

By email: cmunoz@usbr.gov

D.2. Content and Form of Application Submission All applications must conform to the requirements set forth below.

D.2.1. Application Format and Length

The technical proposal and criteria section (defined below) shall be limited to a maximum of 30 consecutively numbered pages. If this section of the application exceeds 75 pages, only the first 75 pages will be evaluated. The font shall be at least 12 points in size and easily readable. Page size shall be 8½ by 11 inches, including charts, maps, and drawings. Margins should be standard 1-inch margins. Oversized pages will not be accepted.

Applications will be prescreened for compliance to the above page number limitation. Excess pages will be removed and not considered in the evaluation of the proposed project.

D.2.2. Application Content

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

• Mandatory Federal Forms:

o Standard Form (SF)-424 Application for Federal Assistance o SF-424A Budget Information Non-Construction Programs o SF-424B Assurances Non-Construction Programs o SF-LLL Disclosure of Lobbying Activities (if applicable) mailto:ihoiby@usbr.gov o Verification of Automated Standard Application for Payments (ASAP) account o Verification of System of Award Management (SAM) account

These forms may be obtained at www.grants.gov/web/grants/forms/sf- 424-family.html.

• Title page

• Table of contents

• Technical proposal and evaluation criteria (limited to 30 pages):

o Executive summary o Background data o Project location o Project description o Evaluation criteria

• Project budget:

o Funding plan o Budget proposal o Budget narrative

• Required permits or approvals

D.2.2.1. Mandatory Federal Forms The application must include the following standard Federal forms.

SF-424 Application for Federal Assistance

A fully completed SF-424, Application for Federal Assistance signed by a person legally authorized to commit the applicant to performance of the project must be submitted with the application. Failure to submit a properly signed SF-424 may result in the elimination of the application from further consideration.

SF-424 Budget Information

A fully completed SF-424A Budget Information for Non-Construction Programs must be submitted with the application.

SF-424 Assurances

A SF-424B Assurances for Non-Construction Programs signed by a person legally authorized to commit the applicant to performance of the project shall be included. Failure to submit a properly signed SF-424B or SF-424D may result in the elimination of the application from further consideration.

SF-LLL Disclosure of Lobbying Activities

A fully completed and signed SF-LLL, Disclosure of Lobbying Activities is required is required if the applicant has made or agreed to make payment to any lobbying entity for influencing or attempting to influence an officer or employee http://www.grants.gov/web/grants/forms/sf-424-family.html http://www.grants.gov/web/grants/forms/sf-424-family.html of any agency, a Member of Congress, an officer or employee of Congress, or an employee of a Member of Congress in connection with a covered Federal action.

ASAP Registration

All applicants must maintain an ASAP registration with current information at all times while they have an active Federal award or an application under consideration. Please provide verification of an open and active ASAP account.

SAM Registration

All applicants must maintain an active SAM registration with current information at all times while they have an active Federal award or an application under consideration. Please provide verification of an open and active SAM account. A screenshot of your SAM account submitted with your application will be considered verification.

D.2.2.2. Title Page Provide a brief, informative, and descriptive title for the proposed work that indicates the nature of the project. Include the name and address of the applicant, and the name and address, email address, and telephone of the project manager.

D.2.2.3. Table of Contents List all major sections of the proposal in the table of contents.

D.2.2.4. Technical Proposal and Evaluation Criteria The technical proposal and evaluation criteria (30 pages maximum) include:

(1) Executive summary

(2) Background data

(3) Project location

(4) Project description

(5) Evaluation criteria

Executive Summary

The executive summary should include:

• The date, applicant name, city, county, and state.

• A one paragraph project summary that specifies the work proposed, including how funds will be used to accomplish specific project activities and briefly identifies how the proposed project contributes to accomplishing the goals of this NOFO.

• State the length of time and estimated completion date for the proposed project.

• Whether or not the project is located on Federal land.

Background Data

Provide a map of the area showing the location of the proposed projects. The map should easily identify the project area and major geographic features including roads, streams, reservoirs, towns, and canals.

Identify known landowners, easements, and utility rights of way.

Describe habitat conditions in the area regarding carrying capacity for the target fish species and include the expected limiting factors to salmonid productivity within the project reach and through the rest of the lifecycle from the project area through the Bay Delta and the ocean.

Describe the applicant’s relationship to habitats of the Sacramento River, Bay Delta, and tributaries.

Identify any past working relationships with Reclamation. This should include the date(s), description of the relationship(s) with Reclamation, and a description of the projects(s).

Describe any other relevant background information.

Project Location

Provide specific information on the proposed planning area (e.g., watershed, basin, county). Please also provide location information for the planning area (i.e., outline of the area) in one of the following formats:

1. Shapefile (.shp)

2. KMZ/KML (.kmz or .kml) aka Google Earth File

3. PDF map (.pdf)

Project Description

The project description should describe the work in detail, including specific activities that will be accomplished. This description shall have enough detail to permit a comprehensive evaluation of the proposal.

Provide an estimated project schedule demonstrating the stages and duration of the proposed work, including major milestones and dates.

Briefly describe and summarize any engineering plans, designs, and analyses to be prepared in connection with the proposed project.

Describe working closely with Reclamation to implement salmonid habitat restoration projects and coordinating with agencies and other appropriate entities in selecting project sites, conducting site surveys, obtaining permits for projects and monitoring effects of projects on the environment. Typical objectives and tasks involved in completing an aquatic habitat improvement project are shown below.

Objective: Restore side channels, floodplain, riverbank, spawning and other important salmonid habitats to improve spawning, rearing, holding, and migratory habitats for freshwater life stages of anadromous salmonids in the Sacramento River and its tributaries.

• Conduct site investigations

• Contact and arrange agreements with landowners

• Conduct site surveys and investigations as needed for project permitting and design

• Obtain approval to implement identified projects through environmental compliance and permitting. Potentially needed permits include National Environmental Policy Act required analysis (potentially California Environmental Quality Act) and documentation on environmental effects.

Obtain permits as needed for the project such as the Clean Water Act Section 401 and 404 permits, ESA coverage through National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Fisheries and the US Fish and Wildlife Service, State Lands Commission lease and flood risk assessments

• Complete project designs and model design performance (biological and physical) through an interactive process with input from the interagency coordination group

• Conduct topographic site surveys before, during and following projects to assess the change in conditions from the project

Objective: Implement project designs for salmonid habitat restoration projects.

• Implement in-channel rearing habitat, side channel habitat, spawning habitat, floodplain habitat, and fish passage projects. Include habitat structure using woody material, planting, and rock as needed to optimize habitat value.

Objective: Conduct pre and post biological and physical monitoring to evaluate the effectiveness of the projects at meeting the needs of the targeted species.

• Survey for and document juvenile and adult salmonid habitat use, timing, sizes, and intensity of use. Include macroinvertebrate and water quality monitoring as needed to document project effectiveness. Compare habitat project sites to other control sites in the river before and after implementation. Document and report monitoring results. Ensure monitoring meets Science Integration Team monitoring guidelines.

Objective: Coordinate activities within the Interagency Restoration group.

• Prioritize activities with the group and maintain a public website for dissemination of activities to the group members and the public.

Demonstrated Results Explain how this project will benefit the salmonid populations in the Sacramento River watershed. Be specific by including measurable outcomes. Describe how objectives will be addressed.

Provide the following information regarding project benefits:

(a) Identify estimated benefits to ESA listed and non-ESA listed salmonids by species and lifestage in regard to numbers of fish, habitat productivity, population resiliency, ability to withstand environmental variability.

(b) Identify any indirect benefits such as benefits to other ecosystem attributes, educational opportunities, recreational opportunities. If the time period that such benefits will continue is different from the time period indicated above in response to (a), please explain.

(c) Discuss other benefits from the proposed project which are not included above. Any expected benefits that cannot be quantified should be described in a narrative.

(d) Provide documentation and support for how estimates of direct project benefits and any indirect project benefits were made (i.e., calculations, measurements, and references).

Need for the Project and Community Involvement

Explain the need for the proposed project to include:

• The urgency of the project.

• The negative consequences or potential impacts if not implemented.

• Other information relevant to the need of the proposed project.

Describe any public outreach that the applicant has provided to groups or individuals that may be affected by the project. Include how other local agencies might be involved in the project, third party impacts, and any opposition to the proposed project.

Evaluation Criteria

(See Section E.1. Evaluation Criteria for additional details, including a detailed description of each criterion and sub criterion and points associated with each.)

The evaluation criteria portion of your application should thoroughly address each criterion and sub criterion in the order presented to assist in the complete and accurate evaluation of your proposal.

It is suggested that applicants copy and paste the evaluation criteria and sub criteria in Section E.1. Evaluation Criteria into their applications to ensure that all necessary information is adequately addressed.

D.2.2.5. Project Budget The project budget includes:

(1) Funding plan

(2) Budget proposal

(3) Budget narrative

Note: Budget proposals should not include costs that have already been incurred or are anticipated to be incurred prior to the award of the financial assistance agreement. Pre-award costs are not authorized for projects funded under this NOFO.

Please note that the costs for preparing and applying in response to this NOFO, including the development of data necessary to support the proposal, are not eligible project costs under this NOFO and must not be included in the project budget.

Funding Plan

Describe how the non-Federal share of project costs will be obtained.

Reclamation will use this information in making a determination of financial capability.

Budget Proposal

The total project cost (Total Project Cost), is the sum of all allowable items of costs, including all required cost sharing and voluntary committed cost sharing, including third-party contributions, that are necessary to complete the project.

Table 1.—Total Project Cost Table

SOURCE AMOUNT

Costs to be reimbursed with the requested Federal funding $ Costs to be paid by the applicant $ Value of third-party contributions $

TOTAL PROJECT COST $

Table 2.—Summary of Non-Federal and Federal Funding Sources

FUNDING SOURCES AMOUNT

Non-Federal Entities

1.

2.

3.

Non-Federal Subtotal

REQUESTED RECLAMATION FUNDING

The budget proposal should include detailed information on the categories listed below and must clearly identify all items of cost, including those that will be contributed as non-Federal cost share by the applicant (required and voluntary), third-party in-kind contributions, and those that will be covered using the funding requested from Reclamation, and any requested pre-award costs. Unit costs must be provided for all budget items including the cost of services or other work to be provided by consultants and contractors. Applicants are strongly encouraged to review the procurement standards for Federal awards found at 2 CFR §200.317 through §200.326 before developing their budget proposal.

It is also strongly advised that applicants use the budget proposal format shown below in Table 3 or a similar format that provides this information. If selected for award, successful applicants must submit detailed supporting documentation for all budgeted costs.

Table 3.—Sample Budget Proposal Format

BUDGET ITEM DESCRIPTION

COMPUTATION Quantity

Type

TOTAL

COST $/Unit Quantity

Salaries and Wages Employee 1 $ Employee 2 $ Employee 3 $ Fringe Benefits Full-Time Employees $ Part-Time Employees $ Travel Trip 1 $ Trip 2 $ Trip 3 $ Supplies and Materials Item A $ Item B $ Contractual/Construction Contractor A $ Contractor B $ Third-Party Contributions Third-Party Contributions $ Other Other $

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. The types of information to describe in the narrative include, but are not limited to, those listed in the following subsections. Costs, including the valuation of third-party in-kind contributions, must comply with the applicable cost principles contained in 2 CFR Part §200, available at the Electronic Code of Federal Regulations (www.ecfr.gov).

Note: All successful applications will undergo a rigorous cost-price analysis and multi-level review prior to award of Federal funding. The budget narrative’s cost items will be used for this analysis. If the grant application does not contain the appropriate amount of detail and supporting documentation, the award process will be delayed, and may result in the elimination of the application from further consideration.

The budget narrative should support Table 3.

Salaries and Wages

Indicate the Project Manager and other key personnel by name and title. The Project Manger must be an employee or board member of the applicant. Other personnel should be indicated by title alone. For all positions, indicate salaries and wages, estimated hours or percent of time, and rate of compensation. The labor rates must identify the direct labor rate separate from the fringe rate or fringe cost for each position. All labor estimates must be allocated to specific tasks as outlined in the applicant’s technical project description. Labor rates and proposed hours shall be displayed for each task.

The budget proposal and narrative should 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.

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

Identify the rates/amounts, what costs are included in this category, and the basis of the rate computations. Federally approved rate agreements are acceptable for compliance with this item.

Travel

Identify the purpose of each anticipated trip, destination, number of persons traveling, length of stay, and all travel costs including airfare (basis for rate used), per diem, lodging, and miscellaneous travel expenses. For local travel, include mileage and rate of compensation. Note: travel costs incurred by contractors should not be included in this section but can be included in the contract cost estimate.

Equipment

Budget proposals should not include the purchase of equipment. Per 2 CFR §200.33, equipment means tangible personal property (including information technology systems) having a useful life of more than one year and a per-unit acquisition cost which equals or exceeds the lesser of the capitalization level established by the non-Federal entity for financial statement purposes, or $5,000.

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 (i.e., quotes, past experience, engineering estimates, or other methodology). Note: If the materials/supplies will be provided by a consultant, the costs should be included in the consultant contract cost estimate.

Contractual

Identify all work that will be accomplished by 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. For each proposed contract, identify the procurement method that will be used to select the consultant or contractor and the basis for selection. Please note that all procurements with an anticipated aggregate value that exceeds the Simplified Acquisition Threshold (currently $10,000) must use a competitive procurement method (see 2 CFR §200.320 – Methods of procurement to be followed). Only contracts for architectural/engineering services can be awarded using a qualifications-based procurement method. If a qualifications-based procurement method is used, profit must be negotiated as a separate element of the contract price. See 2 CFR §200.317 through §200.326 for additional information regarding procurements, including required contract content.

Third-Party In-Kind Contributions

Identify all work that will be accomplished by third-party contributors, 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. Third-party in-kind contributions, including contracts, must comply with all applicable administrative and cost principles criteria, established in 2 CFR Part 200, available at www.ecfr.gov, and all other requirements of this NOFO.

Other Expenses

Any other expenses not included in the above categories shall be listed in this category, along with a description of the item and why it is necessary. No profit or fee will be allowed.

Indirect Costs

Indirect costs are costs incurred by the applicant for a common or joint purpose that benefit more than one activity of the organization and are not readily assignable to the activities specifically benefitted without undue effort. Costs that are normally treated as indirect costs include, but are not limited to, administrative salaries and fringe benefits associated with overall financial and organizational administration; operation and maintenance costs for facilities and equipment; and, payroll and procurement services. If indirect costs will be incurred, identify the proposed rate, cost base, and proposed amount for allowable indirect costs based on the applicable cost principles for the applicant’s organization. It is not acceptable to simply incorporate indirect rates within other direct cost line items.

If the applicant has never received a Federal negotiated indirect cost rate, the budget may include a de minimis rate of up to 10 percent of modified total direct costs. For further information on modified total direct costs, refer to 2 CFR §200.68 available at www.ecfr.gov. If the proposed project is selected for award, the recipient will be required to submit an indirect cost rate proposal with their cognizant agency within 3 months of award.

If the applicant does not have a federally approved indirect cost rate agreement and is proposing a rate greater than the de minimis 10 percent rate, include the computational basis for the indirect expense pool and corresponding allocation base for each rate. Information on “Preparing and Submitting Indirect Cost Proposals” is available from the Department’s Interior Business Center, and Indirect Cost Services, at www.doi.gov/ibc/services/finance/indirect-cost-services.

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.

D.2.2.7. Existing Drought Contingency Plan (if applicable) If there is an existing drought contingency plan addressing the relevant geographic area, please attach a copy (or relevant sections) of the existing plan.

https://www.doi.gov/ibc/services/finance/indirect-cost-services https://www.doi.gov/ibc/services/finance/indirect-cost-services

D.3. Unique Entity Identifier and System for Award Management

All applicants (unless the applicant has an exception approved by Reclamation under 2 CFR §25.110[d]) are required to:

(i) be registered in SAM before submitting its application;

(ii) provide a valid unique entity identifier in its application; and

(iii) continue to maintain an active SAM registration with current information at all times during which it has an active Federal award or an application or plan under consideration by a Federal awarding agency.

Meeting the requirements set forth above is mandatory. If the applicant is unable to complete registration by the application deadline, the unique entity identifier must be obtained, and SAM registration must be initiated within 30 days after the application deadline in order to be considered for selection and award.

Reclamation will not make a Federal award to an applicant until the applicant has complied with all applicable unique entity identifier and SAM requirements and, if an applicant has not fully complied with the requirements by the time Reclamation is ready to make an award, Reclamation may determine that the applicant is not qualified to receive a Federal award and use that determination as a basis for making a Federal award to another applicant.

D.4. Submission Date and Time This NOFO identifies one submittal period. The application submission deadline is May 21, 2020, at 2:00 p.m. Pacific Standard Time for FY 2020 funding.

Proposals received after the application deadline will not be considered unless it is determined that the delay was caused by Reclamation mishandling or technical issues with the Grants.gov application system. Please note that difficulties related to an applicant’s Grants.gov profile (e.g., incorrect organizational representative), the upload of documents to Grants.gov, or an applicant’s SAM registration are not considered technical issues with the Grants.gov system.

Please note that any application submitted for funding under this NOFO may be subjected to a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request (5 United States Code (U.S.C.) Section 552 as amended by P.L. No. 110-175), and as a result, may be made publicly available.

D.4.1. Application Delivery Instructions

The application may be submitted electronically through Grants.gov (www.grants.gov) or e-mail cmunoz@usbr.gov.

D.4.2. Instructions for Submission of Project Application

Each applicant should apply in accordance with the instructions contained in this section.

D.4.2.1. Applications Submitted by Mail, Express Delivery or Courier Services Please follow these instructions to submit your application by mail, express delivery, or courier services.

• Applicants should submit one copy of all application documents for hardcopy submissions. Only use a binder clip for documents submitted.

Do not staple or otherwise bind application documents.

• Hard copy applications may be submitted by mail, express delivery, or courier services to the addresses identified in this NOFO.

• Materials arriving separately will not be included in the application package and may result in the application being rejected or not funded.

This does not apply to letters of support, funding commitment letters, or official resolutions.

• Faxed and emailed copies of application documents will not be accepted.

• Do not include a cover letter or company literature/brochure with the application. All pertinent information must be included in the application package.

D.4.2.2. Applications Submitted Electronically If the applicant chooses to submit an electronic application, it must be submitted through Grants.gov (www.grants.gov). Reclamation encourages applicants to submit their applications for funding electronically through the URL:

www.grants.gov/applicants/apply-for-grants.html. Applicant resource documents and a full set of instructions for registering with Grants.gov (www.grants.gov) and completing and submitting applications online are available at:

www.grants.gov/applicants/apply-for-grants.html.

• Please note that submission of an application electronically requires prior registration through Grants.gov, which may take 7 to 21 days. Please see registration instructions at www.grants.gov/applicants/apply-for-grants.html. In addition, please note that the Grants.gov system only accepts applications submitted by individuals that are registered and http://www.grants.gov/ http://www.grants.gov/ http://www.grants.gov/applicants/apply-for-grants.html http://www.grants.gov/ http://www.grants.gov/applicants/apply-for-grants.html http://www.grants.gov/applicants/apply-for-grants.html http://www.grants.gov/applicants/apply-for-grants.html active in SAM as both a user and an Authorized Organizational Representative.

• Applicants have experienced significant delays when attempting to submit applications through Grants.gov. If you plan to submit your application through Grants.gov you are encouraged to submit your application several days prior to the application deadline. If you are a properly registered Grants.gov applicant and encounter problems with the Grants.gov application submission process, you must contact the Grants.gov Help Desk to obtain a case number. This case number will provide evidence of your attempt to apply prior to the submission deadline.

Regardless of the delivery method used, you must ensure that your proposal arrives by the date and time deadline stated in this NOFO. Applications received after this date and time due to weather or express delivery/courier performance will not be considered for award. Late applications will not be considered unless it is determined that the delay was caused by Reclamation mishandling or technical issues with the Grants.gov application system. Please note that difficulties related to an applicant’s Grants.gov profile (e.g., incorrect organizational representative), the upload of documents to Grants.gov, or an applicant’s SAM registration are not considered technical issues with the Grants.gov system.

D.4.2.3. Acknowledgement of Application Receipt If an application is submitted by mail, express delivery, or courier, Reclamation will notify you in writing that your application was received.

If an application is submitted through Grants.gov, you will receive an email acknowledging receipt of the application from Grants.gov. In addition, Reclamation will notify you in writing whether your application was successfully retrieved from Grants.gov.

D.5. Intergovernmental Review This FOANOFO is subject to Executive Order 12372, “Intergovernmental Review of Federal Programs.” A list of states that have elected to participate in the intergovernmental review process is at www.whitehouse.gov/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/SPOC-February-2019.pdf. Applicants in these states must contact their state's Single Point of Contact (SPOC) to find out about and comply with the state's process under Executive Order 12372. The names and addresses of the SPOCs are listed in the Office of Management and Budget's website, www.whitehouse.gov/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/SPOC-February- 2019.pdf.

http://www.whitehouse.gov/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/SPOC-February-2019.pdf http://www.whitehouse.gov/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/SPOC-February-2019.pdf

D.6. Automated Standard Application for Payments Registration

All applicants must also be registered with and willing to process all payments through the Department of Treasury ASAP system. All recipients with active financial assistance agreements with Reclamation must be enrolled in ASAP under the appropriate Agency Location Code(s) and the Data Universal Number System (DUNS) Number prior to the award of funds. If a recipient has multiple DUNS numbers, they must separately enroll within ASAP for each unique DUNS Number and/or Agency. All of the information on the enrollment process for recipients, including the enrollment initiation form and the enrollment mailbox can be found at https://www.usbr.gov/mso/aamd/asap.html.

Note that if your entity is currently enrolled in the ASAP system with an agency other than Reclamation, you must enroll specifically with Reclamation in order to process payments.

https://www.usbr.gov/mso/aamd/asap.html

Section E. Application Review Information E.1. Evaluation Criteria The evaluation criteria portion should be addressed in the technical proposal section of the application. Applications should thoroughly address each criterion and any sub criterion in the order presented below. Applications will be evaluated against the evaluation criteria listed below.

Evaluation Criteria Scoring Summary Points:

A. Benefits to salmonids 30 B. Project Feasibility 20 C. Collaboration and Coordination 15 D. Cost Effectiveness 10 E. Experience and Qualifications 10 F. Department of the Interior Priorities and Bureau of Reclamation Priorities 10

G. Ecosystem Benefits 5 Total 100

Note: Projects may be prioritized to ensure balance among the program task areas and to ensure that the projects address the goals and objectives of the

NOFO.

E.1.1. Evaluation Criterion A—Benefits to Salmonids (30 points)

Up to 30 points may be awarded based on the estimated ability of the envisioned project to support the target species (Chinook Salmon, steelhead) based on habitat attributes and habitat area. Projects benefitting Endangered and Threatened species will receive a higher ranking. Estimate the annual benefit to fish from the project’s habitat attributes and/or habitat area, include potential numbers of fish supported by lifestage. Calculate the lifetime project benefit.

Describe the performance measures and project monitoring plan that will capture, verify, and document the actual benefits of…