FINAL WLLDP Foa_Content_of_F21AS00180.pdf

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

FWS - Ecological Services

Endangered Species Conservation - Wolf Livestock Loss Compensation and Prevention Grants Fiscal Year: 2021

F21AS00180

Due Date for Applications: 03/05/2021

PAPERWORK REDUCTION ACT STATEMENT:

OMB Control Number: 1018-0100, Expiration Date: 7/31/2021

We are collecting this information in accordance with the authorizing legislation identified above. Your response is required to obtain or retain a benefit. We will use the information you provide to conduct a competitive review and select projects for funding and, if awarded, to evaluate performance. We may not conduct or sponsor and you are not required to respond to a collection of information unless it displays a currently valid Office of Management and Budget (OMB) control number. We estimate that it will take you on average about 40 hours to complete an initial application, about 3 hours to revise the terms of an award, and about 8 hours per report to prepare and submit financial and performance reports, including time to maintain records and gather information. Actual time for these activities will vary depending on program-specific requirements. You may send comments on the burden estimate or any other aspect of this information collection to the Information Collection Clearance Officer, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, MS BPHC, 5275 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church, VA 22041-3803.

Table of Contents A. Program Description

A1. Authority

A2. Background, Purpose and Program Requirements

B. Federal Award Information

B1. Total Funding

B2. Expected Award Amount

B3. Expected Award Funding and Anticipated Dates

B4. Number of Awards

B5. Type of Award

C. Eligibility Information

C1. Eligible Applicants

C2. Cost Sharing or Matching

C3. Other

D. Application and Submission Information

D1. Address to Request Application Package

D2. Content and Form of Application Submission

D3. Unique Entity Identifier and System for Award Management (SAM)

D4. Submission Dates and Times

D5. Intergovernmental Review

D6. Funding Restrictions

D7. Other Submission Requirements

E. Application Review Information

E1. Criteria

E2. Review and Selection Process

E3. CFR – Regulatory Information

E4. Anticipated Announcement and Federal Award Dates

F. Federal Award Administration Information

F1. Federal Award Notices

F2. Administrative and National Policy Requirements

F3. Reporting

G. Federal Awarding Agency Contact(s)

G1. Program Technical Contact

G2. Program Administration

G3. Application System Technical Support

H. Other Information

A. Program Description

A1. Authority Section 6202(a) of the Omnibus Public Land Management Act of 2009 (7 U.S.C. §426 note [Transferred]. Recodified as §8351 note)

15.666

A2. Background, Purpose and Program Requirements Subtitle C of the Omnibus Public Lands Management Act of 2009 (P.L. 111-11) authorized the Wolf Livestock Loss Demonstration Project (Program) with two purposes:

1) Prevention - Provide funding to assist livestock producers in undertaking proactive, nonlethal activities to reduce the risk of livestock loss due to predation by wolves; and

2) Compensation - Provide funding to reimburse livestock producers for livestock losses due to such predation.

Federal financial assistance, provided in the form of grants, can be used to support the implementation of state and tribal programs designed to assist livestock producers in undertaking proactive, nonlethal activities to reduce the risk of livestock loss due to predation by wolves and to compensate livestock producers for livestock losses due to such predation. Included in the authorizing language is direction to award this Federal financial assistance through a competitive grant program and to expend funds equally between the program’s two purposes.

Proactive, nonlethal preventive measures eligible for funding include, but are not limited to, fencing, livestock guard dogs, and range riders who patrol areas occupied by livestock susceptible to predation by wolves. Depredation Compensation funding may be used for the reimbursement of livestock losses due to confirmed wolf depredation. Qualifying livestock includes cattle, swine, horses, mules, sheep, goats and livestock guard animals. States and tribes (hereafter, applicants) may apply for Depredation Compensation funding for the reimbursement of livestock losses and/or a Depredation Prevention funding for preventative management activities that occur on Federal, state, or private land, or land owned by, or held in trust for the benefit of, a tribe.

Grants are awarded directly to applicants. Applicants must establish their own procedures for accepting applications from private entities (including individual ranchers, for-profit corporations, and not-for-profit organizations) interested in obtaining Program funds. Those seeking funds will need to work through the procedures established by their state wildlife management/animal damage control agency.

Applicants are eligible to compete for either Depredation Compensation or Depredation Prevention funding, or both. Applicants may submit a proposal that includes both activities but each activity will be ranked and considered separately.

General Program Funding Priorities

Funding priorities are determined pursuant to Section 6202 (d) of P.L. 111-11, as follows:

the level of livestock predation in the state or on the land owned by or held in trust for the benefit of the tribe, whether the state or tribe is located in a geographical area that is at high risk for livestock predation, and other factors that the Secretary determines appropriate.

Further, programs with high percentages of livestock producer participation and that support the utilization of a wide variety of deterrents and techniques will be prioritized for Depredation Prevention funding. Programs that are robust in terms of investigation management, record keeping and reporting, and public transparency will be prioritized for Depredation Compensation funding. Finally, applicants that have a Depredation Prevention program will be prioritized for Depredation Compensation funding. Complete merit review criteria are provided in Section E.

Application Review Information.

Department of Interior Priorities for Federal Financial Assistance

Grants awarded through the Wolf Livestock Loss Demonstration Project support the Department of Interior priority for Federal financial assistance by “Restoring trust with local communities.”

Through the Program grants, the Service is working to be a better neighbor with those closest to our resources by leveraging state, tribal and local investment to assist livestock producers in finding ways to coexist with wolves on the landscape. These awards encourage the development and implementation of proactive management techniques to reduce the frequency of predation events and compensate producers when such predation does occur. Because of their authorities and close working relationships with local governments and landowners, states and tribes are in a unique position to assist the Service in implementing all aspects of the ESA. Through these grants, the Service works collaboratively with states and tribes to manage and conserve wolves in a manner that respects their management and leverages their investment. This grant program reflects our common commitment to actively advance the purpose and policies of the ESA by providing financial assistance to foster relationships with public and private partners, reduce conflicts between listed species and economic development activities, and promote the long-term conservation of the species. Finally, these grants encourage the cooperative implementation of the ESA by leveraging local investment in species recovery and demonstrate the Service’s commitment to cooperative conservation at the local level.

B. Federal Award Information B1. Total Funding Estimated Total Funding $ 1,300,000

B2. Expected Award Amount Maximum Award $ 450,000 Minimum Award $ 10,000

B3. Expected Award Funding and Anticipated Dates Expected Award Funding Expected Award Date June 30, 2021 In FY 2020, the Service awarded $1.4 million in Program funds to 10 states and 1 tribe. The Service awarded $601,972 through eight depredation compensation grants ranging from $15,000 to $150,000, with an average award of $75,246. The Service also awarded $779,825 through 10 depredation prevention grants ranging from $10,000 to $150,000, with an average award of $77,982.

Proposals may address new or ongoing work funded through State wolf-livestock interaction programs. However, all funds will be awarded as new grants. The maximum period of performance for a grant awarded through this Program is two years from the effective date established at the time of grant approval or the date of award obligation, whichever is earlier.

The Service intends to make award recommendations to the Director within 90 days of the closing date of this announcement or following completion of the Federal appropriation process, whichever is later. The Service intends to issue awards in June 2021.

The Service may award up to $1.3 million through this announcement in fiscal year 2021. However, the actual amount of funding available will be determined through the Congressional appropriation process. In prior fiscal years, approximately $900,000 has been available. The Service will make award selections for these competitive grants based upon the proposals submitted for consideration through this announcement and award funding equally between Depredation Prevention and Depredation Compensation activities pursuant to P.L. 111-

11. Applicants are encouraged to apply for funding to support their wolf-livestock interaction programs with the understanding that funding cannot be guaranteed prior to a final fiscal year 2021 budget.

B4. Number of Awards Expected Number of Awards The Service expects to issue approximately 15 awards as a result of this Notice of Funding Opportunity, although final number will depend on the number of proposals received and funding requested by applicants.

B5. Type of Award Funding Instrument Type G - Grant

C. Eligibility Information

C1. Eligible Applicants Eligible Applicants 00 – State governments 07 – Native American tribal governments (Federally recognized) Additional Information on Eligibility To be eligible to receive a grant pursuant to P.L. 111-11, a state or tribe must:

(1) designate an appropriate agency of the state or tribal government to administer one or both aspects of the program funded by the grant;

(2) establish one or more accounts to receive grant funds;

(3) maintain files of all claims received under programs funded by the grant, including supporting documentation;

(4) submit to the appropriate Service Program Coordinator (see Section G)

(A) annual reports that include:

(i) a summary of claims and expenditures under the program during the year; and

(ii) a description of any action taken on the claims; and

(B) such other reports as the Secretary may require to assist in determining the effectiveness of activities provided assistance under this program; and

(5) promulgate rules for reimbursing livestock producers under the program.

In addition, to ensure funds are achieving immediate conservation benefit, applicants must have fully expended Program grant funds from FY 2017 and prior years.

Further, to be eligible to receive Depredation Compensation funding, a state or tribe must:

Ensure proper documentation, retain receipts, and record matching funds expended.

Have the ability to protect the evidence of depredation.

Coordinate with local United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)-Wildlife Services field representatives, or other authorized official, who will coordinate an investigation.

Document payments to ensure fair-market value.

Further, to be eligible to receive Depredation Prevention funding, a state or tribe must:

Ensure proper documentation, retain receipts, and record matching funds expended.

Ensure applicant demonstration of good faith effort to avoid conflicts.

Demonstrate effectiveness of non-lethal measures.

C2. Cost Sharing or Matching Cost Sharing / Matching Requirement Yes Percentage of Cost Sharing / Matching Requirement The cost share may be cash or in-kind contribution, including third party contribution, such as volunteer efforts and donations of goods or services. Applicants may attribute some or all of their allowable indirect costs as voluntary committed cost share.

If a proposal includes both compensation and prevention activities, match will be calculated at the grant level, not by individual activity.

C3. Other The following additional criteria apply to all grants and must be satisfied for a project to receive funding:

Only confirmed wolf depredation events within the project area investigated by a local USDA Wildlife Services field representative or other authorized investigator will be evaluated and considered for funding under this opportunity. Proposals to compensate for missing livestock or losses not confirmed to be from wolves will not be funded. This program can only contribute to compensation of the fair market value of losses of livestock; the program cannot contribute toward “multipliers” (i.e., payments of higher than market value designed to compensation for unconfirmed losses or missing livestock) or “probable” losses to wolves.

The maximum period of performance for a grant awarded through this opportunity is two years from the effective date established at the time of grant approval or the date of award obligation, whichever is earlier. Limited no-cost time extensions may be allowed if unforeseen circumstances arise during the period of performance of any grants issued, but such extensions will require approval from Service Headquarters.

A proposal cannot include U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Full-Time Equivalent (FTE) costs.

Neither the Federal funds awarded through this opportunity, nor the associated non- Federal cost share, may be used to satisfy regulatory requirements of the Endangered Species Act, including complying with a biological opinion under Section 7, fulfilling Federal mitigation, minimization, and/or monitoring requirements of a Habitat Conservation Plan permitted under Section 10, or any other Federal regulatory mitigation requirement (e.g., mitigation for Clean Water Act permits).

Administrative costs must either be assumed by the applicant, or included in the proposal in accordance with Federal requirements.

Land acquisition is not an eligible use of Program funds.

Environmental effects of projects funded through these grants must be minor or negligible.

Foreign Entities or Projects:

This program does not provide funding to foreign entities or for projects conducted outside the United States.

Excluded Parties: FWS conducts a review of the SAM.gov Exclusions database for all applicant entities and their key project personnel prior to award. The Bureau cannot award funds to entities or their key project personnel identified in the SAM.gov Exclusions database as ineligible, prohibited/restricted or otherwise excluded from receiving Federal contracts, certain subcontracts, and certain Federal assistance and benefits, as their ineligibility condition applies to this Federal program.

D. Application and Submission Information

D1. Address to Request Application Package This application package contains all the information needed to apply for this Notice of Funding Opportunity. Applicants can request paper application packages through the appropriate contact listed below in Section G.

Program Website Link

D2. Content and Form of Application Submission SF-424, Application for Federal Assistance Applicants must submit the appropriate Standard Form (SF)-424, Application for Federal Assistance. Individuals applying as a private citizen (i.e., unrelated to any business or nonprofit organization you may own or operate in your name), must complete the SF-424, Application for Federal Assistance-Individual form. All other applicants must complete the standard SF-424, Application for Federal Assistance. The required application forms are available with this announcement on Grants.gov. The SF-424, Application for Federal Assistance must be complete, and signed and dated. Please note: Enter only the amount requested from this Federal program in the “Federal” funding box on the SF-424 Application form. Include any other Federal sources of funding in the “Other” box and provide details on those Federal source(s) and funding amount(s) in the required Budget Narrative (see the “Budget Narrative” section below).

Individuals applying for and receiving funds separate from a business or non-profit organization he/she may own or operate and any entity waived from the SAM.gov registration requirements by the funding bureau or office must submit the signed and dated SF-424B, Assurances for Non- Construction Programs form. The SF-424B, Assurances for Non-Construction Programs are available at https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/forms/sf-424-family.html

Project Narrative Provide a project narrative containing the elements listed below. A proposal may be disqualified if eligibility requirements are not met.

Project title Description of entity(ies) undertaking the project Statement of Need - Describe why this project is being undertaken and how it advances program priorities as discussed in Section A. Provide evidence to demonstrate the need for Program grant funds, including the number of wolves and amount of livestock production present, the level of overlap between the two, and the extent of wolf depredation in the project area. Identify the negative results of taking no action to address wolf-livestock interactions in the project area.

Purpose - Describe the desired future state this proposal will achieve.

Objectives – State the desired outcome of the proposed project in terms that are specific and quantified. Objectives should be realistic targets designed to address the project need.

Methods/Approach – o For Prevention Program Activities – Describe the activities the requested funds will be used to support, such as range riders, guard dogs, fladry, and fencing.

Describe your program’s procedures for maintaining records for reporting to the Service how the funds were expended. Describe efforts to encourage participation in prevention activities and how grant funds will promote such participation.

o For Compensation Program Activities – Describe how the value of reimbursement is determined and the procedures that will be used to verify that available funds will be used to compensate for confirmed losses and/or injuries caused by wolves.

Describe your program’s procedures for maintaining records for reporting to the Service how the funds were expended.

Timetable or milestones - Describe the timetable for the project, including significant milestones for completion.

Information to support environmental compliance review requirements - The Service has the responsibility for making the final determination regarding compliance with Federal laws. To facilitate review, provide any information that may be relevant to compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act, Endangered Species Act, National Historic Preservation Act, and required Federal permits.

Description of stakeholder coordination or involvement - List key cooperators (e.g., USDA Wildlife Services, non-governmental organizations, etc.) and describe their respective roles in the program. Describe any public involvement in the administration of your program.

Project monitoring and evaluation plan - Describe how you will assess the effectiveness of funded activities and report those results to the Service.

Relevant details on key project personnel Details on the project location, including maps if appropriate Responses to Merit Review Evaluation Criteria - Provide description with appropriate documentation of how the proposed project addresses each of the numeric ranking criteria described in Section E. Application Review Information. We recommend that you address each ranking criterion individually with a brief statement or table. Project narratives that clearly address the specific review criteria in an organized manner will facilitate efficient proposal review and scoring.

Applicants must submit the appropriate SF-424 Budget Information form and Budget Narrative.

For non-construction programs or projects, applicants must complete and submit the SF-424A, “Budget Information for Non-Construction Programs” form. All of the required application forms are available with this announcement on Grants.gov. Federal award recipients and subrecipients are subject to Federal award cost principles in 2 CFR 200. Applicants must show funds requested from this Federal program separately from any other Federal sources of funding.

In the “Budget Summary” section of the appropriate SF-424 budget form, use the first row for funding requested from this Federal program. Use subsequent row(s) for funding requested from this Federal program. Use subsequent row(s) for other Federal funding. Enter each Federal program’s CFDA number(s) in the corresponding fields on the form. The CFDA number(s) for this program appears on the first page of this announcement.

Budget Narrative Describe and justify requested budget items and costs. Detail how the SF-424 Budget Information, Object Class Category totals were determined. For personnel salary costs, include the baseline salary figures and the estimates of time. Describe any item of cost that requires prior approval under the Federal cost principles. See 2 CFR 200.407 “Prior written approval (prior approval)” for more information. If equipment purchased previously with Federal funds is available for the project, provide a list of that equipment and identify the Federal funding source. Identify any cash or in-kind contributions that a partner or other entity will contribute to the project and describe how the contributions directly and substantively benefit completion of the project. For in-kind contributions, include the source, the amount, and the valuation methodology used to determine the total value. See 2 CFR 200.306 “Cost sharing or matching” for more information.

Proposals must include a budget that is sufficiently detailed to show that costs are both necessary and reasonable for accomplishing the purposes of the proposal. The budget narrative should provide sufficient detail for reviewers to understand how costs were estimated. Estimates should be supported by data, such as past depredation events. Reviewers must be able to clearly see that costs are realistic and are commensurate with the project needs and timeframe. Applications will be disqualified if reviewers cannot determine that applications meet this threshold.

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Conflict of Interest Disclosure Per the Financial Assistance Interior Regulation (FAIR), 2 CFR §1402.112, applicants must state in their application if any actual or potential conflict of interest exists at the time of submission.

(a) Applicability.

(1) This section intends to ensure that non-Federal entities and their employees take appropriate steps to avoid conflicts of interest in their responsibilities under or with respect to Federal financial assistance agreements.

(2) In the procurement of supplies, equipment, construction, and services by recipients and by sub recipients, the conflict of interest provisions in 2 CFR 200.318 apply.

(b) Notification.

(1) Non-Federal entities, including applicants for financial assistance awards, must disclose in writing any conflict of interest to the DOI awarding agency or pass-through entity in accordance with 2 CFR 200.112.

(2) Recipients must establish internal controls that include, at a minimum, procedures to identify, disclose, and mitigate or eliminate identified conflicts of interest. The recipient is responsible for notifying the Financial Assistance Officer in writing of any conflicts of interest that may arise during the life of the award, including those that have been reported by sub recipients.

(c) Restrictions on lobbying. Non-Federal entities are strictly prohibited from using funds under a grant or cooperative agreement for lobbying activities and must provide the required certifications and disclosures pursuant to 43 CFR part 18 and 31 U.S.C. 1352.

(d) Review procedures. The Financial Assistance Officer will examine each conflict of interest disclosure on the basis of its particular facts and the nature of the proposed grant or cooperative agreement, and will determine whether a significant potential conflict exists and, if it does, develop an appropriate means for resolving it.

(e) Enforcement. Failure to resolve conflicts of interest in a manner that satisfies the government may be cause for termination of the award. Failure to make required disclosures may result in any of the remedies described in 2 CFR 200.338, Remedies for noncompliance, including suspension or debarment (see also 2 CFR part 180).

Single Audit Reporting Statement All U.S. states, local governments, federally recognized Indian tribal governments, and non-profit organizations expending $750,000 USD or more in Federal award funds in the applicant’s fiscal year must submit a Single Audit report for that year through the Federal Audit Clearinghouse’s Internet Data Entry System. U.S. state, local government, federally recognized Indian tribal government, and non-profit applicants must state if your organization was or was not required to submit a Single Audit report for the most recently closed fiscal year. If your organization was required to submit a Single Audit report for the most recently closed fiscal year, provide the EIN associated with that report and state if it is available through the Federal Audit Clearinghouse website.

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Certification Regarding Lobbying Applicants requesting more than $100,000 in Federal funding must certify to the statements in 43 CFR Part 18, Appendix A-Certification Regarding Lobbying. If this application requests more than $100,000 in Federal funds, the Authorized Official’s signature on the appropriate SF-424, Application for Federal Assistance form also represents the entity’s certification of the statements in 43 CFR Part 18, Appendix A.

Applicants and recipients must not use any federally appropriated funds (annually appropriated or continuing appropriations) or matching funds under a Federal award to pay any person for lobbying in connection with the award. Lobbying is influencing or attempting to influence an officer or employee of any U.S. agency, a Member of the U.S. Congress, an officer or employee of the U.S. Congress, or an employee of a Member of the U.S. Congress connection with the award. Applicants and recipients must complete and submit the SF-LLL, “Disclosure of Lobbying Activities” form if the Federal share of the proposal or award is more than $100,000 and the applicant or recipient has made or has agreed to make any payment using non-appropriated funds for lobbying in connection with the application or award. The SF-LLL form is available with this Funding Opportunity on Grants.gov. See 43 CFR, Subpart 18.100 for more information on when additional submission of this form is required.

Overlap or Duplication of Effort Statement

Applicants must provide a statement indicating if there is any overlap between this Federal application and any other Federal application, or funded project, in regards to activities, costs, or time commitment of key personnel. If no such overlap or duplication exists, state, “There are no overlaps or duplication between this application and any of our other Federal applications or funded projects, including in regards to activities, costs, or time commitment of key personnel”.

If any such overlap exists, provide a complete description of overlaps or duplications between this proposal and any other federally funded project or application in regards to activities, costs, and time commitment of key personnel, as applicable. Provide a copy of any overlapping or duplicative proposal submitted to any other potential funding entity and identify when that proposal was submitted, to whom (entity name and program), and when you anticipate being notified of their funding decision. When overlap exists, your statement must end with “We understand that if at any time we receive funding from another source that is duplicative of the funding we are requesting from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in this application, we will immediately notify the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service point of contact identified in this Funding Opportunity in writing.”

D3. Unique Entity Identifier and System for Award Management (SAM) Identifier and System for Award Management (SAM.gov) Registration: This requirement does not apply to individuals applying for funds as individual (i.e., unrelated to any business or nonprofit organization you may own or operate) or any entity with an exception approved by the funding bureau or office in accordance with bureau or office policy. All other applicants are required to obtain a Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS) number from Dun & Bradstreet and then register in SAM.gov prior to submitting a Federal award application. Federal award recipients must continue to maintain an active SAM.gov registration with current information http://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?SID=683823273fc0da6a1060883eda593fb8&mc=true&node=pt43.1.18&rgn=div5 http://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?SID=683823273fc0da6a1060883eda593fb8&mc=true&node=pt43.1.18&rgn=div5 https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/forms/post-award-reporting-forms.html through the life of their Federal award(s). See the “Submission Requirements” section of this document below for more information on SAM.gov registration. We may not make a Federal award to an applicant that has not completed the SAM.gov registration. If an applicant selected for funding has not completed their SAM.gov registration by the time the program is ready to make an award, the program may determine that the applicant is not qualified to receive an award. The program can use that determination as a basis for making an award to another applicant. There is no cost to register with Dun & Bradstreet or SAM.gov. There are third-party vendors who will charge a fee in exchange for registering entities with Dun & Bradstreet and SAM.gov; please be aware you can register and request help for free.

Obtain a DUNS Number

Request a DUNS Number through the Dun & Bradstreet website. For technical difficulties, send an email to the D&B SAM Help Desk. Please ensure that you are able to receive emails from SAMHelp@dnb.com. The Grants.gov “Obtain a DUNS Number” webpage also provides detailed instructions. Once assigned a DUNS number, your organization must maintain up-to-date information with Dun & Bradstreet. Applicants must enter their DUNS number in the “Organizational DUNS” field on the SF-424, Application for Federal Assistance form.

Register with the System for Award Management (SAM)

Register on the SAM.gov website. “Help” tab on the website contains User Guides and other information to assist you with registration. The Grants.gov Register with SAM page also provides detailed instructions. You can also contact the supporting Federal Service Desk for help registering in SAM. Once registered in SAM, entities must renew and revalidate their SAM registration at least once every 12 months from the date previously registered. Entities are strongly encouraged to revalidate their registration as often as needed to ensure their information is up to date and reflects changes that may have been to the entity’s DUNS or IRS information.

D4. Submission Dates and Times Due Date for Applications 03/05/2021 Application Due Date Explanation Applications must be submitted through GrantSolutions.gov. GrantSolutions automatically generates an electronic date and time stamp in the system upon application receipt. The Service will not review or consider applications received through GrantSolutions after 11:59 PM EST on March 05, 2021. Applicants are encouraged to verify the completeness of their application package before submission using the checklist provided below.

APPLICATION CHECKLIST

SF-424, Application for Federal Assistance SF-424B, Assurances Project Narrative SF-424A, Budget Information Budget Narrative mailto:SAMHelp@dnb.com

Indirect Cost Statement and related documentation Conflict of Interest Disclosure Single Audit Reporting Statement Certification and Disclosure of Lobbying Activities Overlap or Duplication of Effort Statement

D5. Intergovernmental Review Prior to application submission, U.S. state and local government applicants should visit the OMB Office of Federal Financial Management website and view the “State Point of Contact (SPOC) List” to determine whether their application is subject to the state intergovernmental review process under Executive Order (E.O.) 12372 “Intergovernmental Review of Federal Programs.”

States not on the list do not participate in the intergovernmental review process, and therefore do not have a SPOC. If you are located within a State that does not have a SPOC, you may send application materials directly to a Federal awarding agency. If your state is on the list, contact the designated entity for more information on the state’s prior review requirements for Federal assistance applications.

D6. Funding Restrictions The following additional criteria apply to all grants and must be satisfied for a project to receive funding:

Unconfirmed losses (missing livestock, dead livestock not confirmed to be killed by wolves, and “multipliers”) are not eligible for reimbursement under this program.

Proposals must request funding for a period of no more than 2 years.

A proposal cannot include U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Full-Time Equivalent (FTE) costs.

Neither the Federal funds awarded through this opportunity, nor the associated non-

Federal cost share, may be used to satisfy regulatory requirements of the Endangered Species Act, including complying with a biological opinion under Section 7, fulfilling Federal mitigation, minimization, and/or monitoring requirements of a Habitat Conservation Plan permitted under Section 10, or any other Federal regulatory mitigation requirement (e.g., mitigation for Clean Water Act permits).

Land acquisition is not an eligible use of Program funds.

Generally, only expenses incurred and budgeted during the period of performance are reimbursable; the period of performance begins with the effective date established at the time the grant is approved. However, an applicant may request reimbursement of pre-award costs necessary expenses detailed in the grant application. Pre-award costs are those incurred prior to the approval of the grant where such costs are necessary to comply with the proposed period of performance. Such costs are allowable only if the grant is awarded, only to the extent that they would have been allowable if incurred after the date https://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/management/office-federal-financial-management/ https://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/management/office-federal-financial-management/ of the award, and only with the written approval of the awarding agency (2 CFR 200.458).

Indirect Costs: Individuals Individuals applying for and receiving funds separate from a business or non-profit organization he/she may operate are not eligible to charge indirect costs to their award. If you are an individual applying for funding, you must not include any indirect costs in your proposed budget.

Individuals are not required to submit any of the following statements regarding indirect costs.

Indirect Costs: Organizations The Federal awarding agency that provides the largest amount of direct funding to your organization is your cognizant agency for indirect costs, unless otherwise assigned by the White House Office of Management and Budget (OMB). If the Department of the Interior is your organization’s cognizant agency, the Interior Business Center will negotiate your indirect cost rate. Contact the Interior Business Center by phone 916-930-3803 or using the IBC Email Submission Form. See the IBC Website for more information.

Organizations must have an active Federal award before they can submit an indirect cost rate proposal to their cognizant agency. Failure to establish an approved rate during the award period renders all costs otherwise allocable as indirect costs unallowable under the award. Recipients must have prior written approval from the Service to use amounts budgeted for direct costs to satisfy cost-share or match requirements or to cover unallowable indirect costs. Recipients shall not shift unallowable indirect costs to another Federal award unless specifically authorized to do so by legislation.

Required Indirect Cost Statement to be submitted with Application All organizations must include the applicable statement from the following list in their application, and attach to their application any documentation identified in the applicable statement:

We are:

A U.S. state or local government entity receiving more than $35 million in direct Federal funding each year with an indirect cost rate of [insert rate]. We submit our indirect cost rate proposals to our cognizant agency. Attached is a copy of our most recently approved rate agreement/certification.

A U.S. state or local government entity receiving less than $35 million in direct Federal funding with an indirect cost rate of [insert rate]. We have prepared and will retain for audit an indirect cost rate proposal and related documentation.

A [insert your organization type; U.S. states and local governments, do not use this statement] that has previously negotiated or currently has an approved indirect cost rate with our cognizant agency. Our indirect cost rate is [insert rate]. [Insert either: “Attached is a copy of our most recently approved but expired rate agreement. In the event an award is made, we will submit an indirect cost rate proposal to our cognizant agency within 90 calendar days after the award is made.” or “Attached is a copy of our current negotiated indirect cost rate agreement.”] http://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?tpl=/ecfrbrowse/Title02/2cfr200_main_02.tpl http://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?tpl=/ecfrbrowse/Title02/2cfr200_main_02.tpl https://www.doi.gov/ibc/contactus/icsfeedback https://www.doi.gov/ibc/contactus/icsfeedback https://www.doi.gov/ibc/services/finance/indirect-cost-services

A [insert your organization type] that has never submitted an indirect cost rate proposal to our cognizant agency. Our indirect cost rate is [insert rate]. If we receive an award, we will submit an indirect cost rate proposal to our cognizant agency within 90 calendar days after the award date.

A [insert your organization type] that has never submitted an indirect cost rate proposal to our cognizant agency and has an indirect cost rate that is lower than 10%. Our indirect cost rate is [insert rate; must be lower than 10%]. However, if we receive an award we will not be able to meet the requirement to submit an indirect cost rate proposal to our cognizant agency within 90 calendar days after award. We request as a condition of award to charge a flat indirect cost rate of [insert rate; must be lower than 10%] against [insert a clear description of the direct cost base against which your rate is charged (e.g., salaries; salaries and fringe benefits; or modified total direct costs). However, please note that your organization cannot charge indirect costs in excess of the indirect costs that would be recovered if applied against modified total direct costs as defined in §2 CFR 200.68]. We understand that we must notify the Service in writing if we establish an approved rate with our cognizant agency at any point during the award period.

A [insert your organization type] that has never submitted an indirect cost rate proposal to our cognizant agency and has an indirect cost rate that is 10% or higher. Our indirect cost rate is [insert your organization’s indirect rate; must be 10% or higher]. However, if we receive an award we will not be able to meet the requirement to submit an indirect cost rate proposal to our cognizant agency within 90 calendar days after award. We request as a condition of award to charge a flat de minimis indirect cost rate of 10% to be charged against modified total direct project costs as defined in 2 CFR §200.68. We understand that we must notify the Service in writing if we establish a negotiated rate with our cognizant agency at any point during the award period. We understand that additional Federal funds may not be available to support an unexpected increase in indirect costs during the project period and that such changes are subject to review, negotiation, and prior approval by the Service.

A [insert your organization type] that is submitting this proposal for consideration under the [insert either “Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit Program” or “Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Unit Network”], which has a Department of the Interior-approved indirect cost rate cap of [insert program rate]. If we have an approved indirect cost rate with our cognizant agency, we understand that we must apply this reduced rate against the same direct cost base as identified in our approved indirect cost rate agreement per 2 CFR §1402.414. If we do not have an approved indirect cost rate with our cognizant agency, we understand that we must charge indirect costs against the modified total direct cost base defined in 2 CFR §200.68 “Modified Total Direct Cost (MTDC)”. We understand that we must request prior approval from the Service to use the 2 CFR 200 MTDC base instead of the base identified in our approved indirect cost rate agreement. We understand that Service approval of such a request will be based on: 1) a determination that our approved base is only a subset of the MTDC (such as salaries and wages); and 2) that use of the MTDC base will still result in a reduction of the total indirect costs to be charged to the award. In accordance with 2 CFR §200.405, we understand that indirect costs not recovered due to a voluntary reduction to our federally negotiated rate are not allowable for recovery via any other means.

A [insert your organization type] that will charge all costs directly.

https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?SID=0bb1f5386f36f965f85dc05b2ad8a804&mc=true&node=pt2.1.200&rgn=div5#se2.1.200_168 https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?SID=0bb1f5386f36f965f85dc05b2ad8a804&mc=true&node=pt2.1.200&rgn=div5#se2.1.200_168 https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?SID=0bb1f5386f36f965f85dc05b2ad8a804&mc=true&node=pt2.1.200&rgn=div5#se2.1.200_168 https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?SID=1bfd0da1190f850482e94794cca23a5d&mc=true&node=20190830y1.1

D7. Other Submission Requirements

To submit an application through GrantSolutions.gov

1. Register with GrantSolutions.gov Applicants must first register an account with GrantSolutions.gov and complete all steps of the registration process before they can apply through GrantSolutions.gov. Please follow this link to obtain the GrantSolutions self-registration instructions.

2. Login

• Navigate to GrantSolutions by going to www.grantsolutions.gov

• Select the LOGIN button

• Log in with your applicant/recipient account and search this announcement through the "funding opportunity" tab on the website.

3. GrantSolutions help and user-guide.

For recipient GrantSolutions user reference & training please use the following links:

• GrantSolutions website - recipient training video series

• FWS recipient GrantSolutions user accounts & training website

4. Help Desk Information If you need additional help, the GrantSolutions help desk is available for assistance on all GrantSolutions products and services. Hours of Operation: Monday through Friday 7 a.m. – 8 p.m. ET (closed on Federal holidays).

Phone: 1.866.577.0771 or 202.401.5282 Email: help@grantsolutions.gov

5. Proof of Timely Submission GrantSolutions automatically generates an electronic date and time stamp in the system upon application receipt.

E. Application Review Information

E1. Criteria Depredation Compensation Activities Maximum Points: 100

1. Rate of Wolf Depredation (20 points maximum)

To receive points for this criterion, applicants must provide the number of confirmed wolf depredations per 100 wolves for each of the past 3 years in the area covered by the proposal.

https://home.grantsolutions.gov/home/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Quick-Sheet-Grantee-Request-Process.pdf https://home.grantsolutions.gov/home/recipient-training-videos/ https://doimspp.sharepoint.com/sites/fws-FF09W00000/SitePages/GrantSolutions-Recipient-User-Accounts.aspx mailto:help@grantsolutions.gov

These should be individual depredations, not events (i.e., 1 dead animal = 1 depredation). If 3 years of data are not available, applicants must provide information for as many years as possible. Best available wolf population estimates should be used. Applicants must only provide information on confirmed depredations and wolf population estimates within the range of the proposed project. For example, the number of confirmed depredations must only be provided for the area where the proposal will provide funding.

Numbers provided must not include probable depredations or include a multiplier to account for missing livestock. Applicants must only include confirmed events investigated by a USDA Wildlife Services field representative or other authorized investigator. Missing or unconfirmed livestock losses are not eligible for compensation and will not be considered under this criterion.

Applicants must show calculations to enable reviewers to assess the numbers provided. The following format is recommended:

Year Number of confirmed wolf depredations

Estimated wolf populatio n

Number of confirmed depredations/100 wolves (= (Number of confirmed wolf depredations ÷ estimated wolf population) * 100)

Aver age

Scoring:

Information not provided – 0 points Average of <10/100 depredations per 100 wolves – 5 points Average of 10-15 depredations per 100 wolves – 10 points Average of 16-30 depredations per 100 wolves – 15 points Average of >30 depredations per 100 wolves – 20 points

2. Livestock losses as calculated by animal unit equivalents (20 points maximum)

To help reviewers make a standardized comparison of the level of livestock predation in the project area, applicants must provide the annual confirmed losses of cows and sheep in the prior year converted to animal-value equivalents, as further described below, to receive points for this criterion. Although losses occurring in other categories of livestock are eligible for reimbursement and should be included in other descriptive sections of the narrative, only confirmed losses of the most commonly depredated types of livestock are requested for this element to minimize applicant burden.

The table below provides a suggested format, as well as animal-value equivalents to be used for each type of livestock:

Type of Livesto ck

Number of confirmed losses in the most recent full year

Animal- Value Equivalent*

Loss by Animal-Value Equivalent

Cattle

Calf .68 (Multiply number of confirmed losses by animal-value equivalent provided)

Cow 1 Bull 1.5 Sheep

Lamb .15 Ewe .18 Ram .25 Total

* Equivalents provided are the largest estimate for an individual animal in each class in: Lacey, J. 1991. Forage Consumption Estimated Animal Unit Conversion. Montana State University Cooperative Extension Service, Montguide MT 9111 (AG)(available: https://animalrangeextension.montana.edu/forage/documents/forage%20consum piton%20estimated%20AUM%20conversion.pdf). Calf weight is an exception, and was calculated based on the average fall weight of a calf leaving the range to more accurately represent the lost value.

Scoring:

The range of losses over all applications received will be calculated after this Notice of Funding Opportunity closes. That range will be divided into 4 categories for scoring. Points will be assigned based on which category (quartile) the application falls into as follows:

Information not provided – 0 points, first quartile (lowest category of losses) – 5 points, second quartile – 10 points, 3rd quartile – 15 points, 4th quartile – 20 points

3. Claim evaluation and record keeping (5 points maximum)

To receive points for this criterion, applicants must describe their process for evaluating claims, including eligibility requirements, and provide detail that allows reviewers to assess the adequacy of the program’s record keeping.

Scoring: Reviewers will assign between 0 and 5 points using the following guidelines.

https://animalrangeextension.montana.edu/forage/documents/forage%20consumpiton%20estimated%20AUM%20conversion.pdf https://animalrangeextension.montana.edu/forage/documents/forage%20consumpiton%20estimated%20AUM%20conversion.pdf

0 points = Information that will allow assessment of the rigor of the program’s procedures and record-keeping is not provided, or it is provided and the process for confirming depredations, the quality of investigators, or the record keeping is minimally adequate.

5 points = Detailed information on procedures for investigation management and record keeping is provided, and those procedures include highly trained investigators, very effective procedures for differentiating between confirmed and probable depredations to ensure only confirmed depredation is being compensated, and solid and effective record keeping systems.

4. Integration of prevention activities (10 points maximum)

To receive points for this criterion, applicants must provide details regarding prevention efforts in the proposed project area and any requirements their compensation program has in…