ATTACHMENT_C_-_Project_Abstract_Summary_Requirement..docx

This is a project abstract summary requirement document for the Cooperative Agreement for an affiliated Partner with the Chesapeake Watershed Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Unit (CESU), funded by the U.S. Geological Survey under CFDA 15.808. The USGS is seeking collaboration to strengthen science communication and support decision-making in the Chesapeake Bay watershed by translating peer-reviewed publications and USGS reports into communication products such as USGS-approved fact sheets. The project must address three Department of Interior strategic priorities: providing clean water for people and communities, protecting fish and wildlife to support outdoor recreation heritage, and addressing state and local partner needs and priorities.

Eligibility is restricted to participating partners of the Chesapeake Watershed CESU. Applications must be submitted through Grants.gov using Standard Form 424 and require preapplication coordination. The program operates under 2 CFR 200 and Department of Interior regulations 2 CFR Part 1402, with funding contingent on available internal USGS budgets. Award notification occurs through receipt of a cooperative agreement from a USGS contracting officer, with typical review and notification timeframes of 3 to 6 months. Recent award volumes in the broader 15.808 program have declined significantly, with only 99 awards in 2025 and 13 awards through March 2026, though several CESU opportunities remain open with November 14, 2026 deadlines.