B01-RSOI Package W9126G262SOI9212.pdf

DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY

U.S. ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS, FORT WORTH DISTRICT

P.O. BOX 17300

FORT WORTH, TX 76102-0300

17 April 2026

REQUEST FOR STATEMENT OF INTEREST

W9126G262SOI9212

Applicants must be a member in one of the following Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Units Regions:

Californian / Colorado Plateau / Rocky Mountain / Great Plains CESU Regions

Project Title: Invertebrate Habitat Modeling and Enhancement for Fort Carson and Pinon Canyon Maneuver Site in Colorado

A cooperative agreement is being offered ONLY to members of the Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Units (CESU) Program Region(s) identified above. Award will be made upon mutual agreement and acceptance of the terms and conditions contained in the request for proposal and the recipient’s CESU Joint and Cooperative Agreement (also known as the CESU Master Agreement).

NOTE: The established CESU indirect rate is 17.5%.

Responses to this Request for Statements of Interest will be used to identify potential organizations for this project. Approximately $326,000 is expected to be available to support this project for the base period. Additional funding may be available to the successful recipient for optional tasks and/or follow on work in subsequent years.

NOTE: This project will be awarded under the authority of 16 USC 670c-1, Sikes Act. For projects for the implementation and enforcement of integrated natural resources management plans, priority shall be given to award to Federal and State agencies having responsibility for the conservation or management of fish or wildlife.

Period of Performance. The base period of the agreement will extend 18 months from the date of award. There may be up to four 18-month follow-on periods based on availability of funding.

Description of Anticipated Work: See attached Statement of Objectives.

NOTE: At this time we are only requesting that you demonstrate available qualifications and capability for performing similar or same type of work by submitting a Statement of Interest. A full proposal and budget are NOT requested at this time.

Preparation of your Statement of Interest: Provide the following (Maximum length: 2 pages, single-spaced, 12 pt. font):

1. Name, Organization, CAGE Code, Unique Entity ID, CESU Region, and Contact Information (Email)

2. Brief Statement of Qualifications (including):

a. Biographical sketch of the Principal Investigator, to include specific experience and capabilities in areas related to this project’s requirements

b. Relevant past projects and clients with brief descriptions of these projects

10 March 2025

c. Staff, faculty or students available to work on this project and their areas of expertise

d. Brief description of other capabilities to successfully complete the project: (e.g. equipment, laboratory facilities, greenhouse facilities, field facilities, etc.)

Submission of Your Statement of Interest

1. Statements of Interest (SOI) are due by 2:00 P.M. Central Time, 17 May 2026 via email to the parties listed below.

2. Direct questions via email no later than 2 May 2026 to the parties listed below.

Maria Lopez Grants Specialist USACE, Fort Worth District Email: maria.e.lopez@usace.army.mil Office: 817-886-1881

AND

Brian Hesford Project Manager USACE, Fort Worth District Email: brian.d.hesford@usace.army.mil Office: 402-200-8268

Review of Statements Received: All statements of interest received from a member of the CESU Region(s) identified above will be evaluated by a board comprised of one or more people at the receiving installation or activity, who will determine which statement(s) best meet the program objectives, offer the most highly qualified Principal Investigator, have the most relevant experience and the highest capability to successfully meet the program objectives. Submitters whose statements are determined to best meet the program objectives will be invited to submit a full proposal.

Timeline for Review of Statements of Interest: RSOIs are required to be posted on www.Grants.gov for 30 days prior to the Government making a decision and requesting full proposals.

TO BE ELIGIBLE FOR AWARD, THE RECIPIENT AND ANY PROPOSED SUBRECIPIENTS AND

CONTRACT VENDORS MUST HAVE AN ACTIVE NIST SP 800-171 DOD ASSESSEMENT

(PERFORMED WITHIN THE LAST 3 YEARS). Additional details are provided as a separate attachment to this document.

Thank you for your interest in our Cooperative Agreements Program.

CHERYL R. VENDEMIA

Grants Officer

Attachment: Statement of Objectives http://www.grants.gov/

STATEMENT OF OBJECTIVES

FOR

ESA INVERTEBRATE HABITAT MODELING AND ENHANCEMENT

FOR

U.S. Army Garrison Fort Carson, Colorado

Cooperative Ecosystems Studies Unit (CESU) Cooperative Agreement

1. PURPOSE

1.1. The United States Army Garrison (USAG) Fort Carson is responsible for conservation management on installations lands at Fort Carson (FC) and the Piñon Canyon Maneuver Site (PCMS) in Colorado. The PCMS is included as part of FC and will be considered as FC in this document, except where PCMS is specifically mentioned. Article I B of the master agreement states the objectives of the CESU are to: provide research, technical assistance and education to federal land management, environmental and research agencies and their potential partners; develop a program of research, technical assistance and education that involves the biological, physical, social sciences needed to address resource issues and interdisciplinary problem-solving at multiple scales and in an ecosystem context at the local, regional, and national level; and place special emphasis on the working collaboration among federal agencies and universities and their related partner institutions.

1.2. The objective of the work to be performed under this cooperative agreement is to provide natural resources support to the Fort Carson Environmental Division for natural resources management.

1.3. Natural resource tasks associated with this Cooperative Agreement (CA) include conducting arthropod surveys at Fort Carson and PCMS. The Fort Carson Integrated Natural Resources Management Plan (INRMP) states that baseline surveys for arthropods (Phylum: Arthropoda) are a required implementation, but no formal surveys have been completed.

Nine species of arthropods currently being considered for protection under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) either are known or likely to occur on Fort Carson and/or PCMS – the monarch butterfly (Danaus plexippus; proposed threatened), regal fritillary (Argynnis idalia; proposed threatened), large marble butterfly (Euchloe ausonides; under review), western bumble bee (Bombus occidentalis; under review), American bumble bee (Bombus pensylvanicus; under review), Morrison bumble bee (Bombus morrisoni; under review), southern plains bumble bee (Bombus fraternus; under review), Suckley’s cuckoo bumble bee (Bombus suckleyi; proposed endangered), and variable cuckoo bumble bee (Bombus variabilis; under review).

The monarch butterfly is proposed threatened as of 12/12/2024 and is known to occur on both Fort Carson and PCMS. While the Front Range of Colorado is not a major migratory pathway, there is insufficient scientific data on this region. The petition to list the monarch as a threatened species identifies habitat loss and degradation on both the breeding and wintering grounds as the primary threat to the species (Center for Biological Diversity et

al. 2014). While no designated critical habitat is found on Fort Carson or PCMS, Fort Carson will still have consultation and recovery obligations for the species.

The regal fritillary is proposed threatened as of 8/6/2024. While there are no records from Fort Carson or PCMS, the USFWS’s species status assessment includes El Paso County in the butterfly’s historic range. There are more recent records from the northern end of the Front Range and the proper habitat type can be found on Fort Carson. Larvae are fully dependent on violets (genus Viola), and both Fort Carson and PCMS have at least one species (Nuttall’s violet). The major threats to the regal fritillary are habitat fragmentation and interactions between habitat fragmentation, overexploitation, and climate change are secondary threats (WildEarth Guardians 2013).

The large marble butterfly has been under federal review since January 2025. There are confirmed records of the butterfly immediately adjacent to Fort Carson’s western boundary, suggesting that the species likely occurs on Fort Carson as well. The major threats to the large marble butterfly are habitat destruction and modification, predation and disease, and pesticide use (Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation 2023).

The western bumble bee has been under federal review since 2016. A listing decision was expected in FY24 based on the USFWS National Domestic Listing Workplan but is still pending. While there are no records from Fort Carson or PCMS, the bumble bee has been found throughout the Front Range in habitat types that are also found on Fort Carson. The major threats to the western bumble bee are diseases introduced by commercial bumble bees and pesticide use, while habitat loss and climate change are secondary threats (Defenders of Wildlife 2015).

The American bumble bee has been under federal review since 2021. While there are no records from Fort Carson or PCMS, there are many recent along the Front Range and along the Purgatoire River east of PCMS, and Colorado is one of six states where the relative abundance of the species may be increasing (Center for Biological Diversity 2021). The major threats to the American bumble bee are habitat destruction and modification, pesticide use, loss of genetic diversity, and competition from non-native honey bees (Apis mellifera; Center for Biological Diversity 2021).

The Morrison bumble bee has been under federal review since January 2025. While there are no records from Fort Carson or PCMS, the listing petition for the species and iNaturalist both show recent records of the species near both installations. Like other bumble bees, the Morrison bumble bee faces threats from habitat loss and modification, pesticides, disease, and competition from non-native species (The Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation 2023).

The southern plains bumble bee has been under federal review since 2024. While there are no records from Fort Carson or PCMS, there are recent occurrences along the Front Range and in the vicinity of PCMS. Similar to other bumble bee species, the major threats to the southern bumble bee are habitat loss and degradation, pesticide use, and disease (Center for Biological Diversity 2022).

Suckley’s cuckoo bumble bee is proposed endangered as of 12/17/2024. While there are no records from Fort Carson or PCMS, both Fort Carson and PCMS fall within the occurrence polygon developed for the USFWS’s species status assessment. The primary host species is the western bumble bee, which also has potential to occur on both installations. The primary threat to Suckley’s cuckoo bumble bee is the decline in host species, as cuckoo bumble bees are entirely dependent on host colonies for their survival.

They are also threatened by common bumble bee threats such as habitat loss, non-native competition, and pesticide use (Center for Biological Diversity 2020).

The variable cuckoo bumble bee has been under federal review since 2022. While there are no records from Fort Carson or PCMS, the bumble bee’s host species, the American bumble bee (Bombus pensylcanicus), has been found throughout the Front Range in habitat types that are also found on Fort Carson and PCMS. The major threats to the variable cuckoo bumble bee are the decline of its host species that supports the feeding and nesting of the bee, and the absence of existing regulatory mechanisms to address this potential threats (Center for Biological Diversity 2021).

Work conducted under this cooperative agreement must be in accordance with 16 U.S.C.

671c-1, Cooperative and Interagency Agreements for Land Management on Installations.

In accordance with its mission, USAG must comply with federal laws, including the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, as amended [54 United States Code (U.S.C.)

§ 300101 et seq.], National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C § 4321 et seq.);

Archaeological and Historical Protection Act of 1974, as amended (16 U.S.C. §§469- 469c-2); Archaeological Resources Protection Act (16 U.S.C §§ 470aa-470mm); Native American Graves and Repatriation Act (25 U.S.C §§3001-3013); other cultural resource-related legislation, executive orders, and presidential memoranda; all implementing regulations; DoD directives, instructions, policy, and guidance; and U.S. Army regulations, policy, and guidance. In addition, USAG must abide by State of Colorado methods, standards, and guidelines for cultural resources work.

2. AUTHORITY

Authority to enter into a Cooperative Agreements (CA) for the work: Section 670c-1, Title 16 United States Code, Sikes Act.

2.1. In accordance with the Sikes Act (Sec. 103A [16 USC 670c-1]) “the Secretary of a military department may enter into cooperative agreements with States, local governments, Indian Tribes, non-governmental organizations, and individuals.” This project is in support of the Integrated Natural Resources Management Plan (INRMP), as directed in the Sikes Act.

2.2. In accordance with section 6305 – Using cooperative agreements of the Federal Grant and Cooperative Agreements Act of 1977 (31 U.S.C. § 6301 et seq.), all CESU projects must carry out a public purpose of support or stimulation, instead of acquiring goods or services for the exclusive direct benefit of the United States Government. Examples of carrying out a public purpose may include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Project results/outputs add to the scientific literature/knowledge base, with applicability and utility beyond the scope of the project footprint/study area.

• Academic and other nonfederal partner institutions (and their personnel) gain professional experience, increase knowledge, and develop skills and abilities.

• Students benefit from direct interaction with federal scientists, program and technical staff, and field unit managers.

2.3. In accordance with section 6305 – Using cooperative agreements of the Federal Grant and Cooperative Agreements Act of 1977 (31 U.S.C. § 6301 et seq.), substantial involvement is expected between the Department of Defense and the recipient when carrying out the activity contemplated by the cooperative agreement. The DoD agrees to participate at a national level in support of the CESU program as accepted in the Master MOU for the establishment and continuation of the CESU program Article II 1-4 and Article VI 1-7.

The installation further (hence DoD) agrees to provide substantial involvement as directed under the appropriate master agreement to include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Involved in development of study methodology, data gathering, analysis, and/or report writing.

• Actively participates and collaborates in carrying out the project plan of work, reviews and approves activities, helps train or select project staff or trainees.

• Coordinate research activities with other installation entities and scheduling of range time.

• Technical assistance and guidance.

• Participation in status meetings including kick off meeting and weekly (as needed), monthly, and quarterly project update meetings.

3. DESCRIPTION OF OBJECTIVES

The objective of this cooperative agreement is to provide natural resources support to the Fort Carson Conservation Branch via conducting arthropod surveys at FC and the PCMS. All survey areas included under this project are located on FC and the PCMS. A preliminary presentation and data gathering meeting shall be scheduled prior to field work. A work conference shall be scheduled to prepare for field work and deliver any Government furnished materials.

3.1. Summary of Tasks

3.1.1. Field Sampling:

To gather data on invertebrate species presence, distribution, and diversity at different habitat types across the military landscape, a variety of surveys methods shall be employed to collect arthropods across FC and PCMS. Samples will be properly stored until identification. Data shall be collected on the preferred plant species for the pollinator species of concern.

3.1.2. Specimen Preparation, Identification, Vouchers and Photographs:

Following field collection, specimens shall be identified to the lowest taxon possible, consulting voucher specimens and outside experts as necessary. Specimens shall be held by a Colorado-based university with proper storage facilities and be accessible to Fort Carson staff. It is important to ensure that FC staff has reliable and convenient access to the invertebrate collection in case they need to compare future invertebrate discoveries to previously vouchered specimens or require physical proof of a species documented on the installation. Additionally, biologists may utilize the collection as a learning tool and a valuable resource. Photographs of invertebrates collected will be provided to FC biologists.

3.1.3. Focal Species Targeted Sampling (Optional):

Plot surveys shall be conducted for no more than nine (9) additional species of particular interest, for example, monarch butterfly, regal fritillary, large marble butterfly, western bumble bee, American bumble bee, southern plains bumble bee, Morrison bumble bee, Suckley’s cuckoo bumble bee, and variable cuckoo bumble bee, if found on FC and/or PCMS. If any one of those species does not occur on the installation, other species of interest may be substituted, as determined by the FC biologists, not to exceed nine focal species. This number may be increased if new species fall under federal review before or during the survey timeframe. These plot surveys will be repeated multiple times throughout the field season and will be established in such a way that FC biologists can repeat the surveys in the future. If other species of concern (federal or state listed or Army Mission Sensitive Species) are found, additional transects may be added in habitats that are suitable for those species.

3.1.4 Core Habitat Modeling and Management Recommendations (Optional):

Cooperators shall conduct analyses to identify core areas of arthropod concentrations at Fort Carson and PCMS, considering both the community and species of concern. By employing these methods, the analysis aims to identify and map areas where arthropod species exhibit significant concentrations, providing insights into core habitat utilization and potential conservation priorities. Since monarch butterflies are migratory, the modeling should also include the timing of monarch occupancy.

Based on the results of the core habitat modeling and existing body of scientific literature, management recommendations shall be provided in a final report, focusing on how to maintain and enhance habitat where species of concern are currently found and how to improve marginal habitat that could potentially support those species. If additional species of concern are found, habitat models and management recommendations may be developed for those species as well. Management recommendations shall include but not limited to timing of mowing, timing of prescribed burns, tree and shrub removal, most beneficial rangeland restoration seed mixes, habitat enhancements, design and placement of pollinator plots, and safest weed control options.

3.2. Tasks

The specifics of each task are provided in this section. It is anticipated that field work will be completed within twelve (12) months following award, while specimen preparation and identification can occur prior to the development of the data analysis and final report.

3.2.1. Task 1: Field Sampling

A comprehensive arthropods survey will be completed utilizing both active and passive sampling techniques. The active techniques might include using aerial netting to collect specimens from vegetation and insects in flight, as well as using a kick net to collect aquatic arthropods. Passive techniques using malaise traps for capturing flying insects and blacklight trapping for collecting nocturnal arthropods should also be utilized.

In order to achieve comprehensive sampling of all habitats, surveys will be carried out by making repeat sampling visits to a number of preselected plots, chosen to encompass all habitats present on the installations, including short-grass prairie, pinyon-juniper woodland, canyons, canyon rims, riparian habitat, wetlands/bodies of water, and old ranch houses. The sampling effort should be proportionate to the amount of each habitat present on the landscape. Sampling should focus on the highest arthropod activity period (mid-May to mid-September), with repeat visits to sampling areas necessary to capture insects that are active during different times of the year. Special focus should be given to habitats that are favorable for focal species listed in Table 1.

The arthropods collected during surveys should be appropriately preserved (e.g., frozen or stored in ethanol) until they are ready for identification. Any traps that are left unattended will be clearly labeled as insect traps affiliated with the Fort Carson Environmental Division and marked with a contact phone number. In some cases, Range Control may need to approve specific plot or trap locations before deployment.

Table 1. Targeted focal species with potential to occur at Fort Carson and PCMS. Species marked with an asterisk (*) have been detected on one or both installations.

Scientific Name Common Name Danaus plexippus* Monarch Butterfly Argynnis idalia Regal Fritillary Euchloe ausonides Large Marble Butterfly Bombus occidentalis Western Bumble Bee Bombus pennsylvanicus* American Bumble Bee Bombus morrisoni* Morrison’s Bumble Bee Bombus fraternus* Southern Plains Bumble Bee Bombus suckleyi Suckley’s Cuckoo Bumble Bee Bombus variabilis Variable Cuckoo Bumble Bee

3.2.2. Task 2: Specimen Preparation, Identification, Vouchers and Photographs Following field sampling, specimens shall be properly prepared for identification. This may include pinning or storage in ethanol-filled vials. Once prepared, specimens will be identified to the lowest taxon possible. When needed, voucher specimens and expert taxonomists should be consulted for assistance or verification of identification.

A voucher series of collected taxa shall be prepared following standard protocols, including labeling with location of collection. This series shall be held by a Colorado-based university with proper storage facilities. Such a voucher series shall be accessible to Fort Carson staff at any time in order to confirm or verify the presence of a given taxon. Photographs will be provided for the collected species. It is important to ensure that FC staff has reliable and convenient access to the invertebrate collection in case they need to compare future invertebrate discoveries to previously vouchered specimens or require physical proof of a species documented on the installation. Additionally, biologists may utilize the collection as a learning tool and a valuable resource.

3.2.3. Optional Task 3: Targeted Focal Species

During each plot sampling, particular attention will be given to focal species of conservation concern that are known to exist at either installation or have the potential to inhabit the area (Table 1). These targeted species will be closely observed and documented whenever encountered. Furthermore, data regarding the specific plants and habitats these species visit will be collected during the sampling process. This additional information will provide valuable insights into the ecological relationships and preferences of the focal species within their respective environments.

3.2.4. Optional Task 4: Core Habitat Modeling and Management Recommendations Based on the results of the sampling surveys, areas of "significant concentrations" of arthropod species at each installation should be identified, considering both the overall arthropod community and any species of concern with sufficient locational data. To detect these core-use areas, a spatially global threshold will be determined by comparing the observation of a specific location with other observations in its vicinity, as commonly done in landscape ecology. This approach considers the spatial relationships between multiple observations and helps identify areas where observations are densely clustered compared to surrounding regions.

Based on the results of the core habitat modeling, management recommendations supported by the existing body of scientific literature should be formulated.

Recommendations should focus on the maintenance and enhancement of suitable habitats where each species of concern occurs, as well as improvement of marginal habitats that have the potential to support these species. If additional species of concern are identified, core habitat models and management recommendations can be developed for those species as well. The management recommendations will include but not limited to the following aspects:

1. Timing of Mowing: Provide guidelines for the timing of mowing activities, particularly along the sides of Military Service Roads (MSRs), to minimize disturbance to the habitats of the species of concern. Consideration should be given to avoid mowing during sensitive periods such as breeding seasons or periods of high species activity.

2. Prescribed Fire and Fuels Reduction Guidelines: Offer guidelines for implementing prescribed fires, including recommendations on the frequency and timing of burns.

Consider the specific ecological requirements of the species of concern and their responses to fire. Ensure that prescribed fires are carried out in a manner that benefits the targeted species while considering training objectives and minimizing negative impacts on habitats. Additionally offer guidelines on tree and shrub thinning and removal, such the extent of mastication and timing of removal.

3. Rangeland Restoration Seed Mixes: Provide a list of the most beneficial rangeland restoration seed mixes tailored to the specific needs of the species of concern. These mixes should support the restoration and enhancement of suitable habitats, promoting biodiversity and providing resources such as food and shelter.

4. Design and Placement of Pollinator Plots: Design pollinator plots in a manner that benefits the species of concern while minimizing potential impacts on training activities. Consider the specific habitat requirements and foraging preferences of the target species. Strategically locate the plots to optimize their effectiveness in supporting pollinators and enhancing habitat connectivity.

5. Best Management Practices (BMPs) for Weed Control: Develop BMPs for weed control that prioritize the conservation of the species of concern and pollinators, while still addressing invasive species control objectives. These BMPs should minimize negative impacts on non-target species and the overall pollinator community.

Implement environmentally friendly methods such as targeted herbicide application or manual removal to manage invasive species effectively.

By integrating these management recommendations into habitat conservation and restoration efforts, it is possible to maintain and improve habitats for the species of concern, enhance biodiversity, and promote sustainable land management practices. It is essential to continually assess and update these recommendations based on new scientific findings and monitoring of species populations and habitat conditions.

4. QUALIFICATIONS / REQUIREMENTS

4.1. Personnel

The Cooperator shall provide the necessary personnel to perform the required services.

The Government and the Cooperator understand and agree that the services to be delivered are non-personal services, and both parties recognize that no employer-employee relationships between the Government and the Cooperator and/or between the Government and the Cooperator’s employees. Cooperator personnel performing under this project shall not be placed in a position where they are employed by a Federal Officer or under the supervision, direction, or evaluation of a Federal Officer, military or civilian.

Cooperator personnel shall conform to standards of conduct and codes of ethics that are consistent with those applicable to Government employees as provided in the Joint Ethics Regulation 5500.7.R. Cooperator personnel shall present a neat, professional appearance and be easily identified. This shall be accomplished by wearing distinctive clothing bearing the company’s name or by wearing appropriate badges that contain the company’s and employee’s name.

Cooperator personnel shall also wear a distinctive Cooperator furnished security (ID) badge/lanyard readily identifying the individual as a Cooperator employee. The badge shall be worn in a conspicuous place at all times when performing work under the cooperative agreement, including attendance at Government meetings and conferences that take place outside of the Government facility.

Cooperator personnel shall identify themselves as a Cooperator employee when answering or placing calls on a Government telephone and when leaving outgoing or incoming messages on voicemail. Use of acronyms in this identification is insufficient to meet this requirement.

All Cooperator email signatures shall identify them as such and will include their employer’s name.

No Cooperator staff is authorized to make any directions or commitments for the Government to any outside parties to prevent unauthorized commitments.

The Cooperator shall provide a representative for the performance of work under this project. The name of this person and an alternate(s) who act(s) for the Cooperator when the representative is absent shall be designated in writing to the USACE Project Manager and the designated Fort Carson Point of Contact (POC). The Cooperator representative and alternate shall have full authority to act for the Cooperator on all project matters relating to daily operation of this project, and must be able to read, write, speak, and understand English.

4.2. Special Qualifications / Certifications

Cooperator employees responsible for data collection shall possess a basic knowledge of regional arthropod species, arthropod species known to occur on the installation (FC and the PCMS), data collection, and field methods for sampling arthropods. The Cooperator employee(s) that conduct(s) the data analyses and report writing should have general knowledge of arthropod-habitat relationships, some identification expertise in local taxa, experience developing habitat-based species distribution models, and be able to demonstrate writing ability in the form of a track record of first-author peer reviewed publications.

4.3. Safety and Permitting

The Cooperator shall follow all directions in dealing with personal safety. No federal or state permits are required for the collection of arthropods.

4.4. Accessibility / Security Requirements

Vicinity maps identifying the general area will be provided at a pre-work conference or as requested before conference. Specific site maps identifying units and road access will be available upon request. Access to work sites will be coordinated a minimum of three (3) weeks prior through FC DPW POC (listed in section 8.0 or as specified at a later time by FC DPW). However, Fort Carson Range Control will always be able to deny work site access, with little or no prior notice, to accommodate training requirements. Delays need to be reported to the FC DPW POC immediately. It is recommended that the NFE call the FC DPW POC the day before planned work to confirm that access is still available. The FC DPW POC will report substantive delays to the Grants Officer’s Technical Representative (GOTR), as/if they occur.

NFE personnel performing work under this project shall have a current and valid vehicle registration, insurance, and driver’s license. The NFE shall maintain file copies of vehicle registration, insurance, and driver certifications, which are subject to inspection at any time for the duration of the project.

Access and general protection/security policy and procedures: This standard language is for NFE employees with an area of performance within Army controlled installation, facility, or area. NFE and all associated sub-NFEs employees shall provide all information required for background checks to meet installation access requirements to be accomplished by installation Provost Marshal Office, Director of Emergency Services or Security Office. NFE workforce must comply with all personal identity verification requirements (FAR clause 52.204-9, Personal Identity Verification of NFE Personnel) as directed by DOD, Headquarters, Department of the Army (HQDA) and/or local policy. In addition to the changes otherwise authorized by the changes clause of this project, should the Force Protection Condition (FPCON) at any individual facility or installation change, the Government may require changes in NFE security matters or processes.

The NFE employees, to include sub-NFE employees, requiring access Army installations, facilities and controlled access areas shall complete AT Level I awareness training within 60 calendar days after the project start date or effective date of incorporation of this requirement into the project, whichever is applicable. The NFE shall submit certificates of completion for each affected NFE employee and sub-NFE employee, to the GOTR or to the Grants Officer (GO), if a GOTR is not assigned, within 30 calendar days after completion of training by all employees and sub-NFE personnel. The NFE shall submit certificates of completion for each affected NFE employee and sub-NFE employee, to the GOTR or to the grants officer, if a GOTR is not assigned, within 05 calendar days after completion of training by all employees and sub-NFE personnel. AT level I awareness training is available at the following website: http://jko.jten.mil.

http://jko.jten.mil/

The NFE and all associated sub-NFEs shall brief all employees on the local iWATCH program (training standards provided by the requiring activity ATO). This local developed training will be used to inform employees of the types of behavior to watch for and instruct employees to report suspicious activity to the GOTR. This training shall be completed within 30 calendar days of project award and within 05 calendar days of new employees commencing performance.

For NFEs that do not require CAC, but require access to a DoD facility or installation.

NFE and all associated sub-NFEs employees shall comply with adjudication standards and procedures using the National Crime Information Center Interstate Identification Index (NCIC-III) and Terrorist Screening Database (TSDB) (Army Directive 2014-05/AR 190- 13), applicable installation, facility and area commander installation/facility access and local security policies and procedures (provided by government representative), or, at OCONUS locations, in accordance with status of forces agreements and other theater regulations.

For NFEs requiring Common Access Card (CAC): Before CAC issuance, the NFE employee requires, at a minimum, a favorably adjudicated National Agency Check with Inquiries (NACI) or an equivalent or higher investigation in accordance with Army Directive 2014-05. The NFE employee will be issued a CAC only if duties involve one of the following: (1) Both physical access to a DoD facility and access, via logon, to DoD networks on-site or remotely; (2) Remote access, via logon, to a DoD network using DoD-approved remote access procedures; or (3) Physical access to multiple DoD facilities or multiple non-DoD federally controlled facilities on behalf of the DoD on a recurring basis for a period of 6 months or more. At the discretion of the sponsoring activity, an initial CAC may be issued based on a favorable review of the FBI fingerprint check and a successfully scheduled NACI at the Office of Personnel Management.

Army Training Certification Tracking System (ATCTS) registration for NFE employees who require access to government information systems. All NFE employees with access to a government info system must be registered in the ATCTS (Army Training Certification Tracking System) at commencement of services and must successfully complete the DOD Information Assurance Awareness prior to access to the IS and then annually thereafter. For all NFEs with security clearances. Per AR 381-12 Threat Awareness and Reporting Program (TARP), NFE employees must receive annual TARP training by a CI agent or other trainer as specified in 2-4b. OPSEC Training. Per AR 530- 1, Operations Security, new NFE employees must complete Level I OPSEC training within 30 calendar days of their reporting for duty. All NFE employees must complete annual OPSEC awareness training, UXO training, a downrange safety brief and any other required training

4.5. Other General Information

U.S. Government records, copies of original results and reports, verified original data, corrected data, and corrected supporting final reports that are maintained by the Cooperator shall remain the property of the U.S. Government. These files/results must be surrendered to the USACE Project Manager, the GOTR, and USAG Fort Carson POCs at the end of this project.

Neither the Cooperator nor any of its project service providers shall disclose or cause to disseminate any information concerning operations of military activities. Such actions could result in violation of the project and possible legal actions.

All inquiries, comments, or complaints arising from any matter observed, experienced, or learned of as a result of or in connection with the performance of this project, the resolution of which may require the dissemination of official information, shall be directed to the USACE Project Manager, the GOTR, and USAG FC POCs.

The Cooperator shall only conduct business with designated government personnel listed as POCs. Names of authorized personnel shall be provided to the Cooperator by the government, in writing, and updated as necessary through the project period.

5. GOVERNMENT FURNISHED MATERIALS OR PROPERTY

All Government-furnished items and services shall be utilized in strict performance of task- related duties and the Cooperator shall maintain policies that prohibit fraud and abuse.

5.1. Services

The Government will provide all Fort Carson-specific training to Cooperator employees, if necessary. The Government will provide the Cooperator authority to access all USAG Fort Carson-controlled, UNCLASSIFIED with a need-to-know, information needed to perform the required duties.

5.2. Materials

The Government will provide the Cooperator with all of the relevant data required to accomplish development of specific requirements and objectives described in the PWS and exhibits. Below is what the Government will provide the Cooperator:

• List of arthropod species known to occur on Fort Carson and PCMS, if a list exists.

• ArcGIS geodatabases with the proper data format, or a list of attributes to be collected, along with the proper data format (NOT the Global Positioning System [GPS] units themselves)

• GIS shapefiles showing locations of habitat types on each installation

• Schedule showing when access to different areas will be possible

5.3. Equipment

If downrange training area access is necessary during the course of the project, Government radios will be provided and hand-receipted for each use. This is a safety precaution due to limited cellular service.

6. COOPERATOR FURNISHED ITEMS / SERVICES

• The Cooperator shall furnish all items required to perform this SOO, other than those specifically listed as to be furnished by the Government. At a minimum the Cooperator shall provide all field sampling equipment and all supplies necessary for specimen storage and preparation.

• Within 10 days of project award, and within five days after any changes, the Cooperator shall submit (to the designated Fort Carson POC) a list of personnel who will perform work under this project, and credentials held for each such person.

7. PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE

7.1 Base Period: The base period of performance is anticipated to be 18 months from the date of award; 12 months for technical work and 6 months for administrative work, such as completing reporting requirements.

7.2 Follow-on Periods: Pending availability of funds and Recipient performance, there will be up to four (4) follow-on periods. Each follow-on period of performance is anticipated to be 18 months (12 months technical + 6 months administrative), to begin 12 months after the start of the previous period of performance to allow continuous technical support.

8. COORDINATION

Roger Peyton, Conservation Branch Chief Directorate of Public Works – Environmental Division USAG Fort Carson Phone: 719-725-4796 Email: roger.d.peyton.civ@army.mil

Anna Joy Lehmicke, Senior Natural Resources Specialist Directorate of Public Works – Environmental Division USAG Fort Carson Phone: 719-725-8217 Email: annajoy.j.lehmicke.civ@army.mil

Michelle Blake, PCMS Wildlife Biologist Directorate of Public Works – Environmental Division USAG Fort Carson Phone: 719-503-6538 or 508-561-7022 Email: michelle.r.blake11.civ@army.mil mailto:roger.d.peyton.civ@army.mil mailto:annajoy.j.lehmicke.civ@army.mil mailto:michelle.r.blake11.civ@army.mil

Danny Follett, Fort Carson Wildlife Biologist Directorate of Public Works – Environmental Division USAG Fort Carson Phone: 719-646-9065 Email: danny.r.follett.civ@army.mil

USACE POC

Brian Hesford, Project Manager Regional Planning and Environmental Center (RPEC) US Army Corps of Engineers, Omaha District Phone: 402-200-8268 Email: brian.d.hesford@usace.army.mil

9. DELIVERABLES

In addition to task specific deliverables, the following Cooperative Agreement deliverables must be provided.

9.1. Final Deliverables

1. ArcGIS geodatabase containing locations of all sampled arthropods, including the GPS tracks for the surveys. Attribute fields must include date/time of each collection, UTMs of each collection plot, habitat type, species (or lowest taxa possible) of each encounter, type of methodology being employed for each collection (e.g., sweep net, malaise trap, opportunistic sighting, other). Data must be in shapefile format compatible with ArcGis 10.1. In addition to the shapeflies, maps for species of concern core area modeling, climate change and resiliency modeling and management recommendations (where applicable e.g., location of pollinator plots or prescribed burns) need to be provided.

2. ArcGIS geodatabase containing summary data for each aerial net survey. Attribute fields must include location surveyed, dominant habitat type in survey area, date of survey, duration of survey (minutes), number of arthropods captured, number of taxa encountered.

3. ArcGIS geodatabase containing summary data for each malaise trap survey.

Attribute fields must include trap location (UTM), dominant habitat type in survey area, date/time of trap placement, date/time of trap check, trap ID, number of arthropods captured, number of taxa encountered.

4. ArcGIS geodatabase containing summary data for each black light trap survey.

Attribute fields must include trap location (UTM), dominant habitat type in survey area, date/time of trap placement, date/time of trap check, trap ID, number of arthropods captured, number of taxa encountered.

5. ArcGIS geodatabase containing summary data for each aquatic survey. Attribute fields must include survey location (body of water and UTM), date of survey, duration of survey (minutes), number of arthropods captured, number of taxa encountered.

mailto:danny.r.follett.civ@army.mil mailto:brian.d.hesford@usace.army.mil

6. ArcGIS geodatabase containing summary data for each plot survey. Attribute fields must include transect surveyed, date of survey, duration of survey (minutes), number of arthropods captured, number of taxa encountered.

7. A comprehensive list of invertebrate species encountered on Fort Carson and PCMS with common name, scientific name, and federal, state, or Army SAR status. The list will distinguish which species were found on FC and on PCMS.

8. Habitat-based species distribution models for all encountered species of concern / mission sensitive species (monarch butterfly, western bumble bee, regal fritillary butterfly and any other federal or state species of concern). Type of software used to formulate models and associated programming code must be provided. These models should be based on a combination of known habitat preferences and habitat where each species was encountered on FC or PCMS.

9. Management recommendations for maintaining or improving habitat to support healthy populations for all encountered species of concern (monarch butterfly, western bumble bee, and any other federal or state species of concern). These recommendations should be specific to each species of concern / mission sensitive species, and should include information on both maintaining habitat where the species are currently found and improving habitat that may have the potential to support species of concern.

10. Photographs of the arthropod species should be taken whenever possible during the surveys. Photographs should be labeled with taxon, date, and location.

11. Voucher species need to be stored at a Colorado based facility where Fort Carson staff have reliable and continuous access to view the voucher specimens.

12. A final report summarizing data collection and data analyses. Report should follow the format of a peer-reviewed scientific manuscript (Introduction, Methods, Results, Discussion).

9.2. Monthly Progress Report (MPR)

The Cooperator shall provide the USACE Project Manager, the GOTR, and USAG Fort Carson POCs a monthly progress report. The MPR shall include the status of deliverables, work completed, and projected work to be completed in the following month. The update is due the 5th business day of every month and shall be delivered via e-mail. Reports should be prepared in accordance with 2 CFR 200.328.

9.3. Format for Technical Reports

All preliminary draft, draft final, and final reports described above must meet the following specifications:

• Text materials shall be typed on fully white, offset bond paper, 8 ½-inch by 11-inch with 1 ¼-inch binding margins on the left and right sides, 1-inch at top and bottom, and single-line spacing with double spacing between paragraphs. Font type and size should be Arial 12. All text pages (including appendices) must be sequentially numbered. Typescript reports failing to meet these specifications will not be accepted.

• The title page of the report must bear the date (month and year) the report was submitted, to whom the report was submitted, by whom the report was submitted, and under which cooperative agreement number the report was submitted.

• Drawings, photographs, maps, or plates shall not have an image larger than 10 inches by 16 inches with sufficient margin for binding on the left side. It is preferable, however, that illustrations be reduced to 8 ½-inch by 11-inch format with suitable margin. All illustrations, drawings, maps, etc. are to be termed “figures” and must be cited by sequential number within the body of the text.

• A single, complete bibliography shall list all sources and references consulted for both the body of the text and technical appendices required for special studies not specifically incorporated in the text of the report. In addition to inclusion in the report, a copy of all maps, tables and images will also be sent separately.

9.4. Format for Spatial Data

The Cooperator shall prepare maps and other graphics, as appropriate, to support the activities required under this SOO. The Cooperator shall include graphic documentation of sites, resources, and buildings, as appropriate, in the reports specified for this PWS.

All products associated with this PWS that provide a map representation of the location of installation features (historic, existing, or planned) to include installation maps, site plans, area development plans, building exterior as-built descriptions, or other related overhead (plan) views of the installation (partial or entire) must adhere to the following requirements.

(NOTE: This requirement does not currently involve interior floor plans or interior renderings.)

• All maps and associated data must comply with the latest version of Spatial Data

Standards for Facilities, Infrastructure, and Environment (SDSFIE) available from the SDSFIE website: http://www.sdsfie.org/. These data will be organized using the current version of the standard approved by the Army’s Installation Geospatial Information & Services Program. The SDSFIE shall determine file and feature class identification and definition, attribution and valid domain values. When any geospatial information collected as a result of the project includes information identified in the Common Installation Picture (CIP) or recognized Mission Data Set (MDS), the NFE shall deliver data consistent with the established requirements for the data and shall ensure functionality with the receiving system.

• Metadata shall be provided, and shall use the Federal Geographic Data Committee

(FGDC) Content Standards for Digital Geospatial Metadata for organization.

• Geospatial data must be delivered in a geo-referenced GIS (Geographic

Information System) format (feature-based file structures with one-to-one cardinality between spatial records and attribute records), which would include Environmental Systems Research Institute’s (ESRI) shapefile and geodatabase formats, and it must be compatible with the Fort Carson Cultural Resources Master Geodatabase. All attribute data, as specifically outlined in the task order contract, must be included either in the GIS data file or as a separate table with a SDSFIE key variable that may be used to relationally join the separate table with the GIS data file.