F21AS00413_NOFO_NFPP FY21sal.pdf

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

National Fish Passage Program https://www.fws.gov/fisheries/fish-passage.html

Notice of Funding Opportunity – Fiscal Year 2021

Funding Opportunity Number

Closing Date: December 31, 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 below. 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.

A. Program Description

A1. Authority

The following statute authorizes the Service to issue financial assistance awards under this program:

Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act (16 U.S.C. 661-667e).

Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) Number: 15.608 Fish and Wildlife Management Assistance

A2. Background, Purpose and Program Requirements

The National Fish Passage Program (NFPP) is a voluntary program that provides direct technical and financial assistance to partners. The program works in partnership to provide fish (and other aquatic organisms) passage and restore aquatic connectivity for the benefit of Federal trust resources. In doing so, the program aims to maintain or increase fish populations in order to improve ecosystem resiliency and to provide quality fishing experiences for the American people. Activities that restore fish passage also support the modernization of country’s infrastructure such as road culverts, bridges, and water diversions. Example project types include dam removals, culvert replacements, and the installation of fishways.

F21AS00413

The NFPP is delivered through Fish and Aquatic Conservation (FAC) Offices across all States and territories. FAC staff coordinate with project partners, stakeholders, and other Service programs to identify and collaboratively implement projects within Regional priority areas. Project work plans are developed strategically, in coordination with partners, and with substantial involvement from FAC staff. Projects must be based upon sound scientific principles, advance the Service mission, and promote biological diversity. FAC and Service strategic plans inform the types of projects funded under this opportunity. Applicants seeking funding under this program should review the FAC strategic plan and also contact the regional NFPP Coordinator that corresponds to the location of the project for additional information on regional priorities prior to submitting an application for funding.

Contacts are listed at end of announcement.

B. Federal Award Information

B1. Total Funding

Estimated Total Funding: $15.3 million anticipated for federal fiscal year 2021.

B2. Expected Award Amount

Maximum Award: $2,000,000

Minimum Award: $500

B3. Expected Award Funding and Anticipated Dates

Expected Award Funding: The expected range for individual awards is between $20,000 and $200,000.

Expected Award Date: Federal awards under NFPP occur on a rolling basis, starting in March 2021.

NFPP actively identifies potential projects throughout the federal fiscal year (October 1 – September 30). The period of performance for the majority of projects funded under this program is two years, starting on the date the award is signed by the Service. Projects must be designed accordingly.

B4. Number of Awards

Expected Number of Awards: 115 to 175

B5. Type of Award

Funding Instrument Type: This program uses cooperative agreements as the primary assistance instrument, but staff may also use grants, procurement instruments, inter or intra-agency agreements, or Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Units in accordance with Federal regulations. Projects are developed strategically, in coordination with partners, and with substantial involvement of FAC staff.

In the case of cooperative agreements, the Service participates and collaborates jointly with the recipient partner, volunteer, scientist, technician or other personnel, in carrying out the scope of work including:

• Training recipient personnel or detailing Federal personnel to work on the project effort;

• Reviewing and approving one stage of work before the next stage can begin;

• Reviewing and approving, prior to recipient action, proposed modifications or sub- awards;

• Helping select project staff or trainees;

• Directing or redirecting the work because of interrelationships with other projects;

• Immediately halting an activity if detailed performance specifications are not met; and

• Limiting recipient discretion with respect to scope of work, organizational structure, staffing, mode of operations, and other management processes, coupled with close monitoring or operational involvement during performance under the award.

C. Eligibility Information

C1. Eligible Applicants

For eligible applicants to receive funding, NFPP projects must be implemented in coordination with FAC staff. FAC Program staff work collaboratively with potential applicants to identify common conservation priorities. We strongly suggest that all potential applicants work with the local FAC Program staff to ensure that their project meets conservation needs of the Service. Projects are considered for funding throughout the year, depending on the availability of funds. Applicants may be, but are not limited to:

• State and federal agencies

• Private landowners

• Tribes

• Local municipalities

• Non-governmental organizations

• Special district governments

• Independent school districts

• Public and State controlled institutions of higher education

• Native American tribal governments (Federally recognized)

• Public housing authorities/Indian housing authorities

• Native American tribal organizations (other than Federally recognized tribal governments)

• Nonprofits having a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS, other than institutions of higher education

• Nonprofits that do not have a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS, other than institutions of higher education

• Private institutions of higher education

• Individuals

• For profit organization other than small businesses

• Small businesses

• Others

Additional Information on Eligibility

Applicants must ensure that activities occurring outside the United States are coordinated as necessary with appropriate U.S. and foreign government authorities and that any necessary licenses, permits, or approvals are obtained prior to undertaking proposed activities. The Service does not assume responsibility for recipient compliance with the laws and regulations of the country in which the work is to be conducted.

C2. Cost Sharing or Matching

Does the program have a cost sharing or matching requirement? Yes

Percentage of Cost Sharing/Matching Requirement:

The National Fish Passage Program requires a 1:1 match on a regional basis, not necessarily project basis. Contact the appropriate Service NFPP Regional Coordinator for additional information.

Applicants may attribute some or all of their allowable indirect costs as voluntary committed cost-share/match, however recipients may only charge to the Federal award the indirect costs calculated against the allowable direct costs charged to the Federal award. Recipients may not charge to the Federal award indirect costs calculated against: 1) any portion of the recipient’s direct costs that are proposed as voluntary committed cost-share/match; or 2) any portion of the direct costs charged to any other Federal or non-Federal partner.

C3. Other

Fish passage projects are not eligible for NFPP funding if they are for any Federal or State compensatory mitigation. Fish passage projects are not eligible for funding if fish passage is a condition provided by existing Federal or State regulatory programs. Projects funded under NFPP are voluntary.

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.

State Sponsors of Terrorism: This program will not fund projects in countries determined by the U.S. Department of State to have repeatedly provided support for acts of international terrorism and therefore are subject to sanctions restricting receipt of U.S. foreign assistance and other financial transactions.

Office of Foreign Assets Control Sanctions: This program will not fund projects in countries subject to comprehensive sanction programs administered by the U.S. Department of Treasury, Office of Foreign Asset Control without proper licenses.

In-Country Licenses, Permits, or Approvals: Entities conducting activities outside the U.S. are responsible for coordinating with appropriate U.S. and foreign government authorities as necessary to obtain all required licenses, permits, or approvals before undertaking project activities. The Service does not assume responsibility for recipient compliance with the laws, regulations, policies, or procedures of the foreign country in which they are conducting work.

https://www.state.gov/j/ct/list/c14151.htm https://www.state.gov/j/ct/list/c14151.htm http://www.treasury.gov/resource-center/sanctions/Pages/default.aspx http://www.treasury.gov/resource-center/sanctions/Pages/default.aspx

D. Application and Submission Information

D1. Address to Request Application Package

Contact local FAC field Program or Service Regional staff prior to applying. To be considered for funding under this funding opportunity, an application must be submitted to the Service region where the project is located. If you have a proposed project that meets the Application Review Information criteria (Section E), we strongly encourage you to contact your regional and local FAC office below before submitting an application. Please refer to section G for list of regional contacts or, visit our website to find the nearest Fish and Wildlife Conservation Office:

https://www.fws.gov/fisheries/fwco/index.html and more information on the National Fish Passage Program https://www.fws.gov/fisheries/fish-passage.html.

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).

SF 424B, Assurances for Non-Construction Programs

When requesting support for a non-construction project, individuals applying for and receiving funds separate from a business or non-profit organization he/she may own or operate and any entity waived by the Service from the SAM.gov registration requirements must submit a signed and dated SF-424B, “Assurances for Non-Construction Programs” form. All of the required application forms are available with this announcement on Grants.gov.

SF 424D, Assurances for Construction Programs

Any applicant requesting support for a construction project must submit the SF-424D, “Assurances for Construction Programs”. All required application forms are available with this announcement on Grants.gov.

https://www.fws.gov/fisheries/fwco/index.html https://www.fws.gov/fisheries/fish-passage.html https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/forms.html https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/forms.html https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/forms.html https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/forms.html https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/forms.html

Project Narrative

• Project Title;

• Description of entity(ies) undertaking the project;

• Statement of Need – Explain why the project is necessary and how it fulfills the purposes of the relevant program.

o A need statement will identify the conservation issue, problem or opportunity to be addressed.

o A need statement will provide evidence such as results from surveys, research or other data to demonstrate that the need is real and not perceived.

o A need statement will identify the negative result of taking no action;

• Purpose – Describe the desired future state that addresses the need in whole or part.

• Objectives – Objectives state the desired outcome of the proposed project in terms that are specific and quantified.

o Objectives are meant to be realistic targets or benchmarks that, if achieved, will resolve the project need.

o Objectives are written in an active tense and use action verbs such as construct, survey, train, research, establish, repair, conduct, provide, acquire.

• Methods/Approach – Describes the methods used to achieve the stated objectives. For cooperative agreements, please specify the tasks/deliverables where the Service will be substantially involved in carrying out the objectives of the award.

o Approach describes the specific conservation actions or efforts necessary to accomplish project objectives.

o Approach answers the question of “how” the objectives will be accomplished by describing the actual work that will be done.

o Approach will demonstrate that the agency will use sound design, appropriate procedures, and accepted fish and wildlife conservation, management, or research principles.

o Any deliverables resulting from the funding should be noted in this section

• Timetable or milestones – Describe significant milestones in completing the project and any accomplishments to date.

• Information to support environmental compliance review requirements – the Service has the responsibility for making the final determination regarding compliance with Federal laws.

o National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) – provide any information that may be relevant to compliance with NEPA.

o Endangered Species Act (ESA) – provide any information that may be relevant to compliance with the ESA.

o National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA) – provide any information that may be relevant to compliance with NHPA, such as locations of historic or cultural properties.

o Other Permits – list and provide the current status of any other required Federal permits.

• Budget Narrative o Describe and justify requested budget items and costs identified on the SF424 budget form.

o Provide sufficient information to show that the project is cost effective.

o Describe any item that requires the Service’s approval (e.g. capital improvements, real property acquisitions, or equipment purchases).

• Information on key project personnel o Principal investigator (Research) o Recipient project lead

• Project Location o Provide a general description of where the work will be conducted.

SF-424A, Budget Information for Non-Construction Program

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 per the Service’s General Award Terms and Conditions. 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 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.

SF-424C, Budget Information for Construction Program

Applicants must submit the appropriate SF-424 Budget Information form and Budget Narrative. For construction programs or projects, applicants must complete and submit the SF- 424C, “Budget Information for Construction Programs”. 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 per the Service’s General Award Terms and Conditions. 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 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.

Request to Acquire, Improve, or Furnish Real Property

Applicants seeking approval to acquire real property under an award must complete and submit the SF-429, “Real Property Status Report (Cover Page)” and the SF-429-B, “Real Property Status Report Attachment B (Request to Acquire, Improve, or Furnish)”. These forms are required if the real property is acquired with Federal funds, with recipient cost share or matching funds, or as an in-kind contribution under the award.

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 https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/forms.html https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/forms.html https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/forms.html https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?SID=975db78f7471625568d8b749a984cb37&mc=true&node=pt2.1.200&rgn=div5 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.

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 subrecipients.

(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).

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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.

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.

Disclosure of Lobbying Activities

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 in 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.”

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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 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. The official website address is http://fedgov.dnb.com/webform. 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 made to the entity’s DUNS or IRS information.

Foreign entities who want to receive payment directly to a U.S. bank account must enter and maintain valid, current banking information in SAM.

http://fedgov.dnb.com/webform https://sam.gov/SAM/

D4. Submission Dates and Times

Due Date for Applications: Continuous from March 1, 2021 to December 31, 2021.

Application Due Date Explanation:

Electronically submitted applications must be submitted no later than 5:00 p.m., ET, on December 31, 2021.

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

Pre-Federal award costs are not allowed.

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 https://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/management/office-federal-financial-management/ https://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/management/office-federal-financial-management/ https://ibc.doi.gov/ICS/contact-us https://www.doi.gov/ibc/services/finance/indirect-cost-services https://www.doi.gov/ibc/services/finance/indirect-cost-services

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.”]

� 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 https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?SID=3bd453ba466cf3f037d937da8e2e5417&mc=true&node=pt2.1.200&rgn=div5 https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?SID=3bd453ba466cf3f037d937da8e2e5417&mc=true&node=pt2.1.200&rgn=div5

[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.

D7. Other Submission Requirements

Applications should be submitted electronically using the Grant Solutions system. If an eligible applicant cannot use GrantSolutions for a legitimate reason, application by email may be possible, but would require prior approval. If given approval to apply by email: Format all of your documents to print on Letter size (8 ½” x 11”) paper. Format all pages to display and print page numbers.

Where possible, save scanned documents in .pdf format. E-mail your application to the Service program point of contact identified in the Grants.gov funding opportunity.

The required SF 424 Application for Federal Assistance and Assurances forms and any other required standard forms MUST be signed by your organization’s authorized official. The Signature and Date fields on the downloaded standard forms are usually pre-populated with the text “Completed by Grants.gov upon submission” or “Completed on submission to Grants.gov”.

Remove this text (manually or digitally) before signing the forms.

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E. Application Review Information

E1. Criteria

Conservation activities and projects under NFPP are selected on a regional basis based upon regional focus areas. Projects that meet region-specific priorities will receive higher priority, though staff are not prohibited from implementing high-value habitat improvement projects outside of these priorities areas. As set forth in the Service Manual Chapter on NFPP, all eight regions follow the basic criteria below when selecting projects:

• Show demonstrable ecological benefits for Federal trust species.

• Require minimum costs to the Service for operation and maintenance.

• Exhibit permanence of fish passage benefits.

• Make use of the most current scientific knowledge and proven technology.

• Have the greatest number of partners.

• Generate the maximum in matching fund contributions.

• Address objectives outlined in approved management plans.

Projects for mitigation purposes. Fish passage projects are not eligible for NFPP funding if they are for any Federal or State compensatory mitigation. Fish passage projects are not eligible for funding if fish passage is a condition provided by existing Federal or State regulatory programs. Projects funded under NFPP are voluntary.

E2. Review and Selection Process

All potential applicants should contact the local FAC Program staff prior to developing an application.

Most NFPP projects are developed collaboratively with other conservation partners. FAC Program staff are able to provide technical information and are knowledgeable about state-of-the-art techniques to restore, enhance, and protect fish and wildlife habitats for the benefit of Federal trust species. If an applicant chooses to prepare an application independently, the application will be reviewed by the Region to determine if the potential project is consistent with the goals of the NFPP, FAC, and the Regions.

FAC Program field staff are responsible for identifying and selecting fish passage projects, with concurrence from the field station Project Leader, or other authority designated by the appropriate FAC Assistant Regional Director. FAC Program staff use the criteria described in Section E1 when selecting fish passage projects for funding. At a minimum, our conservation activities and projects must advance the mission of the Service and be based on sound ecological principles.

Cost sharing is encouraged, but not required on a single project basis. Cost sharing is the NFPP’s strategy to leverage program funds with funds from other federal and non-federal partners to deliver fish passage projects cost effectively. All proposals should strive to secure a cost share ratio of one partner dollar for each NFPP dollar. If other considerations are equal, priority for funding will be given to projects that involve greater partnership support and cost sharing, and that have the greatest cost effectiveness. If, due to limited funding or for other reasons, the program needs to negotiate project scopes of work and budgets prior to award, then the applicants will have to submit revised SF-424 forms and narratives prior to award.

Prior to participating in any review or evaluation process, all staff and peer reviewers, evaluators, panel members, and advisors must sign and return to the program office point of contact the “Department of the Interior Conflict of Interest Certification” form. For a copy of this form, contact the Service point of contact identified in the Agency Contacts section below.

Prior to award, the program will review any applicant statement regarding potential overlap or duplication between the project to be funded and any other funded or proposed project in terms of activities, funding, or time commitment of key personnel. Depending on the circumstances, the program may request modification to the application, other pending applications, or an active award, as needed to eliminate any duplication of effort, or the Bureau may choose not to fund the selected project. The program 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 Bureau 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.

Prior to award, the program will evaluate the risk posed by applicants as required in 2 CFR 200.205.

Programs document applicant risk evaluations using the Bureau’s “Financial Assistance Recipient Risk Assessment” form. Prior to approving awards for Federal funding in excess of the simplified acquisition threshold (currently $250,000), the Bureau is required to review and consider any information about or from the applicant found in the Federal Awardee Performance and Integrity Information System. The Bureau will consider this information when completing the risk review. The Bureau uses the results of the risk evaluation to establish monitoring plans, recipient reporting frequency requirements, and to determine if one or more of the specific award conditions in 2 CFR

200.207 should be applied to the award.

E3. CFR – Regulatory Information

See the Service’s General Award Terms and Conditions for the general administrative and national policy requirements applicable to Service awards. The Service will communicate any other program-or project-specific special terms and conditions to recipients in their notices of award.

E4. Anticipated Announcement and Federal Award Dates

Federal awards under NFPP occur on a rolling basis, starting in March 2021. NFPP actively identifies potential projects throughout the federal fiscal year (October 1 – September 30).

F. Federal Award Administration Information

F1. Federal Award Notices

Applicants may be requested to revise the project scope and/or budget before an award is made.

Successful applicants will receive written notice in the form of a notice of award document. Notices of award are typically sent to recipients by e-mail. If e-mail notification is unsuccessful, the documents will be sent by courier mail (e.g., FedEx, DHL or UPS). Award recipients are not required to https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?SID=3bd453ba466cf3f037d937da8e2e5417&mc=true&node=pt2.1.200&rgn=div5 https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?SID=3bd453ba466cf3f037d937da8e2e5417&mc=true&node=pt2.1.200&rgn=div5 https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?SID=3bd453ba466cf3f037d937da8e2e5417&mc=true&node=pt2.1.200&rgn=div5 https://www.fws.gov/grants/index.html sign/return the Notice of Award document. The notice of award document will include instructions specific to each recipient on how to request payment. If applicable, the instructions will detail any additional information/forms required and where to submit payment requests.

Awards are based on the application submitted to and approved by the Service and are subject to the terms and conditions incorporated into the Notice of Award either by direct citation or by reference to the following: Federal regulations; program legislation or regulation; and special award terms and conditions. Recipient acceptance of a Federal award from the Service carries with it the responsibility to be aware of and comply with all terms and conditions applicable to the award. Recipients indicate their acceptance of the Federal award by starting work, drawing down funds, or accepting the award via electronic means.

F2. Administrative and National Policy Requirements

See the DOI Standard Terms and Conditions for the administrative and national policy requirements applicable to DOI awards.

Data Availability

Per the Financial Assistance Interior Regulation (FAIR), 2 CFR §1402.315:

(a) All data, methodology, factual inputs, models, analyses, technical information, reports, conclusions, valuation products or other scientific assessments in any medium or form, including textual, numerical, graphic, cartographic, narrative, or audiovisual, resulting from a financial assistance agreement is available for use by the Department of the Interior, including being available in a manner that is sufficient for independent verification.

(b)The Federal Government has the right to:

(1)Obtain, reproduce, publish, or otherwise use the data, methodology, factual inputs, models, analyses, technical information, reports, conclusions, or other scientific assessments, produced under a Federal award; and

(2)Authorize others to receive, reproduce, publish, or otherwise use such data, methodology, factual inputs, models, analyses, technical information, reports, conclusions, or other scientific assessments, for Federal purposes, including to allow for meaningful third-party evaluation.

See the Service’s General Award Terms and Conditions for the general administrative and national policy requirements applicable to Service awards. The Service will communicate any other program-or project-specific special terms and conditions to recipients in their notices of award.

F3. Reporting

Financial Reports

All recipients must use the SF-425, Federal Financial Report form for financial reporting. At a minimum, all recipients must submit a final financial report. Final reports are due no later than 90 calendar days after the award period of performance end date or termination date. For awards with https://www.doi.gov/grants/doi-standard-terms-and-conditions https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?SID=3bd453ba466cf3f037d937da8e2e5417&mc=true&node=pt2.1.1402&rgn=div5 https://www.fws.gov/grants/index.html https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/forms/post-award-reporting-forms.html periods of performance longer than 12 months, recipients are required to submit interim financial reports on the frequency established in the Notice of Award. The only exception to the interim financial reporting requirement is if the recipient is required to use the SF 270/271 to request payment and requests payment at least once annually through the entire award period of performance. We will describe all financial reporting requirements in the Notice of Award.

Performance Reports

Performance reports must contain a comparison of actual accomplishments with the established goals and objectives of the award; a description of reasons why established goals were not met, if…