Foa_Content_of_M24AS00302.docx

Bureau of Ocean Energy Management

BOEM - Acquisition Policy and Financial Assistance

M24AS00302

08/10/2024

Table of Contents

A. Program Description This section contains the full program description of the funding opportunity. It may be as long as needed to adequately communicate to potential applicants the areas in which funding may be provided. It describes the Bureau’s funding priorities or the technical or focus areas in which the Bureau intends to provide assistance. As appropriate, it may include any program history (e.g., whether this is a new program or a changed area of program emphasis). This section may communicate indicators of successful projects (e.g., if the program encourages collaborative efforts) and may include examples of projects that have been funded previously. This section also may include other information the Bureau deems necessary, and must at a minimum include citations for authorizing statutes and regulations for the funding opportunity.

A1. Authority Please add the statutory and/or appropriations citation that provides the legal authority for the program and funding here.

The Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act at 43 USC §1345(e) authorizes BOEM to enter into cooperative agreements with States affected by energy development on the Outer Continental Shelf for purposes including the joint utilization of available expertise, the facilitating of permitting procedures, joint planning and review, and the formation of joint surveillance and monitoring arrangements to carry out applicable Federal and State laws, regulations, and stipulations relevant to Outer Continental Shelf operations.

Under the Use of Cooperative Agreements authority (43 U.S.C. §1457b), BOEM is authorized to enter into cooperative agreements with a state or political subdivision (including any agency thereof), or any not-for-profit organization if: (1) the agreement will serve a mutual interest of the parties to the agreement in carrying out the programs administered by BOEM; and (2) all parties will contribute resources to the accomplishment of these objectives.

A2. Background, Purpose and Program Requirements Please add any program specific text into the text field below. The program authorization or appropriation is often a good source of language for the purpose. Provide comprehensive, detailed background of project. Maximum of 5 pages. Describe program requirements in 8–10 pages, maximum of 25 pages.

PURPOSE

BOEM envisions project proposals that demonstrate an ability to characterize important insights gained from social science and participatory methods that recognize the wisdom and insight of fishermen, as well as the importance of using their knowledge to effectively manage the changing socio-ecological environment in the Gulf of Maine (GOME). This research aims to enhance our understanding of the socio-cultural, historical, and spatial temporal aspects of the region’s fisheries.

The purpose of this agreement is to conduct cooperative social science research, in the context of offshore wind (OSW) planning and permitting, in the GOME emphasizing fisheries ecological knowledge (FEK). FEK is the information fishermen accumulate over time, especially through daily interaction with the ecosystem, supplemented with knowledge passed on by previous generations and fellow fishermen (Hall-Arber, 2008). FEK -- a type of traditional ecological knowledge -- can be defined as “a cumulative body of knowledge, practice and belief evolving by adaptive processes and handed down through generations by cultural transmission, about the relationship of living beings (including humans) with one another and with their environment” (Berkes et al. 2000).

This study will enhance the State’s and BOEM’s understanding of how changing ocean and climate conditions have affected fisheries in the region and how the natural and human dimensions (e.g., harvest practices, fisheries management plans, population dynamics) of fisheries are adapting to changing environmental conditions. This information will support OSW planning and assessment activities in carrying out its mandated mission to manage development of U.S. OCS resources in an environmentally and economically responsible way by providing enhanced data and context on fisheries activities, including baseline conditions (e.g., grounds, population dynamics, social aspects), trends and potential future outcomes.

BACKGROUND

BOEM relies on existing information about the use of the ocean by fishers that is collected through monitoring such as vessel management system (VMS), vessel trip reporting (VTR), and automatic identification system (AIS) data. BOEM uses this information in the analysis of impacts to fishers and to identify appropriate mitigation measures. These methods do not capture the totality of fishing activity and have the potential to miss important fishing patterns on the OCS. Accessing and incorporating FEK into BOEM's practices and processes can help fill this knowledge gap. In a more recent study, DeCelles et al. (2017) found that combining FEK with more traditional fisheries research relying on secondary harvest data improved the spatial and temporal resolution of information related to cod spawning activities on Georges Bank.

Researchers in the GOME have acknowledged the importance of collecting FEK to fill in data gaps and to provide context on population trends and habitat associations. An effort to collect, verify, and incorporate FEK in the GOME will improve our information base in support of BOEM decision-making. An effort to collect FEK solicits information from (Tribal, artisanal, historic, etc.) fishers. This information will enhance BOEM’s spatial planning efforts to develop and manage OSW lease areas in the GOME.

The GOME is a complex ecosystem that supports a rich and dynamic fishing economy. While the region is extensively studied for fisheries management, there are many unknowns regarding these fisheries. Past efforts to collect FEK in the GOME have provided some indications of the challenges and benefits to engaging these communities. St. Martin and Hall-Arber (2008) found that in their efforts to engage with fishers, individuals withheld fishing location information from each other and federal resource managers to protect their interests.

The rapidly changing GOME ecosystem, including ocean warming and changing distributions of key marine species necessitate updated fisheries information for equitable and effective offshore wind development that minimizes and avoids marine spatial conflicts. A greater understanding of the marine ecosystem in the GOME and fisher activities is needed to contextualize scientific data both spatially and temporally for an improved understanding of ocean use. A key aspect missing is the ecological knowledge gained by fishers who have been using this area for generations and recognize the changes that are occurring.

OBJECTIVES

This goal of this project is to enhance BOEM’s understanding of the interplay between changing ocean and climate conditions, the region’s fisheries (i.e., biological aspects) and the associated human dimensions (e.g., fisher activity, fisheries management). The encompassing objective of this study is to enhance BOEM’s understanding of GOME’s culturally and historically important fishing habitats and fisheries ecology through the collection of FEK. The study awarded under this program must address the following objectives:

· Enhance the cultural and geographic understanding of the GOME’s fisheries (e.g., fish populations dynamics, fleet workings/dynamics, ecosystem change, and the spatial/temporal characteristics of harvesting and spawning) and fishing grounds (i.e., species, gear type, bottom-type, and season).

· Improve the understanding of the region’s fisheries, specifically regarding ecosystem connectivity (e.g., recruitment, spawning and food web) and fisheries biology (biomass, distribution, and abundance and diversity).

· Advance the scientific understanding of how the GOME’s marine ecosystem (e.g., species distribution shifts) and concomitant resource management and fishing patterns have adapted over time (e.g., spatial and temporal changes in fishing grounds, changes in access to grounds, changes in gear, other employment, broadening target species, etc.).

· Convey the enhanced and improved understanding of GOME fisheries using various educational and outreach tools (e.g., presentations, reports, geospatial data, etc.) that can be used for marine planning and effective stakeholder engagement.

· Provide guidance and regular updates to fishermen regarding the spatial planning process, data needs in the Gulf of Maine, and available spatial data tools like “MarineCadastre.gov” or the Regional Ocean Portals (e.g., Northeast Regional Ocean Council, data portal).

· Protect proprietary and personal fishing information of all individuals involved in providing fisheries data and contextual information.

The above objectives support BOEM’s mission to manage the development of OCS resources in an environmentally responsible manner and align with BOEM values for environmental stewardship. The results of this study will enhance the understanding of the potential interactions between offshore construction and operation activities on fisheries (i.e., fishers, fish, and fish habitat), in support of science-informed decision making.

Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) Number Insert program CFDA. Include multiple program numbers as applicable.

15.423 Authorization Legislation Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act at 43 USC §1345(e), Use of Cooperative Agreements authority 43 U.S.C. §1457b.

The Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act at 43 USC §1345(e) authorizes BOEM to enter into cooperative agreements with States affected by energy development on the Outer Continental Shelf for purposes including the joint utilization of available expertise, the facilitating of permitting procedures, joint planning and review, and the formation of joint surveillance and monitoring arrangements to carry out applicable Federal and State laws, regulations, and stipulations relevant to Outer Continental Shelf operations.

Funding Goals Comment by John Primo: Resolved Comment by Brandon Jensen: Revised as suggested. Comment by John Primo: Strongly suggest changing this to "Responsible Offshore Science Alliance and/or other similar organizations to conduct or collaborate on this study."

Please enter your Project Goals. At least one Project Goal is required.

Funding Opportunity Goals

· The objective of this study is to improve BOEMs understanding of the use of the Gulf of Maine for fishing and the importance of fishing to the regional economy through collection of FEK. BOEM would partner with the Responsible Offshore Science Alliance and/or other similar organizations to conduct or collaborate on this study.

A3. Technical Assistance and Information for Prospective Applicants Include information on pre-conference calls, evaluation contracts, technical assistance contracts, webinars, data contracts.

B. Federal Award Information This section provides sufficient information to help an applicant make an informed decision about whether to submit a proposal. Relevant information could include the total amount of funding that the Bureau expects to award through the Notice of Funding Opportunity; the anticipated number of Federal awards; the expected amounts of individual Federal awards (which may be a range); the amount of funding per Federal award, on average, experienced in previous years; and the anticipated start dates and periods of performance for new Federal awards. This section also should address whether applications for renewal or supplementation of existing projects are eligible to compete with applications for new Federal awards.

B1. Total Funding Estimated Total Funding $400,000 This section should specify the amount authorized for the entire program, not individual awards. Sample Text: 'The total amount of federal funds available is anticipated to be $32,000,000.' The total amount of federal funds available is anticipated to be $400,000.

B2. Expected Award Amount Maximum Award Amount $400,000 Minimum Award Amount $350,000 If Minimum/Maximum Award Amounts do not apply, mark as 0$ and add a thorough explanation in the text field below.

B3. Anticipated Dates Award Start Date August 31, 2024 Provide award date and specify any rolling deadlines.

B4. Period of Performance As applicable, describe the anticipated periods of performance for awards issued through this funding opportunity Length of Project Periods Comment by John Primo: Resolved Comment by Brandon Jensen: Revised as suggested Comment by John Primo: Insert - "30-month period of performance with annual budget with annual budget periods" Comment by John Primo: Resolved Comment by Brandon Jensen: Revised as suggested Comment by John Primo: This is supposed to be 30 months and that is even a very tight timeline. We want to select other at bottom of list and then extend.

Other Length of Project Period Explanation of Other Comment by Brandon Jensen: Yes, I think Najma's edit is appropriate and revised as suggested. Comment by Najma Shaikh: Should this be "30-month project period with two 12-month budget periods?" This is vague versus the bullets. Comment by John Primo: Resolved Comment by Brandon Jensen: Revised as suggested Comment by John Primo: See above - "30-month period of performance 30-month project period with two 12-month budget periods Project Period l Expectation Duration in Months Comment by John Primo: Resolved Comment by Brandon Jensen: Revised as suggested Comment by John Primo: Incorrect see above 30-months For multi-year projects, outline multi-year project period and funding structure. (i.e. total amount of money allocated each year and how it will be provided.)

If the proposed work is such that more than one year is required to complete the research, then a multi-year proposal is appropriate, and the applicant shall write the proposal accordingly. Proposals shall clearly define the work to be completed in each year, and the evaluation panel reserves the option to fund only the first year of a multi-year proposal. Funding for subsequent years of a multi-year cooperative agreement is contingent upon the availability of funds and satisfactory progress demonstrated by the Awardee. Progress will be determined through technical review of quarterly progress reports and other work identified by the BOEM Project Officer. Funds requested for the final year of performance shall include a 15% retainage of the project's total anticipated budget request. The BOEM Project Officer shall provide continuation notices at least 60 days prior to the end of each funding period.

B5. Numbers of Awards Enter number of awards the program anticipates making through this funding opportunity. If the program has established minimum and maximum values for the anticipated total number of awards, enter those values in the maximum and minimum fields below. If either of these values does not apply, enter “0” in the corresponding field(s) and then enter an alternate description of the anticipated number of awards in the following text field.

Expected Number of Awards

B6. Type of Award Funding Instrument Type CA - Cooperative Agreement The award will be a cooperative agreement. This involves substantial involvement by BOEM scientists in various aspects of study development and/or study conduct.

BOEM will perform the following:

1. Work closely with the Awardee to provide oversight of the project.

2. Participate in fieldwork (e.g., primary data collection) and project oversight.

3. Collaborate with research team's primary research activities, participate as appropriate.

4. Provide real time direction or re-direction on data analysis, early results, and/or technical difficulties.

5. Provide feedback on data synthesis approach.

6. Participate in preparing presentations (e.g., meetings or conferences).

7. Provide oversight and funding.

Comment by Brandon Jensen: Added the following to #6 "(e.g., meetings or conferences)" Comment by Najma Shaikh: Will they be presenting at a conference per the note below? I didn't see any verbiage about it so wanted to make sure it wasn't overlooked. Comment by Brandon Jensen: Revised as suggested Comment by John Primo: Brandon, Some of these are standard study roles – ie don’t necessarily qualify as substantive participation for a COOP. The COOP as we communicated calls for more substantive participation than usual. I think part or all the following are considered standard roles: 1, 2 (par of this), 4, 5, 7. I am guessing it’s okay to leave these in there. I would modify #3 as we are not doing a survey, which as a technical meaning and could indicate the need for OMB review. Use something like: Collaborate with research team with their primary research activities, participate as appropriate. Re#6: Did the SOW call for a manuscript and conference presentation – don’t note this if it did not. I recall a presentation to fishers, which could potential be at a conference, but this is not explicit. I believe you all removed the manuscript.

B7. Other Federal Information Type of Competition Open to All Eligible Applicants

C. Eligibility Information This section addresses the considerations or factors that determine applicant or application eligibility. If there are no restrictions on eligibility, select “99 (Unrestricted) from the list of eligible applicants. If there are restrictions on eligibility, we must be clear about the specific types of recipients that are eligible, not just the types that are ineligible. Eligible recipients must also appear in the program’s SAM.gov Assistance Listing (CFDA) profile. The Notice of Funding Opportunity should make clear whether an applicant's failure to meet an eligibility criterion by the time of an application deadline will result in the Bureau returning the application without review or, even though an application may be reviewed, will preclude Bureau from making a Federal award. *PLEASE NOTE: Some entities are incorporated as non-profits but have not requested Internal Revenue Status (IRS) tax exemption status; programs with authorizing legislation that limits applicant eligibility to only those non-profits with a specific tax exemption status must make that restriction clear in this section and describe any related evidentiary documentation requirements].

C1. Eligible Applicants If the program does not have any eligibility restrictions based on entity type, select the \\\"Anyone/general public” option in the following checklist. Enter any clarifying information in the following text box, as needed. If the program does have eligibility restrictions based on entity type, we must be clear about the specific types of entities who are eligible. To do so, check the boxes next to all eligible entity types in the following checklist and enter any clarifying information in the following text box, as needed. If there are restrictions on eligibility, it is important to be clear about the specific types of entities that are eligible, not just the types that are ineligible. For example, if the program is limited to nonprofit organizations subject to 26 U.S.C. 501(c)(3) of the tax code (26 U.S.C. 501(c)(3)), the announcement should say so. Similarly, it is better to state explicitly that Native American tribal organizations are eligible than to assume that they can unambiguously infer that from a statement that nonprofit organizations may apply. Programs may also express eligibility by exception (e.g., open to all types of domestic applicants other than individuals). Specifically reference any documentation applicants must submit to support an eligibility determination (e.g., if the program limits eligibility to only non-profits with a specific IRS status, state in the field below that proof of 501(c)(3) status as determined by the Internal Revenue Service or an authorizing tribal resolution is required). To the extent that any program funding restriction could affect the eligibility of an applicant or project, the announcement must either restate that restriction in this section or provide a cross-reference to its description as it appears elsewhere in this template.

00 – State governments 06 – Public and State controlled institutions of higher education 12 – Nonprofits having a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS, other than institutions of higher education 25 – Others (see text field entitled “Additional Information on Eligibility” for clarification) Additional Information on Eligibility Explanation required if “Others” is selected.

Eligible institutions are limited to state academic institutions and nonprofit organizations adjacent to current project areas along the U.S. Atlantic coast from Maine to Massachusetts.

C2. Cost Sharing or Matching Notice of Funding Opportunities must state whether there is required cost sharing, matching, or cost participation without which an application would be ineligible (if cost sharing is not required, the Notice of Funding Opportunity must explicitly say so). All federal awards must have a statutory or regulatory basis to include a requirement for matching or cost sharing in a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO). Required cost sharing may be a certain percentage or amount or may be in the form of contributions of specified items or activities (e.g., provision of equipment). It is important that the Notice of Funding Opportunity be clear about any restrictions on the types of cost (e.g., in-kind contributions) that are acceptable as cost sharing. Cost sharing as an eligibility criterion includes requirements based in statute or regulation as described in 2 CFR 200.306, §75.306 or those imposed by administrative decision of the Service. This section should refer to the appropriate portion(s) of Section D. stating any pre-award requirements for submission of letters or other documentation to verify commitments to meet cost-sharing requirements if a Federal award is made.

Cost Sharing/Matching Requirement Comment by Brandon Jensen: Revised as suggested. Comment by John Primo: Resolved No Percentage of Cost Sharing / Matching Requirement:

C3. Other Excluded Parties:

BOEM 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.

Insert additional eligibility criteria.

D. Application and Submission Information

D1. Address to Request Application Package In the following text field, provide information for potential applicants on how to get application forms, kits, or other materials needed to apply. Specify if this Notice of Funding Opportunity contains everything needed or if applicants must go elsewhere to complete all documentation requirements The application from the CESU institution must be submitted through thewww.Grants.gov portal at "Apply for Grants." The applicant can locate the application package by visiting the Grants.gov portal and searching on CFDA number 15.423 or Announcement M24AS00302 in the Grants.gov search engine. The announcement is also available in Grant Solution

D2. Content and Form of Application Submission SF-424, Application for Federal Assistance The following header will display if this checkbox is selected: SF 424B, Assurances for Non-Construction Programs SF 424D, Assurances for Construction Programs The following header will display if this checkbox is selected: SF 424D, Assurances for Construction Programs Individuals applying for and receiving funds separate from a business or non-profit organization he/she may own or operate and any entity waived from the SAM.gov registration requirements by the funding bureau or office must submit the appropriate signed and dated Assurances form. All required application forms are available on with this announcement on Grants.gov.

Project Summary Comment by Brandon Jensen: Resolved - Primo Comment by John Primo: Is this all the language that goes in here? It notes 'Project summary; and we only have Sci Integrity notice? Need to verify with ESP Business and probably CO Collecting Fisheries Ecological Knowledge (FEK) for Use in Gulf of Maine Offshore Wind (National Studies List [NSL] #AT-24-04) Scientific Integrity Scientific integrity is vital to DOI activities under which scientific research, data, summaries, syntheses, interpretations, presentations, and/or publications are developed and used. Failure to uphold the highest degree of scientific integrity will result not only in potentially flawed scientific results, interpretations, and applications but will damage DOI's reputation and ability to uphold the public's trust. All work performed must comply with the DOI Scientific Integrity Policy posted to http://www.doi.gov/Scientificintegrity, or its equivalent as provided by their organization or State law.

Project Narrative The cover sheet of the proposal shall contain the following information:

1. Project Title:

2. PI(s):

a. Name:

b. Address:

c. Phone:

d. Fax:

e. E-mail:

3. Name of University/Department:

4. Contact Information for Technical and Administrative Negotiations

5. Project Status: New/Continuation

6. Project Duration: (years or months)

7. Proposed Start Date:

8. Proposed Draft Final Report Submission Date:

9. Proposed Completion Date:

10. Amount Requested From BOEM:

11. Amount and Sources of Non-Federal Match:

12. Total Project Cost:

13. Signature, Name, and Contact Information of University PI and Co-Investigator:

14. Proposal Endorsement, including Signature, Name, Contact Information of Sponsoring University Department Dean or Institute Director:

15. Signature, Name and Contact Information of Sponsoring University's Office of Sponsored Programs Proposal Text The proposal must be in 11-12 point Times New Roman, Arial, or similar font with 1"-page margins. Non-conforming proposals will not be considered. Text, figures, etc. in support of items 1-10 below should be no longer than 15 pages.

Please include the following in the Proposal:

1. Abstract

2. Background/Relevance to BOEM Issues, Information Needs, and Research Topics: Give a brief introduction to the research problem. State how the proposal addresses BOEM goals. Explain why the work is important. Specify the contribution to science related to understanding the impacts of seismic surveys on fish and the benefits that society will receive from the study.

3. Objectives/Hypotheses: Clearly define goals of the project.

4. Methods/Analyses: Provide a clear description of planned research methodologies and analyses.

5. Project Deliverables and Planned Products: Applicants shall provide plans for executing the duties of the awardee listed in Section F3 and the deliverables in Section A3 as outlined in the Table in Section H including a rough timeline for these deliverables.

6. Staffing Plan: All key personnel (including graduate student workers) shall be identified by name. List the University PI first, followed by the names of other individuals. Indicate the role and anticipated level of effort for each key participant offering unique or specific contributions to the project (oceanographer, geochemist, field assistant, etc.). If names of any key participants are unknown, a proposal addendum with the names and curricula vitae must be submitted prior to award.

7. Performance Measures: Applicants shall suggest specific measures that will be used to monitor project progress, including progress of sub-awardees (e.g.,quality and timely deliverables, timely completion of fieldwork or other project components, draft peer-reviewed articles). These performance measures will be incorporated in the cooperative agreement award and reviewed as part of any continuation request.

8. Critical Starting Dates (e.g., for season-limited field work): Identify any critical starting dates and the reason why project success is dependent upon that start date.

9. Publication and Presentation: BOEM strongly encourages the Awardees to publish project reports in scientific and technical journals, and present results to the scientific community, appropriate professional organizations, and local,State, and/or Federal agencies as part of the project (please also see Section H). These publications and meetings should be included in the proposal and budget.

10. Bibliography: List all references cited in the text, as well as references that are relevant to the current proposal from your past work in the field.

11. Curricula Vitae (maximum two pages) for each identified key participant. Emphasize previous experience in the field of study that the proposal addresses.

12. Letters of Commitment: Provide signed letters of commitment by matching fund grantors, contractors, and sub-grantees.

13. University Budget Spreadsheet: In addition to SF-424a Budget Information form below, include information in a format which provides personnel, travel, services, supplies, equipment, tuition, and indirect costs on an annual basis for both the requested BOEM funds and for the anticipated match funds.

14. Budget Justification Narrative: See below.

SF 424A, Budget Information for Non-Construction Programs The following header will display if this checkbox is selected: SF 424A, Budget Information for Non-Construction Programs Applicants must show funds requested from this Federal program separately from any other Federal sources of funding. In the “Budget Summary” section of the appropriate SF-424 budget form, use the first row for funding requested from this Federal program. Use subsequent row(s) for funding requested from this Federal program. Use subsequent row(s) for other Federal funding. Enter each Federal program’s CFDA number(s) in the corresponding fields on the form. Federal award recipients and subrecipients are subject to Federal award cost principles per the “DOI Standard Award Terms and Conditions”. The CFDA number(s) for this program appears on the first page of this announcement.

The following header will display if this checkbox is selected: SF 424C, Budget Information for Construction Program Budget Narrative/Detailed Spreadsheet Describe and justify requested budget items and costs. Detail how the SF-424 Budget Information, Object Class Category totals were determined. For personnel salary costs, include the baseline salary figures and the estimates of time. Describe any item of cost that requires prior approval under the Federal cost principles. See 2 CFR 200.407 “Prior written approval (prior approval)” for more information. If equipment purchased previously with Federal funds is available for the project, provide a list of that equipment and identify the Federal funding source.

Conflict of Interest Disclosure Per theFinancial 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. Please reference the Federal Activities Inventory Reform Act for additional details.

(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 subrecipients, 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).

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.

The following header will display if this checkbox is selected: 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 connection with the award. Applicants and recipients must complete and submit the SF-LLL, Disclosure of Lobbying Activities 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 on the “Packages” tab of 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.

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 an individual (i.e., unrelated to any business or nonprofit organization you may own, operate, or work within), or any entity with an exception to bypass SAM.gov registration with prior approval from the funding bureau or office in accordance with bureau or office policy. All other applicants are required to register in SAM.gov prior to submitting a Federal award application and obtain a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) which replaces the Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS) number from Dun & Bradstreet in April 2022. A Federal award may not be made 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 the applicant is not qualified to receive an award. Federal award recipients must also continue to maintain an active SAM.gov registration with current information through the life of their Federal award(s).

Register with the System for Award Management (SAM) Applicants can register on the SAM.gov website. The “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. Applicants can contact the supporting Federal Service Desk for help registering in SAM. Once registered in SAM, entities will be assigned a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI). 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 IRS information. There is no cost to register with SAM.gov. There are third-party vendors who will charge a fee in exchange for registering entities with SAM.gov; please be aware you can register and request help for free. If applicable, foreign entities who want to receive payment directly to a U.S. bank account must enter and maintain valid, current banking information in SAM.

D4. Submission Dates and Times Notice of Funding Opportunities must identify due dates and times for all submissions according to 2 CFR 200, Appendix I, section D (4). Review and address all of the 2 CFR 200-Appendix I requirements for this section. These include clearly stating deadlines in terms of date and local time (Please Note: Grants.gov uses Eastern Time); what the deadline means and if submission method affects it; and the effect of missing a deadline. Format the information in this section so that it is easy to understand and use. A tabular format or checklist may be more helpful than narrative paragraphs.] This includes not only the full applications but also any preliminary submissions (e.g., letters of intent, white papers, or pre-applications). It also includes any other submissions of information before Federal award that are separate from the full application. If the funding opportunity is a general Notice of Funding Opportunity that is open for a period of time with no specific due dates for applications, this section should say so.

Application Due Date 08/10/2024 Application Due Date Explanation Electronically submitted applications must be submitted no later than 5:00 p.m., ET,on the listed application due date.

D5. Intergovernmental Review Required, if applicable. If the funding opportunity is subject to Executive Order 12372, 'Intergovernmental Review of Federal Programs,' the notice must say so. In alerting applicants that they must contact their state's Single Point of Contact (SPOC) to find out about and comply with the state's process under Executive Order 12372, it may be useful to inform potential applicants that the names and addresses of the SPOCs are listed in the Office of Management and Budget's Web site. www.whitehouse.gov/omb/grants/spoc.html.

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 Notices must include information on funding restrictions in order to allow an applicant to develop an application and budget consistent with program requirements. Examples are whether construction is an allowable activity, if there are any limitations on direct costs such as foreign travel or equipment purchases, and if there are any limits on indirect costs (or facilities and administrative costs). Applicants must be advised if Federal awards will not allow reimbursement of pre-Federal award costs.

Indirect Costs: Individuals 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.

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

We are:

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

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

· A [insert your organization type; U.S. states and local governments, do not use this statement] that has previously negotiated or currently has an approved indirect cost rate with our cognizant agency. Our indirect cost rate is [insert rate]. [Insert either: “Attached is a copy of our most recently approved but expired rate agreement. In the event an award is made, we will submit an indirect cost rate proposal to our cognizant agency within 90 calendar days after the award is made.” or “Attached is a copy of our current negotiated indirect cost rate agreement.”]

· 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 [“Program Title”], which has a Department of the Interior-approve 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 the Financial Assistance Interior Regulation (FAIR) 2 CFR §1402.414. If we do not have an approved indirect cost rate with our cognizant agency, we understand that 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 [insert Bureau Here] to use the 2 CFR 200 MTDC base instead of the base identified in our approved indirect cost rate agreement. We understand that [Insert Bureau Here] 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 the indirect costs are 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.

Prohibited Uses of Awards Funds Add any additional program restrictions here.

Reimbursement of Pre-Award Costs

D7. Other Submission Requirements This section must address any other submission requirements not included in the other paragraphs of this section.

Please be aware that the electronic submission process requires first time users to register using an e- Authentication process. This registration process can be somewhat complex and can take up to 3 weeks to complete.