Foa_Content_of_R25AS00293 FE 7.22.25.pdf

Bureau of Reclamation

Notice of Funding Opportunity

Native American Affairs: Technical Assistance to Tribes for Fiscal Year 2025

Funding Opportunity Number

R25AS00293

Table of Contents

BASIC INFORMATION

ELIGIBILITY

Cost Sharing Requirement

GET READY TO APPLY

Required System Registrations

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

Program Goals

Program Description

Legislative Authority

Type of Award

PREPARE YOUR APPLICATION

Application Content and Format

Application Documents

SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS AND DEADLINES

Address to Request Application Package

Submission Dates and Times

Submission Instructions

APPLICATION REVIEW INFORMATION

Eligibility Review

Merit Review

Review and Selection Process

Risk Review

AWARD NOTICES

POST AWARD REQUIREMENTS AND ADMINISTRATION

Administration and National Policy Requirements

Reporting

BASIC INFORMATION

Announcement Type: Initial

Funding Opportunity Number: R25AS00293

Assistance Listing Number(s): 15.519

Estimated Total Program Funding: $7,000,000

Expected Number of Awards: 10

Award Ceiling: $1,000,000

Award Floor: $50,000

Cost Sharing Required?

No Closing Date Explanation Applications must be submitted no later than 4:00 p.m., MT, on the listed application due date.

Have Questions?

Questions regarding applicant and project eligibility and application review may be submitted to the attention of:

Courtney Mathews, Native American Affairs Advisor

By e-mail:cmathews@usbr.gov

By phone: 541-887-9107

Reclamation Regional Native American Affairs Coordinator Contacts:

Columbia-Pacific Northwest – Melinda Hernandez-Burke, mhernandezburke@usbr.gov

Regional Office

1150 North Curtis Road Boise, ID 83706

(208) 215-0065

Missouri Basin and the Texas Rio Grande Arkansas River – Shane Schieck, sschieck@usbr.gov

2021 Fourth Avenue North

Billings, MT 59101

(406) 247-7832

California Great-Basin – Kevin Clancy, kclancy@usbr.gov

Regional Office 2800 Cottage Way

Sacramento, CA 95825

(916) 978-5194

Lower Colorado Basin – Jessica Pope, jpope@usbr.gov

Phoenix Area Office 6150 W Thunderbird Road

Glendale, Arizona 85306

(623) 428-7563 mailto:e-mail:cmathews@usbr.gov mailto:mhernandezburke@usbr.gov mailto:sschieck@usbr.gov mailto:kclancy@usbr.gov mailto:jpope@usbr.gov

Upper Colorado Basin – Ernie Rheaume, erheaume@usbr.gov

Regional Office 125 State Street

Salt Lake City, UT 84138

(970) 317-1487

For questions regarding application and submission to this Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO), contact Randell Harris or the NOFO team at bor-sha-fafoa@usbr.gov. Staff availability on the day of the NOFO closing will be limited. Please include the NOFO number R25AS00293 in the subject line of any email correspondence.

Executive Summary The Bureau of Reclamation (Reclamation) through the Native American Affairs Technical Assistance Program (NAA/TAP), provides financial and technical assistance to federally recognized Tribes.

The objective of this NOFO is to invite federally recognized Tribes to submit proposals for financial assistance for projects and activities that develop, manage, and protect their water and water related resources.

Reclamation plans to make Fiscal Year 2025 funds available for proposals selected from this NOFO through Reclamation’s five Regional Offices.

• Maximum award per applicant: $2,000,000; $1,000,000 per proposal.

• No cost share requirement; however, partnering and collaboration is encouraged.

For further information on the NAA/TAP please visit:

www.usbr.gov/native/programs/TAPprogram.html

ELIGIBILITY

Eligible Applicants Native American tribal governments (Federally recognized)

Additional Information on Eligibility To be considered for this program, applicants will meet all the following eligibility requirements:

• The Tribe must be a federally recognized Indian Tribe, as defined in 25 U.S.C. Section 5304, and

• The Tribe must be located in one or more of the 17 western states identified in the Reclamation Act of June 17, 1902, as amended and supplemented: Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Kansas, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Oregon, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming.

Any applicant with an enacted Indian Water Rights Settlement, should identify the settlement in their application and might not be eligible for an award under this NOFO due to the uniqueness of each settlement.

Eligible activities may include, but are not limited to:

mailto:erheaume@usbr.gov mailto:bor-sha-fafoa@usbr.gov http://www.usbr.gov/native/programs/TAPprogram.html

• Water need and water infrastructure assessments.

• Water management plans and studies.

• Short-term water quality or water measurement data collection and assessment to inform new management approaches.

• Training for Tribal staff and managers in areas of water resources’ development, management and protection.

• Drilling domestic or stock watering wells.

• On-the-ground activities related to riparian and aquatic habitat with the goal to maintain or improve water quantity or water quality:

o Restoring wetlands.

o Controlling erosion.

o Stabilizing streambanks.

o Constructing ponds.

• Developing water basin plans.

• Distinct, stand-alone water related activities that are part of a larger project. Please note, if the work for which you are requesting funding is a phase of a larger project, please only describe the work that is reflected in the budget and exclude description of other activities or components of the overall project

Project activities not eligible for funding under this NOFO include, but are not limited to:

• Feasibility studies (as defined under Reclamation law, which require express congressional authorization).

• Activities that lack definable products or deliverables.

• Specific employment positions within an Indian Tribe.

• Activities with a duration of more than 2 years from date of execution of a grant/cooperative agreement.

• Activities that generate data or analyses that have the potential to compromise any study or activities of a U.S. Department of the Interior (Department) Indian water rights negotiation or the Department of Justice in its pursuit of related Indian water rights claims.

• Activities related to non-Federal or non-tribal dams and associated structures.

• Activities providing funding for the administration of contracts or agreements under P.L.

93-638 that are unrelated to the NAA/TAP.

• Purchase of equipment as the sole purpose of the activity.

• Water purchases including the purchase or leasing of water rights or water shares.

• Activities in direct support of litigation of any kind.

• Activities that will obligate Reclamation to provide, or are not sustainable unless

Reclamation does provide, on-going funding, such as an obligation to provide future funding for operation, maintenance, or replacement.

• Biological activities such as:

o fisheries work (including collection, analysis and evaluation of background data);

o habitat restoration unless directly related to water quality and quantity; and o ecosystem based activities such as biological surveys, air quality monitoring, and watershed-scale management.

Cost Sharing Requirement Cost Sharing Required?

No

GET READY TO APPLY

Required System Registrations Unique Entity Identifier and SAM.gov Registration

Before applying, all applicants except individuals applying as a natural person must be registered in SAM.gov. During the SAM.gov registration the entity will obtain their Unique Entity Identifier (UEI).

The SAM.gov registration process can take several months. If your organization is not already registered in SAM.gov, begin the registration process as soon as possible.

To register in SAM.gov, go to the SAM.gov website and use the available resources to complete registration.

• Financial assistance registrants must review and certify compliance with the SAM.gov “Financial Assistance General Representations and Certifications”.

• Already registered? You already have a Unique Entity ID. Before applying, check that your “Financial Assistance General Representations and Certifications” on SAM.gov is complete. Remember to renew your registration every year to keep it active while you have an award or application in progress. You can update your registration whenever you need, including during renewal.

• Need help? For additional information and contact information on the SAM.gov Help page.

Refer to Attachment – Submission Instructions & Tips.

GRANTS.GOV

This program accepts applications through Grants.gov so once you receive your UEI return to Grants.gov to register with Grants.gov. Please allow 30 days to register and set up a Workspace in Grants.gov. See Submission Instructions section below for additional details.

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

Program Goals

• The goal of the Native American Affairs Technical Assistance Program is to increase opportunities for federally recognized Tribes to manage, develop, and protect their water and water related resources.

Program Description The Bureau of Reclamation (Reclamation) through the Native American Affairs Technical Assistance Program (NAA/TAP), provides financial and technical assistance to federally recognized Tribes for projects and activities that develop, manage, and protect their water and water related resources.

https://sam.gov/content/entity-registration https://sam.gov/content/help https://sam.gov/content/help https://www.grants.gov/applicants/applicant-registration https://www.grants.gov/applicants/applicant-registration

The NAA/TAP is managed by the Native American and International Affairs Office (NAIAO) in Reclamation’s Office of the Commissioner. NAIAO coordinates with Regional Native American Affairs Program Managers to carry out the NAA/TAP.

Funding for the NAA/TAP is provided through yearly appropriations as outlined in the annual Reclamation budget justifications report.

For more information on this program please visit https://www.usbr.gov/native/programs/TAPprogram.html.

Buy America Preferences for Infrastructure Projects

This program has Federal funding for infrastructure projects. Buy America preferences apply to Federal awards for infrastructure projects in the United States. Reference 2 CFR Part 184 - Buy America Preferences for Infrastructure Project for further guidance.

For further information on the Buy America preference, please visit www.doi.gov/grants/BuyAmerica

Legislative Authority Reclamation’s Native American Affairs Technical Assistance Program is administered in accordance with the Reclamation Act of 1902, as amended and supplemented and Consolidated Appropriations Resolution, 2003, Division D - Energy and Water Development Appropriations, Title II, Sec. 201, Public Law (P. L.) 108-7 (43 USC 373d) which authorizes Reclamation to enter into grants and cooperative agreements with federally recognized Tribes to increase opportunities to develop, manage, and protect their water and water related resources.

Type of Award Projects will be funded through CA (Cooperative Agreement), G (Grant).

Recipient should expect the Federal agency to have substantial involvement in the project.

If a cooperative agreement is awarded, the Tribe should expect Reclamation to have substantial involvement in the project, as follows:

Collaboration and participation with the successful applicant in the management of the project and close oversight of the successful applicant’s activities to ensure that the program objectives are being achieved; and oversight may include review, input, and approval at key interim stages of the project.

PREPARE YOUR APPLICATION

Application Content and Format Application Documents Applicants must submit the following forms with their application as specified below.

Instructions for accessing and submitting application forms are provided in the Submission Instructions section of this document below. For instructions on completing form fields, see the form instructions on the Grants.gov Forms Repository.

https://www.usbr.gov/native/programs/TAPprogram.html.

https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-I/part-184 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-I/part-184 http://www.doi.gov/grants/BuyAmerica https://www.grants.gov/forms/forms-repository.html

Forms/Assurances/Certifications Submission Requirement SF-424, Application for Federal Assistance Note: For applicants requesting more than $100,000 in Federal funds, the Authorized Representative’s signature (or electronic equivalent) on the Application for Federal Assistance form also represents their certification of the statements in Appendix A to 43 CFR 18-Certification Regarding Lobbying

Required from all applicants

SF-424A, Budget Information – Non-Construction Programs

Required for non-construction projects

SF-429 (Cover Page & Attachment B), Request to Acquire, Improve, or Furnish Real Property Note: The SF-429 forms are only available in the Grants.gov Forms Repository. Applicants must download the form and include the completed form as an application attachment.

Required if requesting to acquire, improve, or furnish real property.

SF-LLL, Disclosure of Lobbying Activities

Required if requesting more than $100,000 in Federal funds and the applicant has used or plans to use funds other than Federal appropriated funds for lobbying related to the proposed project.

Project Abstract Summary (OMB 4040-0019). Must include, in plain language:

• Award purpose,

• Activities to be performed,

• Expected deliverables or outcomes,

• Intended beneficiaries, Subrecipient activities (if known or specified at time of award)

Required from all applicants

Failure to include a Project Abstract Summary will not result in removal of the proposal from consideration by Reclamation.

Project Narrative Project Proposal

The project proposal must be no longer 20 consecutively numbered pages (20-page limit includes all text, figures, references, and vitae, but does not include the Budget Detail). The font shall be at least 12-point in size and easily readable. Page size shall be 8½ by 11 inches, including charts, maps, and drawings. Margins should be standard 1-inch margins.

Please include the following sections:

Title Page https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-43/subtitle-A/part-18#Appendix-A-to-Part-18 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-43/subtitle-A/part-18#Appendix-A-to-Part-18 https://www.grants.gov/forms/forms-repository.html

Provide a brief, informative, and descriptive title for the proposed work that indicates the nature of the project. Include the name and address of the Tribe, and the name and address, e-mail address, and telephone of the Project Manager.

Table of Contents

The table of contents should include all major sections of the project proposal.

Executive Summary

The executive summary should include:

• the date, applicant name, city, county, and State,

• a one-paragraph project summary that briefly describes the need for the project, benefits to be realized, project implementation plan, and total estimated cost,

• the length of time and estimate completion date for the proposed project (month/year) and whether or not the proposed project efforts are focused on a Federal facility or will involve Federal land.

Project Location

Provide specific information on the geographic location of the area in which the Tribe will work, please include a map showing the geographic location. For example, {Tribe’s Reservation} is located in {state and county} approximately {distance} miles {direction, e.g., northeast} of {nearest town}. Provide at least one map with sufficient project details to understand the location of all elements of the proposal. If you are selected for funding, Reclamation may request additional detail regarding your project location.

Project Description Describe the work for which the funding will be used, including any specific activities the work will accomplish. Please include:

• Background/ Problem Statement: Description of the problem to be solved by the proposed project as it relates to the development, management, or protection of Tribal water and water related resources. Include a brief description of the deficiencies/hazards/threats to Tribal water and water related resources that will be addressed by the proposed activity and why it is a high priority for the Tribe.

• Need for Activity: Describe the specific need to be addressed by the proposed activity including the current or in the Tribal or project area, including but not limited to water supplies and Tribal trust resources. Clearly indicate how the proposal will strengthen or improve the Tribe’s ability to protect, manage, and/or develop its water and water related resources.

• Anticipated Results/Benefits: Briefly describe the expected benefits of the proposed activity related to the protection, management, and/or development of Tribal water and water related resources.

This section is an opportunity for the applicant to provide a clear description of the nature of the project and to address any aspect of the project that reviewers may need additional information to understand. Include enough detail on the proposed project description to permit a comprehensive evaluation of the proposal. Illustrative photographs, charts, and diagrams may be useful in communicating aspects of the project.

Proposed Scope and Schedule of Activity Describe the project tasks and activities proposed by the Tribe to address the needs outlined in the previous section. The level of detail should support the commitment of resources to be applied to the activity to accomplish the desired results and permit a comprehensive evaluation of the proposal. For each task, describe:

• planned activities and expected outcomes and milestones

• staff levels and expertise, the number of staff hours, and

• the schedule for completing each task.

• Will the proposed project impact the surrounding environment? If so, describe all earth-disturbing work and any work that will affect the air, water, or animal habitat, the impacts of such work on the surrounding environment and any steps that could be taken to minimize the impacts.

Clearly and concisely convey proposed schedule using a visual format such as a table, Gantt chart, or project network diagram. List significant challenges to be addressed and/or opportunities to be realized in the course of the proposed activity.

Technical Proposal

The technical proposal should describe the work, including specific activities that will be accomplished. Include whether any permits or approvals are required and explain the plan for obtaining such permits or approvals.

This section provides an opportunity for you to provide a clear description of the technical nature of the project and to address any aspect of the project that reviewers may need additional information to understand.

The Evaluation Criteria of this announcement should thoroughly address each criterion and applicable sub-criterion in the order presented to assist in the complete and accurate evaluation of your proposal. Copying and pasting the Evaluation Criteria (outlined in the Merit Review section) into your applications is suggested to ensure that all necessary information is adequately addressed.

Environmental and Cultural Resource Considerations (if applicable)

• Will the proposed project impact the surrounding environment? If so, describe all earth-disturbing work and any work that will affect the air, water, or animal habitat, the impacts of such work on the surrounding environment and any steps that could be taken to minimize the impacts.

• Are you aware of any species listed or proposed to be listed as a federal threatened or endangered species, or designated critical habitat in the project area? If so, would they be affected by any activities associated with the proposed project?

• Are there wetlands or other surface waters inside the project boundaries that potentially fall under CWA jurisdiction as “Waters of the United States”? If so, please describe and estimate any impacts the proposed project may have.

• Are there any adverse impacts to groundwater quality that potentially fall within the jurisdiction of the Ground Water Rule? Is so, please describe and estimate the adverse impacts the project may have.

• Are there any adverse impacts that may fall within the jurisdiction of the Safe Drinking Water Act? If so, please describe and estimate the adverse impacts the project may have.

• When was the water delivery system constructed?

• Will the proposed project result in any modification of or effects to, individual features of an irrigation system (e.g., headgates, canals, or flumes)? If so, state when those features were constructed and describe the nature and timing of any extensive alterations or modifications to those features completed previously.

• Are any buildings, structures, or features in the irrigation district listed or eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic Places?

• Are there any known archeological sites in the proposed project area?

• Will the proposed project contribute to the introduction, continued existence, or spread of noxious weeds or non-native invasive species known to occur in the area?

Project Partners/Participants (if applicable) List significant participants and the contribution(s) they will make or tasks for which they will be responsible. Include support or opposition to the project from significant stakeholders.

Budget Narrative Applicants must describe and justify items and costs listed in their budget. The budget narrative must identify the following cost items: total estimated costs, non-Federal cost share, third-party contributions, and any pre-award costs. Total project cost is the sum of all allowable costs, including required and voluntary cost share and third-party contributions.

Budget items must be:

• Reasonable, allowable, allocable, and necessary

• Compliant with 2 CFR §200 Subpart E cost principles

Indirect Costs: Applicants must indicate in their budget narrative how they will charge indirect costs, including the rate to be applied:

• De Minimis Rate: If eligible, state if your organization is opting to use the de minimis rate of up to 15% of total modified direct costs. Entities that do not have a current Federal negotiated indirect cost rate (including provisional rate) may propose to use the de minimis rate. For more information, refer to 2 CFR 200.414(f).

• Negotiated Rate: State if you will negotiate with your cognizant agency. If your organization has previously negotiated a rate, attach a copy of the most recently negotiated rate agreement (active or expired).

Tribes are strongly encouraged to review the procurement standards for federal awards found at 2 CFR Section 200.317 through Section 200.326 before developing their budget proposal.

The budget narrative provides a written description of the costs included in each budget category on the SF-424A and how they were estimated. While the SF-424A gives the total cost https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/part-200/subpart-E https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-II/part-200/subpart-E/subject-group-ECFRd93f2a98b1f6455/section-200.414 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/part-200/subject-group-ECFR45ddd4419ad436d https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/section-200.326 for each category of the budget, the budget narrative gives the item by item breakdown for each category and shows the calculations used to derive the costs. The budget description serves two purposes:

1) it explains how the costs were estimated, and

2) it justifies the need for the cost. See Attachment A for Budget Narrative Guidance.

Attachment B is a suggested format for capturing budget details to support the Narrative.

Pre-award costs (defined at 2 CFR 200.458) are allowed, subject to Grant Officer approval. To be eligible, pre-award costs must be incurred after the posting date of this NOFO. Pre-award costs are at the applicant’s risk. Successful applicants may submit requests for approval of pre-award costs to the awarding Grant Officer.

Environmental and Regulatory Compliance Costs

Include costs in the budget for completing compliance activities for Federal environmental and cultural resources laws and regulations. Applicants may contact their local Reclamation office to discuss the compliance requirements and potential costs. If the project is selected for award, these costs will be reviewed for accuracy and adjusted as needed.

Conflict of Interest and Unresolved Matters Disclosures:

If any actual or potential conflict of interest exists related to this project at the time of application, the applicant must provide sufficient information to support a program determination of significance per 2 CFR 1402.112. Refer to 2 CFR 200.112 Conflict of Interest and 2 CFR 200.113.

Overlap or Duplication of Effort Statement:

Applicants must state in their application if the activities, costs, or time commitment of key personnel proposed in this application overlap with those in any other Federal proposal or award or not. If no overlap exists, include a statement to that effect. If any overlap exists, provide:

• Activities: Description any overlapping activities.

• Costs: Description of any overlapping costs.

• Time: Description of any overlapping key personnel time.

• A copy of any overlapping or duplicative proposal submitted to any other potential funding entity.

• Details on when any overlapping proposal was submitted, to whom, and the expected date of the funding decision.

SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS AND DEADLINES

Address to Request Application Package Applications may be submitted through grants.gov, by paper application or by email.

This NOFO includes all information, documents, and electronic addresses needed to submit an application through grants.gov. If the applicant is unable to access this information electronically, the Financial Assistance NOFO Operations staff may provide paper copies of https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-II/part-200/subpart-E/subject-group-ECFRed1f39f9b3d4e72/section-200.458 https://www.usbr.gov/main/offices.html https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-B/chapter-XIV/part-1402#1402.112 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-II/part-200/subpart-B/section-200.112 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-II/part-200/subpart-B/section-200.113 any documents referenced in this NOFO via an email request from the applicant. All required application forms are available on the “Packages” tab for this funding opportunity on grants.gov and Native American Affairs Technical Assistance Program | Bureau of Reclamation

Grants.gov contains a complete application kit to submit a full application in response to this NOFO. Instructions for the Grants.gov application process are available here. Contact Randell Harris at bor-sha-fafoa@usbr.gov if you are unable to access the application materials electronically.

Proposals received after the application deadline will not be considered unless it can be determined that the delay was caused by Reclamation or there were technical issues with Grants.gov. To document a delay due to a technical issue in Grants.gov, you must furnish a Grants.gov helpdesk ticket number to the NOFO team that validates the delay. Difficulties related to an applicant’s Grants.gov profile (e.g., incorrect organizational representative), uploading documents to Grants.gov, or an applicant’s SAM.gov registration are not considered technical issues with the Grants.gov system.

Submission Dates and Times Closing Date for Applications: 10/28/2025

Closing Date Explanation

Applications must be submitted no later than 4:00 p.m., MT, on the listed application due date.

Submission Instructions Apply Through Grants.gov To apply through Grants.gov, please follow the instructions in the Quick Start Guide for Applicants. Before applying, ensure that at least one person at your organization is registered and has the Authorized Organization Representative (AOR). Only the AOR can submit the application. If you need more users, they must create their own Grants.gov account. Follow these steps below to apply:

• Create a Workspace: Creating a workspace allows you to complete it online and route it through your organization for review before submitting.

• Complete a Workspace: Invite participants to the workspace so you can collaborate on the application. Required applications forms are included in the Grants.gov Funding Opportunity Package and can be completed in the Workspace, unless noted otherwise in the Required Forms table above. Check for errors before submission.

• Submit a Workspace: An application may be submitted through workspace by clicking the Sign and Submit button on the Manage Workspace page, under the Forms tab

• Track a Workspace Submission: After successfully submitting a workspace application, a Grants.gov Tracking Number (GRANTXXXXXXXX) is automatically assigned to the application.

The system generates a date and time stamp and sends it to the applicant’s AOR via email as proof of submission. Make sure your application passes the Grants.gov validation checks. Do not encrypt, zip, or password-protect any files. Only registered individuals in SAM as both a user and an AOR can submit applications. Please allow 30 days to register in Grants.gov.

https://www.usbr.gov/native/programs/TAPprogram.html https://www.usbr.gov/native/programs/TAPprogram.html https://www.grants.gov/applicants/grant-applications/how-to-apply-for-grants mailto:bor-sha-fafoa@usbr.gov https://hitehouse.gov/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Investing-in-America-Brand-Guide.pd https://grants.gov/register https://www.grants.gov/quick-start-guide/applicants http://www.grants.gov/quick-start-guide/applicants

Application System Technical Support: For Grants.gov technical registration and submission, downloading forms, and application packages, contact Grants.gov Customer Support at 1-800- 518-4726 or by email at Support@grants.gov.

Apply Through Simpler.Grants.gov Starting in mid-August, applicants will have the option to apply through Simpler.Grants.gov, a new and improved web interface currently in beta testing. This platform offers a streamlined application experience and is being piloted with real users. To apply through Simpler.Grants.gov, you must be an individual applicant or an EBIZ Point of Contact (POC), as listed in your organization’s SAM.gov registration.

How to apply (once available in August):

1. Go to Simpler.Grants.gov and click the “Sign in” button in the top right corner. Follow the Login.gov prompts to sign in or create an account.

2. After signing in, go to Simpler.Grants.gov/search and locate this opportunity using the Funding Opportunity Number.

3. On the opportunity listing page, you’ll see an “Apply” button when signed in. Click “Apply” to start your application.

4. Once your application loads, bookmark the unique URL shown in your browser. You’ll need this link to return to your in-progress application later.

5. Complete all required forms and upload any supporting documents to the Attachments section.

6. When you’re ready to submit, click the “Submit application” button at the top of the page.

For technical support or to provide feedback about your experience using Simpler.Grants.gov, email simpler@grants.gov. Since this is a pilot opportunity and the platform is still in testing, the Simpler.Grants.gov team may contact you directly to collect feedback and learn from your experience.

Applicants can submit a hard copy application by U.S. Mail or express delivery to the addresses below.

Apply by Mail

By mail, United States Postal Service overnight, all other express delivery and courier services:

Bureau of Reclamation Attn: NOFO Team Denver Federal Center Bldg. 67, Rm. 152 6th Avenue and Kipling Street Denver, CO 80225

Please notify the Reclamation Financial Assistance Contact listed in the “Basic Information” section by 2:00 PM MT on the submission date to confirm the hard copy submission.

Applications can be submitted electronically to the email address below by the submission date and time.

Apply by E-mail https://simpler.grants.gov/ https://simpler.grants.gov/ https://sam.gov/ https://simpler.grants.gov/ https://login.gov/ https://simpler.grants.gov/search https://simpler.grants.gov/ https://simpler.grants.gov/

Please submit email applications to dronofo@usbr.gov. All emailed applications should include the following information:

In the Subject line of the email:

1. the NOFO Number and Fiscal Year (FY 2025)

In the body of the email:

1. the NOFO title and number,

2. the application due date of the specified NOFO,

3. the Assistance Listing number,

4. the name of the applicant organization and UEI number(s),

5. the authorized organizational representative name and contact information (phone and email address),

6. the name and email of the point of contact regarding matters involving the application.

APPLICATION REVIEW INFORMATION

Eligibility Review During the eligibility review, the application is checked for timely submission, completed packages (see Application Documents above) and alignment with the requirements of this announcement. The Federal agency may remove an application if it does not pass the eligibility review.

The Grants Officer will remove an application if it does not include:

• Completed SF-424 and SF-424A forms

• SAM.gov registration, with a valid UEI (unless an exemption at 2 CFR 25.110 applies)

• A project narrative

• A budget narrative

If an applicant selected for funding hasn't finished their SAM.gov registration (see 2 CFR 25.200 and 2 CFR 25.110) when the federal agency is ready to make an award, we may decide that the applicant is ineligible for the award and choose to grant it to someone else. Please refer 2 CFR

25.205 for more information.

Prior to making an award, the DOI checks the anticipated recipient and their key project personnel against the current list of prohibited or restricted persons or entities in the System for Award Management (SAM.gov) Exclusions database. We are prohibited from making an award if a recipient or any key personnel are found ineligible, prohibited, restricted, or otherwise excluded from receiving or participating in an award, as their ineligibility condition applies to this program.

If removed from consideration for ineligibility, the Federal agency will notify the applicant in writing.

Merit Review An Application Review Committee (ARC), made up of experts in relevant disciplines, will review the technical merit of the application, based on the following evaluation criteria:

mailto:dronofo@usbr.gov https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/section-25.110 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/section-25.200 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-I/part-25/subpart-A/section-25.110 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-I/part-25/subpart-B/section-25.205 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-I/part-25/subpart-B/section-25.205

Evaluation Criterion A—Project Need (30 points)

Up to 30 points may be awarded based upon the extent to which the proposal demonstrates a compelling need to implement the project. Compelling need should be demonstrated through responses, as applicable, to a subset or all of the following:

• How does Federal funding assist in developing the project?

• What is the magnitude of the impacts if the proposed project is not funded (e.g., public health and safety, regulatory, and social risk etc.)?

• Does the project assist in addressing health and safety of the Tribe and its members, and if so, how?

• How urgent is the proposed project?

• Does project assist in complying with regulatory requirements related to water and water resources, and if so, how?

• What is the status of the Tribe’s capacity to manage, develop and protect its water and related resources?

• Are there current or historic drought conditions in the Tribal or project area?

Evaluation Criterion B—Project Benefits (30 points)

Up to 30 points may be awarded based upon evaluation of the benefits that are expected to result from implementing the proposed project/activity. This criterion considers a variety of project benefits to water resources, including increases to water reliability and quality, improvements to water management, and/or reduction to conflicts between water users.

Describe the expected benefits and outcomes of the project. In doing so, please answer all the questions applicable to the project. It is not necessary to answer all these questions in the affirmative to score well on this criterion and points will be allocated based on the degree to which the project provides water resource benefits as a whole.

• Does the project improve development, management, and/or protection of tribal water and related resources, and if so, how?

• Does the project build or enhance the Tribe’s internal capacity to manage, develop and protect its water and related resources, and if so, how?

• Does the project include data collection related to water quality?

o How will data be analyzed and used to benefit the Tribe?

o How will data analyses inform management decisions/approaches?

• Does the project improve water reliability or build long-term drought resilience for a given tribal community, and if so, how and to what extent?

o Does the project assist with addressing current or future water shortages, and if so, how?

o Will the project build long-term resilience to drought, and if so, how?

• Will the project make additional water supplies available, and if so, how?

o What is the estimated quantity of additional supply the project will provide and how was this calculated?

o What percentage of the total water supply does the additional water supply represent?

• Does the project improve tribal water system efficiencies and promote water conservation, and if so, how?

o What is the estimated average annual quantity of conserved water and how was this calculated?

o How will the conserved water be used?

• Does the project reduce conflicts between water users, and if so, how?

o Does the project address heightened competition for finite water supplies or issues related to over-allocation of water rights, and if so, how?

o Does the project promote and encourage collaboration among parties in a way that helps increase the reliability of the water supply, and if so, how?

o Will the project help prevent a water-related crisis or conflict, and if so, how?

o Is there frequently tension or litigation over water in the basin?

o Are there non-tribal partners in the project and what is their roles?

• Is the project supported by existing water resource management plans, and if so, how?

• Does the project protect and enhance the environment, and if so, how?

• Projects that involve riparian and aquatic habitat improvements, must also improve water quality and quantity. Describe the environmental benefits as they relate to improved water quality and quantity.

Evaluation Criterion C—Project Implementation (30 points)

Up to 30 points may be awarded based upon the extent to which the proposed project is capable of proceeding upon entering into a financial assistance agreement. Proposals that describe a detailed plan (e.g., estimated project schedule that shows the stages and duration of the proposed work, including major tasks, milestones, and dates) will receive the most points under this criterion. In responding to this criterion, provide the following information to demonstrate the capability to implement the project:

• Describe the implementation plan for the project that includes an estimated schedule that shows the stages and duration of the proposed work, during the two-year period of performance. The implementation plan should also include major tasks and milestones, identify staff with appropriate technical and project management expertise and describe their qualifications and roles in the proposed project or activity.

• Describe any plans to contract activities. Describe the procurement standards that will be used to select successful contractors.

• Describe any permits that will be required, along with the process for obtaining such permits.

• Identify and describe any engineering or design work performed specifically in support of the proposed project.

• Describe any new policies or administrative actions required to implement the project.

• Identify staff with appropriate technical and project management expertise and describe their qualifications and roles in the proposed project or activity.

• Describe how the environmental compliance estimate was developed. Has the compliance cost been discussed with the local Reclamation office?

Applications will be evaluated against the evaluation criteria listed above, which comprise a total of 90 points.

The ARC will also review the application to ensure that the project is eligible and meets the objective of this NOFO. During ARC review, Reclamation may contact applicants to request clarification to the information provided, if necessary.

Review and Selection Process This program reviews proposed budgets to ensure:

• figures are correct

• estimated costs are necessary and reasonable and clearly linked to project narratives

• avoid obviously unallowable costs

• identify costs requiring prior approval

• ensure indirect cost rates are applied correctly

• confirm cost sharing requirements are reflected in the budget.

This program reviews applications for potential overlap or duplication between the proposed project and any other funded or proposed project. Depending on the circumstances, DOI may choose to not make an award.

An ARC, made up of experts in relevant disciplines selected from across Reclamation, will review the technical merit of the application. Evaluation criteria will comprise the total evaluation weight as stated in the “Technical Proposal: Evaluation Criteria,” of this NOFO. Applications will be scored against the evaluation criteria by an ARC.

After the merit review, Reclamation conducts a “red-flag” review of top-ranking applications.

During this review, Reclamation identifies any reasons a project would not be feasible or advisable, including environmental or cultural compliance, permitting, legal, financial, performance or other concerns. After the red-flag review, Reclamation conducts a “managerial review” of top-ranking applications. The managerial review prioritizes applications for selection based on the objectives of the NOFO. Geographic dispersion and project types may be considered during this review. Selections are finalized once these reviews are complete, and all applicants are notified.

Risk Review Prior to making an award, the program assesses the risk posed by the applicant per 2 CFR

200.206. If an award will be made, the program may apply special conditions corresponding to the risk assessed. For awards over the simplified acquisition threshold (currently $250,000), the program reviews eligibility and financial integrity information in the applicant’s SAM.gov records per 2 CFR 200.206(a). The program also assesses financial management capabilities, project delivery experience, staffing resources, past performance, administration and reporting compliance records, and overall project complexity and potential challenges.

A Reclamation Grants Officer conducts a detailed budget analysis and a business evaluation and responsibility determination. During this evaluation, the Reclamation Grants Officer will consider several factors, such as:

• Allowability, allocability, and reasonableness of proposed costs https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/section-200.206 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/section-200.206 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/part-200#p-200.206(a)

• Financial strength and stability of the applicant

• Past performance, including satisfactory compliance with all terms and conditions of previous awards, such as environmental compliance, reporting requirements, and audit compliance

• Adequacy of personnel practices, procurement procedures, and accounting policies and procedures.

AWARD NOTICES

Notices of Federal Award are sent electronically via GrantSolutions or e-mail. These notices outline the terms, conditions, and payment instructions per 2 CFR 200.211. The Notice of Federal Award signed by an authorized Grants Officer is the legal instrument obligating financial assistance to a recipient. Any other prior notice is not an authorization to begin work. If the program allows pre-award costs per 2 CFR 200.458, beginning performance before receiving a Notice of Federal Award is at the applicant’s own risk.

Anticipated Project Start Date: 04/28/2026

Anticipated Project End Date: 04/28/2028

Reclamation anticipates contacting potential award recipients and unsuccessful applicants in September 2025 (or later if necessary), subject to the timing and amount of final appropriations.

Reclamation will contact award recipients individually to discuss the time frame for the completion of their agreement.

Reclamation may post successful applications on a Reclamation website, after necessary redactions, in consultation with the successful applicant.

POST AWARD REQUIREMENTS AND ADMINISTRATION

Administration and National Policy Requirements For award administration and national policy requirements, see the DOI General Terms and Conditions. Infrastructure projects require the use of American iron, steel, manufacture products, and construction materials per 2 CFR 184.

Automated Standard Application for Payments Registration All recipients must be registered with and willing to process all payments through the Department of Treasury Automated Standard Application for Payments (ASAP) system. All recipients with active financial assistance agreements with Reclamation must be enrolled in ASAP under the appropriate Agency Location Code(s) and UEI Number prior to the award of funds. If a recipient has multiple UEI numbers, they must separately enroll within ASAP for each unique UEI Number and/or Agency. If your entity is currently enrolled in the ASAP system with an agency other than Reclamation, you must enroll specifically with Reclamation in order to process payments. All of the information on the enrollment process for recipients, will be sent to you by ASAP staff if selected for award.

Approvals and Permits Recipients shall adhere to Federal, State, Territorial, Tribal, and local laws, regulations, and https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/section-200.211 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/section-200.458 https://www.doi.gov/grants/doi-standard-terms-and-conditions https://www.doi.gov/grants/doi-standard-terms-and-conditions https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-I/part-184 codes, as applicable, and shall obtain all required approvals and permits. Recipients shall also coordinate and obtain approvals from site owners and operators.

Environmental and Cultural Resources Compliance The recipient must comply with all applicable Federal, State, and local environmental, cultural, and paleontological resource laws and regulations. Data collections supporting compliance efforts must follow separate compliance procedures. All projects will require compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), Endangered Species Act (ESA), and National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA) before any ground-disturbing activity may begin.

Recipients are prohibited from any ground-disturbing activities (e.g., biological or water quality surveys, grading, clearing, excavation, and other preliminary or construction activities) on a project before environmental and cultural resources compliance is complete. A recipient that proceeds before environmental and cultural resources compliance is complete risks forfeiting funding. The Grant Officer will issue a Notice to Proceed that explicitly authorizes work to proceed once environmental and cultural resource compliance is complete.

Geospatial Data

If you receive financial assistance from the Department of the Interior (DOI), recipient must follow these rules for geospatial data:

Follow Federal Standards: All geospatial data you collect or create must meet the standards set by the Federal Geospatial Data Committee (FGDC) or the Department of the Interior. This is required by the Geospatial Data Act of 2018, which is part of Public Law 115-254, specifically in Subtitle F (Geospatial Data), sections 751-759C (codified at 43 U.S.C. §§ 2801–2811).

Include Metadata: Your Geographic Information Systems (GIS) files must include complete metadata. Metadata is information that describes the data, such as where it came from, how accurate it is, and how it should be used. This is to ensure that anyone using the data understands its context and quality.

Check for Existing Data: Before you start collecting new geospatial data, you need to check GeoPlatform.gov. This is to see if there is already existing geospatial data from federal, state, local, or private sources that can meet your needs and is available for free. If such data is available, you should use it instead of gathering new data.

These rules help ensure that geospatial data is reliable, high-quality, and that resources are used efficiently.

Intangible Property Title to intangible property acquired under this agreement vests upon acquisition with the Recipient, however Reclamation reserves the right to obtain, publish, reproduce, or otherwise use and authorize others to use for Federal purposes in accordance with 2 CFR Part 200.315.

Real Property Real property, equipment, and intangible property that is acquired or improved with a Federal award must be held in trust by the recipient as trustee for the beneficiaries of the project or https://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?hl=false&edition=2019&path=%2Fprelim%40title43%2Fchapter46&req=granuleid%3AUSC-2019-title43-chapter46&num=0&saved=L3ByZWxpbUB0aXRsZTQzL2NoYXB0ZXI0Ng%3D%3D%7CZ3JhbnVsZWlkOlVTQy1wcmVsaW0tdGl0bGU0My1jaGFwdGVyNDY%3D%7C%7C%7C0%7Cfalse%7Cprelim program under which the property was acquired or improved, per 2 CFR §200.316. Title to real property acquired or improved under a Federal award will vest upon acquisition in the recipient. Except as otherwise provided by Federal statutes or by the Federal awarding agency, real property will be used for the originally authorized purpose as long as needed for that purpose, during which time the recipient must not dispose of or encumber its title or other interests.