FOA W911KB-25-2-0004 Amendment #02.pdf

1.0 FUNDING OPPORTUNITY ANNOUNCEMENT (FOA)

Funding Agency:

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Alaska District PO Box 6898

JBER AK 99506

Funding Instrument: Cooperative Agreement Amendment #01 Amendment #02

Funding Opportunity No: W911KB-25-2-0004

CFDA No: 12.005

Program Title: Management Invasive Species, Aquatic Plants and Management Habitat, Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, 354 CES/CEIE, Natural Resources

FOA Issue Date: 09 June 2025 Amendment #02: 2 July 2025

Application Due Date: 09 July 2025

Overview:

This project is intended to provide Eielson Air Force Base (EAFB) in implementing natural resources management activities including but not limited to conservation of natural resources on such installations, protectiveness provisions related to the management of fish and wildlife resources, maintain functional ecosystems and natural diversity including sustainable populations, native species, and ecological communities. This project will eradicate invasive aquatic plants and manage vegetation in and around EAFB waterbodies in support of EAFB Natural Resource Program to develop habitat conditions favorable to the production of native fish, wildlife species, and vegetation.

This project implements the EAFB Integrated Natural Resources Management Plan (INRMP) with the objective of protecting and enhancing biological diversity and ecological health on all Department of Defense (DoD) lands achieving the goals of minimizing conflicts between military mission, wildlife, natural resources, and land use by providing for “natural resource protection, enhancement, and restoration, where necessary for support of fish, wildlife, or plants.” This project meets the requirements of the INRMP and fulfills agency responsibilities for natural resource stewardship. The project will optimize the management of EAFB managed lands and waterbodies, minimize restrictions to the military mission due to natural resource related constraints, and manage game and non-game fish and wildlife species for long-term sustainability, diversity, and productivity of the ecosystem.

This cooperative agreement will be awarded pursuant to 16 U.S.C. 670 (Sikes Act).

The Recipient for this cooperative agreement must be a qualified State, local government, Indian tribe, non-governmental organization, or individual pursuant to the authority of 16 U.S.C.

670c-1(a).

Estimated Total Funding: $714,861.00 Estimated Number of Awards: 1 (one)

Contents of Full Text Announcement

I. Funding Opportunity Description V. Application Review Information

II. Award Information VI. Award Administration Information

III. Eligibility Information VII. Agency Contacts

IV. Application Information VIII. Other Information

Contact Information:

Questions relating to Grants.gov including the registration process and system requirements should be directed to the Grants.gov Contact Center at 1-800-518-4726.

Applicant Questions and Comments: For assistance with the requirements of this Funding Opportunity Announcement, please contact the Grants Specialist at pamela.iverson@usace.army.mil no later than 10 calendar days prior to the Application Due Date.

Instructions to Applicants:

The complete Funding Opportunity Announcement, application forms, and instructions are available for download at Grants.gov.

Applications in response to this Funding Opportunity Announcement shall be submitted by the application due date. Applications may be submitted electronically via email or through Grants.gov.

Applicants shall have a Unique Entity Identification (UEI) number, registration with the System of Award Management (SAM), and registration with Grants.gov, if submitting application through Grants.gov.

See Section IV of the Funding Opportunity Announcement for complete application submission information.

mailto:pamela.iverson@usace.army.mil

Section I – Page 1

Section I: Funding Opportunity Description

MANAGEMENT INVASIVE SPECIES, AQUATIC PLANTS and MANAGEMENT

HABITAT

EIELSON AIR FORCE BASE, ALASKA

354 CES/CEIE, NATURAL RESOURCES

29 May 2025

Project Ceiling: $133,308.00

1.0 GENERAL

The purpose of this Statement of Work (SOW) is to provide details of the described work to be performed to support the U.S. Air Force (USAF) in managing forest, controlling invasive species, wetland protection and other vegetative resources through a Cooperative Agreement (CA) between the Recipient, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) and Eielson Air Force Base (EAFB)

Natural Resources program involving the natural resource and land rehabilitation and maintenance program. The project will implement goals and objectives of the 2023 EAFB Integrated Natural

Resource Management Plan (INRMP).

Projects for execution under this CA by USACE do not include any functions to be performed that are inherently governmental. This determination is made with the assessment that places emphasis on the degree to which conditions and facts restrict the discretionary authority, decision-making responsibility, or accountability of Government officials using Recipient services or work products.

This CA shall not be used for performance of personal services. These tasks provided by the customer for execution under this CA by USACE do not include functions to be performed that are personal services.

Any modifications to CA activities as outlined by this SOW must be coordinated through the

Grants Officers Representative (GOR) and approved by the Grants Officer (GO) prior to Recipient implementation.

1.1 LEGAL DRIVERS

Legal Drivers: Sikes Act (Public Law [PL] 105-85, as amended through 2004 including PL 108-

136; Title 16 USC 670 et seq.); Department of Defense (DoD) Instruction 4715.03, Natural

Resources Conservation Program (February 14, 2011), and Air Force Manual (AFMAN) 32-7003, Environmental Conservation. This project will directly address and contribute to the following

EAFB INRMP requirements:

Section I – Page 2

• Section 7.1 Fish and Wildlife Management. The primary objective of the tasks is to develop habitat and maintain habitats conditions favorable to the production of native fish and wildlife species.

• Section 7.10.1 Pest Management Concerns. Invasive aquatic plants have been identified in a number of EAFB lakes requiring annual treatment and monitoring to ensure that pests do not hinder the EAFB mission.

• Section 8 Goal 3 Manage Forest resources and native habitat for long-term sustainability, diversity, and productivity of the ecosystem considering the needs of the USAF mission and other natural resources.

o Objective 3.4 Manage and monitor moose habitats to reduce moose-vehicle collisions and ensure adequate browsing.

o Objective 3.5 Establish and implement maintenance procedures and guidelines for surveying and controlling invasive plant species consistent with USAF needs in anticipation of invasive plant range expansions northward.

• Section 8 Goal 4 Manage native fish, wildlife, and plant species using an ecosystem-management approach while reducing BASH risks and ensuring mission success.

o Objective 4.3 Develop, improve, and manage fish habitat on base lakes and streams.

o Objective 4.8 Manage outdoor recreation resources for long-long-term sustainability, diversity, productivity of the ecosystem, and public education opportunities while considering the needs of other natural resources and compatibility with the USAF mission.

In accordance with AFMAN 32-7003, Environmental Conservation dated 20 April 2020, USAF land management activities must consider the protection and enhancement of desirable natural and man-made features in the landscape. Forest management emphasizes compatibility with military mission requirements, ecosystem functionality, biodiversity and forest health, wildlife habitat requirements, fuels management, and recreational opportunities. Forest products are produced and made available as by-products of these management activities but are not a goal in and of themselves. Forest resources harvested in support of the mission mandates must be made available to the public in accordance with Department of Defense Instruction (DoDI) 4715.03 and DoDI

7310.5.

AFMAN 32-7003

Section 3.44 The principal objective of forest management on Air Force installations is to maintain and enhance the ecological integrity of forested landscapes while supporting the military mission.

Section 3.44.6 Installations with commercial forest land capable of producing more than 20 cubic feet/acre/year in wood biomass must maintain a forest inventory.

Section 3.46.1 Under the authority of the Sikes Act, Air Force installations may enter into interagency agreements ….

Section I – Page 3

2.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTIONS

2.1 MANAGEMENT, INVASIVE SPECIES, AQUATIC PLANTS – (FTQWA53256121-B,

FTQWA53266121, FTQWA53276121)

2.1.1 SCOPE

The purpose of the below tasks is to eradicate invasive aquatic plants from bodies of water at

EAFB. Additionally, the Recipient shall perform, manage, document, prepare, and submit plans and reports for the treatment and management of aquatic invasive plants species on EAFB to prevent further expansion and encourage re-establishment of native vegetation.

The Recipient shall furnish all labor, transportation, materials, and equipment to perform work at EAFB.

AQUATIC TREATMENT

Aquatic Noxious and Invasive Plant Control Plan – EAFB’s 2020 limnology survey found an aquatic invasive plant Elodea spp. in eight (8) EAFB lakes and in Piledriver Slough that flows through EAFB. This species is listed as an invasive plant species in Alaska. No Elodea spp.

was detected in Cathers Pit, Bear Lake, or Rainbow Lake when surveyed. Attachment 3 is a map of the Lakes on EAFB.

Treatment timing must be customized to the phenology of each species for the best chance of success. The proposed prioritization for treatment is as follows:

1. Hidden Lake – 17.6 acres, one site was located at the northeast access point while another larger patch was found about halfway between the two access points along the eastern edge. Treatment after ice-out/ June-August

2. Pike Lake – 25 acres, growing in a few large patches. At least two (2) patches were about 2 meters (m) long by 2 m wide and at least one (1) m thick growing from the lake bottom to the water surface. Treatment after ice-out/ June-August

3. Scout Lake – 30.3 acres, a few patches detected in the shallow, smaller section near the access point located in the southeast corner. Treatment after ice-out/ June-August

4. Grayling Lake – 10.3 acres, a few trace strands on the western side of the lake near an access point. Treatment after ice-out/ June-August

5. 28 Mile Pit – 7.4 acres, a few trace strands on the southern end of the lake near the main access point. Treatment after ice-out/ June-August

6. Mullins Pit – 90 acres, no location description. Treatment after ice-out/ June-August.

7. Moose Lake – 30.5 acres, no location description. Treatment after ice-out/ June-August

8. Polaris Lake – 51.4 acres, no location description. Treatment after ice-out/ June-August

9. Piledriver Slough – no location description. Treatment after ice-out/ June-August

10. Other EAFB waterbodies – no location description. Treatment after ice-out/ June-

August

HERBICIDE APPLICATION

• The Recipient shall spread herbicide pellets (SonarONE; active ingredient: fluridone) throughout the treatment area using a gas-powered pellet spreader mounted on a boat.

Section I – Page 4

• The Recipient shall be responsible for developing an herbicide prescription for the treatment area. The Recipient shall submit the prescription to the government for approval.

All herbicides shall be approved by the EAFB entomology shop and as allowed by the DoD approved pesticides list.

• The Recipient shall apply herbicide in accordance with the manufacture label. When environmental conditions reach the point where they are outside the stated label parameters such as excessive moisture, wind speeds, or other factors, the Recipient shall stop all application of herbicide. The work shall be resumed only when compliance with the label requirements is met.

• All treatment in an area, once started, shall be completed before starting treatment in another area.

• The Recipient will be required to complete a "Pesticide Application Record" for each day of operation and furnish the completed forms to the Pest Management Section weekly and all compiled application records upon completion of work.

• Inspection of treated sites by the Government will be no earlier than 15-calendar days and no later than 45-calendar days after the date of application. The Recipient will re-treat any areas not responding to treatment. Re-treatment will be accomplished within

30-working days after the Recipient has been notified. If the treatment is accomplished in the late season, inspection will be accomplished in the next growing season.

• Recipient must meet DoD applicator standards and either be DoD qualified pesticide applicators, or state certified applicators with endorsements in the appropriate category for this application. No uncertified technicians are allowed to apply pesticides on

DoD installations (even under direct supervision).

• Recipient shall meet/comply with the specifications for Recipient personnel applying pesticides on DoD lands found Attachments 1 and 2.

• All aqueous pesticide mixing and loading shall take place at the EAFB entomology shop, with permission, or offsite at Recipient facilities, to avoid inadvertent spills to the environment.

REPORTS AND DELIVERABLES

Planning Document

The Recipient shall develop a Work Plan to include biological survey methods and timetable. The final Work Plan must be submitted for review by EAFB Natural Resources Manager (NRM) at least 30 days prior to start of work.

Final and Draft Reporting Requirements

Draft and final reports shall be provided to EAFB NRM and USACE Project Manager, with the final(s) being due no later than 30 days following the final post-work meeting. The final report(s) will be provided electronically and as one (1) hard copy and/or external hard drive/CD/DVDs containing the report, digitized imagery, photos, and any other data provided in appropriate usable format.

Deliverables will include a summary, electronically submitted, identifying waterbodies treatment and describing recommended invasive control methods for each. Geographical information systems (GIS) maps and shapefiles of locations of identified invasive treatment areas, and

Section I – Page 5 representative photos of the treatment area will be included with the invasive prescription plans.

The Invasive Prescription Plans should be standalone documents but may be included as attachments in the final report. The report will also include best management practices going forward and discuss changes to how areas should be treated or monitored.

Spatial Data Requirements

The GIS requirements will be specified at the kick-off meeting. All products associated with this

SOW that provide data or a map representation of the location of installation features must adhere to the following requirements listed below.

All attribute data as specifically outlined in the CA must be included either in the GIS data file or as a separate table with a SDSFIE key variable that may be used to relationally join the separate table with the GIS data file.

All geospatial data must be delivered in the following format: Universal Transverse Mercator

(UTM) coordinate system, Transverse Mercator projection, Geodetic Reference System 1980

(GRS80) spheroid, World Geodetic System 1984 (WGS84) datum, (WGS84 UTM Zone 6

North) and use metric coordinate units.

2.1.2 TASK 1 – FY 25 Eradicate Invasive Aquatic Plants

The Recipient shall develop the work plan as described in Section 2.1, eradicate up to 300 acres of invasive aquatic plants located at Hidden Lake, Pike Lake, Scout Lake, Grayling

Lake, 28 Mile Pit, Mullins Pit, Moose Lake, Polaris Lake, and Piledriver Slough, and other bodies, and provide all other deliverables as indicated in Section 2.1.1.

2.1.3 OPTIONAL TASK 2 –FY 26 Eradicate Invasive Aquatic Plants

The Recipient shall eradicate up to 200 acres of invasive aquatic plants located at Hidden

Lake, Pike Lake, Scout Lake, Grayling Lake, 28 Mile Pit, Mullins Pit, Moose Lake, Polaris

Lake, and Piledriver Slough, and other bodies, and provide all other deliverables as indicated in Section 2.1.1. The Recipient shall update the workplan as needed.

Exercise of Optional Task 2 is contingent upon the following: (1) subject to availability of current Fiscal Year funds at the time the option is awarded; and (2) if exercised, must be completed within the performance period stated in paragraph 9.0 Period of Performance. Any option may be exercised within the Period of Performance, at the discretion of the Grants

Officer. Inclusion of options does not commit the Government to consider the options or obligate the Government to exercise any such right. If any options are awarded by the Grants

Officer, they become a part of the work required by the CA.

2.1.4 OPTIONAL TASK 3 –FY 27 Eradicate Invasive Aquatic Plants at Scout Lake

The Recipient shall eradicate up to 200 acres of invasive aquatic plants located at Hidden

Lake, Pike Lake, Scout Lake, Grayling Lake, 28 Mile Pit, Mullins Pit, Moose Lake, Polaris

Lake, and Piledriver Slough, and other bodies, and provide all other deliverables as indicated in Section 2.1.1. The Recipient shall update the workplan as needed.

Section I – Page 6

Exercise of Optional Task 3 is contingent upon the following: (1) subject to availability of completed within the performance period stated in paragraph 9.0 Period of Performance. Any option may be exercised within the Period of Performance, at the discretion of the Grants

Officer. Inclusion of options does not commit the Government to consider the options or obligate the Government to exercise any such right. If any options are awarded by the Grants

Officer, they become a part of the work required by the CA.

2.2 MANAGEMENT, HABITAT (FTQWA53256119-A, FTQWA53266119,

FTQWA53276119)

2.2.1 SCOPE

The objective of this task is to assist EAFB with the optimal management of training lands, protect and enhance biological diversity and ecological health on all EAFB lands, and to ensure compliance with all environmental laws and regulations. Per the EAFB INRMP Section 7.1

Fish and Wildlife Management; Fish and Wildlife Management Plan: The primary objective of the below tasks is to develop habitat conditions favorable to the production of native fish and wildlife species. Goal 8.4, Manage game and non-game fish and wildlife species for long-term sustainability, diversity, and productivity of the ecosystem considering the needs of other natural resources.

The Recipient shall furnish all labor, transportation, materials, and equipment to perform work at EAFB.

HYDRO AXE LOOP AREA

Hydro-axe trees and brush within the designated Loop Area. A map will be provided by

Natural Resources Office. All trees more than 6 inches in diameter at 4 feet above the ground shall be salvaged and stacked at location designated by EAFB Natural Resource Staff close to project area. All other vegetation (tops, branches, stumps, and brush) that can be hydro-axed shall be mulched and pulverized to no more than 2 inches in diameter and left spread on site.

Recipient shall ensure that mulched and pulverized (no shavings larger than 2 inches in diameter) material has been leveled upon completion. All stumps must be removed and mulched (no larger than 2 inches in diameter) with no stumps left on site. Hydro-axe debris will be kept clear of existing roads in the work area.

The work schedule will be determined by the Recipient. This task shall begin immediately after Recipient award and finish by 30 September.

REPORTS AND DELIVERABLES

Complete the task and provide a report detailing the types and number of equipment used;

type and number of supplies; and photos detailing before, during, and after status of the project area. The final report(s) will be provided electronically and as one (1) hard copy and/or external hard drive/CD/DVDs. The report, digitized imagery, photos, and any other data shall be provided in appropriate usable format. Recipient shall update natural resources staff weekly on project progress.

Section I – Page 7

Draft and final reports shall be provided to EAFB and USACE Project Manager, with the final(s) being due no later than 30 days following the final post-work meeting.

All geospatial data must be delivered in the following format: UTM coordinate system, Transverse Mercator projection, GRS80 spheroid, WGS84 datum, (WGS84 UTM Zone 6

North) and use metric coordinate units.

2.2.2 OPTIONAL TASK 4 – FY25 MANAGEMENT HABITAT, HYDRO-AXE

The Recipient shall complete the work for up to 40 acres of land and provide the deliverables as indicated in Section 2.2.1. The Recipient shall update the workplan as needed.

Exercise of Optional Task 4 is contingent upon the following: (1) subject to availability of completed within the performance period stated in paragraph 9.0 Period of Performance. Any option may be exercised within the Period of Performance, at the discretion of the Grants

Officer. Inclusion of options does not commit the Government to consider the options or

2.2.3 OPTIONAL TASK 5 – FY26 MANAGMENT HABITAT, HYDRO-AXE

The Recipient shall complete the work for up to 20 acres of land and provide all deliverables

Exercise of Optional Task 5 is contingent upon the following: (1) subject to availability of completed within the performance period stated in paragraph 9.0 Period of Performance. Any option may be exercised within the Period of Performance, at the discretion of the Grants

Officer. Inclusion of options does not commit the Government to consider the options or

2.2.4 OPTIONAL TASK 6 – FY27 MANAGEMENT HABITAT, HYDRO-AXE

The Recipient shall complete the work for up to 20 acres of land and provide all deliverables

Exercise of Optional Task 6 is contingent upon the following: (1) subject to availability of completed within the performance period stated in paragraph 9.0 Period of Performance. Any option may be exercised within the Period of Performance, at the discretion of the Grants

Officer. Inclusion of options does not commit the Government to consider the options or

Section I – Page 8

3.0 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

The following requirements are common to all Project Tasks:

• The Recipient is responsible for contacting EAFB (as appropriate) for access before beginning work.

• The Recipient may be asked to suspend work because of heightened Threat Condition

(THREATCON) levels. These THREATCON actions may include delays in accessing EAFB and/or denial of access.

• The Recipient is responsible for ensuring that they and their sub-Recipient all possess the necessary documents to gain access to EAFB. The list may include but is not limited to: A valid Alaska driver’s license, current vehicle registration, proof of insurance, and Commercial Driver’s License endorsements appropriate to the equipment being operated.

4.0 RECIPIENT EMPLOYEE GOVERNMENT ACCESS REQUIREMENTS

All Recipient and all associated sub-Recipient employees shall comply with applicable installation, facility and area commander installation/facility access, and local security policies and procedures. The Recipient shall also provide all information required for background checks to meet installation access requirements to be accomplished by the installation Security

Forces Squadron.

The Recipient will ensure that its employees entering Air Force-controlled installations or facilities have obtained access badges and passes in accordance with facility regulations and that these badges and passes are obtained in advance so as not to delay the accomplishment of scopes.

The Recipient will return all issued US Government Common Access Cards (CAC), installation badges, and/or access passes to the Government Representative when the agreement is completed or when an employee no longer requires access to the installation or facility.

5.0 GOVERNMENT FURNISHED MATERIAL

EAFB will provide necessary access to Air Force lands for project development and implementation. The Government will not furnish any facilities or equipment for any work that needs to be accomplished in this SOW. The Recipient shall furnish all supplies needed to perform this CA according to all its terms.

6.0 OTHER REQUIREMENTS

6.1 Hazardous Materials

The Recipient shall comply with EAFB regulations regarding Hazardous Material (HAZMAT) for all issues of hazardous material, and ensure procedures meet all applicable policies, publications, and protocols in this CA. All HAZMAT will be labelled, secured, and properly

Section I – Page 9 stored when not in use. Provide Bio-Environmental Engineer Service with a Safety Data Sheet

(SDS) on all first-time purchases of hazardous items obtained through local sources of supply and obtain approval prior to purchase. Recipient shall have the pesticide label and SDSs on-hand/on-site during all applications.

6.2 Emergency Medical Service

The Government will provide emergency medical treatment and emergency patient transportation service for Recipient personnel who are injured or become critically ill while at

EAFB. Treated personnel will be responsible for reimbursing the government for the cost of medical treatment and patient transportation at the current inpatient or outpatient treatment rate.

6.3 Hours of Operation

Services shall typically be performed during working hours of Monday through Friday from 7:00 am to 5:00 pm local time or in coordination with the local point of contact.

6.4 Power Lines

In some areas, there are power lines interspersed amongst the trees. If the Recipient breaks any of the power lines in the area, the work will stop immediately, and the Recipient must contact the customer at 907-377-3110. All work must cease in the general area until the power lines are repaired.

6.5 Security Requirements

The Recipient shall ensure each employee obtains pass and identification items as applicable for

Recipient personnel and Recipient-owned vehicles. The Security Forces Pass and Identification office is located at 2677 Wabash Ave (Bldg. 3125).

7.0 COORDINATION AND MEETINGS

A kick-off meeting will be held within thirty (30) days of award to discuss the project, address concerns, and provide additional details of the tasks required for this project. Schedule for remaining deliverables will be defined during the project kick-off meeting. Attendees at the kick-off meeting will include at a minimum: the EAFB Technical Point of Contact (POC), the Recipient, and coordinating agency representatives (if applicable).

The EAFB Technical POC and the Recipient shall hold regular meetings to discuss needs, priorities, and updates as deemed necessary by parties to this agreement. The timing and frequency of the meetings will be determined by the project needs and EAFB staff. Quarterly Progress Status

Reports will be provided to the USACE Project Manager.

The following actions must be coordinated with the EAFB Technical POC:

• Access to the installation

• All photography

• All fieldwork shall be scheduled with and approved by the EAFB Technical POC.

Section I – Page 10

• The Recipient shall not make available to the news media or publicly disclose any data generated or reviewed under this project. When approached by the news media, the

Recipient shall refer them to the EAFB Technical POC for response. Project reports and data generated under this award shall become the property of the government and distribution to any other source by the Recipient is prohibited.

8.0 COORDINATION AND COMMUNICATION

A post award planning meeting shall take place within one (1) month of award between the Recipient and EAFB POC. The technical POC for this project is:

TBD

This project is administered by the USACE, and any cooperative agreement questions must be addressed through USACE GO. Programmatic questions can be directed to USACE

Project Manager (TBD).

GRANTS OFFICER

Michelle Mandel

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Contracting Division

ATTN: CEPOA-CT

P.O. Box 6898

JBER, AK 99506-0898

Phone: (907) 753-2502

Email: michelle.r.mandel@usace.army.mil

9.0 PERIODS OF PERFORMANCE AND OPTION YEARS

The period of performance of the base year is 12 months, with the option for two (2) additional 12-month option periods subject to availability of funding.

Attachments

1 Standard List of Pesticides Available to DOD Components and Agencies (1Oct18)

2 AF Standards for Annual Part-Time and As-Needed Commercial Vendor Pest Management

Operations on AF Installations

3. Elodea Map

Section II: Award Information

1. Type of Award: This Funding Opportunity Announcement is for a competed cooperative agreement.

2. Funding: The funded Project Cost Ceiling for this requirement is $133,000.00 (Task 1 only).

The total Project Cost Ceiling including optional unfunded tasks is $714,000.00.

3. Period of Performance: The period of performance for this requirement is twelve (12) months from the date of award, with the option for two (2) additional 12-month option periods subject to availability of funding. This does not obligate the Government to extend this agreement beyond the initial 12-month period of performance.

4. Substantial involvement. The Government will have substantive involvement throughout the execution of this requirement. The Recipient will work directly with the EAFB technical Point of Contact (POC) to coordinate and implement the project requirements at the various EAFB lakes. Recipient will work with the EAFB POC with the aquatic invasive plants’ priority locations, eradication methods, and recommendations towards improving the project area of focus. This project will provide technical support for natural resource management site specific eradication processes, herbicide application and associated reporting. The EAFB Technical POC will routinely collaborate with the Recipient, via in-person meetings or virtual meetings, to ensure compliance and timely execution of the Statement of Work (SOW). The Recipient will collaborate with the Air Force on priority areas and final field season reports for all activities completed during the period of performance.

Section III: Eligibility Information

1. Eligible Applicants – Open to all that meet the criteria of this announcement. Award shall be limited to States, local governments, Indian tribes, non-governmental organizations, and individuals, pursuant to the authority of 16 U.S.C. 670c-1(a).

2. Cost Sharing – This action will be 100% funded by USACE.

3. Other Information –

Use of the System for Award Management (SAM) and the Federal Awardee Performance and Integrity Information System (FAPIIS): To protect the public interest, the Federal Government ensures the integrity of Federal programs by striving to conduct business only with responsible organizations. The Government uses the “Exclusions” within the Performance Information functional area of the SAM and data from FAPIIS, a component within SAM, to verify that an organization is eligible to receive Federal awards. More information about SAM and FAPIIS is available at https://sam.gov/.

Review of Risk: The following areas may be reviewed in evaluating the risk posed by an applicant: financial stability; quality of management systems and operational controls; history of performance; reports and findings from audits; ability to effectively implement statutory, regulatory, or other requirements imposed on recipients of Federal awards.

https://sam.gov/

Section IV: Application and Submission Information

1. Address to Request Application Package:

The complete Funding Opportunity Announcement, application forms, and instructions are available for download at Grants.gov. USACE is not responsible for any loss of internet connectivity or for an applicant’s inability to access documents posted at the referenced website.

The administrative point of contact is the Grants Specialist, Pamela Iverson pamela.iverson@usace.army.mil.

2. Content and Form of Application Submission:

All mandatory forms and any applicable optional forms must be completed in accordance with the instructions on the forms and the additional instructions below.

a. Signed SF 424 - Application for Federal Assistance

b. SF 424 A – Budget Information for Non-construction Programs

c. SF 424 B – Assurances – Non-Construction Programs

d. Program Narrative –

i. Brief program description illustrating applicant’s ability to meet the goals and objectives described in Section I of this announcement. Refer to Section V for narrative requirements.

e. A current negotiated indirect cost rate agreement (NICRA) or a statement stating the applicant is eligible and electing to use the de minimis rate – If Applicable.

f. Evidence of Eligibility per Section III of the opportunity instructions – Required if not checked in SAM.gov.

3. Application shall be submitted NO LATER THAN 09 July 2025; 2:00 PM (Alaska Time) via email or through Grants.gov.

4. Submission Instructions:

Applications may be submitted by email or via the internet through Grants.gov. Choose ONE

(1) of the following submission methods:

a. Email:

Format all documents to print on Letter (8 ½ x 11”) paper. E-mail proposal to the Grants Specialist, Pamela Iverson, at pamela.iverson@usace.army.mil.

b. Internet:

Applicants are not required to submit proposals through Grants.gov. However, if applications are submitted via the internet, applicants are responsible for ensuring that their Grants.gov proposal submission is received in its entirety and within the date and time required. The Government bears no responsibility for data errors resulting from transmission of conversion processes associated with electronic submissions. The Government will bear no responsibility for delays in submissions due to technical difficulties at or with the Grants.gov website.

All applicants choosing to use Grants.gov to submit proposals must be registered and have an account with Grants.gov. It may take up to three (3) weeks to complete Grants.gov registration. For more information on registration, go to http://www.grants.gov/ForApplicants.

mailto:pamela.iverson@usace.army.mil mailto:pamela.iverson@usace.army.mil http://www.grants.gov/ForApplicants

Section V: Application Review Information

Application Submission Evaluation Criteria and Basis of Award

MANAGEMENT INVASIVE SPECIES, AQUATIC PLANTS AND MANAGEMENT HABITAT

354 CES/CEIE, NATURAL RESOURCES

EIELSON AIR FORCE BASE, ALASKA

June 2025

INITIAL REVIEW: The Government will perform an initial review to determine that the applicant is (1) eligible in accordance with Section III of the announcement; (2) all information required by Section IV has been submitted; and (3) all mandatory requirements are satisfied.

The Government will evaluate technical submissions Applications meeting requirements in the initial screening will be evaluated in accordance with the criteria described herein and the Government will award a cooperative agreement to the eligible, qualified, and responsible Applicant whose submission is determined to be most likely to be successful. The Government will not award a cooperative agreement to an Applicant whose submission contains a deficiency.

The evaluation factors for this action are:

Factor 1: Experience (most important technical factor)

Factor 2: Technical Approach (2nd most important technical factor)

Factor 3: Cost (3rd most important factor)

After listing submission strengths, weaknesses and deficiencies, the Government will assign an adjective rating of Outstanding, Good, Acceptable, Marginal, or Unacceptable to each technical factor which reflects the Government's confidence in each Applicant's ability, as demonstrated in its submission, to perform the requirements stated in the Statement of Work (SOW). The adjectival ratings shall be assigned, using the following criteria, which incorporate a submission risk assessment:

Adjectival Rating

Description

Outstanding Submission indicates an exceptional approach and understanding of the requirements and contains multiple strengths.

Good Submission indicates a thorough approach and understanding of the requirements and contains at least one (1) strength.

Acceptable Submission indicates an adequate approach and understanding of the requirements.

Marginal Submission has not demonstrated an adequate approach and understanding of the requirements or contains an element of risk.

Unacceptable Submission does not meet requirements of the solicitation and, thus, contains one (1) or more deficiencies and is unawardable.

APPLICATION EVALUATION AND SELECTION CRITERIA

Each Applicant shall be evaluated in accordance with the selection criteria below. The selection criteria are listed in descending order of importance.

Factor 1 Past Performance/Experience

The Applicant shall demonstrate prior project experience relevant to the attached SOW, completed within the last five (5) years of this Funding Opportunity Announcement, and other qualifications and technical competence in all of the following areas:

1. Experience supporting Department of Defense (DoD) Natural resource management programs and understanding conservation elements necessary to monitor, manage, protect, and conserve military lands for optimal management of public lands under military control. Applicant(s) may receive greater consideration for previous experience partnering with the Government in an aforementioned capacity.

2. Experience with management/treatment of vegetation control/modification, erosion control/soil stabilization, seeding/re-vegetation, fertilization, aquatic herbicide application, and forest management activities on military lands.

3. Experience with improving and managing fish habitats on military installation lakes and streams.

4. Experience working on the military training lands to protect and enhance the biological diversity and ecological health to meet requirements of the SOW.

5. Experience with Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation (ADEC) permit requirements to meet requirements of the SOW.

6. Experience planning and managing time critical work, performing studies, projects or plans in accordance with applicable guidance and regulations.

The Applicant shall provide examples of up to four (4) past projects of similar size, scope and complexity that best demonstrate the above qualifications. Submit projects that are at least 50% complete or were completed within the past five (5) years. Applicants with no prior federal assistance agreement experience shall provide a statement in their proposal to that affect. Applicants with no prior federal assistance agreement experience may submit reference information for key personnel that will be working on this project that have performed work under past federal assistance agreements. The example project summaries shall be limited to one (1) page each. The example project summaries shall identify:

• Title/Subject

• Location

• Duration

• Brief description

• Roles and work self-performed

• Date project began and if completed

• Complexities or key accomplishments

• Client contact information

The Government will utilize the example project summaries to evaluate the capability and experience as a basis for comparing Applicants to determine the applicant most likely to be successful in delivering results.

Factor 2 Technical Approach

The Applicant shall provide a brief narrative of their technical approach and a milestone schedule. The narrative shall be no more than two (2) pages per main task and must include:

• A discussion of the technical approach to accomplish the SOW requirements.

• A discussion of the quality assurance, quality control, and other technical activities that will be implemented to ensure that quality data are collected to support project data quality objectives.

• A discussion of applicable regulatory requirements and how project requirements will be implemented.

• A discussion of all assumptions. The inclusion of numerous assumptions that significantly “assume away” Applicant risk regarding major issues or problems that may be encountered on the project will be considered unacceptable.

The Applicant shall also provide an organizational chart with the proposed project team with defined roles, responsibilities, and lines of communication for all key personnel and sub-recipients. The Government will review, evaluate, and compare the technical approach documentation received from each Applicant to determine the applicant most likely to be successful in delivering results.

Factor 3 Cost

The applicant shall provide a narrative of the proposed cost to the Government during the Period of Performance, to include Optional Period of Performances, as this data must be reviewed and evaluated to aid in determining fairness and reasonableness. In accordance with Title 2 of the Code of Federal Regulations, non-Federal entities may not earn or keep any profit (or comparable fees) resulting from Federal Financial Assistance actions. Therefore, any applications that contain profit and/or fees will be excluded from consideration because the government cannot compensate for profit or fees on Federal Financial Assistance awards (i.e., Grants and Cooperative Agreements).

Allowable costs incurred by States, local governments, Indian tribes, non-governmental organizations, and individuals are determined in accordance with OMB’s Cost Principles ONR negotiated rates and institutional policies. OMB’s cost principles are contained in 2 CFR 200.400-.475 et seq.

In accordance with 2 CFR 200.414(c), the Department of Defense has deviated from the indirect cost rates negotiated between the cognizant Federal agencies and institutions of higher education (IHEs) and will instead limit indirect cost rates to 15% for all Federal assistance awards. All new assistance awards to IHEs as of 12 June 2025 shall not exceed 15% the indirect cost rate cap. Refer to Section VI, Award Administration Information, paragraph 2.

Cost is considered less important than non-cost factors and will be evaluated for fairness and reasonableness, per OMB cost principles. If more than one (1) application is rated as having equal non-cost factors, the lowest cost budget of the applications received would be granted as the preferred budget unless there are extraordinary reasons for not doing so.

Section VI: Award Administration Information

1. Award Notices Written notice of award will be given in conjunction with issuance of a cooperative agreement signed by a Grants Officer. The cooperative agreement will contain the effective date of the agreement, the period of performance, funding information, and all terms and conditions. The recipient is required to sign and return the document before work under the agreement commences. Work described in this announcement SHALL NOT begin without prior authorization from a Grants Officer.

Anticipated Award Date:

Announcement Issue Date: 09 June 2025 Application Due Date: 09 July 2025 Estimated Award Date: On or About 30 July 2024

2. Administrative Requirements The cooperative agreement issued as a result of this announcement is subject to the administrative requirements of the Office of Management and Budget Grant and Agreement Regulations, Title 2 Code of Federal Regulations (C.F.R.) Subtitle A, including Title 2 C.F.R.

Part 200 "Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards"; Department of Defense Grant and Agreement Regulatory System (DoDGARS), Title 2, C.F.R. Chapter XI; and Title 32, C.F.R. Chapter I, Subchapter C except Parts 32 and 33.

Plaintiffs in the AAU v. DoD indirect cost rate litigation (D. Mass., No. 25-cv-11740) have filed suit and have received a temporary restraining order (TRO). The DoD will not implement the 15 Percent Indirect Cost Rate Cap while the TRO remains in effect. However, the 15 Percent Indirect Cost Cap on Assistance Awards to Institutions of Higher Education will be applicable for the entirety of the award if there is a court decision permitting application of DoD policies.

3. Reporting The cooperative agreement issued under this announcement will establish reporting requirements which, in general, will consist of project and progress reports in Section I. See 2 CFR Sections 200.328 for financial reporting requirements, 200.329 for performance reporting requirements, and 200.330 for real property reporting requirements.

See 2 CFR 200 Appendix XII for Reporting of Matters Related to Recipient Integrity and Performance.

Section VII: Agency Contact

Pamela Iverson, Grants Specialist U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Contracting Division Attn: CEPOA-CT P.O. Box 6898

JBER, AK 99506-0898

Phone: (907) 753-2555 Email: pamela.iverson@usace.army.mil

Section VIII: Other Information

1. Only Grants Officers are legally authorized to bind the Government to an agreement. The

Government is not obligated to make any Federal award as a result of the announcement.

2. Questions regarding this Funding Opportunity Announcement should be submitted no later than 10 calendar days prior to the Application Due Date. Questions received after this date may not be answered.

3. Responses should reference Funding Opportunity Number W911KB-25-2-0004.

4. Applicants are advised to monitor Grants.gov for potential amendments to this Funding

Opportunity Announcement. You can elect to be automatically notified by Grants.gov whenever there is a change to this opportunity.

mailto:pamela.iverson@usace.army.mil