Funding Opportunity Announcement No. R15AS00013.pdf

Funding Opportunity No. R15AS00013

Water Conservation Field Services Program Oklahoma-Texas Area Office

Financial Assistance Program for Federal Fiscal Year 2015

U.S. Department of the Interior Bureau of Reclamation Great Plains Region Oklahoma-Texas Area Office

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Overview I. Funding Opportunity Description

A. Background and Objectives B. Water Conservation Field Services Program C. WCFSP Financial Assistance Authority

II. Award Information A. Award Funding B. Cost Sharing and/or Matching Requirements C. Pre-award Costs D. Project Completion E. Reclamation Involvement F. Anticipated Award Date

III. Eligibility Information IV. Application and Proposal Submission Information

A. FOA Point of Contact B. Proposal Delivery Methods C. Proposal Due Dates D. Technical Proposal - Required Content E. Activity Budget – Required Content F. Dun and Bradstreet (D&B) Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS) Requirement G. System for Award Management Registration Requirement H. Unnecessarily Elaborate Proposals I. Late Submissions, Modifications, and Withdrawals of Application and/or Proposal ... Error!

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J. Retention/Disposition of Materials K. Grants.gov

V. Application Evaluation Scoring Criteria VI. Other Information

General Provisions VII. Example Format for Activity Budget Appendix A: Proposed Guidelines for Estimation of Water Savings

What to submit Required Form and Content Information

Title Page Include Funding Opportunity No. R15AS00013 and date of submission.

Table of Contents List major sections of your application and proposal.

Application

Form SF-424, Application for Federal Assistance is available on the internet at:

http://apply07.grants.gov/apply/FormLinks?family=15 This form must be signed by a person legally authorized to commit your organization to performance of the activity.

Activity Proposal See Section IV for required content information.

Budget Information

Form SF-424A Budget Information (Non-Construction Programs) or 424C (Construction Programs) are available on the internet at http://apply07.grants.gov/apply/FormLinks?family=15 The form must be signed by a person legally authorized to commit your organization to performance of the activity.

Activity Budget

See Section IV for required content information.

Indirect Cost Rate Agreement (if Applicable)

See Section IV for applicability.

Assurances

Form SF-424B (Non-Construction Programs) or 424D (Construction Programs) are available on the internet at http://apply07.grants.gov/apply/FormLinks?family=15The form must be signed by a person legally authorized to commit your organization to performance of the activity.

http://apply07.grants.gov/apply/FormLinks?family=15

Overview

Federal Agency Name: Department of the Interior, Bureau of Reclamation (Reclamation), Great Plains Region, Oklahoma-Texas Area Office Funding Opportunity Title: Water Conservation Field Services Program Announcement Type: Initial Announcement Funding Opportunity Number: R15AS00013 Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) Number: 15.530

Applicability of Executive Order 12372 Not Applicable

Due Date for Application/Proposals:

Applications/Proposals will be accepted until 4:00 p.m., Mountain Standard Time, on February 2, 2015.

See Section II for more information regarding the funding period and availability of funds.

Eligible Applicants:

States, Indian Tribes, Irrigation Districts, Water Districts, or any other organization with recognized water delivery authority within the geographic area covered by the Reclamation Oklahoma-Texas Area Office

Cost Share: 50 percent or more of total activity costs must be met with non-federal funds.

Estimated Funding Amount:

Reclamation is expected to have $100,000 available for funding under this Opportunity Announcement.

Reclamation funding is limited to $100,000 per applicant.

Awards are subject to a determination by Reclamation that FY 2015 appropriations are available and that awards can be made consistent with all program requirements.$

Estimated number of agreements to be awarded: One (1) to three (3) Agreements

I. Funding Opportunity Description

A. Background and Objectives

The Bureau of Reclamation (Reclamation), Great Plains Region, Oklahoma-Texas Area Office, is requesting proposals to fund activities in support of its Water Conservation Field Services Program in Federal fiscal year 2015 (October 1, 2014 through September 30, 2015).

Eligible applicants are invited to leverage their funds and resources by cost-sharing with Reclamation on activities that will do one or more of the following:

• Implementation

• Demonstration

B. Water Conservation Field Services Program

The mission of Reclamation is to manage, develop, and protect water and related resources in an environmentally and economically sound manner in the interest of the American public.

Reclamation has a major responsibility, in partnership with States, water users, and other interested parties, to help improve water resources and the efficiency of water use in the Western United States.

After more than 100 years, Reclamation’s primary role has evolved from one of water resource development to one of water resource management. More efficient water use is a key component of Reclamation’s water resource management strategy.

Reclamation established the Water Conservation Field Services Program (WCFSP) in 1996. The WCFSP is designed to fulfill Reclamation’s water conservation related obligation as outlined in Section 210(b) of the Reclamation Reform Act (RRA) of 1982; directing the Secretary to require and encourage water conservation on Reclamation Projects, assist water districts in the development and implementation of effective water conservation plans, complement and support State and other local conservation program efforts, and generally foster improved water management on a regional, statewide, and watershed basis.

Reclamation recognizes that no single entity, acting independently, can meet the challenges of improving efficiency of water use. Consequently, a key to meeting these challenges will be with partnerships formed between Reclamation, Water Districts, Indian Tribes, State and local governments, and other interested parties with water and power delivery authority.

C. WCFSP Financial Assistance Authority

This WCFSP Financial Assistance Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) is issued under the authority of the Omnibus Public Land Management Act of 2009, Public Law 111-11, Section 9504(a).

II. Award Information

A. Award Funding

Reclamation anticipates awarding one (1) to three (3) financial assistance agreements under this FOA. This may change based upon the number of applicants and the amount of Congressional appropriations.

Applicants may request up to $100,000 in Federal funding per agreement.

In accordance with Section 9504(a) of Public Law 111-11, the federal share (Reclamation and other sources of federal funding) of any one proposed activity/project shall not exceed 50 percent of the total activity/project costs

B. Cost Sharing and/or Matching Requirements

The applicant must be willing to cost-share a minimum of 50 percent of the total activity costs.

Cost sharing may be made through cash or in-kind contributions from the applicant or third-party participants. All cost-share contributions must meet the criteria established in the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) administrative requirements, and cost principles applicable to the applicant. Applicants may not use other Federal funds to meet any portion of their cost share.

C. Pre-award Costs

Activity costs that have been incurred prior to the date of award may be submitted for consideration as an allowable reimbursable expense as the applicants cost-shared portion. In no case will pre-award costs incurred prior to October 1, 2014 be considered. Such costs might include design or construction plans and environmental compliance costs directly supporting the proposed activity.

Reclamation will review the proposed pre-award costs to determine if they are allowable in accordance with the authorizing legislation and applicable cost principles.

D. Project Completion

Reclamation recommends applicant(s) propose activities that can be completed within 24 months.

A request to modify the agreement after the execution may be granted, but is not guaranteed.

E. Reclamation Involvement

In general, substantial involvement is not anticipated on the part of any Area Office; therefore, the expected financial assistance will be a grant agreement.

F. Anticipated Award Date

Awards for Fiscal Year 2015 are expected to be made in August of 2015.

III. Eligibility Information

A. Eligible Applicants

In order to be considered for this award, an applicant must be a State, Indian Tribe, irrigation district, water district, or other organization with a recognized water delivery authority within the geographic area covered by the Bureau of Reclamation, Oklahoma-Texas Area Office.

B. Eligible Activities

I. Implementation Activities.

Examples include, but are not limited to:

Canal Lining/Piping: Projects that line or pipe canals, resulting in conserved water. Projects include, but are not limited to:

• Installing new proven lining materials or technology

• Converting open canals to pipeline

• Constructing conveyance improvements, turnouts, pipelines, or intertie systems

Municipal Metering: Projects that install meters, resulting in measureable water savings. Projects include, but are not limited to:

• Installing water service meters

• Installing distribution systems meters associated with production and/or leakage quantification

Irrigation Flow Measurement: Projects that improve measurement accuracy and result in reduced spills and over-deliveries to irrigators. Projects include, but are not limited to:

• Installing weirs, flumes, ramps, etc. in open channels

• Installing meters in pressurized pipes

SCADA and Automation: Projects that install SCADA and/or automation components that provide water savings when irrigation delivery system operational efficiency is improved to reduce spills, over-deliveries, and seepage.

II. Demonstration Activities – installation or application of a particular technology in a new way, or in a new setting, with the intent of reporting the results to others for wider adoption. This may be accomplished by supporting applied research that will benefit field development of innovative water management and conservation technologies, as well as sponsoring specific conservation technology demonstration projects.

C. Ineligible Activities

Operations, Maintenance, and Replacement (OM&R): Projects that are considered normal OM&R are not eligible. OM&R is described as system improvements that replace or repair existing infrastructure or function without providing increased efficiency or effectiveness of water distribution over the expected life of the improvement. Examples of ineligible OM&R projects include:

• Replacing malfunctioning components of an existing facility with the same components

• Improving an existing facility to operate as originally designed

• Performing an activity on a recurring basis, even if that period is extended (e.g., 10-year interval)

• Sealing expansion joints of concrete lining because the original sealer or the water stops have failed

• Replacing broken meters with new meters of the same type

• Replacing leaky pipes with new pipes of the same type

Water conservation education and training activities

Water conservation education and training activities are not eligible for funding under this Funding Opportunity Announcement.

IV. Application and Proposal Submission Information

A. FOA Point of Contact

Lindsey Nafts Grants Officer Bureau of Reclamation Great Plains Regional Office P.O. Box 36900 Billings, MT 59107-6900 Phone: (406) 247-7684 Fax: (406) 247-7789 E-Mail: lnafts@usbr.gov mailto:lnafts@usbr.gov

B. Proposal Delivery Methods

Under no circumstance will proposals be accepted by email or facsimile. Proposals must be submitted by one of the following methods only:

1. Electronic Submittal via Grants.gov. - Grants.gov is an internet website that can be used to find and apply for grant funding opportunities. In order to electronically submit a proposal, you must complete the Grants.gov registration process. The registration process can take approximately two weeks to be completed; therefore, registration should be done in sufficient time to ensure that it does not impact your ability to meet required submission deadlines. You will be able to submit your proposal online any time after you receive your e-authentication credentials. Reclamation encourages applicants to submit their proposals electronically through Grants.gov; however electronic submittal of proposals is not required. For more information regarding submitting a proposal via Grants.gov, please visit the “Get Registered” and “Apply for Grants” links at www.grants.gov.

2. Hard-Copy Submittal – Proposals may be submitted by paper hard-copy. All originals of the paper hard-copy proposals must be hand delivered or mailed to:

Lindsey Nafts Grants Officer Bureau of Reclamation Great Plains Regional Office P.O. Box 36900 Billings, MT 59107-6900 Phone: (406) 247-7684 Fax: (406) 247-7789

There is no requirement to submit the FOA proposal application by more than one means.

However, if an applicant wishes to submit a paper hard-copy as a back-up to electronic submission, both will be accepted. If the proposal dates differ, the latter one received prior to the application due date will prevail unless the applicant specifies differently. Regardless of the submittal method, applicants are responsible for ensuring that their application package is received by Reclamation prior to the established proposal due date.

C. Proposal Due Dates

Electronic proposal applications submitted through grants.gov must be received by February 2, 2015. Hard copy proposals which are mailed must be post marked by February 2, 2015.

D. Technical Proposal - Required Content

Each applicant must submit a technical proposal that consists of the information listed below. Failure to include all required documentation may disqualify the applicant from consideration.

http://www.grants.gov/

1. Background

a) Discuss general background of the applicant’s organizational structure, including:

o Water source with water right;

o Association or nexus with a Reclamation Project or facility, or no association;

o Water conveyance/delivery system (miles of conveyance), number of customers, and total delivery in Acre-Feet per year (AF/yr);

o Past WCFSP Activities with award dates;

o Applicant’s eligibility

b) Discuss the purpose and objective of the proposed activity, and the method used to calculate the estimated volume of water which will be saved in acre-feet per year.

c) Describe and document why Federal assistance is needed, in relationship to the applicant economic hardship; relationship to a special interest group; and whether the proposed activity would be accomplished or delayed without Federal assistance.

d) Describe and document if there is an urgent need as related to the State or other legal governing body water board.

e) Contact information.

f) Other Information which the applicant believes will help in the selection of the Activity.

2. Engineering Design and Drawings

a) Scope of Work o Describe in sufficient detail the proposed activity and work to be accomplished with associated maps showing the major features. The map shall be of sufficient detail to permit any Reclamation personnel to find the activity showing the major features or components associated with the proposed activities. Identify the name and stationing of canals and laterals and features to be retrofitted with water saving components.

o Describe the applicant past experience, and equipment to furnish in-kind services.

b) Include design criteria with typical drawings (plan and section), figures, and tables to describe the components. Signed engineering drawings are not required for the proposal.

State whether an engineering firm has been consulted in the design.

c) Coordination of water shortages with other entities (Federal, State, etc.) and coordination with financial sponsors.

3. Construction, Cost Estimate, and Schedule

a) Discuss which major tasks will be contracted out and what major tasks will be performed with the applicant’s work force.

b) Discuss how the costs (construction and non-constructions) were derived for the major tasks referencing the cost estimating worksheets. The use of tables greatly helps in evaluating the proposal. The cost estimating worksheets shall itemize separately the in-kind services, and any construction work performed by others. Non-construction costs are administration, planning, consultant & legal fees, land purchase, etc.

c) Provide a total Activity cost estimate table itemizing construction costs for the major tasks with references to the cost estimating worksheets and the non-construction costs.

d) Provide a proposed construction schedule (month to month) for the major tasks. Include potential seasonal down times, and what circumstances may cause a change in scope or time extensions (weather, legal, financial, or etc.).

4. Identify and describe (as applicable) how the water conservation benefits below will benefit the applicant once implemented.

a) Reduces leaks and seepage – Estimate acre-feet per year.

b) Reduces system spills – Estimate acre-feet per year.

c) Provide more water available for new uses other than to increase of current irrigated acreage or consumptive use in acre-feet per year. Describe some new uses.

d) Reduces operation costs – Estimate savings per year in dollars.

e) Reduces energy costs – Estimate savings per year in dollars.

f) Reduces per capita use – Estimate reduction in gallons per capita per day per year.

g) Improves water supply or delivery, reliability, and flexibility – Describe increased water supply and transmission efficiency.

h) Reduces drainage and erosion – Describe benefits.

i) Improves water quality – Describe benefits.

j) Enhances aquatic/riparian habitat – Describe benefits.

k) Protects/assists endangered species efforts – Describe benefits.

5. Describe (1) the estimated water savings per year; (2) the percentage of water savings relative to the total annual water deliveries; and (3) the cost per acre-foot saved.

Describe how the water conservation or savings benefits will be calculated and verification after the proposed activity has been fully implemented. Also describe any environmental benefits resulting from the activity.

The proposal should take care to address the questions in Appendix A dependent on applicability to the proposed activity. Please include a specific quantifiable water savings estimate; do not include a range of potential water savings.

Provide the percentage of total water supply conserved.

Estimated Annual Amount of Water Conserved (acre− feet year )

Average Annual Water Deliveries (acre− feet year )

∗ 100%

Provide the estimated water saved in $/acre-feet.

Total Project Cost (Capital & O&M) Acre− Feet/Year Conserved ∗ Improvement Life (in years)

6. Discuss environmental impacts (beneficial or detrimental) associated with the proposed activity and identify the associated Reclamation project, if applicable.

Examples of environmental impacts include:

• Reduce and/or prevent soil erosion;

• Increase in-stream flows or reduce diversions;

• Improve water quality; and/or

• Reduce or increase in-stream water temperatures, water volumes, or other factors that may benefit of listed species under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) listed species.

7. Describe how the Objective(s) of this WCFSP Proposal were met

Describe how the activity will meet the proposed objective(s) established earlier.

8. Financial Commitment and Table

Prepare a financial statement with documentation identifying the financial obligation each sponsor (Federal non-Reclamation, and non-Federal sponsors) has pledged supporting the total cost of this proposed activity. Provide a table displaying the itemized cost-shared financial obligation each sponsor has pledged along with requested Federal (Reclamation WCFSP) financial assistance.

E. Activity Budget – Required Content

In order to assist Reclamation with the proposal evaluation each applicant shall submit an activity budget consisting of the information listed-below.

1. Direct Cost Budget Elements

Applicants shall include a narrative description of ALL the cost items included in an activity budget. The narrative provides a discussion of – or explanation for – items included in the proposed budget for the activity. The budget narrative must support the information listed on the SF-424-A or SF-424C, as applicable. Below are some examples of the types of information that should be included in a budget narrative:

a) Personnel costs: Define each position that will be working on this activity by title, salary or wage, amount of time estimated on the activity, and any fringe benefit costs.

b) Equipment description and hourly rate: Discuss whether the equipment is already owned, will be leased, or purchased. If you are using owned equipment, include hourly and stand-by rate and time estimates. These rates must reflect actual cost. You may use your own rate calculation or the rate calculated in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Equipment Ownership and Operating Expense Schedule for your region. If equipment purchase is recommended, discuss why purchase is preferred to lease or rental. Itemize costs of all equipment purchased having a value of over $500.

c) Material and supplies: List the major types of material and supplies (office, construction, etc.) that are to be purchased/used on this activity.

d) Environmental and Regulatory Compliance Costs: Environmental compliance costs refer to costs incurred by Reclamation or the applicant in complying with environmental regulations. Discuss what costs have been included, why they are needed, and how the costs were determined.

e) Travel costs: Include purpose of trip, destination, number traveling, length of stay and all travel. If costs for travel are identified, be sure the purpose/need for travel is discussed in the activity narrative. Costs including airfare (basis for rate used), per diem, lodging, and miscellaneous travel expenses. For local travel, include mileage and rate of compensation.

f) Contingencies: In very limited circumstances, funding may be made available for contingencies. It will only be considered in association with construction projects/activities, and will not be acceptable if over 10%.

g) Other: Any other expenses, such as those for reporting or contracting out not included in the above categories shall be listed in this category, along with a description of the item and what it will be used for. No profit or fee will be allowed on any other expenses.

2. Indirect Costs

Indirect costs can only be included in the activity budget if:

a) The applicant has a federally approved Indirect Cost Rate Agreement. A copy of the approved agreement must be attached to this proposal; or

b) The basis for determination of your proposed indirect rate has been previously approved by the Department of the Interior. Information on “Preparing and Submitting Indirect Cost Proposals” is available from the Department of the Interior, National Business Center, Indirect Cost Section, at http://www.nbc.gov/icshome.html.

3. Cost Share Breakdown

Describe all partners/sponsors who are participating in this activity, and the contribution for each participant in each budget element listed in the budget narrative.

F. Dun and Bradstreet (D&B) Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS) Requirement

Effective October 1, 2003, applicants for Federal grants or cooperative agreements must provide a D&B DUNS number with their application. This number is to be included in Block 5 of the applicant's SF-424 Application for Federal Assistance (Rev.9-2003), or in Block 6 of previous versions of the SF-424.

http://www.nbc.gov/icshome.html

If the applicant does not have a DUNS number, one may be obtained at no cost by calling the dedicated toll-free DUNS Number Request Line at 1-866-705-5711, or by going to the DUNS Government Contractor and Grantee website at https://eupdate.dnb.com/requestoptions/government/ccrreg/ .

Applicants who would personally receive a grant or cooperative agreement award from the Federal Government, apart from any business or non-profit organization they operate, are exempt from the requirement to provide a DUNS number with their application. Reclamation must, however, have a DUNS number for payment processing purposes, and will therefore obtain a DUNS number for any individual who is awarded a grant or cooperative agreement.

G. System for Award Management Registration Requirement

All grant applicants are required to be registered in the System for Award Management (SAM) at the time of application, unless the applicant has an exemption under 2 CFR § 25.110. Applicants must maintain an active SAM registration with current information at all times during the time in which the applicant has an active Federal award or an application under consideration. For additional information or to register, go to www.sam.gov.

H. Unnecessarily Elaborate Proposals

Unnecessarily elaborate brochures or other presentations beyond those sufficient to present a complete and effective response to this funding opportunity are not desired. Elaborate art work, expensive paper and bindings, expensive visual and other presentation aids, water management plans, newspaper articles or excessively long proposals are neither necessary nor wanted.

J. Retention/Disposition of Materials

Proposals submitted in response to this FOA will not be returned, but will be retained by Reclamation for official record purposes. Material supplied to the applicant by an AO (including attachments and specifications) need not be returned, but may be disposed of at the discretion of the applicant unless otherwise specifically directed that the applicant retain for auditing purposes.

K. Grants.gov

If the applicant chooses to submit an electronic application the application must be submitted through Grants.gov at <http://www.grants.gov>.

1. Please note that submission of an application electronically requires prior registration through

Grants.gov, which may take 7-21 days. Please see registration instructions at http://www.grants.gov/applicants/get registered sp

2. Applicants have sometimes experienced significant delays when attempting to submit applications through Grants.gov. If the application is submitted through Grants.gov, the applicant is encouraged to submit the application several days prior to the application deadline. If the applicant is a properly registered Grants.gov applicant and a problem is encountered with the Grants.gov https://eupdate.dnb.com/requestoptions/government/ccrreg/ http://www.sam.gov/ http://www.grants.gov/applicants/get%20registered%20sp application submission process, please contact the Grants.gov Help desk to obtain a "Case Number." This Number will provide evidence of the attempt to submit an application prior to the submission deadline which may validate funding

I. Late Submissions

Any application received at the designated office mentioned in this FOA after the specified time for receipt will not be considered in the original selection process unless Reclamation determines that the late receipt was due to mishandling by the Government.

Reclamation selected proposals for funding are not binding until both parties sign the final agreement. Proposal(s) may be withdrawn by written notice received at any time before the agreement is signed.

Regardless of the delivery method utilized, the applicant must ensure that the proposal and application arrives by the time deadline stated in Section IV, above. Late applications will be rejected, unless it is determined that the delay was caused by Federal Government mishandling.

V. Application Evaluation Scoring Criteria

Proposals that meet eligibility requirements will be evaluated and scored based on technical merit of the activity.

Rating criteria has been assigned for each proposed activity. Each proposal will be scored according to the point system listed below. Proposals receiving the highest scores will be the first to receive funding consideration. The exact number of funded proposals selected will depend upon available funds.

Conservation Activity Groups Evaluation Criteria Points are awarded based on how well the proposed activity will meet the overall implementation of the water conservation goals of the Water Conservation Field Services Program (WCFSP).

1. Implementation of Water Conservation Activities. Total Available Points: 95

a) Association with Reclamation Project Water Supplies – up to 20 points o Receives Reclamation Project Water or receives water from a Reclamation facility.

o On Reclamation Project lands or is a Reclamation designed facility.

o Improves water availability in a basin where a Reclamation Project currently exists.

o Beneficially impacts water supplies and/or the environment for the State, watershed, County, or local area.

b) Extent to which the proposed activity is expected to conserve water and/or improve water use management and efficiency – up to 20 points o Extent of expected water savings, stated in acre-feet/year.

o Understandable narration explaining how the quantity of water was calculated. Water conserved/saved will be stated in acre-feet/year.

o Improves water supply reliability during water short years.

c) Reasonableness of Costs - up to 15 points o The purpose and objective are clearly stated, and the estimated water saved is in $/acre-feet.

d) Extent to which Federal Funding Would Promote Completion of an Activity That Might Otherwise be Delayed or Postponed - up to 10 points o Relationship in an economically depressed area of the State.

o Need for Federal financial assistance to meet their water conservation/saving needs.

o Activity has been delayed or postponed due to funding constraints.

o Activity will not be accomplished but not for Federal financial assistance.

e) Extent to which Applicants have a current and complete Water Management Plan, if required by the Reclamation Reform Act (RRA) - up to 5 points o If the applicant has a contract to use Reclamation Project water and/or use Reclamation Project facilities within the geographic area covered by the Reclamation Oklahoma-Texas Area Office, then the applicant must have a documented letter stating that they have a Reclamation reviewed Water Conservation Management Plan (Plan) identifying the proposed activity on file with Reclamation, as required under the Reclamation Reform Act (RRA), and the plan has been updated within the past five (5) years. Or o The Plan, if required, identifies this proposed implementation activity as a compelling need, and is documented in the plan.

o Applicants that are not required by RRA should specify this in their application and in doing so, will not be penalized for not having a water management plan

f) Amount and Sources of Non-Federal Funding (i.e. Cost-share) - up to 5 points o The non-Federal cost-share exceeds 50 percent.

o Collaboration was conducted with other Federal, State, or local entities.

g) Likelihood that any environmental and cultural resources issues associated with the proposal can be addressed at low cost and in a timely manner - up to 5 points o Beneficial environmental impacts are identified on the surrounding environment..

o Endangered or threatened species are identified in the proposed activity area (if any).

o Wetland type and sizes are identified which will be impacted by implementing the proposed activity (if any).

o Identify any sites on the National Register of Historic Places (buildings, structures, or features) or archeological sites or potential sites are identified (if any).

o Identify (present or future) environmental and/or cultural issues which will be resolved in a cost-effective and timely manner with the proposed activity.

h) Extent to which the proposal demonstrates a sound implementation strategy manner - up to 5 points o The construction schedule clearly indicating proposed start and ending dates by month (x to x) to completion with the associated major cost-driving tasks.

o Identifies any potential causes which could result in delays and/or cost overruns.

i) The applicants strategy for monitoring performance and reporting and disseminating results manner - up to 5 points o Discusses how water conservation/savings will be monitored and recorded after implementation.

j) Other Criteria to address local goals and priorities- up to 5 points o Activity helps to improve recreation conditions or opportunities.

o Activity helps to improve water quality.

o Activity helps to improve fish and wildlife habitat.

2. Demonstration Projects. Total Available Points: 90

a) Association with Reclamation Project Water Supplies – up to 20 points o Receives Reclamation Project Water or receives water from a Reclamation facility.

o On Reclamation Project lands or is a Reclamation designed facility.

o Improves water availability in a basin where a Reclamation Project currently exists.

o Beneficially impacts water supplies and/or the environment for the State, watershed, County, or local area.

b) Extent to which the proposed activity is expected to demonstrate innovative conservation technologies for improving water use efficiency (including applied research to benefit development of new technologies; demonstration of a specific conservation technology; or innovative application of existing technology with the intent of evaluating results) – up to 20 points o Extent of expected water savings, stated in acre-feet/year.

o Understandable narration explaining how the quantity of water was calculated. Water conserved/saved will be stated in acre-feet/year.

o Improves water supply reliability during water short years.

c) Reasonableness of Costs - up to 10 points o The purpose and objective are clearly stated, and the estimated water saved is in $/acre-feet.

d) Extent to which Federal Funding Would Promote Completion of an Activity That Might Otherwise be Delayed or Postponed - up to 10 points o Relationship in an economically depressed area of the State.

o Need for Federal financial assistance to meet their water conservation/saving needs.

o Activity has been delayed or postponed due to funding constraints.

o Activity will not be accomplished but not for Federal financial assistance.

e) Extent to which Applicants have a current and complete Water Management Plan, if required by the Reclamation Reform Act (RRA) - up to 5 points o If the applicant is has a contract to use Reclamation Project water and/or use Reclamation Project facilities within the geographic area covered by the Reclamation Oklahoma-Texas Area Office, then the applicant must have a documented letter stating that they have a Reclamation reviewed Water Conservation Management Plan (Plan) identifying the proposed activity on file with Reclamation, as required under the Reclamation Reform Act (RRA), and the plan has been updated within the past five (5) years. Or o The Plan, if required, identifies this proposed implementation activity as a compelling need, and is documented in the plan.

o Applicants that are not required by RRA should specify this in their application and in doing so, will not be penalized for not having a water management plan

f) Amount and Sources of Non-Federal Funding (i.e. Cost-share) - up to 5 points o The non-Federal cost-share exceeds 50 percent.

o Collaboration was conducted with other Federal, State, or local entities.

g) Likelihood that any environmental and cultural resources issues associated with the proposal can be addressed at low cost and in a timely manner - up to 5 points o Beneficial environmental impacts are identified on the surrounding environment..

o Endangered or threatened species are identified in the proposed activity area (if any).

o Wetland type and sizes are identified which will be impacted by implementing the proposed activity (if any).

o Identify any sites on the National Register of Historic Places (buildings, structures, or features) or archeological sites or potential sites are identified (if any).

o Identify (present or future) environmental and/or cultural issues which will be resolved in a cost-effective and timely manner with the proposed activity.

h) Extent to which the proposal demonstrates a sound implementation strategy manner - up to 5 points o The construction schedule clearly indicating proposed start and ending dates by month (x to x) to completion with the associated major cost-driving tasks.

o Identifies any potential causes which could result in delays and/or cost overruns.

i) The applicants strategy for monitoring performance and reporting and disseminating results manner - up to 5 points o Discusses how water conservation/savings will be monitored and recorded after implementation.

j) Other Criteria to address local goals and priorities- up to 5 points o Activity helps to improve recreation conditions or opportunities.

o Activity helps to improve water quality.

o Activity helps to improve fish and wildlife habitat.

VI. Other Information

Additional Requirements

Awards made under this Funding Opportunity will:

• Incorporate in full, or by reference, the Code of Federal Regulation (CFR) regulations found at 2 CFR 200, 2 CFR §182 and §1401, 2 CFR §175.15, 2 CFR 25, Appendix A, 2 CFR 170, Appendix A, 31 U.S.C. 7501-7507, and 43 CFR 18

• Incorporate language for the right to inspect and evaluation work performed, assurance and certifications, covenant against contingent fees, and applicable language from Executive Order 13513 (Prohibition on Text Messaging and Using Electronic Equipment Supplied by the Government While Driving), Public Law 112- 239 (Whistleblower Rights), and the Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition Policies Act of 1970.

• Require registration with the Department of the Treasury Automated Standard Application for Payments (ASAP) system. ASAP is a recipient initiated payment and information system designed to provide a single point of contact for the request and delivery of Federal funds. ASAP is the only allowable method for request and receipt of payment used by Reclamation.

Requirements for Agricultural Operations

In accordance with Section 9504(a)(3)(B) of Public Law 111-11, grants and cooperative agreements under this authority will not be awarded for an improvement to conserve irrigation water unless the applicant agrees to both of the following conditions:

• Not to use any associated water savings to increase the total irrigated acreage of the eligible applicant; and

• Not to otherwise increase the consumptive use of water in the operation of the eligible applicant, as determined pursuant to the law of the State in which the operation of the eligible applicant is located.

Other Requirements

Applicants shall adhere to Federal, state, territorial, and local laws, regulations, and codes, as applicable, and shall obtain all required approvals and permits. Applicants shall also coordinate and obtain approvals from site owners and operators.

Title to Improvements

In accordance with Section 9504(a)(3)(D) of Public Law 111-11, If the activities funded through an agreement awarded under this FOA result in a modification to a portion of a federally owned facility that is integral to the existing operations of that facility, the Federal government shall continue to hold title to the facility and the improvements thereto. Title to improvements that are not integral to existing water delivery operations shall reside with the project sponsor.

Liability

In accordance with Public Law 111-11, Section 9504(a)(3)(F), the following applies for liability:

In General—Except as provided under chapter 171 of title 28, United States Code (commonly known as the “Federal Tort Claims Act”), the United States shall not be liable for monetary damages of any kind for any injury arising out of an act, omission, or occurrence that arises in relation to any facility created or improved through an agreement awarded under this FOA, the title of which is not held by the United States.

Tort Claims Act—Nothing in this section increases the liability of the United States beyond that provided in chapter 171 of title 28, United States Code (commonly known as the “Federal Tort Claims Act”).

VII. Example Format for Activity Budget

Note: The format as outlined in this activity budget is optional and is being offered as an example.

The applicant may use any format to outline the proposal’s budgets. However, if the following format is not utilized, please discuss all essential cost elements, estimated costs, and cost-share ratios for the proposed activity.

BUDGET ITEM

DESCRIPTION

COMPUTATION

RECIPIENT

FUNDING RECLAMATION

FUNDING TOTAL COST $/Unit and Unit Quantity

SALARIES AND WAGES

FRINGE BENEFITS

TRAVEL

EQUIPMENT

CONTRACTUAL / CONSTRUCTION

OTHER

TOTAL DIRECT COSTS -

INDIRECT COSTS -

TOTAL ACTIVITY COSTS

Appendix A: Proposed Guidelines for Estimation of Water Savings

Address the following questions as appropriate for your proposed activity.

(1) Canal Lining/Piping: Canal lining/piping projects can provide water savings when irrigation delivery systems experience significant losses due to canal seepage. Applicants proposing lining/piping projects should address the following:

(a) How has the estimated average annual water savings that will result from the project been determined? Please provide all relevant calculations, assumptions, and supporting data.

(b) How have average annual canal seepage losses been determined?

Have ponding and/or inflow/outflow tests been conducted to determine seepage rates under varying conditions? If so, please provide detailed descriptions of testing methods and all results. If not, please provide an explanation of the method(s) used to calculate seepage losses. All estimates should be supported with multiple sets of data/measurements from representative sections of canals.

(c) What are the expected post-project seepage/leakage losses and how were these estimates determined (e.g., can data specific to the type of material being used in the project be provided)?

(d) What are the anticipated annual transit loss reductions in terms of acre-feet per mile for the overall project and for each section of canal included in the project?

(e) How will actual canal loss seepage reductions be verified? (f) Include a detailed description of the materials being used.

(2) Municipal Metering: Municipal metering projects can provide water savings when individual user meters are installed where none exist to allow for unit pricing and when new meters are installed within a distribution system to assist with leakage reduction. Applicants proposing municipal metering projects should address the following:

(a) How has the estimated average annual water savings that will result from the project been determined? Please provide all relevant calculations, assumptions, and supporting data.

(b) How have current distribution system losses and/or the potential for reductions in water use by individual users been determined?

(c) For individual water user meters installation, refer to studies in the region or in the applicant’s service area that are relevant to water use patterns and the potential for reducing such use. In the absence of such studies, please explain in detail how expected water use reductions have been estimated and the basis for the estimations.

(d) If installing distribution main meters will result in conserved water, please provide support for this determination (including, but not limited to leakage studies, previous leakage reduction projects, etc.). Please provide details underlying any assumptions being made in support of water savings estimates (e.g., how leakage will be reduced once identified with improved meter data).

(e) What types (manufacturer and model) of devices will be installed and what quantity of each?

(f) How will actual water savings be verified upon completion of the project?

(3) Irrigation Flow Measurement: Irrigation flow measurement improvements can provide water savings when improved measurement accuracy results in reduced spills and over-deliveries to irrigators. Applicants proposing municipal metering projects should address the following:

(a) How have average annual water savings estimates been determined? Please provide all relevant calculations, assumptions, and supporting data.

(b) Are flows currently measured at proposed sites and if so what is the accuracy of existing devices? How has the existing measurement accuracy been established?

(c) Provide detailed descriptions of all proposed flow measurement devices, including accuracy and the basis for the accuracy.

(d) How will actual water savings be verified upon completion of the project?

(4) SCADA and Automation: SCADA and automation components can provide water savings when irrigation delivery system operational efficiency is improved to reduce spills, over-deliveries, and seepage. Applicants proposing municipal metering projects should address the following:

(a) How have average annual water savings estimates been determined? Please provide all relevant calculations, assumptions, and supporting data.

(b) Have current operational losses been determined? If water savings are based on a reduction of spills, please provide support for the amount of water currently being lost to spills.

(c) Will annual farm delivery volumes be reduced by more efficient and timely deliveries? If so, how has this reduction been estimated?

(d) Will canal seepage be reduced through improved system management? If so, what is the estimated amount and how was it calculated?

(e) How will actual water savings be verified upon completion of the project?

(5) Other Project Types Not Listed Above: Projects to provide water savings for irrigation and municipal water systems other than those listed above will considered and evaluated based on the amount of estimated water savings and the adequacy of the description of how the savings are estimated. Applicants proposing these types of projects should address the following items:

(a) How have average annual water savings estimates been determined? This should include a detailed description of the rationale and methodologies used to develop the estimates.

Please provide all relevant calculations, assumptions, and supporting data. Reference relevant studies or past project documentation that support the water saving estimates.

(b) If new technologies or devices are proposed, how will the savings occur? Please provide detailed descriptions that will enable the reviewer to understand function and how savings occur.

(c) How will actual water savings be verified upon completion of the project? Please explain the calculations and the analyses for this verification.