FY2025 STATEMAP Program Announcement_FINAL.pdf

FY2025 STATEMAP Program Announcement G25AS000030

UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR

U.S. GEOLOGICAL SURVEY

PROGRAM ANNOUNCEMENT No. G25AS00030

For Fiscal Year 2025

ISSUE DATE: September 25, 2024

CLOSING DATE & TIME:

Tuesday, January 7, 2025 - @ 5:00 p.m. EST

PLEASE READ THE ENTIRE ANNOUNCEMENT CAREFULLY AND NOTE ANY CHANGES

Paperwork Reduction Act Approval – OMB control number 1028-0088, Expiration Date 04/28/2027

-- STATEMAP --

The State Component of the

National Cooperative Geologic Mapping Program

Re-authorized in 2021 by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act

(Public Law 117-58, Sec. 40202: “National Cooperative Geologic

Mapping Program”)

FY2025 STATEMAP Program Announcement G25AS000030

TABLE OF CONTENTS

LIST OF ATTACHMENTS

PROGRAM ANNOUNCEMENT CHANGES

PART I. Public Law, Program Priorities, and Geologic Map Products 1

A. The National Geologic Mapping Act 1

B. STATEMAP Component of the NCGMP 2

C. STATEMAP Proposals 2

D. FY2025 Guidance for STATEMAP Geologic Map Products 3

E. FY2025 Requirements for New Mapping Products 6

PART II. Timetables, Eligibility, Format Instructions, and Proposal Evaluation 9

A. Timetables 9

B. Eligibility – Who May Submit a Proposal 9

C. Proposal Format Instructions 9

D. Proposal Evaluation 16

PART III. Proposal Delivery and Submission Instructions 18

PART IV. General Provisions 18

A. General Provisions of the NCGMP 18

B. Office of Management and Budget Circulars 19

C. Publication 19

D. Funding 20

FY2025 STATEMAP Program Announcement G25AS000030

LIST OF ATTACHMENTS

A. STATEMAP Proposal Summary Sheet

B. STATEMAP Project Abstract Summary

C. Budget Sheet for Entire Proposal

D. Budget Sheet for Individual Project

E. Special Terms and Conditions

F. Instructions for Uploading Deliverables

G. STATEMAP Proposals with Tribal Nation Implications

H. Data Management Plan - Example Template

I. Example Table for Introduction Section

J. GeMS Submission Form

Form required at the end of the project period (form is online only): Standard Form 425 – Federal Financial

Report (submitted through GrantSolutions); form is available online at https://www.grants.gov/forms/forms-repository/post-award-reporting-forms https://www.grants.gov/forms/forms-repository/post-award-reporting-forms

FY2025 STATEMAP Program Announcement G25AS000030

PROGRAM ANNOUNCEMENT CHANGES

Part I, A, and throughout: There are editorial changes made throughout the entire Program

Announcement for conciseness and clarity.

Part I, A, and throughout: Issue date and closing date/time are updated.

Part I, C, STATEMAP Proposals: Please refrain from naming proposed projects with number of deliverables, for example, “Three maps in Brevard County,” because project names cannot be modified in GrantSolutions with revisions (e.g., with revisions, you modify to “Two maps in Brevard County”;

the project title will not change from the original title proposed). Instead, select a name such as

“Mapping in Brevard County.”

Part I, C, STATEMAP Proposals: Many required proposal elements are now OPTIONAL for proposals requesting less than $150,000. These now optional sections are indicated by asterisks throughout this

Program Announcement.

Part I, D, Category 1: All products produced under Category 1 (Guidance Criteria 1 and 2) are now scale limited. New maps and derivative maps produced under Category 1 must be at scales of or between

1:24,000 and 1:63,360.

Part I, D, Guidance Criterion 1: Maps produced under Guidance Criterion 1 are limited to scales at or between 1:24,000 and 1:63,360. Funds may be requested to publish EDMAP products. If requesting funds to publish unfinished geologic maps, then an explanation of explicit activities performed to finalize the map must be included in the proposal (e.g., field work, digitization, cartography, etc.).

Part I, D, Guidance Criterion 2: Derivative maps produced under Guidance Criterion 2 must be at scales at or between 1:24,000 and 1:63,360. Examples of previously-funded derivative map products are provided. The required Geologic Map Schema (GeMS) Level 3 database that must be submitted with each derivative map does not have to be a similar derivative map.

Part I, D, Category 2: The definition for Category 2 work is updated. Specifically, all geologic map products (other than 3D products and GeMS conversions) must be at scales ranging from >1:63,360 to

1:500,000.

Part I, D, Guidance Criterion 3: This Guidance Criterion allows producing or finalizing geologic maps and compilations at scales ranging from >1:63,360 to 1:500,000.

Part I, D, Guidance Criterion 4: This Guidance Criterion allows derivative map production at scales ranging from >1:63,360 to 1:500,000.

Part I, D, Guidance Criterion 5: This Guidance Criterion allows GeMS database development training.

Part I, D, Guidance Criterion 6: This Guidance Criterion now allows 3D work and related training.

FY2025 STATEMAP Program Announcement G25AS000030

Part I, D, Guidance Criterion 7: This Guidance Criterion has been expanded to allow multiple types of complimentary databases that will add content to the National Geologic Map Database (NGMDB).

Databases (with only previously published data) may include geophysical map databases, geochemical map databases, and/or geochronologic databases. Templates are available for each data type.

Part I, D, Guidance Criterion 8: This Guidance Criterion allows products related to geoheritage sites.

Most importantly, funds may be requested to produce StoryMaps (or similar product) related to compiled geoheritage data.

Part I, D, Guidance Criterion 9: This Guidance Criterion allows inventorying of State publications that contain Derogatory Terms.

Part I, D, Guidance Criterion 10: This Guidance Criterion allows work related to updating stratigraphy in your State.

Part I, D, Guidance Criterion 11: This Guidance Criterion has been modified to allow only the production of a STATEMAP Fact Sheet. Please note that all funded projects will require the submission of an updated STATEMAP Fact Sheet starting in Fiscal Year 2026.

Part I, D, Guidance Criterion 12: This Guidance Criterion allows work conducted collaboratively with other State Surveys or FEDMAP Projects related to any of the previous Guidance Criteria. Requested funds must only cover the proposing State Geological Survey.

Part I, E, Requirements for New Mapping Products: New in Fiscal Year 2025 is Attachment J. In lieu of uploading a copy of the GeMS Submission email with non-GeMS deliverables, States must now provide

Attachment J for each submitted GeMS database along with all other non-GeMS deliverables at the

Period of Performance end date. States are encouraged to use Attachment J as the GeMS database submission Transmittal Letter.

Part II, A, Timetables: In an effort to limit the need for some no-cost extensions, project deliverables are now due no later than 90 days after the end of the project period of performance – in line with the final technical report timeline as defined in the award Terms and Conditions. Additionally, final published deliverables will now be due within 12 months from the date of deliverables submission.

Part II, C, Proposal Format Instructions, and throughout: Proposals requesting less than $150,000 have the option to omit some of the previously required proposal elements. Additionally, character limits are now imposed for specific proposal sections regardless of requested funding amount.

Part II, C, Proposal Format Instructions and throughout: The USGS Office of Acquisition and Grants

(OAG) has updated several sections of the Program Announcement in FY2025. Please read these sections carefully for new instructions.

Part II, C, 4, Negotiated Rate Agreement: Clarifying language added by the USGS OAG.

Part II, C, 6, Statement of Outcome Letter: This Letter is now optional for proposals requesting less than

$150,000.

FY2025 STATEMAP Program Announcement G25AS000030

Part II, C, 8, Proposal Technical Section: If submitting a proposal requesting less than $150,000, then the technical section is limited to ten pages.

Part II, C, 8, a, Introduction: States are encouraged to submit a table in this section to limit text.

Attachment H provides an example format for such a table. This section now has a limit of 400 words.

Part II, C, 8, b, Location and Geologic Setting: This section is now limited to 300 words, not including those used on Figures (e.g., map legends). States are encouraged to use figures for this section.

Part II, C, 8, c, Purpose and Justification: This section now has a limit of 500 words.

Part II, C, 8, d, Strategy for Performing the Geologic Mapping: Reminder that this section is not required if geologic mapping is not occurring (e.g., proposed work includes only GeMS conversions or database compilation).

Part II, C, 8, e, Preliminary Results and Prior Work: This section is now optional for proposals requesting less than $150,000.

Part II, C, 11, Budget Sheets (Attachment C and D): There are major changes to the required budget sheet format in FY2025. Attachments C and D now ensure that all required information requested by the

USGS OAG is included on Budget Sheets. The National Cooperative Geologic Mapping Program

(NCGMP) encourages each State to use the provided templates.

Part II, C, 11, c, Travel: States may request funds for staff to attend the in-person Geologic Mapping

Forum Meeting in Minneapolis, Minnesota in September of 2025. These funds do not count towards the

$6,000 travel expense limit.

Part II, C, 11, e, Supplies: Field Tablets are now an allowable expense (or match) under STATEMAP (in accordance with the current definition of “Supplies” in 2 CFR), provided the cost per unit is under

$5,000.

Part II, C, 12, Bibliography for the National Geologic Map Database: This section is optional for States requesting less than $150,000.

Part II, D, Proposal Evaluation: GeMS databases will not be evaluated as part of the proposal evaluation process for FY2025. Details on GeMS database evaluation will be provided in FY2026.

Part IV, D, 5: No-cost extension and deliverables submission timeline requirements have been revised – please review in detail.

Attachment B, STATEMAP Project Abstract Summary: The STATEMAP Abstract Summary must include the Proposal Title and Project Timeline.

Attachment C, Budget Sheet for Entire Proposal: Please note the changes to this Attachment. The

NCGMP encourages States to use these templates for Budget development.

FY2025 STATEMAP Program Announcement G25AS000030

Attachment D, Budget Sheet for Individual Project: Please note the changes to this Attachment. The

NCGMP encourages States to use these templates for Budget development.

Attachment E, Terms and Conditions: This entire section is revised by the USGS OAG. Please read carefully.

Attachment F, Instructions for Uploading Deliverables: The NCGMP Management System is no longer used. Until a new system is established and publicized, States should submit non-GeMS deliverables to a Microsoft SharePoint site. A link for a State’s folder will be provided by email ~60 days prior to the deadline to submit deliverables, or earlier upon request.

Attachment I, Example Table for Introduction Section: This Attachment is new in FY2025. Use of the example table in the introduction section is encouraged for all proposals.

Attachment J, GeMS Submission Form: This Attachment is new in FY2025 and should be submitted with STATEMAP Deliverables for each GeMS database instead of submitting a copy of the GeMS

Upload Confirmation Email.

Note regarding updates to 2 CFR 200 effective October 1, 2024

Please be aware that projects anticipated for funding under this NOFO will be subject to the revised

Uniform Guidance, effective 10/1/2024. For reference, resources are included below to help determine how this may affect your proposal and budgeted costs.

OMB’s revised Uniform Guidance launch was on April 4, 2024. To view the announcement OMB made on

April 4, 2024 introducing the finalized Uniform Guidance, visit here.

The final rule, Guidance for Federal Assistance, was published to the Federal Register on April 22, 2024

(89 FR 30046).

OMB released a redline document showing the 2024 revisions, and issued accompanying implementation memorandum M-24-11, as well as reference guides.

https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-II/part-200?toc=1 https://www.cfo.gov/resources/uniform-guidance/ https://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/briefing-room/2024/04/04/the-biden-harris-administration-finalizes-guidance-to-make-grants-more-accessible-and-transparent-for-families-communities-and-small-businesses/ https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2024/04/22/2024-07496/guidance-for-federal-financial-assistance https://www.cfo.gov/assets/files/2%20CFR%20Revisions%202024%20Redline.pdf https://www.whitehouse.gov/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/M-24-11-Revisions-to-2-CFR.pdf https://www.whitehouse.gov/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/M-24-11-Revisions-to-2-CFR.pdf https://www.cfo.gov/assets/files/Uniform%20Guidance%20_Reference%20Guides%20FINAL%204-2024.pdf

PART I. Public Law, Program Priorities, and Geologic Map Products

A. The National Geologic Mapping Act

To establish a coordinated program that prioritizes the geologic mapping requirements of the Nation and to increase production of geologic maps, the 102nd Congress passed the National Geologic Mapping Act

(Public Law 102-285), referred to within as “the Act.” Signed into law in 1992, the Act created the U.S.

Geological Survey (USGS) National Cooperative Geologic Mapping Program (NCGMP). Since then, the Act has been re-authorized five times, most recently by P.L. 117-58, the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (https://www.congress.gov/117/plaws/publ58/PLAW-117publ58.pdf), Sec. 40202:

“National Cooperative Geologic Mapping Program”. The Act recognizes that geologic maps are the primary base for virtually all applied and basic earth-science investigations.

The objectives of NCGMP, as outlined in the Act, are to:

1. Determine the Nation’s geologic framework through the systematic development of geologic maps.

2. Submit aforementioned maps to the National Geologic Map Database (NGMDB); develop complementary national databases that provide value-added information to the NGMDB.

3. Apply cost-effective mapping techniques that assemble and disseminate geologic map information, and that render such information of greater application and benefit to the public.

4. Develop public awareness of the role and application of geologic map information to the resolution of national issues of land use management.

In 2021, NCGMP published a new Strategic Plan, renewing its vision and mission (see https://pubs.usgs.gov/of/2021/1013/ofr20211013.pdf). As described in this Strategic Plan, in addition to geologic mapping at traditional scales such as 1:24,000, the renewed vision of the USGS NCGMP is to create national and continental-resolution two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) digital geologic maps of the United States and its territories to address the changing needs of the Nation. This mission of the NCGMP is to characterize, interpret, and disseminate a national geologic framework model of the Nation through geologic mapping and associated research. These data are also intended to support the responsible use of land, water, energy, and minerals, and to mitigate the impact of geologic hazards on society, thereby facilitating national security and economic growth through informed earth resource management.

The STATEMAP Program, which is required and defined by the Act, also carries out NCGMP’s mission and supports Department of the Interior Secretarial priorities (see https://www.doi.gov/ourpriorities) by developing a national geologic framework through the generation of 2D and 3D geologic map databases.

The geologic mapping supported by STATEMAP provides the foundational information necessary to manage the Nation’s land and water resources, adapt to changes in the environment, and secure the

Nation. Geologic maps and associated STATEMAP products provide the data necessary to assess our natural resources, including critical and rare earth minerals, protect our waters, and maintain the health of our ecosystems. STATEMAP mapping efforts continue to support the development of modern infrastructure, including highways, bridges, and pipelines in almost every State by providing information https://pubs.usgs.gov/of/2021/1013/ofr20211013.pdf http://www.doi.gov/ourpriorities) http://www.doi.gov/ourpriorities) http://www.doi.gov/ourpriorities)

FY2025 STATEMAP Program Announcement G25AS000030 necessary for land-use planning, as well as information on aggregate resources and building materials.

Many STATEMAP projects include lands of American Indian Tribes, Alaska Native Tribes, and Alaska

Native Corporations (hereafter referred to as Tribal Nations). The Program supports the fulfillment of the federal trust responsibility to Tribal Nations by recognizing their sovereignty and responding to the science needs expressed by Tribal communities. The NCGMP works closely with State partners to ensure Tribal Nations are appropriately notified of NCGMP supported geologic mapping activities inclusive of Tribal Nation land. STATEMAP funding also helps to maintain strong geologic mapping programs and a steady workforce at geological surveys across the Nation.

B. STATEMAP Component of the NCGMP

The primary objective of the STATEMAP component of the NCGMP is to establish the geologic framework of areas determined to be vital to the economic, social, or scientific welfare of individual States and the Nation. The State Geologist/Survey Director/Chief Scientist (or similar position) shall determine mapping priorities in consultation with a multidiscipline State Mapping Advisory Committee (SMAC).

These priorities shall be based on: (1) State requirements for geologic map information in areas of multiple issue need or areas of compelling single-issue need, and (2) State requirements for geologic map information in areas where mapping is required to solve critical earth science problems. Priorities are not dependent on past agreements with the USGS.

Guidance Criteria that fall under STATEMAP Category 2 (U.S. GeoFramework Initiative or USGI) are meant to fund work that encourages a collaborative effort that builds on NGMDB Phase 3 Concept. This effort works to: (1) create national and continental-resolution 2D and 3D geologic maps of the United

States, (2) leverage existing and new geologic mapping, and (3) provide new syntheses and enhanced databases to support scientific discovery and informed decision-making. In designing a national 2D/3D geologic framework model, the NCGMP must foster a comprehensive approach to planning, data management, workflow, and other elements (i.e., a standardized workflow for implementation). The

STATEMAP Category 2 options call for an array of new deliverables that extend beyond the range of most historically-funded STATEMAP projects.

C. STATEMAP Proposals

Each fiscal year (FY) NCGMP will accept one proposal from each State. Proposals may contain any number of projects. However, please refrain from naming projects citing number of deliverables

(for example, “Three maps in Brevard County”), because project names cannot be modified in

GrantSolutions with revisions (e.g., with revisions, you modify to “Two maps in Brevard County”;

the project title will not change from the original title proposed). Instead, select a name such as

“Mapping in Brevard County.” Projects may contain one or multiple quadrangles and/or specific areas of interest outside of a traditional quadrangle. Each project should be: (1) clearly defined and justified, (2) organized around a credible issue or area to be mapped, and (3) responsive to the FY25

STATEMAP Guidance Criteria listed below. As stipulated in the National Geologic Mapping Act

(NGMA), a 1:1 Federal/State funding match is required for the total budget. Each proposal should contain a graphic or index map showing the proposed project areas. The performance period for

FY2025 STATEMAP Cooperative Agreements can be between 12 and 24 months. The

STATEMAP Proposal Evaluation Panel will recommend a funding level for every proposal submitted in

FY2025 STATEMAP Program Announcement G25AS000030 each FY. The strength and quality of each proposal, as determined by the STATEMAP Proposal

Evaluation Panel, will be considered in funding decisions. After funding decisions are made, each applicant shall re-submit to the STATEMAP Program Officer and Grant Specialist a revised form SF

424, a revised summary sheet (Attachment A), revised budget sheets, shapefiles outlining the revised project area(s), and a Project Abstract Summary (Attachment B).

Revisions must align with the proposed projects and adhere to the recommended funding amount. If the funding decision amount is less than the proposed award amount, then revisions MUST include a reduction in amount of work and/or deliverables proposed, unless States increase match to cover work not supported with the final Federal Award. For example, if the Award amount is 70% of what was requested, then NCGMP expects a 70% reduction in deliverables and/or project scope.

Alternatively, an applicant can decline to participate in the STATEMAP Program.

Please note that several changes have been made to the Proposal Format Instructions, specifically for proposals requesting less than $150,000.

D. FY2025 Guidance Criteria for STATEMAP Geologic Map Products

STATEMAP Proposals must contain a project/projects that relate to at least one of the Guidance

Criteria (GC) that follow, and must identify, on the proposal cover sheet, which of the following

Guidance Criteria are addressed with each project. For the purposes of the STATEMAP Program, the term “detailed map” refers to maps of scales ranging from 1:24,000 to 1:63,360. The term “regional scale map” refers to maps of scales ranging from 1:250,000 to 1:500,000. The term “intermediate scale map” refers to maps of scales that fall between detailed and regional. Proposed projects may include any combination of the following Guidance Criteria.

Category 1: New, Detailed (1:24,000- to 1:63,360-scale) Geologic Mapping (GC 1 - 2; Maximum

Request = $500,000)

Guidance Criterion 1

Create and submit new geologic maps at 1:24,000 to 1:63,360 scale. Draft geologic maps must be submitted as PDFs. Draft geologic maps must be re-submitted as published products no later than 12 months after the end of your period of performance.

Completion and/or publication of unfinished, non-STATEMAP funded maps (e.g., previous unpublished

EDMAP projects) may be conducted under this guidance criterion so long as the explicit activities required to complete this work are outlined in your proposal (e.g., map digitization, field work, peer review).

A Geologic Map Schema (GeMS) Level 3 database of either (1) a previously published (within the past five years) map that has not been superseded or (2) a final version (i.e., not draft) of the newly mapped product must be submitted with each new mapping product delivered (however, funding for GeMS databases should be tagged to Guidance Criterion 5).

FY2025 STATEMAP Program Announcement G25AS000030

Guidance Criterion 2

Create and submit new, detailed (1:24,000 to 1:63,360 scale) derivative maps that augment any new mapping proposed or augment a previously produced, yet still relevant, geologic map product from any source. This work may be done only if the derivative map provides additional value to a significant geologic problem. In all cases, the purpose of the derivative product should be adequately explained and the geologic map(s) on which it is based should be clearly identified. Draft derivative maps must be submitted as published products no later than 12 months after the end of your period of performance.

Examples of derivative maps include: karst susceptibility maps, depth-structure maps of specific formations, glacial striation maps, coastal erosion maps, energy and mineral resource maps, depth to bedrock maps, geologic hazard maps, and aggregate resource maps.

Each derivative map must be accompanied by a GeMS Level 3 database of either the final version of the new derivative map (if applicable), or a previously published (within the past five years) and not superseded map. The previously published map submitted as a GeMS database does not need to be a derivative map. Funding needed to complete the GeMS database should be tagged as Guidance Criterion

5.

Category 2 (U.S. GeoFramework Initiative): Intermediate-scale to Regional-scale (>1:63,360 to

1:500,000-scale) 2D or 3D Geologic Mapping, Derivative Maps, or Complimentary Geologic

Databases/GeMS conversions (GC 3 – 12; no request limit)

Guidance Criterion 3

Create and submit new geologic maps or compilations at >1:63,360 to 1:500,000 scale. Draft geologic maps must be submitted as PDFs. Compilations of surficial geology, Quaternary geology, bedrock geology, basement geology, or any combination thereof are acceptable. Compilations must meet the

GeMS Level 3 standard, be internally reconciled, and be accompanied by a description of how the compilation was constructed. Funds for necessary field-checking to reconcile conflicts in geologic mapping may be requested to support the compilation process. Draft geologic/compilation maps must be submitted as published products no later than 12 months after the end of your period of performance.

Completion and/or publication of unfinished, scale-appropriate non-STATEMAP funded maps (e.g., previous unpublished EDMAP projects) may be conducted under this guidance criterion so long as the explicit activities required to complete this work are outlined in the proposal (e.g., map digitization, field work, peer review). Draft geologic maps must be submitted as PDFs.

A Geologic Map Schema (GeMS) Level 3 database of either (1) a previously published (within the past five years) map that has not been superseded or (2) a final version (i.e., not draft) of the newly mapped product must be submitted with each new mapping product delivered (however, funding needed to complete and submit these required GeMS databases should be tagged as Guidance Criterion 5, Category

2).

Guidance Criterion 4

Create and submit new intermediate or regional scale (i.e., >1:63,360 to 1:500,000 scale) derivative maps that augment any new mapping proposed or augment a previously produced, yet still relevant, geologic map product from any source. This work may be done only if the derivative map provides

FY2025 STATEMAP Program Announcement G25AS000030 additional value to a significant geologic problem. In all cases, the purpose of the derivative product should be adequately explained and the geologic map(s) on which it was based should be clearly identified. Draft derivative maps must be submitted as published products no later than 12 months after the end of your period of performance.

Examples of derivative maps include: karst susceptibility maps, depth-structure maps of specific formations, glacial striation maps, coastal erosion maps, energy and mineral resource maps, depth to bedrock maps, geologic hazard maps, and aggregate resource maps.

Each derivative map must be accompanied by a GeMS Level 3 database of either the final version of the new derivative map (if applicable), or a previously published (within the past five years) and not superseded map. The previously published map submitted as a GeMS database does not need to a be a derivative map. Funding needed to complete and submit the GeMS database should be tagged as

Guidance Criterion 5.

Guidance Criterion 5

Convert relevant previously-published paper or digital maps (of any age, as long as they have not been superseded) to citable GeMS Level 3 geologic map databases (see https://doi.org/10.3133/tm11B10 and https://ngmdb.usgs.gov/Info/standards/GeMS/docs/GeMS-Submittal-Requirements.pdf) and/or bring previously submitted non-GeMS Level 3 compliant databases (e.g., NCGMP09, databases that require revisions after the GeMS Quality Control process) to current GeMS Level 3 requirements. Maps should be at scales ranging from 1:24,000 to 1:500,000. To be eligible for GeMS Level 3 conversion, source maps must have a Product Description Page (PDP) in the NGMDB and the PDP URL must be provided. Funds may also be requested for training related to this Guidance Criterion.

Guidance Criterion 6

Create and submit new subsurface geologic data based on previously published non-digital subsurface maps and/or on new 3D mapping/modeling. Subsurface data/3D maps should be at scales ranging from 1:24,000 to 1:500,000. This work may include the development of subsurface data sets from previously published non-digital subsurface maps including digitization of structure contour and isopach data, digitization of cross section traces, and extraction of XYZ data from cross sections. Funds may also be requested for training related to this Guidance Criterion.

Digitized contour maps should be submitted as citable (i.e., data are hosted on the web and have been peer reviewed) GeMS Level 3 geospatial databases, if possible. Grids or raster surfaces submitted as

CSVs should, at a minimum, have the following described: projection, Z units, XY cell size, grid extent, identification or description of horizon being mapped, description of type and density of input data used to create the surface, some description of the interpolation used to create the surface, originator, contact information, and a URL/DOI for the data if published and available. Data submitted should have an accompanying Federal Geographic Data Committee (FGDC)-compliant metadata file. Acceptable subsurface geologic maps should focus on elevation and/or thickness of one or more units of regional significance.

https://doi.org/10.3133/tm11B10 https://ngmdb.usgs.gov/Info/standards/GeMS/docs/GeMS-Submittal-Requirements.pdf

FY2025 STATEMAP Program Announcement G25AS000030

Guidance Criterion 7

Organize and submit, via NCGMP-provided templates, complimentary geologic databases of previously published data that provide value-added information to the NGMDB. Such databases may include geophysical map databases, geochemical map databases, and/or geochronologic databases. A State that previously received funds for this purpose may only receive FY2025 funds to submit new data.

Guidance Criterion 8

Create and submit digital geologic map information for geoheritage sites in a State. Data should be submitted as geospatial/GIS files, with attributes related to the scientific, educational, cultural, economic, and/or aesthetic features of the site(s). Reasoning for designation as a geoheritage site and societal significance must also be included for each site. Do not include sites that are already included in the

National Park Service National Natural Landmarks and Type Section Inventory (see:

https://www.nps.gov/subjects/nnlandmarks/nation.htm). Template will be provided. The development of an accompanying StoryMap (or similar product) is allowable.

Guidance Criterion 9

Inventory all State publications in the NGMDB that contain the Derogatory Term identified in Secretarial

Order 3404 (see https://www.doi.gov/sites/doi.gov/files/elips/documents/so-3404-508.pdf), and those words previously identified by the Board on Geographic Names in 1963 and 1974 (see https://www.usgs.gov/faqs/what-words-are-considered-derogatory-under-secretarys-orders-3404-and-3405) that are deemed derogatory. Funds may also be used to rename stratigraphic units that contain Derogatory

Terms. Please follow steps outlined in the North American Code of Stratigraphic Nomenclature

(https://ngmdb.usgs.gov/Geolex/resources/docs/NACSN_Code_2021.pdf) to abandon the derogatory term and to enact a formal change to a new term in the stratigraphic nomenclature. Possible venues for publishing such changes in stratigraphic nomenclature include the USGS “Stratigraphic Notes” publication series (https://ngmdb.usgs.gov/Geolex/stratres/strat_notes) or other peer-reviewed scientific journals. As stipulated in the North American Code of Stratigraphic Nomenclature, the following venues are inadequate for enacting a formal change in stratigraphic nomenclature: maps, theses, dissertations, open-file reports, meeting abstracts, or guidebooks with limited distribution. Note that a State that previously received

STATEMAP funds for this purpose may only receive FY2025 funds to inventory additional derogatory terms or to rename additional stratigraphic units.

Guidance Criterion 10

Update the stratigraphic chart for an entire State or for regions of significance within a State, and/or develop a Statewide or regional digital stratigraphic lexicon. The resulting deliverable should be an updated scientific chart and submitted as an update to the U.S. Geologic Names Lexicon (Geolex) in accordance with NGMDB Geolex update guidelines.

Guidance Criterion 11

Develop/update and submit a State Fact Sheet that includes a map of the State outlining all previously performed STATEMAP projects, along with a summary of STATEMAP geologic mapping in table format including columns with fiscal year, project(s)/deliverable(s), and funds spent/requested. Note that this is the final year submission of a State Fact Sheet will be optional; it will be required for all funded projects in

FY2026.

https://www.nps.gov/subjects/nnlandmarks/nation.htm https://www.doi.gov/sites/doi.gov/files/elips/documents/so-3404-508.pdf https://ngmdb.usgs.gov/Geolex/resources/docs/NACSN_Code_2021.pdf https://ngmdb.usgs.gov/Geolex/stratres/strat_notes

FY2025 STATEMAP Program Announcement G25AS000030

Guidance Criterion 12

Develop coordinated, parallel projects with neighboring States to collaboratively address any of the above

Guidance Criteria. Funds may be used to coordinate and attend working group meetings/workshops related to proposed collaborative work. The intention to propose this work must be listed on the proposals for each

State involved.

A total proposal request may not exceed $800,000. Additionally, a maximum of $500,000 may be requested for Category 1 activities; however, all GeMS databases should be tagged as Category 2

(GC 5). Proposed projects may include any combination of the Guidance Criteria listed above.

E. FY2025 Requirements for New Mapping Products

All new 2D map product deliverables funded by the FY2025 STATEMAP Program must be accompanied by a GeMS Level 3 geologic map database with a Digital Object Identifier or similar URL.

If submitting a GeMS database for a previously published map to fulfill this requirement, then the associated published map must have an NGMDB PDP (or have been recently submitted to the NGMDB) and ideally published within the last five years. All submitted GeMS databases should be tagged as

Guidance Criterion 5.

All GeMS Level 3 databases must be submitted to the NGMDB using the GeMS Upload Form on the

NGMDB Connect website: https://ngmdb.usgs.gov/connect/members/login/?next=/connect/gems/. The

GeMS website (see https://ngmdb.usgs.gov/Info/standards/GeMS/) provides resources and instructions on submitting GeMS databases using the GeMS Upload Form. Prior to submission, all GeMS Level 3 databases must be verified for compliance using the validation and geologic names checking scripts provided by the NGMDB via the GeMS website; these scripts and related documentation (e.g., GeMS

Checklist), as listed in Requirements for Submitting GeMS-compliant map databases to the NGMDB (see https://ngmdb.usgs.gov/Info/standards/GeMS/docs/GeMS-Submittal-Requirements.pdf), must be included in the submission.

The GeMS Submission Form (Attachment I) should be sent to the NCGMP as proof of delivery in lieu of a copy of the NGMDB GeMS submission upload email.

If proposed projects will deliver draft mapping products, then these draft products must be published no later than one year after the end of the period of performance. Once published, geologic map deliverables must be submitted to the NGMDB.

Geologic mapping should be done at a scale deemed appropriate for the geologic problem being addressed.

At minimum, a geologic map should include: (1) a clear and legible base (include base map credit and map projection), (2) scale and contour interval, (3) north arrow and magnetic declination, (4) title, authorship, publisher, and date, (5) location index map, (6) field data or field data stations, (7) description of map units,

(8) explanation of map symbols, and (9) unit symbols on map. Although not required, a geologic map may also include correlation or sequence of map units, stratigraphic columns, cross sections, other down-hole or three-dimensional data, derivative maps, and text. Geologic maps in digital form also may contain a variety of point data for specific sites, essentially comprising a 3D database. For cartographic elements, please use https://ngmdb.usgs.gov/connect/members/login/?next=/connect/gems/ https://ngmdb.usgs.gov/Info/standards/GeMS/ https://ngmdb.usgs.gov/Info/standards/GeMS/docs/GeMS-Submittal-Requirements.pdf

FY2025 STATEMAP Program Announcement G25AS000030 the Federal Geospatial Data Committee (FGDC) standard whenever feasible (see https://ngmdb.usgs.gov/Info/standards/#CartoStnd). Metadata must comply with FGDC standards.

During the preparation of geologic maps, please compare the stratigraphic nomenclature used on your map to that of Geolex (see http://ngmdb.usgs.gov/Geolex/). The GeMS geologic names checking script assists in identifying formal geologic names on the map that are in Geolex, which helps authors and the

NGMDB with modifying nomenclature as needed. The script produces a spreadsheet in which the author should provide details (e.g., relevant bibliographic citations for names that have been introduced, modified, or abandoned) on corrections or additions that should be considered for Geolex.

Please see Attachment E for instructions on uploading deliverables. Any questions regarding the upload process can be addressed to the NCGMP STATEMAP Program Officer

(statemap@usgs.gov).

1. Geospatial Data Availability Requirements

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

Follow Federal Standards: All geospatial data you collect or create must meet the standards set by the

Federal Geospatial Data Committee (FGDC) or the Department of the Interior. This is required by the

Geospatial Data Act of 2018, which is part of Public Law 115-254, specifically in Subtitle F (Geospatial

Data), sections 751-759C (codified at 43 U.S.C. §§ 2801–2811).

Include Metadata: Your Geographic Information Systems (GIS) files must include complete metadata.

Metadata is information that describes the data, such as where it came from, how accurate it is, and how it should be used. This is to ensure that anyone using the data understands its context and quality.

Check for Existing Data: Before you start collecting new geospatial data, you need to check

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

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

2 CFR 1402.315 Availability of Data

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

(b) The Federal Government has the right to:

(1) Obtain, reproduce, publish, or otherwise use the data, methodology, factual inputs, models, analyses, technical information, reports, conclusions, or other scientific assessments, produced under a Federal award; and https://ngmdb.usgs.gov/Info/standards/%23CartoStnd http://ngmdb.usgs.gov/Geolex/ mailto:statemap@usgs.gov

FY2025 STATEMAP Program Announcement G25AS000030

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

All deliverables that include geospatial data products must include appropriate metadata conforming to

FGDC standards. FGDC standards can be found on https://www.fgdc.gov/standards.

PART II. Timetables, Eligibility, Format Instructions, and Proposal Evaluation

A. Timetables

• Proposal Announcement Date: September 25, 2024

• Closing Date and Time for Proposal Submission: January 7, 2025 @ 5:00 p.m. (EST)

• Proposal Revisions: Due no later than 60 days before your requested Period of Performance start date

• Progress Report (if applicable): Due 12 months after your period of performance start date

• Deliverable submission: Due no later than 90 days after the end of your Period of Performance

• Final, published deliverables: Due within 12 months from the date of deliverables submission

B. Eligibility – Who May Submit a Proposal

Only State Geological Surveys are eligible to apply to the STATEMAP component of the NCGMP pursuant to the National Geologic Mapping Act (Public Law 117-58, Sec. 40202: “National Cooperative

Geologic Mapping Program”). Because many State Geological Surveys are organized under a State university system, such universities may submit a proposal on behalf of the State Geological Survey.

State Geological Surveys must have a State Mapping Advisory Committee (or equivalent) that meets annually to qualify for funding. This committee shall advise the State Geological Survey on geologic mapping priorities within their State. A letter of support from the Chair of the State Mapping Advisory

Committee must accompany the proposal (see Section C5 below for more details).

State Geological Surveys that have been funded previously under STATEMAP must follow requirements specified in previous STATEMAP awards and must have no delinquent deliverables

(transmittal letter, geologic maps, and technical reports). Failure to meet previous award requirements will be grounds for ineligibility (see Attachment D, Section A.5 6) or penalty in the review process.

C. Proposal Format Instructions

PROPOSALS MUST BE ARRANGED ACCORDING TO THE FORMAT AND ORDER

PROVIDED BELOW. Following this format ensures that every proposal contains all essential information and is evaluated equitably.

In FY2025, many of the required elements of the proposal have been modified to “Optional” IF submitting a proposal with a request less than $150,000 USD. Additionally, character limits have been developed for http://www.fgdc.gov/standards http://www.fgdc.gov/standards

FY2025 STATEMAP Program Announcement G25AS000030 specific proposal sections. These sections/items will be labeled below with: **, and additional information will be provided in parenthesis.

All documents should be combined and submitted as one Portable Document Format (PDF) file, provided in the order listed below.

1. Standard Form 424. Application for Federal Assistance (mandatory form provided in grants.gov). The person who electronically submits the SF-424 must have the authority to bind the State to the terms of the assistance award.

2. Standard Form 424A, Budget Information – Non-Construction Programs (mandatory form provided in grants.gov).

3. Standard Form 424B, Assurances—Non-construction Programs (mandatory form provided in grants.gov).

4. Negotiated Rate Agreement/Indirect Cost Rate Agreement. Most States and Universities have a rate agreement. They are usually titled “State and Local Rate Agreement” or “Colleges and

Universities Rate Agreement”. A copy of the State or University’s negotiated indirect cost rate agreement is required if requesting indirect costs. Per the program authority for STATEMAP, indirect costs are capped 18%. Please note that in the absence of a negotiated indirect cost rate agreement, the maximum indirect rate that may be charged is the de minimus rate (see 2 CFR

200.414(f)).

5. Letter from the Chair of State Mapping Advisory Committee (SMAC). The letter must discuss state priorities, the long-term mapping plan, the process used to prioritize geologic mapping projects selected for the current proposal, and how the proposed mapping fits into the long-term mapping plans for the state. The date of the committee meeting and a list of committee members who attended the meeting (including their affiliations and expertise) are also required.

Attendance via virtual means is encouraged to increase representation. This letter is NOT a summary of the proposed projects. SMAC letters should be limited to no more than four pages

(not including the list of members). Voting SMAC members must not be listed on any projects as personnel.

6. STATEMAP Proposal Summary Sheet (Attachment A). Using the provided or similar format in

Attachment A, submit a proposal summary sheet that includes project dates, proposed projects, each Guidance Criteria (1 through 12) aligned with those proposed projects, deliverables, whether (Yes or No) each proposed project/deliverable will include Tribal Nations land (if Yes, indicate the name of the Tribal Nation(s) and whether physical access to/sampling on this land is required), whether digital data proposed exist in geoplatform.gov, funding amount requested for each project (both federal and matched funds), and total funding requested. Please list the individual funding amount requested and matched for each Category under each project. See

Attachment G for more information STATEMAP work with Tribal Nation Implications, including the Tribal Nation Notification Process.

7. **Statement of Outcome Letter. This Letter should be a one-page letter from an organization

FY2025 STATEMAP Program Announcement G25AS000030 or person that used a recently published STATEMAP product generated by your State. The letter must explain why the geologic map or product was critical to the success of their mission and include the bibliographic citation for the recently published STATEMAP product used (Note that this is optional for all proposals requesting less than $150,000 USD).

8. Table of Contents.

9. Proposal Technical Section. The technical section of the proposal is limited to 25 single space pages, with no smaller than 11-point font size, and 1-inch margins. If submitting a proposal for less than $150,000, then the technical section is limited to 10 pages, with no smaller than 11-point font size and 1-inch margins. Please note that word count limits below apply per proposed project, not for a proposal overall. Proposals shorter than these limits are encouraged if they contain sufficient content. The use of tables and charts for clarity and conciseness is encouraged. Figures must be labeled, of high quality, and easy to read.

Please keep in mind that any figures/images included should be of sufficient resolution such that they are legible when your proposal is printed. References ARE NOT included in this 25-page limit. The technical section of your proposal includes the following:

a. Introduction. The introduction should include the relevance of the proposed projects to the

State’s long-range geologic mapping plan. It should give a clear and concise overview of the project objectives and societal and scientific problems to be addressed. A graphic showing how the long-range mapping plan and proposed deliverables may relate to population growth, transportation corridors, or some other societal need can be very helpful. Ideally, this section can be mostly replaced by a succinct yet informative

Table. See Attachment H for an example. Introduction should be no longer than 400 words.

b. Location and Geologic Setting. IF APPLICABLE, a clear, readable map (with scale) showing the location of each project area should accompany the text. A separate generalized geologic map of your State may also be helpful. If the footprint of your proposed work is on or within five miles of Tribal Nation lands, to include ceded lands, this should be depicted on the aforementioned map(s). NCGMP encourages the use of mostly figures for this section. Text is limited to 300 words.

c. Purpose and Justification. This section should answer a few simple, but important questions. Why are you proposing this work? Who are your customers? What are the fundamental scientific contributions? What benefits will society receive from the mapping?

If geologic maps already produced nearby have been used by local or state agencies in making decisions, reporting on these outcomes is encouraged. Text is limited to 500 words.

d. Strategy for Performing the Geologic Mapping. IF APPLICABLE, this section should emphasize how the geologic mapping will be accomplished, who will be mapping where, and for how long. Include logistics of how the geologic mapping will be accomplished. If drilling, sample collection, and/or other analyses are proposed, then please include a

FY2025 STATEMAP Program Announcement G25AS000030 justification as to why these are included in the mapping strategy and how they will inform the proposed mapping. Provide an explanation for more expensive work, such as drilling or helicopter support. If a project is part of a multiyear effort, then explain what will be completed for each year. This section should be consistent with the budget justification and budget itemization sections. NCGMP strongly encourages geologic mapping projects to be a team approach to promote safe field practices. If geologic mapping is not being proposed, then this section may be eliminated (e.g., a proposal includes only GeMS database conversion of previously published maps).

e. **Preliminary Results and Prior Work. If you or others have done any work in the proposed study area, including work not funded by STATEMAP, then please include a summary of findings or outcomes.