NCL NOFO L21AS00284 Modification 3.pdf

Bureau of Land Management

BLMHQ - BLM Headquarters

L21AS00284

04/23/2021

Table of Contents A. Program Description

A1. Authority

A2. Background, Purpose and Program Requirements

B. Federal Award Information

B1. Total Funding

B2. Expected Award Amount

B3. Anticipated Award Funding and Dates

B4. Number of Awards

B5. Type of Award

B6. Additional Funding Information

C. Eligibility Information

C1. Eligible Applicants

C2. Cost Sharing or Matching

C3. Other

D. Application and Submission Information

D1. Address to Request Application Package

D2. Content and Form of Application Submission

D3. Unique Entity Identifier and System for Award Management (SAM)

D4. Submission Dates and Times

D5. Intergovernmental Review

D6. Funding Restrictions

D7. Other Submission Requirements

E. Application Review Information

E1. Criteria

E2. Review and Selection Process

E3. CFR – Regulatory Information

E4. Anticipated Announcement and Federal Award Dates

F. Federal Award Administration Information

F1. Federal Award Notices

F2. Administrative and National Policy Requirements

F3. Reporting

G. Federal Awarding Agency Contact(s)

G1. Program Technical Contact

G2. Program Administration Contact

G3. Application System Technical Support

H. Other Information

A. Program Description A1. Authority Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976 (FLPMA), 43 USC §1737 (b), Public Law 94-579 Federal Noxious Weed Act (Public Law 93-629, as amended) 7 USC §2814 Management of undesirable plants on Federal lands Good Neighbor Authority (GNA), Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2014 PL 113-76 and the Agricultural Act of 2014 PL 113-79, 16 USC §2113a Healthy Forests Restoration Act of 2005, 16 USC 6501, PL 108-148. Section 6501 National Trails Systems Act, 16 USC 1246, PL 90-543, as amended by PL 95-625, 96-87, and 98-11. Section 1246 Public Rangelands Improvement Act of 1978, 43 USC 1906, PL 95-514. Section 9. Section Sikes Act, 16 USC 670h and 670j. PL 86-797, Title II, Sec. 202, as added PL 93-452, Sec 2; as amended PL 97-396, Sec 4. Sec 670h Take Pride in America Act (TPIA), Public Law 101-628, as amended, 16 USC §4601, 4605 Watershed Restoration and Enhancement Agreements (aka Wyden Amendment), 16 USC 1011, PL 104-208, Section 124, as amended by PL 105-277, Section 136, as amended by PL 108-7, Section 135. Section 1011 Wild and Scenic Rivers Act 16 USC 1281, PL 90-542, Section 1281

Projects will be awarded under specific legislative authority that pertains to that particular project.

Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) Number 15.248

A2. Background, Purpose and Program Requirements Background: The BLM is unique in its mission of managing the public lands for multiple use and sustained yield of resources, including conservation. More than 30 million acres of BLM land is recognized for outstanding conservation values. Designated for special management by Acts of Congress or Presidential Proclamations.

The BLM manages these special areas to maintain and enhance their conservation values with the goal to conserve, protect, and restore these important landscapes and their outstanding cultural, ecological, and scientific values. These areas range from broad Alaskan tundra to red rock deserts and from deep river canyons to rugged ocean coastlines and include some of America’s finest natural and cultural treasures.

https://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/43/chapter-35 https://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/43/chapter-35 https://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?path=/prelim@title7/chapter61&edition=prelim https://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?path=/prelim@title7/chapter61&edition=prelim https://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?req=(title:16%20section:2113a%20edition:prelim) https://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?req=(title:16%20section:2113a%20edition:prelim) https://www.congress.gov/108/plaws/publ148/PLAW-108publ148.pdf https://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/16/1246 https://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/16/1246 https://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?path=/prelim@title43/chapter37&edition=prelim https://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?path=/prelim@title43/chapter37&edition=prelim https://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?path=/prelim@title16/chapter5C&edition=prelim https://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?path=/prelim@title16/chapter5C&edition=prelim https://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?path=/prelim@title16/chapter66&edition=prelim https://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/16/1011 https://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/16/1011 https://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/16/1011 https://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/16/1281

The National Conservation Lands include the following unit designations:

National Monuments and National Conservation Areas;

Wilderness/Wilderness Study Areas;

National Wild and Scenic Rivers;

National Scenic and Historic Trails; and California Desert National Conservation Lands.

Natural, Scientific, and Cultural Benefits - The National Conservation Lands protect a myriad of rare species, diverse habitats and ecosystems, historic properties, and cultural resources. These designated lands help ensure that the Nation’s extraordinary biodiversity and cultural heritage will be sustained for present and future generations to enjoy.

Recreation Benefits - The National Conservation Lands conserve over 30 million acres of rugged landscapes for the public to explore and enjoy and hosts more than one-fourth of all recreation on BLM lands. These diverse lands provide opportunities for recreationists of all kinds, from white-water rafters and rock climbers to hunters and fishermen, hikers and skiers to boaters and off-highway vehicle riders. The BLM manages units that include over 2,700 recreation sites and 22 visitor centers and serves approximately 14 million visitors annually.

Objectives: The National Conservation Lands financially supports studies aimed at increasing our understanding of the resources present on BLM lands and the effectiveness of BLM’s resource management decisions. The program seeks to develop and maintain strong partnerships with State, local, and private stakeholders in shared conservation stewardship by engaging partners in conducting management-focused research on the National Conservation Lands. Results from these studies on National Conservation Lands will inform management strategies utilized throughout BLM as well as other land management entities.

The Management Studies Support Program for National Conservation Lands aligns with the Secretary’s priorities. In the DOI Strategic Plan for Fiscal Years 2018-2022, it states within Missions Area 1, Goal #1, and Strategy #2: Bureaus administer their resource management and conservation programs on more than 400 million acres of upland, wetland, and aquatic lands within their jurisdiction. Many of these lands have special status as national parks, seashores, monuments, wildlife refuges, wilderness areas, national conservation lands or wild and scenic rivers. Land managers utilize earth and natural science, social science, partnerships with other DOI bureau, federal, state, local and tribal entities, and other tools and resources (including its front-line managers) in managing these lands and waters.

The Management Studies Support Program for National Conservation Lands will utilize partnerships with State, local, and tribal entities to gather the best available data for BLM’s land management decisions.

The Management Studies Support Program for National Conservation lands aligns with the Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976 which states that BLM can cooperate with partners on investigations, studies, and experiments involving the management and protection of public lands. Sec. 307. [43 U.S.C. 1737] (a) The Secretary may conduct investigations, studies, and experiments, on his own initiative or in cooperation with others, involving the management, protection, development, acquisition, and conveying of the public lands.

Program Expected Outcomes:

The National Conservation Lands program requires specific performance goals and outcomes to be accomplished. Proposals must identify how the project incorporates at least one of the following themes:

1. Management-Driven Research: On-the-ground research that provides information that can directly inform a pertinent and pressing management question.

2. Citizen-Supported Studies: On-the-ground research that engages citizens (volunteers) as assistants in data collection, compilation, or data analysis to improve BLM’s management of the National Conservation Lands.

Research topics should address one or more of BLM’s priorities:

environmentally responsible development of energy and minerals effective management of borderlands supporting working landscapes managing multiple uses on public lands supporting traditional land uses such as grazing Provide access to hunting, fishing, and other recreational opportunities on the National

Conservation Lands.

For more information on BLM’s management priorities, please visit our website:

https://www.blm.gov/about/how-we-manage.

The project proposal must identify specific deliverables or outcomes to be accomplished (e.g., reports, peer-reviewed articles, GIS files, outreach tools). At a minimum, deliverables must include:

1. Annual progress reports.

2. A final report, suitable for distribution to BLM staff; and

3. A manager’s summary (less than one-page report that helps inform managers’ decisions).

This program continues to advance the Administration’s priorities to create a conservation stewardship legacy while generating revenue and utilizing our natural resources. BLM’s continued commitment to reduce and streamline its processes and procedures to serve its customers and the public better and faster across all its program areas. These reforms allow the Bureau to realign time and resources to completing important on–the-groundwork.

All proposed projects submitted under this funding opportunity must state a benefit to the public.

B. Federal Award Information B1. Total Funding Estimated Total Funding $ 350,000 https://www.blm.gov/about/how-we-manage https://www.doi.gov/ourpriorities

B2. Expected Award Amount Maximum Award $ 25,000 Minimum Award $ 5,000

B3. Anticipated Award Funding and Dates Projects funded through this NOFO will start once funding is secured and awards issued.

Agreements are not effective until fully executed with signature from the BLM Grants Management Officer (GMO).

Agreement terms for funded projects are estimated to range between one and three years and are determined based on the period of performance as stated on the project proposal. In general, proposed project completion should be completed within the shortest timeframe needed to meet all the expected program outcomes.

B4. Number of Awards Anticipated Number of Awards The actual number of awards will depend on the number of meritorious applications and the availability of appropriated funds. Awards will be based out of district or field offices where the project occur.

B5. Type of Award Funding Instrument Type CA - Cooperative Agreement Award cannot be finalized, until awardee completes their enrollment in the Department of the Treasury, ASAP System. See following website: http://www.fms.treas.gov/asap.

If your organization is not enrolled in ASAP, contact the GMO in Section G2. Federal Awarding Agency Contacts of this funding opportunity.

The recipient should expect Bureau of Land Management (BLM) to have substantial involvement in the project. Substantial involvement may include, but not be limited to, such things as:

Joint collaboration between the BLM and recipient in carrying out management, development, implementation, and evaluation of the proposed work.

Training of recipient personnel.

Review and approval by the BLM of one stage of work prior to the start of the next stage.

Review and approval by the BLM of modifications or sub-awards prior to their award.

http://www.fms.treas.gov/asap

Participation in selecting recipient project staff.

Directing or redirecting of recipient work by the BLM because of relationships to other projects.

Ability to immediately halt work because of failure to meet agreement objectives; and Close monitoring and/or operational involvement in the proposed work.

B6. Additional Funding Information Funding for projects is not guaranteed and is subject to the availability of funds. Evaluation of proposals is based on the criterion in this NOFO. In appropriate circumstances, BLM reserves the right to partially fund proposals in discrete portions or phases of proposed projects. If BLM chooses to partially fund a proposal, it will do so in a manner that does not prejudice any applicants or affect the basis upon which the proposal or portion thereof, was evaluated and selected for award, and therefore maintains the integrity of the competition and selection process. Funded proposals through this competitive NOFO is not a guarantee of future funding.

When or if additional funding becomes available, BLM reserves the right to issue additional awards under this NOFO through the next fiscal year. These awards will not require further competition. Any additional selections will be made in accordance with the terms of this NOFO and BLM policy. Only Grants Management Officers can bind the Federal Government to the expenditure of funds.

C. Eligibility Information

C1. Eligible Applicants Eligible Applicants 00 – State governments 01 – County governments 02 – City or township governments 04 – Special district governments 05 – Independent school districts 06 – Public and State controlled institutions of higher education 07 – Native American tribal governments (Federally recognized) 12 – Nonprofits having a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS, other than institutions of higher education 13 – Nonprofits without 501(c)(3) status with the IRS, other than institutions of higher education 20 – Private institutions of higher education 11 – Native American tribal organizations (other than Federally recognized tribal governments) 08 – Public housing authorities/Indian housing authorities Additional Information on Eligibility Individuals and For-Profit Organizations are ineligible to apply for awards under this NOFO.

This program NOFO does not support entities hiring interns or crews. The Public Lands Corps Act of 1993, 16 USC, Chapter 37, Subchapter II-Public Lands Corps, is the only legislative authority that allows BLM to “hire” interns. Therefore, eligible Youth Conservation Corps may only apply for projects developed under NOFO 15.243 – BLM Youth Conservation Opportunities on Public Lands.

C2. Cost Sharing or Matching Cost Sharing / Matching Requirement No Percentage of Cost Sharing / Matching Cost sharing or matching is not required for this program; however, a voluntary cost share is strongly encouraged.

CESU partners are encouraged to show the difference between their formal Negotiated Indirect Cost Rate and the 17.5% rate agreed upon as a CESU partner as a voluntary cost share.

Applicants may attribute some or all of their allowable indirect costs as voluntary committed cost-share/match.

C3. Other Excluded Parties: BLM conducts a review of the SAM.gov Exclusions database for all applicant entities and their key project personnel prior to award. The Bureau cannot award funds to entities or their key project personnel identified in the SAM.gov Exclusions database as ineligible, prohibited/restricted or otherwise excluded from receiving Federal contracts, certain subcontracts, and certain Federal assistance and benefits, as their ineligibility condition applies to this Federal program.

D. Application and Submission Information

D1. Address to Request Application Package This NOFO includes all information, documents, and electronic addresses needed to submit an application through www.Grants.gov. Paper copies may be requested by contacting Melanie Beckstead at mbeckstead@blm.gov.

D2. Content and Form of Application Submission

DO NOT MERGE INDIVIDUAL DOCUMENTS INTO A SINGLE PDF FILE

1. Standard Form (SF)-424, Application for Federal Assistance

Applicants must submit the appropriate Standard Form (SF)-424, Application for Federal Assistance. All of the required application forms are available on the “Packages” tab of this Funding Opportunity on Grants.gov. The SF-424, Application for Federal Assistance, must be complete, and signed and dated. Please note: Enter only the amount requested from this Federal program in the “Federal” funding box on the SF-424 Application form. Include http://www.Grants.gov any other Federal sources of funding in the “Other” box, and provide details on those Federal source(s) and funding amount(s) in the required Budget Narrative (see the “Budget Narrative” section below).

2. SF-424(A or C), Budget Information

Applicants must submit the appropriate SF-424 Budget Information form. Complete either the SF-424A, Budget Information for Non-Construction Programs or the SF-424C, Budget Information for Construction Programs, as applicable to your project. BLM does not normally fund construction projects, so contact the BLM program expert prior to submitting your project. All required application forms are available on the “Packages” tab of this Funding Opportunity on Grants.gov. Please note: Show funds requested from this Federal program separately from any other Federal sources of funding. In the “Budget Summary” section, use the first row for funding requested from this Federal program. Use subsequent row(s) for other Federal funding. Enter each Federal program’s CFDA number(s) in the corresponding fields on the form. The CFDA number(s) for this Federal program appears on the first page of this Funding Opportunity.

3. SF 424(B & D), Assurances

NOTE: In accordance with Office of Management and Budget Memo, M-18-24, dated September 5, 2018, these forms are optional through January 1, 2020. At this time, your assurances statements will be maintained in your SAM registrations.

4. Project Proposal

(Suggested format, Attachment A Project Proposal template may be used when submitting your proposal.) The project proposal must be no longer than 15 pages, with a typeface no smaller than 11-point, and have at least one (1) inch margins on all sides. The 15-page limit includes all text, figures, references, and vitae, but does not include the Budget Detail (Attachment B).

Application narrative requirements may include:

Project title Statement of need Goals and objectives Public and program interest of the BLM Activities Methods Timetable or milestones Information to support environmental compliance review requirements. (NOTE:

Projects under wildlife management, the native plant program, threatened and endangered species habitat conservation - the narrative should provide enough detail so that reviewers are able to determine project compliance with Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act of 1973)

Description of stakeholder coordination or involvement Required project monitoring and evaluation plan, including how you will measure project performance and assessment tools to be used https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/forms/sf-424-family.html https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/forms/sf-424-family.html https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/forms/sf-424-family.html

Information on key project personnel Anticipated future funding needs Details and supporting documentation on the project location Other program or project-specific narrative requirements

All proposals are confidential.

5. Budget Detail and Narrative (Attachment B- Suggested Format)

Describe and justify requested budget items and costs. Detail how the SF-424 Budget Information, Object Class Category totals were determined. For personnel salary costs, include the baseline salary figures and the estimates of time. Describe any item of cost that requires prior approval under the Federal cost principles. See 2 CFR 200.407 “Prior written approval (prior approval)” for more information. If equipment purchased previously with Federal funds is available for the project, provide a list of that equipment and identify the Federal funding source. Include detailed descriptions of all cost justifications (see BLM’s suggested format Attachment B for more detail). Additionally, provide any cost sharing and matching funds in the same level of detail as the federal funds. The budget narrative submitted with the application must match the dollar amounts on all required forms.

Budget items must be reasonable, allowable, allocable, and necessary to the supported activity. Refer to 2 CFR §200, for applicable administrative requirements and cost principles.

If your proposal period of performance is for multi-year or multiple year funding, you must provide a budget and budget justification for the full amount of the project. Show each year in a separate column on the SF-424A and use a separate column for listing any matching funds. Applicants must ensure that no Federal or non-Federal grant funds will be expended for in-kind goods or services, for purposes of providing transportation, travel, and other expenses for any Federal employee.

NOTE: Budget Detail and Narrative form (Attachment B) is a suggested format to present the breakdown of your estimated costs, by category, needed to accomplish project activities. If you elect to use a different format, all information requested on Attachment B must be included. Estimated costs must be documented in sufficient detail to determine reasonableness. Include a description of any cost share (cash, in-kind, etc.) listed.

Additionally, for multi-year budgets, please describe in your budget detail justification any items to be purchased or expended that may be specific to a particular year of the proposed project.

Lump sum costs are not acceptable in any category, without a detailed breakdown of how the cost were determined. Profit or fees are not allowable.

Conflict of Interest Disclosure Per theFinancial Assistance Interior Regulation (FAIR), 2 CFR §1402.112, applicants must state in their application if any actual or potential conflict of interest exists at the time of submission.

(a) Applicability.

https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?SID=9557df1830f0558e853e91c94dd8a3ff&mc=true&node=se2.1.200_1407&rgn=div8 http://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?c=ecfr&tpl=/ecfrbrowse/Title02/2cfr200_main_02.tpl https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/retrieveECFR?gp=1&SID=3c0a3568dd4b12f5c90e52f45f93528b&ty=HTML&h=L&r=PART&n=pt2.1.1402#se2.1.1402_1112

(1) This section intends to ensure that non-Federal entities and their employees take appropriate steps to avoid conflicts of interest in their responsibilities under or with respect to Federal financial assistance agreements.

(2) In the procurement of supplies, equipment, construction, and services by recipients and by subrecipients, the conflict of interest provisions in 2 CFR 200.318 apply.

(b) Notification.

(1) Non-Federal entities, including applicants for financial assistance awards, must disclose in writing any conflict of interest to the DOI awarding agency or pass-through entity in accordance with 2 CFR 200.112.

(2) Recipients must establish internal controls that include, at a minimum, procedures to identify, disclose, and mitigate or eliminate identified conflicts of interest. The recipient is responsible for notifying the Financial Assistance Officer in writing of any conflicts of interest that may arise during the life of the award, including those that have been reported by subrecipients.

(c) Restrictions on lobbying. Non-Federal entities are strictly prohibited from using funds under a grant or cooperative agreement for lobbying activities and must provide the required certifications and disclosures pursuant to 43 CFR part 18 and 31 U.S.C. 1352.

(d) Review procedures. The Financial Assistance Officer will examine each conflict of interest disclosure on the basis of its particular facts and the nature of the proposed grant or cooperative agreement, and will determine whether a significant potential conflict exists and, if it does, develop an appropriate means for resolving it.

(e) Enforcement. Failure to resolve conflicts of interest in a manner that satisfies the government may be cause for termination of the award. Failure to make required disclosures may result in any of the remedies described in 2 CFR 200.338, Remedies for noncompliance, including suspension or debarment (see also 2 CFR part 180).

Single Audit Reporting Statement All U.S. states, local governments, federally recognized Indian tribal governments, and non-profit organizations expending $750,000 USD or more in Federal award funds in the applicant’s fiscal year must submit a Single Audit report for that year through the Federal Audit Clearinghouse’s Internet Data Entry System. U.S. state, local government, federally recognized Indian tribal government, and non-profit applicants must state if your organization was or was not required to submit a Single Audit report for the most recently closed fiscal year. If your organization was required to submit a Single Audit report for the most recently closed fiscal year, provide the EIN associated with that report and state if it is available through the Federal Audit Clearinghouse website.

Certification Regarding Lobbying Applicants requesting more than $100,000 in Federal funding must certify to the statements in 43 CFR Part 18, Appendix A-Certification Regarding Lobbying. If this application requests more than $100,000 in Federal funds, the Authorized Official’s signature on the appropriate SF-424, Application for Federal Assistance form also represents the entity’s certification of the statements in 43 CFR Part 18, Appendix A.

Disclosure of Lobbying Activities https://harvester.census.gov/facides/Account/Login.aspx https://harvester.census.gov/facides/Account/Login.aspx https://harvester.census.gov/facdissem/Main.aspx https://harvester.census.gov/facdissem/Main.aspx http://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?SID=683823273fc0da6a1060883eda593fb8&mc=true&node=pt43.1.18&rgn=div5 http://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?SID=683823273fc0da6a1060883eda593fb8&mc=true&node=pt43.1.18&rgn=div5

Applicants and recipients must not use any federally appropriated funds (annually appropriated or continuing appropriations) or matching funds under a Federal award to pay any person for lobbying in connection with the award. Lobbying is influencing or attempting to influence an officer or employee of any U.S. agency, a Member of the U.S. Congress, an officer or employee of the U.S. Congress, or an employee of a Member of the U.S. Congress connection with the award. Applicants and recipients must complete and submit the SF-LLL, “Disclosure of Lobbying Activities”form if the Federal share of the proposal or award is more than $100,000 and the applicant or recipient has made or has agreed to make any payment using non-appropriated funds for lobbying in connection with the application or award. The SF-LLL form is available with this Funding Opportunity on Grants.gov. See 43 CFR, Subpart 18.100 for more information on when additional submission of this form is required.

Overlap or Duplication of Effort Statement

Applicants must provide a statement indicating if there is any overlap between this Federal application and any other Federal application, or funded project, in regards to activities, costs, or time commitment of key personnel. If no such overlap or duplication exists, state, “There are no overlaps or duplication between this application and any of our other Federal applications or funded projects, including in regards to activities, costs, or time commitment of key personnel”.

If any such overlap exists, provide a complete description of overlaps or duplications between this proposal and any other federally funded project or application in regards to activities, costs, and time commitment of key personnel, as applicable. Provide a copy of any overlapping or duplicative proposal submitted to any other potential funding entity and identify when that proposal was submitted, to whom (entity name and program), and when you anticipate being notified of their funding decision. When overlap exists, your statement must end with “We understand that if at any time we receive funding from another source that is duplicative of the funding we are requesting from the Bureau of Land Management in this application, we will immediately notify the Bureau of Land Management point of contact identified in this Funding Opportunity in writing.”

D3. Unique Entity Identifier and System for Award Management (SAM) Identifier and System for Award Management (SAM.gov) Registration: This requirement does not apply to individuals applying for funds as individual (i.e., unrelated to any business or nonprofit organization you may own or operate) or any entity with an exception approved by the funding bureau or office in accordance with bureau or office policy. All other applicants are required to obtain a Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS) number from Dun & Bradstreet and then register in SAM.gov prior to submitting a Federal award application. Federal award recipients must continue to maintain an active SAM.gov registration with current information through the life of their Federal award(s). See the “Submission Requirements” section of this document below for more information on SAM.gov registration. We may not make a Federal award to an applicant that has not completed the SAM.gov registration. If an applicant selected for funding has not completed their SAM.gov registration by the time the program is ready to make an award, the program may determine that the applicant is not qualified to receive an award. The program can use that determination as a basis for making an award to another applicant. There is no cost to register with Dun & Bradstreet or SAM.gov. There are third-https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/forms/post-award-reporting-forms.html party vendors who will charge a fee in exchange for registering entities with Dun & Bradstreet and SAM.gov; please be aware you can register and request help for free.

Obtain a DUNS Number

Request a DUNS Number through the Dun & Bradstreet website. For technical difficulties, send an email to the D&B SAM Help Desk. Please ensure that you are able to receive emails from SAMHelp@dnb.com. The Grants.gov “Obtain a DUNS Number” webpage also provides detailed instructions. Once assigned a DUNS number, your organization must maintain up-to-date information with Dun & Bradstreet. Applicants must enter their DUNS number in the “Organizational DUNS” field on the SF-424, Application for Federal Assistance form.

Register with the System for Award Management (SAM)

Register on the SAM.gov website. “Help” tab on the website contains User Guides and other information to assist you with registration. The Grants.gov Register with SAM page also provides detailed instructions. You can also contact the supporting Federal Service Desk for help registering in SAM. Once registered in SAM, entities must renew and revalidate their SAM registration at least once every 12 months from the date previously registered. Entities are strongly encouraged to revalidate their registration as often as needed to ensure their information is up to date and reflects changes that may have been to the entity’s DUNS or IRS information.

D4. Submission Dates and Times BLM requires applicants to submit their applications online through Grants.gov. Grants.gov automatically generates an electronic date and time stamp in the system upon application receipt.

Grants.gov sends an acknowledgement of receipt with the date and time stamp and a unique Grants.gov application tracking number to the authorized representative by email. This email from Grants.gov serves as your proof of timely submission.

Due Date for Applications 04/23/2021 Application Due Date Explanation Electronically submitted applications must be submitted no later than 5:00 p.m., ET, on the listed application due date.

Applications must be submitted in English.

Late applications will not be accepted or reviewed.

D5. Intergovernmental Review Prior to application submission, U.S. state and local government applicants should visit the OMB Office of Federal Financial Management website and view the “State Point of Contact (SPOC) List” to determine whether their application is subject to the state intergovernmental review process under Executive Order (E.O.) 12372 “Intergovernmental Review of Federal Programs.”

States not on the list do not participate in the intergovernmental review process, and therefore do not have a SPOC. If you are located within a State that does not have a SPOC, you may send mailto:SAMHelp@dnb.com https://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/management/office-federal-financial-management/ https://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/management/office-federal-financial-management/ application materials directly to a Federal awarding agency. If your state is on the list, contact the designated entity for more information on the state’s prior review requirements for Federal assistance applications.

D6. Funding Restrictions Any partners submitting a construction, reconstruction, repair, or restoration of paved or permanent roads or parking area projects under the Good Neighbor Authority - 16 USC §2113a

(b) (1) (A) are not allowed under this program.

Any Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Units (CESU) Network partners submitting a project is subject to the CESU indirect cost rate cap (currently 17.5%).

The Federal awarding agency that provides the largest amount of direct funding to your organization is your cognizant agency for indirect costs, unless otherwise assigned by the White House Office of Management and Budget (OMB). If the Department of the Interior is your organization’s cognizant agency, the Interior Business Center will negotiate your indirect cost rate. Contact the Interior Business Center by phone 916-930-3803 or using the IBC Email Submission Form. See the IBC Website for more information.

Organizations must have an active Federal award before they can submit an indirect cost rate proposal to their cognizant agency. Failure to establish an approved rate during the award period renders all costs otherwise allocable as indirect costs unallowable under the award. Recipients must have prior written approval from the BLM to use amounts budgeted for direct costs to satisfy cost-share or match requirements or to cover unallowable indirect costs. Recipients shall not shift unallowable indirect costs to another Federal award unless specifically authorized to do so by legislation.

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

We are:

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

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

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

A [insert your organization type] that has never submitted or does not have a current indirect cost rate proposal from our cognizant agency. We request as a condition of award to charge a flat de minimis indirect cost rate of 10% to be charged against modified total direct project costs as defined in 2 CFR §200.68. We understand that we must notify BLM in writing if we establish a negotiated rate with our cognizant agency at any point during the award period. We understand that additional Federal funds may not be available to support an unexpected increase in indirect costs during the project period and that such changes are subject to review, negotiation, and prior approval by BLM.

A [insert your organization type] that is submitting this proposal for consideration under the “Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Unit Network”, which has a Department of the Interior-approved indirect cost rate cap of 17.5%. If we have an approved indirect cost rate with our cognizant agency, we understand that we must apply this reduced rate against the same direct cost base as identified in our approved indirect cost rate agreement per 2 CFR §1402.414.

If we do not have an approved indirect cost rate with our cognizant agency, we understand that we must charge indirect costs against the modified total direct cost base defined in 2 CFR §200.68 “Modified Total Direct Cost (MTDC)”. We understand that we must request prior approval from BLM to use the 2 CFR 200 MTDC base instead of the base identified in our approved indirect cost rate agreement. We understand that BLM approval of such a request will be based on: 1) a determination that our approved base is only a subset of the MTDC (such as salaries and wages); and 2) that use of the MTDC base will still result in a reduction of the total indirect costs to be charged to the award. In accordance with 2 CFR §200.405, we understand that indirect costs not recovered due to a voluntary reduction to our federally negotiated rate are not allowable for recovery via any other means.

A [insert your organization type] that will charge all costs directly.

D7. Other Submission Requirements BLM requires applicants to submit their applications online through Grants.gov. Grants.gov automatically generates an electronic date and time stamp in the system upon application receipt.

Grants.gov sends an acknowledgement of receipt with the date and time stamp and a unique Grants.gov application tracking number to the authorized representative by email. This email from Grants.gov serves as your proof of timely submission.

https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/applicants/apply-for-grants.html

E. Application Review Information

E1. Criteria First Level Review - Basic Eligibility Screening Maximum Points: 0 https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?SID=0bb1f5386f36f965f85dc05b2ad8a804&mc=true&node=pt2.1.200&rgn=div5&se2.1.200_168 https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?SID=301d2113ecd423372a0181d3002e13a1&mc=true&node=se2.1.1402_1414&rgn=div8 https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/applicants/apply-for-grants.html

Applications eligible for merit review will be evaluated by a field review committee to review, rate, rank, and recommend applications for award using the below evaluation criteria. Evaluation teams are made up of two or more qualified personnel familiar with the program and who have been certified to have no conflict of interest with any persons or organizations applying for award. The final selection of applications will take place at the BLM Headquarters Office, National Conservation Lands Division.

The Government reserves the right to reject any and all proposals which do not meet the requirements of this funding opportunity announcement and which are determined to be outside the scope of the authority under which this announcement is posted.

Awards will be made to responsive, responsible applicants who submit proposals which conform to the funding opportunity announcement and are most advantageous to the Government considering the evaluation factors listed below.

The evaluation process will be comprised of the following four screening levels:

First Level Screening --Basic Eligibility

a. Applications will be screened by the Grants Management Officer to ensure that applications meet basic eligibility requirements. Depending on the specifics of the opportunity, screening may include, but is not limited to, the following:

1) Program and/or legislative authority requirements are met;

2) Submission is timely;

3) Complete and properly executed SF-424 application package documents (see D.

APPLICATION AND SUBMISSION INFORMATION) are included;

b. Applications must satisfy basic eligibility screening requirements to be considered for further review.

Maximum Points: 0 Second Level Review - Merit Review Evaluation Maximum Points: 0

Each State will be responsible for designating a State Evaluation Committee (Committee) with appropriate expertise and professional qualifications for the Merit Review Evaluation. The BLM State Offices will evaluate proposals only for their specific State.

The Committee will review, rate, and recommend eligible applications for award in an objective and unbiased manner using the below evaluation criteria. An overall consensus rating will be determined for each application and submitted to BLM Headquarters Office, National Conservation Lands Division.

Projects will be evaluated by the State Evaluation Committee in a two-step process.

Step 1: Assess proposal relevance to themes and coordination with BLM

a. The Project clearly addresses one or both of the themes listed above (Yes or No).

b. There is clear demonstration of early coordination with the appropriate State Lead or unit manager in project development, design, and implementation (Yes or No).

Projects that do not meet both of these criteria will not be considered for funding.

Step 2: Rate each proposal that addresses one or more theme and demonstrates BLM coordination using the following criteria

a. The project products will have direct management application, i.e. address an important conservation and management decision. (45%)

There is clear demonstration of the management issue being addressed and how well the information from the project feeds back to that management issue. The form or manner in which the project products will be made available for use by decision-makers or other intended users is clearly defined (e.g., technical reports, decision support tool, new or improved management technique(s)).

b. Technical Merit (30%)

Objectives are clearly stated, procedures are well designed, results are attainable, quantifiable estimates will be statistically reliable and comparable to other studies. There is a clear statement of project objectives and explanation as to how the proposed approach and methods are a technically sound and feasible way to meet those objectives.

c. The project addresses a BLM priority (15%)

Maximum score is given if the proposal clearly states how it will address a BLM priority.

Current priorities can be located at the following URL: Our Priorities | U.S. Department of the Interior (doi.gov).

d. The project clearly demonstrates a public benefit (10%)

Projects which clearly demonstrate dissemination of information to the public or other public benefits will receive higher scores.

Third Level Review - BLM Headquarters Office, NCL Division Maximum Points: 0

The National Office will have a national committee with membership based on expertise and professional qualification to review applications. Eligible applications will be evaluated in an objective and unbiased manner with the following merit review criteria.

An overall consensus rating will be determined for each application. The ratings and proposals will be submitted to the Assistant Director of the National Conservation Lands and Community Partnerships for funding determinations.

a. State Evaluation Committee Ranking (75%)

b. Project’s scope has broad regional or national conservation relevance in line with

DOI and BLM priorities (25%) Project must assist BLM in meeting one or more of the Department of Interior priorities.

Higher scores given to projects with broader regional or national application compared to projects that have significant but local application.

https://www.doi.gov/ourpriorities

Fourth Level Review - Pre-award Clearance and Approvals Maximum Points: 0

Following the described review process, BLM will also complete a business evaluation and determination of responsibility. During these evaluations the Grants Management Officer will evaluate variables such as:

a. Risk Management. The BLM uses a risk-based approach to evaluate the risk posed by the supporting applicants’ projects before it awards Federal funds.

1) BLM is required to review information available through OMB-designated eligibility and/or financial integrity databases, such as the Federal Awardee Performance and Integrity Information System (FAPIIS). The BLM considers factors such as:

(a) Financial stability;

(b) Quality of management systems;

(c) History of performance managing Federal awards, timeliness of compliance with reporting requirements, conformance to the terms and conditions of previous Federal awards, etc.;

(d) Reports and findings from audits performed; and

(e) The applicant’s ability to effectively implement statutory, regulatory, or other requirements imposed on non-Federal entities.

2) Budget review is based on the following:

(a) Budget line items must be allowable, allocable, reasonable in price, and appropriate for the level of effort needed to accomplish the project

(b) Budget details and justification must provide adequate explanation of, and justification for, each estimated cost

(c) Requested equipment must be justified and necessary for completion of the project

(d) Cost Sharing/Matching funds must not come from Federal funds

If the results of all pre-award reviews and clearances are satisfactory, an award of funding will be made once the agreement is finalized. If the BLM determines that a Federal award will be made, special conditions that correspond to the degree of risk assessed may be applied to the Federal award.

If the results of pre-award reviews and clearances are unsatisfactory, consideration of funding for the project may be withdrawn.

E2. Review and Selection Process Prior to award, the program will review any applicant statement regarding potential overlap or duplication between the project to be funded and any other funded or proposed project in terms of activities, funding, or time commitment of key personnel. Depending on the circumstances, the program may request modification to the application, other pending applications, or an active award, as needed to eliminate any duplication of effort, or the Bureau may choose not to fund the selected project.

The BLM may not make a Federal award to an applicant that has not completed the SAM.gov registration. If an applicant selected for funding has not completed their SAM.gov registration by the time the Bureau is ready to make an award, the program may determine that the applicant is not qualified to receive an award. The program can use that determination as a basis for making an award to another applicant.

Prior to award, the program will evaluate the risk posed by applicants as required in 2 CFR

200.205. Programs document applicant risk evaluations using the Bureau’s “Financial Assistance Recipient Risk Assessment” form. Prior to approving awards for Federal funding in excess of the simplified acquisition threshold (currently $250,000), the Bureau is required to review and consider any information about or from the applicant found in the Federal Awardee Performance and Integrity Information System. The Bureau will consider this information when completing the risk review. The Bureau uses the results of the risk evaluation to establish monitoring plans, recipient reporting frequency requirements, and to determine if one or more of the specific award conditions in 2 CFR 200.207 should be applied the award.

E3. CFR – Regulatory Information See the BLM’s General Award Terms and Conditions for the general administrative and national policy requirements applicable to BLM awards. The BLM will communicate any other program- or project-specific special terms and conditions to recipients in their notices of award.

E4. Anticipated Announcement and Federal Award Dates Projects funded through this Notice of Funding Opportunity will start once funding is secured and awards issued. Agreements are not effective until fully executed with signature from the BLM Grants Management Officer (GMO).

BLM reserves the right to make additional awards under this announcement if additional funding becomes available after the original award selections are made. Any additional selections for award will be made no later than September 30, 2021. Any additional selections must be made in accordance with the terms of this announcement and BLM policy.

F. Federal Award Administration Information

F1. Federal Award Notices Awards are based on the application submitted to, and approved by, the BLM and are subject to the terms and conditions incorporated into the Notice of Award either by direct citation or by reference to the following: Federal regulations; program legislation or regulation; and special award terms and conditions. The duration of an agreement is based on the period of performance as stated on the project proposal.

https://www.blm.gov/services/financial-assistance-and-grants

Recipient will be notified by the certifying Grants Management Officer via email with a fully executed signed Notice of Award with the required terms and conditions. Recipient acceptance of a Federal award from the BLM carries with it the responsibility to be aware of and comply with all terms and conditions applicable to the award. Recipients indicate their acceptance of the Federal award by starting work, drawing down funds, or accepting the award via electronic means.

Final award cannot be finalized, until awardee completes their enrollment in the Department of the Treasury, ASAP System. See following website: http://www.fms.treas.gov/asap.

If your organization is not…