PKG00247999-instructions.pdf

Funding Opportunity Announcement No. BOR-DO-19-F004

WaterSMART Grants:

Water and Energy Efficiency Grants for Fiscal Year 2019

U.S. Department of the Interior Bureau of Reclamation Policy and Administration Denver, Colorado January 2019

Mission Statements The U.S. Department of the Interior protects America’s natural resources and heritage, honors our cultures and tribal communities, and supplies the energy to power our future.

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

Cover photo: Scipio Irrigation Company’s Ivie Creek Pipeline Project in Utah, which was an FY 2016 Water and Energy Efficiency Grant project. Photo Courtesy of Scipio Irrigation Company.

Synopsis

Synopsis Federal Agency Name: Department of the Interior, Bureau of Reclamation, Policy and

Administration Funding Opportunity Title: WaterSMART: Water and Energy Efficiency Grants for fiscal year

(FY) 2019

Announcement Type: Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) Funding Opportunity Number:

BOR-DO-19-F004

Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) Number:

15.507

Dates:

(See FOA Sec. D.4) Eligible Applicants:

(See FOA Sec. C.1)

Application due date:

Tuesday, March 19, 2019, 4:00 p.m. Mountain Daylight Time States, Indian tribes, irrigation districts, water districts, or other organizations with water or power delivery authority located in the Western United States or United States Territories as identified in the Reclamation Act of June 17, 1902, as amended

Recipient Cost Share:

(See FOA Sec. C.2)

50 percent or more of project costs

Federal Funding Amount:

(See FOA Sec. B.1)

Funding Group I: Up to $300,000 per agreement

Funding Group II: Up to $1,500,000 per agreement Estimated Number of Agreements to be Awarded:

(See FOA Sec. B.1)

FY 2019 appropriations includes $34 million for WaterSMART Grants, including approximately $24 million for this FOA. Please note that approximately $2 million of FY 2019 WaterSMART Grants funding will be allocated for additional phases of projects selected through previous FOAs. Any awards are subject to a determination by Reclamation that FY 2019 appropriations are available.

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Application Checklist

Application Checklist The following table contains a summary of the information that you are required to submit with your application.

√ What to submit Required content Form or format When to submit

Mandatory Federal Forms:

Application for Federal Financial Assistance

Budget Information

Assurances

Disclosure of Lobbying Activities

See Sec. D.2.2.1 SF-424, SF-424A, SF-424B, SF-424C, SF-424D and SF-LLL forms may be obtained at www.grants.gov/web/grants/forms/sf-424-family.html

Title page See Sec. D.2.2.2 Page 17 *

Table of contents See Sec. D.2.2.3 Page 17 *

Technical proposal:

Executive summary

Background data

Project description

Evaluation criteria

See Sec. D.2.2.4

See Sec. D.2.2.4

See Sec. D.2.2.4

See Sec. E.1

Project Budget:

Funding plan

Budget proposal

Budget narrative

See Sec. D.2.2.5

See Sec. D.2.2.5

See Sec. D.2.2.5

Environmental and cultural resources compliance

See Sec. F.2.1 Page 51 *

Required permits or approvals

See Sec. D.2.2.6 Page 26 *

Letters of support See Sec. D.2.2.7 Page 27 *

Official Resolutions See Sec. D.2.2.8 Page 27 **

Unique Entity Identifier and System for Award Management

See Sec. D.3 Page 27 ***

* Submit materials with your application.

** Document should be submitted with your application; however, please refer to the applicable section of the FOA for extended submission date.

*** Should be completed prior to the application deadline; however, please refer to the applicable section of the FOA for extended completion date.

iii http://www.grants.gov/web/grants/forms/sf-424-family.html

Acronyms and Abbreviations

Acronyms and Abbreviations

ASAP Automated Standard Application for Payments ARC Application Review Committee CE Categorical Exclusion CEC Categorical Exclusion Checklist CFDA Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance CFR Code of Federal Regulations CWA Clean Water Act CWMP Cooperative Watershed Management Program Department U.S. Department of the Interior DUNS Data Universal Number System EA Environmental Assessment EIS Environmental Impact Statement ESA Endangered Species Act FAPIIS Federal Award Performance Integrity Information System FAQ Frequently Asked Question FERC Federal Energy Regulatory Commission FOA Funding Opportunity Announcement FONSI Finding of No Significant Impact FY fiscal year GO Grants Officer LOPP Lease of Power Privilege NEPA National Environmental Policy Act NHPA National Historic Preservation Act NOAA National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration NRCS Natural Resources Conservation Service OM&R operations, maintenance, and replacement P.L. Public Law Reclamation Bureau of Reclamation ROD Record of Decision SAM System of Award Management U.S.C. United States Code USFWS U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service WaterSMART Sustain and Manage America’s Resources for Tomorrow v

Contents

Contents Page

Section A. Funding Opportunity Description A.1. Program Information A.2. Objective of this Funding Opportunity Announcement A.3. Statutory Authority A.4. Other Related Funding Opportunities A.5. Collaboration with the Natural Resources Conservation Service

Section B. Award Information B.1. Total Project Funding B.2. Project Funding Limitations B.3. Environmental and Cultural Resource Compliance B.4. Assistance Instrument

Section C. Eligibility Information C.1. Eligible Applicants C.2. Cost Sharing Requirements C.3. Eligible Projects

Section D. Application and Submission Information D.1. Address to Request Application Package D.2. Content and Form of Application Submission D.3. Unique Entity Identifier and System for Award Management D.4. Submission Date and Time D.5. Intergovernmental Review D.6. Automated Standard Application for Payments Registration

Section E. Application Review Information E.1. Technical Proposal: Evaluation Criteria E.2. Review and Selection Process E.3. Federal Award Performance Integrity Information System E.4. Anticipated Announcement and Federal Award Date

Section F. Federal Award Administration Information F.1. Federal Award Notices F.2. Administrative and National Policy Requirements F.3. Reporting—Requirements and Distribution F.4. Releasing Applications

Section G. Agency Contacts G.1. Reclamation Financial Assistance Contact G.2. Reclamation Program Coordinator Contact

Section H. Other Information H.1. Environmental and Cultural Resource Considerations H.2. Background on Federal Environmental and Cultural Resource Laws vii

Section A: Funding Opportunity Description

Section A. Funding Opportunity Description

A.1. Program Information The U.S. Department of the Interior’s (Department) WaterSMART (Sustain and Manage America’s Resources for Tomorrow) Program provides a framework for Federal leadership and assistance to stretch and secure water supplies for future generations in support of the Department’s priorities. Through WaterSMART, Reclamation leverages Federal and non-Federal funding to support stakeholder efforts to stretch scarce water supplies and avoid conflicts over water.

WaterSMART provides support for the Department of the Interior’s priorities, including creating a legacy of conservation stewardship, sustainably developing our energy and natural resources, modernizing our infrastructure through public-private partnerships, striking a regulatory balance, and restoring trust with local communities by improving relationships and communication with states, tribes, local governments, communities, landowners and water users.

Through Water and Energy Efficiency Grants, Reclamation provides assistance to states, tribes, irrigation districts, water districts, and other entities with water or power delivery authority to undertake projects that result in quantifiable and sustained water savings and support broader water reliability benefits. Water and Energy Efficiency Grants are a component of Reclamation’s WaterSMART Grants Program, which also includes Water Marketing Strategy Grants and Small- Scale Water Efficiency Projects. For further information on the WaterSMART Grants Program, please see www.usbr.gov/watersmart/index.html.

This Water and Energy Efficiency Grants funding opportunity announcement (FOA) provides funding for projects that result in quantifiable water savings and support broader water reliability benefits.

These projects conserve and use water more efficiently; increase the production of hydropower; mitigate conflict risk in areas at a high risk of future water conflict; and accomplish other benefits that contribute to water supply reliability in the western United States.

Through this FOA, Reclamation provides funding for projects that increase water reliability consistent with sections 3 and 4 of the October 19, 2018 Presidential Memorandum on Promoting the Reliable Supply and Delivery of Water in the West.

A list of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about WaterSMART and this FOA can be found online at www.usbr.gov/WaterSMART/weeg/faq.html. The list of FAQs will be updated periodically during the application period. For further information on WaterSMART Grants, please see http://www.usbr.gov/WaterSMART/weeg/faq.html www.usbr.gov/watersmart/index.html www.usbr.gov/watersmart/index.html. For further information on the WaterSMART Program, please see www.usbr.gov/WaterSMART.

A.2. Objective of this Funding Opportunity Announcement

The objective of this FOA is to invite states, Indian tribes, irrigation districts, water districts, and other organizations with water or power delivery authority to leverage their money and resources by cost sharing with Reclamation on projects that seek to conserve and use water more efficiently; increase the production of hydropower; mitigate conflict risk in areas at a high risk of future water conflict;

enable farmers to make additional on-farm improvements in the future, including improvements that may be eligible for Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) funding; and accomplish other benefits that contribute to water supply reliability in the western United States.

A.3. Statutory Authority This FOA is issued under the authority of Section 9504(a) of the Secure Water Act, Subtitle F of Title IX of the Omnibus Public Land Management Act of 2009, Public Law 111-11 (42 United States Code 10364).

A.4. Other Related Funding Opportunities Through WaterSMART Grants, Reclamation also provides other funding opportunities. The Small-Scale Water Efficiency Projects provides funding for small-scale water management projects (up to $75,000 in Federal funding for each project) that have been identified through previous planning efforts. Reclamation has developed a streamlined selection and review process to reflect the small-scale nature of these projects.

In addition, Water Marketing Strategy Grants provide meaningful support for entities exploring actions that can be taken to develop or facilitate water marketing. Under this funding opportunity applicants will be invited to conduct planning activities to develop a water marketing strategy to establish or expand water markets or water marketing transactions.

Reclamation provides funding for water management projects through several other programs under WaterSMART. Through the Drought Response Program, Reclamation provides funding to help build resilience to drought. Through Drought Contingency Planning, Reclamation supports the development of drought contingency plans with participation from a diverse set of stakeholders.

Reclamation also provides funding for Drought Resiliency Projects that increase water supply flexibility and improve water management to build long term resilience to drought and are supported by an existing drought contingency plan.

www.usbr.gov/WaterSMART www.usbr.gov/watersmart/index.html

Section A: Funding Opportunity Description

In addition, through the Cooperative Watershed Management Program (CWMP), Reclamation provides funding to watershed groups to encourage diverse stakeholders to form local solutions to address their watershed management needs. Reclamation provides funding through Phase I of the CWMP for watershed group development, restoration planning, and watershed management project design and through Phase II for the implementation of watershed management projects.

For information on the timing for these FOAs, please visit the WaterSMART Program website: www.usbr.gov/watersmart/index.html.

A.5. Collaboration with the Natural Resources Conservation Service

Reclamation and the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) are collaborating to align program resources in areas of the Western United States where our mission areas overlap (17 Western States), to improve the impact of the agencies’ respective drought resiliency and water efficiency investments. In 2011, NRCS and Reclamation began efforts to coordinate water conservation activities in California. Beginning in 2012, Reclamation made changes to WaterSMART Water and Energy Efficiency Grants to support similar collaboration on a West-wide basis. Applicants under the WaterSMART Grants program receive additional consideration in the evaluation process for delivery system improvements that complement on-farm improvements supported by NRCS such as through their Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP). Contingent on available appropriations, NRCS provides dedicated EQIP funding to support on-farm water efficiency improvements by producers served by water delivery infrastructure improved through a WaterSMART Grant. Also, in FY 2017, Reclamation and NRCS have begun working together to expand this partnership to include collaboration on a broader range of activities, including projects funded through this FOA.

Please note that on-farm improvements themselves are not eligible activities for funding under this FOA. NRCS will have a separate application process for the on-farm components of selected projects.

Under this funding opportunity announcement, consideration will be given under Section E.1.2. Evaluation Criterion E—Complementing Future On-Farm Irrigation Improvements for proposals that describe on-farm efficiency work that is currently being completed or is anticipated to be completed in collaboration with NRCS in the area (e.g., with a direct connection to the district’s water supply). Please contact your state NRCS office for more information regarding NRCS assistance. You can find the contact information for your state NRCS office on the USDA’s website, www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/main/national/ contact/states/.

http://www.usbr.gov/watersmart/index.html http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/main/national/contact/states/ http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/main/national/contact/states/

Section B. Award Information

B.1. Total Project Funding FY 2019 appropriations includes $34 million for WaterSMART Grants, including approximately $24 million for this FOA. Please note that approximately $2 million of FY 2019 WaterSMART Grants funding will be allocated for additional phases of projects selected through previous FOAs. Any awards are subject to a determination by Reclamation that FY 2019 appropriations are available. Applications submitted under this FOA may also be considered if other funding becomes available in FY 2019 or subsequently. Updated funding information is available at:

www.usbr.gov/WaterSMART/weeg.

B.2. Project Funding Limitations Multiple applications for funding may be submitted for consideration (for example, an applicant may submit a proposal for funding under Funding Group I and a separate proposal under Funding Group II). However, no more than $1,500,000 will be awarded to any one applicant under this FOA.

The Federal share (Reclamation’s share in addition to any other sources of Federal funding) of any one proposed project shall not exceed 50 percent of the total project costs. Generally, the non-Federal share of project costs must be expended at the same or greater rate as the federal share of project costs.

Applicants are invited to submit proposals under the following two funding groups.

B.2.1. Funding Group I

Up to $300,000 in Federal funds provided through this FOA will be available for smaller, on-the-ground projects.

• In general, projects funded under Funding Group I should be completed within 2 years of award (see Section C.3.3. Length of Projects for additional information).

• It is expected that funds will be awarded in the fall of 2019, contingent on appropriations.

• It is expected that more awards will be made for projects in Funding Group I than Funding Group II (described below).

http://www.usbr.gov/WaterSMART/weeg

B.2.2. Funding Group II

Up to $1,500,000 in Federal funds provided through this FOA will be available for larger, phased on-the-ground projects that may take up to 3 years to complete.

• Projects selected under Funding Group II will be funded on an annual basis, for a period of up to 3 years, with a maximum of $1,500,000 available for the entire project.

• Recipients must demonstrate sufficient progress to receive subsequent funding for remaining phases of the project.

• Federal funding under this FOA for the first year of phased projects is expected to be awarded in the fall of 2019. Funding for the remaining project years will be made available contingent on subsequent congressional appropriations. (Note: recipients will not be asked to reapply to receive FY 2020 and FY 2021 funding).

• It is expected that only a small number of awards will be made for projects in Funding Group II.

B.3. Environmental and Cultural Resource Compliance

All projects selected for funding under this FOA will be required to comply with Federal environmental and cultural resource laws and other regulations. Projects funded under this FOA may require the completion of an environmental assessment under NEPA, which can be costly. Please consider this when developing your project budget. See Section D.2.2.5 Project Budget for additional information.

B.4. Assistance Instrument Project awards will be made through grants or cooperative agreements as applicable to each project. If a cooperative agreement is awarded, the recipient should expect Reclamation to have substantial involvement in the project.

Substantial involvement by Reclamation may include:

• Collaboration and participation with the recipient in the management of the project and close oversight of the recipient’s activities to ensure that the program objectives are being achieved.

• Oversight may include review, input, and approval at key interim stages of the project.

At the request of the recipient, Reclamation can provide technical assistance after award of the project. If you receive Reclamation’s assistance, you must account for these costs in your budget. To discuss available assistance and these costs, contact the program coordinator identified in Section G. Agency Contacts.

Section C: Eligibility Information

Section C. Eligibility Information

C.1. Eligible Applicants Under P.L. 111-11, Section 9502, an eligible applicant is a state, Indian tribe, irrigation district, water district, or other organization with water or power delivery authority.

Applicants must also be located in the Western United States or Territories as identified in the Reclamation Act of June 17, 1902, as amended and supplemented; specifically: Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Kansas, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Oregon, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, Washington, Wyoming, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, and the Virgin Islands.

Those not eligible include, but are not limited to, the following entities:

• Federal Governmental entities

• Individuals

• Institutes of higher education

• 501(c)4 organizations

• 501(c)6 organizations

C.2. Cost Sharing Requirements Applicants must be capable of cost sharing 50 percent or more of the total project costs. The total project cost is defined as the total allowable costs incurred under a Federal award and all required cost share and voluntary committed cost share contributions, including third-party contributions.

Cost share may be made through cash, costs contributed by the applicant, or third-party in-kind contributions. Third-party in-kind contributions is the value of non-cash contributions of property or services that benefit the federally assisted project and are contributed by non-Federal third parties, without charge. Cost share funding from sources outside the applicant’s organization (e.g., loans or state grants) should be secured and available to the applicant prior to award.

Please see Section D.2.2.9 Official Resolution and Section D.2.2.5 Funding Plan and Letters of Commitment for more information regarding the documentation required to verify commitments to meet cost sharing requirements.

Other sources of Federal funding may not be counted towards the required cost share. The exception to this requirement is where the Federal statute authorizing a program specifically provides that Federal funds made available for such program can be applied to matching or cost sharing requirements of other Federal programs, such as awards to tribal organizations under P.L. 93-638, as amended.

If it is determined that the Federal funding cannot be applied towards the non- Federal cost share, the work associated with the funding may be removed from the proposed project.

C.2.1. Cost Share Regulations

All cost-share contributions must meet the applicable administrative and cost principles criteria established in 2 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 200, available at www.ecfr.gov.

C.2.2. Third-Party In-Kind Contributions

Third-party in-kind contributions may be in the form of equipment, supplies, and other expendable property, as well as the value of services directly benefiting and specifically identifiable to the proposed project. The cost or value of third-party in-kind contributions that have been or will be relied on to satisfy a cost-sharing or matching requirement for another Federal financial assistance agreement, a Federal procurement contract, or any other award of Federal funds may not be relied on to satisfy the cost-share requirement for an award under this FOA.

Applicants should refer to 2 CFR §200.434 Contributions and donations for regulations regarding the valuation of third-party in-kind contributions, available at www.ecfr.gov.

C.3. Eligible Projects C.3.1. Eligible Projects

Water Conservation and Hydropower projects eligible for funding under this FOA are described below. Applications may include any one, or a combination, of the types of projects described. In general, if you are seeking funding for multiple projects (e.g., a piping project and a hydropower project) and the projects are interrelated or closely related, they should be combined in one application.

Applicants may submit multiple project proposals; however, no more than $1,500,000 will be awarded to any one applicant under this FOA.

C.3.1.1. Water Conservation Projects Projects that result in quantifiable and sustained water savings or improved water management (please note that an agreement will not be awarded for an improvement to conserve irrigation water unless the applicant agrees to the terms of Section 9504(a)(3)(B) of Public Law 111-11. See Section F.2.3. Requirements for Agricultural Operations under Public Law 111-11, Section 9504(a)(3)(D) of this FOA for further information). Projects include:

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

http://www.ecfr.gov/ o Installing new proven lining materials or technology o Converting open canals to pipeline o Constructing conveyance improvements, turnouts, or pipelines

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

o Installing water service meters o Installing distribution systems meters associated with production and/or leakage quantification

• Irrigation Flow Measurement: Projects that improve measurement accuracy and result in reduced spills and over-deliveries to irrigators.

Projects include, but are not limited to:

o Installing weirs, flumes, ramps, etc. in open channels o Installing meters in pressurized pipes

• Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition and Automation: Projects that install SCADA and/or automation components that provide water savings when irrigation delivery system operational efficiency is improved to reduce spills, over-deliveries, and seepage. Projects include, but are not limited to:

o Installing SCADA components that allow for remote monitoring of irrigation delivery system conditions (flow rates, water elevations, controls devices openings, etc.)

o Installing automation components that allow for remote operation of delivery system control features (gates, valves, turnouts, etc.)

• Irrigation Measures: Projects that provide water savings by reducing outdoor water usage. These measures include turf removal, Smart irrigation controllers (weather or soil-moisture based) and high-efficiency nozzles (sprinkler heads). These measures are typically promoted by water entities through rebates or direct-install programs. Projects include, but are not limited to:

o Removing turf o Installing Smart irrigation controllers o Installing high-efficiency nozzles (e.g., sprinkler heads)

C.3.1.2. Hydropower Projects

Projects that increase the use of hydropower in managing and delivering water. Projects include, but are not limited to, those discussed in the following subsections.

Implementing Hydropower Projects Related to Water Management and Delivery

Hydropower projects related to water management and delivery include, but are not limited to:

• Installing a small-scale hydroelectric facility that enables use of renewable energy sources (e.g., installing low-head hydrokinetic power generation units in a water system)

Proposals including a hydropower component typically require additional permitting not needed for other water management improvements (e.g., canal lining). In evaluating these proposals, Reclamation may consider the applicant’s progress in obtaining a Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) license or a Reclamation Lease of Power Privilege (LOPP), depending on which is applicable. Applicants for a project including a hydropower component are asked to include documentation of steps taken to date for obtaining a FERC license or a

LOPP.

Note that improvements to Federal facilities that are implemented through any project awarded funding through this FOA must comply with additional requirements. The Federal government will continue to hold title to the Federal facility and any improvement that is integral to the existing operations of that facility. Please see Section F.2.4. Title to Improvements Under Public Law 111- 11, Section 9504(a)(3)(D).

Applicants proposing hydropower development may wish to contact the program coordinator listed in Section G, Agency Contacts, prior to the application deadline to discuss the requirements listed above.

Note: other types of renewable energy projects, including large-scale solar, wind, and geothermal projects, are not eligible under this FOA

C.3.2. Ineligible Projects

Any project not specifically described in Section 3.1. Eligible Projects is not eligible under this FOA. The following subsections further explain ineligible projects.

C.3.2.2. Water Reclamation, Recycling, and Reuse

C.3.2.1. Operations, Maintenance, and Replacement Projects that are considered normal operations, maintenance and replacement (OM&R) are not eligible. OM&R is described as system improvements that replace or repair existing infrastructure or function without providing increased efficiency or effectiveness of water distribution over the expected life of the improvement. Examples of ineligible OM&R projects include:

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

• Improving an existing facility to operate as originally designed

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

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

• Sealing cracks in canals and/or pipes, including those sealant projects intending to improve facilities with inherent design and construction flaws

• Replacing broken meters with new meters of the same type

• Replacing leaky pipes with new pipes of the same type

Applicants that have questions regarding OM&R are encouraged to contact the program coordinator listed in Section G. Agency Contacts, prior to the application deadline for further information.

Water reclamation, reuse, and desalination projects are not eligible for funding under this FOA. Entities seeking funding for these types of projects should consider Reclamation’s Title XVI Water Reclamation and Reuse Program and Drought Response Program. If you have questions about a water reclamation, reuse, or desalination project please contact Amanda Erath at 303-445-2766 or aerath@usbr.gov.

C.3.2.3. Groundwater Recharge Groundwater recharge projects are not eligible. Applicants proposing such projects should consider applying for funding under the WaterSMART Drought Resiliency Projects FOA. See the WaterSMART Drought Response Program webpage, www.usbr.gov/drought, for more information.

C.3.2.4. Water Purchases A project that proposes using Federal funding primarily for the purchase of water is not eligible under this FOA.

mailto:aerath@usbr.gov http://www.usbr.gov/drought

C.3.2.5. Building Construction A project that proposes to construct a building is not eligible for Federal funding under this FOA (e.g., a building to house administrative staff or to promote public awareness of water conservation).

C.3.2.6. Pilot Projects A project that proposes to conduct a pilot study to evaluate technical capability, economic feasibility, or viability for full-scale implementation, or to test an unproven material or technology is not eligible for Federal funding under this

FOA.

C.3.2.7. High-Efficiency Indoor Appliance and Fixture Installation A project that includes the installation of high-efficiency indoor appliances and fixtures, including toilets and urinals, whether through rebates, direct install, or by other means, is not eligible for funding under this FOA.

C.3.2.8. Other Types of Renewable Energy Projects Renewable energy projects other than hydropower projects, including large-scale solar, wind, and geothermal projects, are not eligible under this FOA

C.3.3. Length of Projects

In general, Funding Group I projects should be completed within two years of award. Funding Group II projects should be completed within three years of award and each year are expected to complete the work planned as part of that year’s phase. Applications for projects requiring more time will be considered for funding only under limited circumstances. For example, some hydropower project installations may require additional time to secure necessary permits.

Reclamation will determine the capability of an applicant to complete the proposed project within the timeframe identified in the application.

Section D: Application and Submission Information

Section D. Application and Submission Information

D.1. Address to Request Application Package This document contains all information, forms, and electronic addresses required to obtain the information required for submission of an application.

If you are unable to access this information electronically, you can request paper copies of any of the documents referenced in this FOA by contacting:

By mail: Bureau of Reclamation Financial Assistance Support Section Attn: Mr. Darren Olson P.O. Box 25007, MS 84-27814 Denver, CO 80225

By e-mail: dolson@usbr.gov

By telephone: 303-445-3697

D.2. Content and Form of Application Submission All applications must conform to the requirements set forth below.

D.2.1. Application Format and Length

The technical proposal and criteria section (defined below) shall be limited to a maximum of 50 consecutively numbered pages. If this section of the application exceeds 50 pages, only the first 50 pages will be evaluated. The font shall be at least 12 points in size and easily readable. Page size shall be 8½ by 11 inches, including charts, maps, and drawings. Margins should be standard 1-inch margins. Oversized pages will not be accepted.

Applications will be prescreened for compliance to the above page number limitation. Excess pages will be removed and not considered in the evaluation of the proposed project.

D.2.2. Application Content

The application must include the following elements to be considered complete:

• Mandatory Federal Forms o SF-424 Application for Federal Assistance o SF-424 Budget Information (A or C Form, as applicable to the project) mailto:dolson@usbr.gov

SF-424 Application for Federal Assistance o SF-424 Assurances (B or D Form, as applicable to the project) o SF-LLL Disclosure of Lobbying Activities (if applicable)

These forms may be obtained at www.grants.gov/web/grants/forms/sf- 424-family.html

• Title page

• Table of contents

• Technical proposal and evaluation criteria (limited to 50 pages) o Executive summary o Background data o Project Location o Technical project description o Evaluation criteria

• Project budget o Funding plan and letters of commitment o Budget proposal o Budget narrative

• Environmental and cultural resources compliance

• Required permits or approvals

• Letters of project support

• Official resolution

It is highly recommended that application packages be structured in the order identified above.

D.2.2.1. Mandatory Federal Forms The application must include the following standard Federal forms:

A fully completed SF-424, Application for Federal Assistance signed by a person legally authorized to commit the applicant to performance of the project must be submitted with the application. Failure to submit a properly signed SF-424 may result in the elimination of the application from further consideration.

https://www.grants.gov/web/%E2%80%8Cgrants/forms/sf-424-family.html https://www.grants.gov/web/%E2%80%8Cgrants/forms/sf-424-family.html

SF-424 Budget Information

A fully completed SF-424A Budget Information Non-Construction Programs, or an SF-424C Budget Information Construction Programs must be submitted with the application.

SF-424 Assurances

A SF-424B Assurances Non-Construction Programs, or an SF-424D Assurances Construction Programs, signed by a person legally authorized to commit the applicant to performance of the project shall be included. Questions regarding whether to use SF-424B or SF-424D should be referred to the Grants Management Point of Contact under Agency Contacts. Failure to submit a properly signed SF-424B or SF-424D may result in the elimination of the application from further consideration.

SF-LLL Disclosure of Lobbying Activities

A fully completed and signed SF-LLL, Disclosure of Lobbying Activities is required is required if the applicant has made or agreed to make payment to any lobbying entity for influencing or attempting to influence an officer or employee of any agency, a Member of Congress, an officer or employee of Congress, or an employee of a Member of Congress in connection with a covered Federal action.

Note – this form cannot be submitted by a contractor or other entity on behalf of an applicant.

D.2.2.2. Title Page Provide a brief, informative, and descriptive title for the proposed work that indicates the nature of the project. Include the name and address of the applicant, and the name and address, e-mail address, and telephone of the project manager.

D.2.2.3. Table of Contents List all major sections of the proposal in the table of contents.

D.2.2.4. Technical Proposal and Evaluation Criteria The technical proposal and evaluation criteria (50 pages maximum) includes:

(1) Executive summary

(2) Background data

(3) Project Location

(4) Technical project description

(5) Evaluation criteria

Executive Summary

The executive summary should include:

• The date, applicant name, city, county, and state

• A one paragraph project summary that specifies the work proposed, including how funds will be used to accomplish specific project activities and briefly identifies how the proposed project contributes to accomplishing the goals of this FOA.

• State the length of time and estimated completion date for the proposed project

• Whether or not the proposed project is located on a Federal facility

Background Data

As applicable, describe the source of water supply, the water rights involved, current water uses (e.g., agricultural, municipal, domestic, or industrial), the number of water users served, and the current and projected water demand. Also, identify potential shortfalls in water supply. If water is primarily used for irrigation, describe major crops and total acres served.

In addition, describe the applicant’s water delivery system as appropriate. For agricultural systems, please include the miles of canals, miles of laterals, and existing irrigation improvements (e.g., type, miles, and acres). For municipal systems, please include the number of connections and/or number of water users served and any other relevant information describing the system.

If the application includes hydropower or energy efficiency elements, describe existing energy sources and current energy uses.

Identify any past working relationships with Reclamation. This should include the date(s), description of prior relationships with Reclamation, and a description of the project(s).

Project Location

Provide detailed information on the proposed project location or project area including a map showing the specific geographic location. For example, {project name} is located in {state and county} approximately {distance} miles {direction, e.g. northeast} of {nearest town}. The project latitude is {##°##’N} and longitude is {###°##’W}.

Technical Project Description

The technical project description should describe the work in detail, including specific activities that will be accomplished. This description shall have sufficient detail to permit a comprehensive evaluation of the proposal. Please note, if the work for which you are requesting funding is a phase of a larger project, please only describe the work that is reflected in the budget and exclude description of other activities or components of the overall project.

Evaluation Criteria

(See Section E.1. Technical Proposal: Evaluation Criteria for additional details, including a detailed description of each criterion and subcriterion and points associated with each.)

The evaluation criteria portion of your application should thoroughly address each criterion and subcriterion in the order presented to assist in the complete and accurate evaluation of your proposal.

It is suggested that applicants copy and paste the evaluation criteria and subcriteria in Section E.1. Technical Proposal: Evaluation Criteria into their applications to ensure that all necessary information is adequately addressed

D.2.2.5. Project Budget The project budget includes:

(1) Funding plan and letters of commitment

(2) Budget proposal

(3) Budget narrative

Project costs for environmental and cultural compliance and engineering/design that were incurred or are anticipated to be incurred prior to award should be included in the proposed project budget.

If the proposed project is selected, the awarding Reclamation Grants Officer will review the proposed pre-award costs to determine if they are consistent with program objectives and are allowable in accordance with the authorizing legislation. Proposed pre-award costs must also be compliant with all applicable administrative and cost principles criteria established in 2 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 200, available at www.ecfr.gov, and all other requirements of this FOA. In no case will costs incurred prior to July 1, 2018 be considered for inclusion in the proposed project budget.

Please note that the costs for preparing and submitting an application in response to this FOA, including the development of data necessary to support the proposal, are not eligible project costs under this FOA and must not be included in the project budget. In addition, Budget Proposals must not include costs for the purchase of water or land, or to secure an easement other than a construction easement. These costs are not eligible project costs under this FOA.

Funding Plan and Letters of Commitment

Describe how the non-Federal share of project costs will be obtained.

Reclamation will use this information in making a determination of financial capability.

Project funding provided by a source other than the applicant shall be supported with letters of commitment from these additional sources. Letters of commitment shall identify the following elements:

• The amount of funding commitment

• The date the funds will be available to the applicant

• Any time constraints on the availability of funds

• Any other contingencies associated with the funding commitment

Commitment letters from third party funding sources should be submitted with your application. If commitment letters are not available at the time of the application submission, please provide a timeline for submission of all commitment letters. Cost-share funding from sources outside the applicant’s organization (e.g., loans or State grants), should be secured and available to the applicant prior to award.

Reclamation will not make funds available for an award under this FOA until the recipient has secured non-Federal cost-share. Reclamation will execute a financial assistance agreement once non-Federal funding has been secured or Reclamation determines that there is sufficient evidence and likelihood that non-Federal funds will be available to the applicant subsequent to executing the agreement.

Please identify the sources of the non-Federal cost share contribution for the project, including:

• Any monetary contributions by the applicant towards the cost-share requirement and source of funds (e.g., reserve account, tax revenue, and/or assessments)

• Any costs that will be contributed by the applicant

• Any third party in-kind costs (i.e., goods and services provided by a third party)

• Any cash requested or received from other non-Federal entities.

• Any pending funding requests (i.e. grants or loans) that have not yet been approved and explain how the project will be affected if such funding is denied.

In addition, please identify whether the budget proposal includes any project costs that have been or may be incurred prior to award. For each cost, describe:

o The project expenditure and amount o The date of cost incurrence o How the expenditure benefits the Project

Budget Proposal

The total project cost (Total Project Cost), is the sum of all allowable items of costs, including all required cost sharing and voluntary committed cost sharing, including third-party contributions, that are necessary to complete the project.

Table 1.—Total Project Cost Table

SOURCE AMOUNT

Costs to be reimbursed with the requested Federal funding $ Costs to be paid by the applicant $ Value of third party contributions $

TOTAL PROJECT COST $

The budget proposal should include detailed information on the categories listed below and must clearly identify all items of cost, including those that will be contributed as non-Federal cost share by the applicant (required and voluntary), third-party in-kind contributions, and those that will be covered using the funding requested from Reclamation, and any requested pre-award costs. Unit costs must be provided for all budget items including the cost of services or other work to be provided by consultants and contractors. Applicants are strongly encouraged to review the procurement standards for Federal awards found at 2 CFR §200.317 through §200.326 before developing their budget proposal.

It is also strongly advised that applicants use the budget proposal format shown below in Table 2 or a similar format that provides this information. If selected for award, successful applicants must submit detailed supporting documentation for all budgeted costs. Additional information regarding the types of documentation that will be necessary to support budgeted costs can be found in Attachment 1 to this FOA.

Note: The costs of preparing bids, proposals, or applications on potential Federal and non-Federal awards or projects, including the development of data necessary to support the non-Federal entity’s application are not eligible project costs and should not be included in the budget proposal (2 CFR §200.460).

Table 2.—Sample Budget Proposal Format

BUDGET ITEM DESCRIPTION COMPUTATION Quantity Type

TOTAL

COST $/Unit Quantity

Salaries and Wages Employee 1 $ Employee 2 $ Employee 3 $ Fringe Benefits Full-Time Employees $ Part-Time Employees $ Travel Trip 1 $ Trip 2 $ Trip 3 $ Equipment Item A $ Item B $ Item C $ Supplies and Materials Item A $ Item B $

Contractual/Construction Contractor A $ Contractor B $ Third-Party Contributions Contributor A $ Contributor B $ Other Other $

TOTAL DIRECT COSTS $

Indirect Costs Type of rate percentage $base $

TOTAL ESTIMATED PROJECT COSTS $

Budget Narrative

Submission of a budget narrative is mandatory. An award will not be made to any applicant who fails to fully disclose this information. The budget narrative provides a discussion of, or explanation for, items included in the budget proposal. The types of information to describe in the narrative include, but are not limited to, those listed in the following subsections. Costs, including the valuation of third-party in-kind contributions, must comply with the applicable cost principles contained in 2 CFR Part §200, available at the Electronic Code of Federal Regulations (www.ecfr.gov).

Salaries and Wages

Indicate the Project Manager and other key personnel by name and title. The Project Manager must be an employee or board member of the applicant. Other personnel should be indicated by title alone. For all positions, indicate salaries and wages, estimated hours or percent of time, and rate of compensation. The labor rates must identify the direct labor rate separate from the fringe rate or fringe cost for each category. All labor estimates must be allocated to specific tasks as outlined in the applicant’s technical project description. Labor rates and proposed hours shall be displayed for each task.

The budget proposal and narrative should include estimated hours for compliance with reporting requirements, including final project and evaluation. Please see Section F.3. Program Performance Reports for information on types and frequency of reports required.

Generally, salaries of administrative and/or clerical personnel will be included as a portion of the stated indirect costs. If these salaries can be adequately documented as direct costs, they should be included in this section; however, a justification should be included in the budget narrative.

Fringe Benefits

Identify the rates/amounts, what costs are included in this category, and the basis of the rate computations. Federally approved rate agreements are acceptable for compliance with this item.

Travel

Identify the purpose of each anticipated trip, destination, number of persons traveling, length of stay, and all travel costs including airfare (basis for rate used), per diem, lodging, and miscellaneous travel expenses. For local travel, include mileage and rate of compensation.

Equipment

If equipment will be purchased, itemize all equipment valued at or greater than $5,000. For each item, identify why it is needed for the completion of the Project and how the equipment was priced. Note: if the value is less than $5,000, the item should be included under materials and supplies.

If equipment is being rented, specify the number of hours and the hourly rate.

Local rental rates are only accepted for equipment actually being rented or leased.

If the applicant intends to use their own equipment for the purposes of the project, the proposed usage rates should fall within the equipment usage rates outlined by the United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) within their Construction Equipment Ownership and Operating Expense Schedule (EP 1110-1-8) at www.publications.usace.army.mil/USACE-Publications/Engineer- Pamphlets/u43545q/313131302D312D38.

Note: If the equipment will be furnished and installed under a construction contract, the equipment should be included in the construction contract cost estimate.

Materials and Supplies

Itemize supplies by major category, unit price, quantity, and purpose, such as whether the items are needed for office use, research, or construction. Identify how these costs were estimated (i.e., quotes, engineering estimates, or other methodology). Note: If the materials/supplies will be furnished and installed under a contract, the equipment should be included in the construction contract cost estimate.

Contractual

Identify all work that will be accomplished by consultants or contractors, including a breakdown of all tasks to be completed, and a detailed budget estimate of time, rates, supplies, and materials that will be required for each task. For each proposed contract, identify the procurement method that will be used to select the consultant or contractor and the basis for selection. Please note that all procurements with an anticipated aggregate value that exceeds the Micro-purchase Threshold (currently $10,000) must use a competitive procurement method (see 2 CFR §200.320 – Methods of procurement to be followed). Only contracts for architectural/engineering services can be awarded using a qualifications-based procurement method. If a qualifications-based procurement method is used, profit must be negotiated as a separate element of the contract price. See 2 CFR §200.317 through §200.326 for additional information regarding procurements, including required contract content.

Third-Party In-Kind Contributions

Iden…