PKG00257224-instructions.pdf

U.S. Department of the Interior December 2019

WaterSMART:

Title XVI Congressionally Authorized Water Reclamation and Reuse Projects

Funding Opportunity Announcement No. BOR-DO-20-F008

Mission Statements The Department of the Interior (DOI) conserves and manages the Nation’s natural resources and cultural heritage for the benefit and enjoyment of the American people, provides scientific and other information about natural resources and natural hazards to address societal challenges and create opportunities for the American people, and honors the Nation’s trust responsibilities or special commitments to American Indians, Alaska Natives, and affiliated island communities to help them prosper.

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.

WaterSMART:

Title XVI Congressionally Authorized Water Reclamation and Reuse Projects

Funding Opportunity Announcement No. BOR-DO-20-F008

Cover photo: Eastern Municipal Water District Recycled Water Project.

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Synopsis iii

Synopsis Federal Agency Name:

Department of the Interior, Bureau of Reclamation, Policy and Administration

Funding Opportunity Title: WaterSMART: Title XVI Congressionally Authorized Water Reclamation and Reuse Projects

Announcement Type: Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA)

Funding Opportunity Number:

BOR-DO-20-F008

Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) Number:

15.504

Dates:

(See FOA Sec. D.4)

FY 2020 Application due date:

February 19, 2020, 4:00 p.m. Mountain Standard Time (MST)

This FOA will be updated to provide a second application deadline in FY 2021 for proposals to be considered for FY 2021 funding, contingent on appropriations.

Any amendment to evaluation criteria, priorities, or eligibility would be finalized at least 60 days prior to the second application deadline

Eligible Applicants:

(See FOA Sec. C.1)

Sponsors of water reclamation and reuse projects specifically authorized for funding under Title XVI of Public Law (P.L.) 102- 575, as amended (43 United States Code [U.S.C.] 390h through 390h-39).

Recipient Cost Share:

(See FOA Sec. C.2)

75 percent or more of total Project costs.

Federal Funding Amount:

(See FOA Sec. B.1)

Up to 25 percent of the total cost of planning, design, and/or construction that has either already been completed or will be conducted before September 30, 2023 for (FY) 2020 funding and September 30, 2024 for (FY) 2021 funding.

Estimated Number of Agreements to be Awarded:

(See FOA Sec. B.1)

Approximately 6 to 10 awards, depending on the amount requested by each applicant. Information about (FY) 2021 funding available for award will be updated when appropriation information is released.

Application Checklist v

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 11 * Table of contents See Sec. D.2.2.3 Page 11 * Technical proposal: * Executive summary See Sec. D.2.2.4 Page 11 * Project description See Sec. D.2.2.4 Page 11 *

Evaluation criteria See Sec. E.1 Page 27 * Environmental and cultural resources compliance See Sec. D.2.2.5 Page 12 *

Required permits or approvals

See Sec. D.2.2.6 Page 13 *

Project Budget: * Funding plan See Sec. D.2.2.7 Page 14 * Budget proposal See Sec. D.2.2.7 Page 16 * Budget narrative See Sec. D.2.2.7 Page 17 * Letters of support See Sec. D.2.2.8 Page 20 Official Resolutions See Sec. D.2.2.8 Page 21 ** Unique Entity Identifier and

System for Award Management

See Sec. D.3 Page 21 ***

* 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.

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

Acronyms and Abbreviations vii

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 Department U.S. Department of the Interior DUNS Data Universal Number System EA/FONSI Environmental Assessment/Finding of No Significant Impact EIS Environmental Impact Statement ESA Endangered Species Act FAPIIS Federal Award Performance Integrity Information System FOA Funding Opportunity Announcement FOIA Freedom of Information Act FY fiscal year MST Mountain Standard Time NEPA National Environmental Policy Act NHPA National Historic Preservation Act NOAA National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration OM&R operations, maintenance, and replacement P.L. Public Law Project congressionally authorized water reclamation and reuse project Reclamation Bureau of Reclamation SAM System of Award Management Title XVI Title XVI Water Reclamation and Reuse program U.S.C. United States Code USACE United States Army Corps of Engineers USFWS U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service WIIN Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation Act WaterSMART Sustain and Manage America’s Resources for Tomorrow

Contents ix

Contents Page

Synopsis .................................................................................................................................... iii Application Checklist ................................................................................................................ v Acronyms and Abbreviations .................................................................................................. vii Section A. Funding Opportunity Description

A.1. Program Information A.2. Objective of this Funding Opportunity Announcement A.3. Statutory Authority A.4. Other Funding Opportunities

Section B. Award Information B.1. Total Program Funding B.2. Project Funding Limitations B.3. Assistance Instrument

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

C.2.1. Cost-Share Regulations C.2.2. Third-Party In-Kind Contributions

C.3. Eligible Projects C.3.1 Eligible Projects C.3.2. Ineligible Projects C.3.3. Length of Projects

Section D. Application and Submission Information D.1. Address to Request Application Package D.2. Content and Form of Application Submission

D.2.1. Application Format and Length D.2.2. Application Content

D.2.2.1. Mandatory Federal Forms SF-424 Application for Federal Assistance SF-424 Budget Information SF-424 Assurances

SF-LLL

D.2.2.2. Title Page D.2.2.3. Table of Contents D.2.2.4. Technical Proposal and Evaluation Criteria

Executive Summary Technical Project Description Evaluation Criteria

D.2.2.5. Environmental and Cultural Resources Compliance D.2.2.6. Required Permits or Approvals D.2.2.7. Project Budget

Funding Plan and Letters of Commitment Budget Proposal Budget Narrative x

D.2.2.8. Letters of Support D.2.2.9. Official Resolution

D.3. Unique Entity Identifier and System for Award Management D.4. Submission Date and Time

D.4.1. Application Delivery Instructions D.4.2. Instructions for Submission of Project Application

D.4.2.1. Applications Submitted by Mail, Express Delivery or Courier Services D.4.2.2. Applications Submitted Electronically D.4.2.3. Acknowledgement of Application Receipt

D.5. Intergovernmental Review D.6. Funding Restrictions: Pre-award Costs D.7. Automated Standard Application for Payments Registration

Section E. Application Review Information E.1. Technical Proposal: Evaluation Criteria

E.1.1. Evaluation Criterion 1—Water Supply (35 points) Subcriterion No. 1a—Stretching Water Supplies (18 points) Subcriterion No.1b—Contributions to Water Supply Reliability (17 points)

E.1.2. Evaluation Criterion 2—Environment and Water Quality (12 points) E.1.3. Evaluation Criterion 3—Economic Benefits (35 points)

Subcriterion No. 3a—Cost Effectiveness (10 points) Subcriterion No. 3b—Economic Analysis and Project Benefits (25 points)

E.1.4. Evaluation Criterion 4— Department of the Interior and Bureau of Reclamation Priorities (10 points)

Department Priorities Reclamation Priorities

E.1.5. Evaluation Criterion 5—Reclamation’s Obligations and Benefits to Rural or Economically Disadvantaged Communities (8 points)

Subcriterion No. 5a—Legal and Contractual Water Supply Obligations (4 Points) Subcriterion No. 5b—Benefits to Rural or Economically Disadvantaged Communities (4 Points)

E.1.6. Evaluation Criterion 6—Watershed Perspective (10 Points) E.2. Review and Selection Process

E.2.1. Initial Screening E.2.2. Application Review Committee Evaluation E.2.3. Red-Flag Review E.2.4. Managerial Review E.2.5. Pre-Award Clearances and Approvals

E.2.5.1. Environmental and Cultural Review E.2.5.2. Budget Analysis and Business Evaluation

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.2.1. Environmental and Cultural Resources Compliance F.2.2. Approvals and Permits F.2.3. Reclamation Administrative Costs F.2.4. Real Property, 2 CFR §200.311 xi

F.3. Reporting Requirements and Distribution F.3.1. Financial Reports F.3.2. Interim Performance Reports F.3.3. Final Performance Report

F.4. Conflicts of Interest F.4.1. Applicability F.4.2. Requirements F.4.3. Notification F.4.4. Restrictions on Lobbying F.4.5. Review Procedures F.4.6. Enforcement

F.5. Data Availability F.5.1. Applicability F.5.2. Use of Data F.5.3. Availability of Data

F.6. Releasing Applications Section G. Agency Contacts

G.1. Reclamation Financial Assistance Contact G.2. Reclamation Program Coordinator Contact

Section H. Other Information H.1. National Environmental Policy Act H.2. National Historic Preservation Act H.3. Endangered Species Act

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, the Bureau of Reclamation (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’s priorities, including creating a legacy of conservation stewardship, sustainably developing our energy and natural resources, modernizing our infrastructure through public- private partnerships, and restoring trust with local communities by improving relationships and communication with states, tribes, local governments, communities, landowners and water users. WaterSMART also supports Reclamation’s priorities, including increasing water supplies, leveraging science and technology to improve water supply reliability, addressing ongoing drought, and improving water supplies for tribal and rural communities.

Through the Title XVI Water Reclamation and Reuse Program (Title XVI), authorized by Public Law (P.L.) 102-575 in 1992, Reclamation provides financial and technical assistance to local water agencies for the planning, design, and construction of water reclamation and reuse projects. Water recycling is a tool in stretching the limited water supplies in the Western United States. Title XVI projects develop and supplement urban and irrigation water supplies through water reuse, thereby improving efficiency, providing flexibility during water shortages, and diversifying the water supply. Through the Title XVI Program, Reclamation provides funding to facilitate investment in technology and enables broader scale use of recycled water which supports the goals of the October 19, 2018 Presidential Memorandum on Promoting the Reliable Supply and Delivery of Water in the West. These projects provide growing communities with new sources of clean water which increases water management flexibility and makes our water supply more reliable. Title XVI water projects are an important part of the WaterSMART Program. For further information on the WaterSMART Program, see https://www.usbr.gov/watersmart/.

https://www.usbr.gov/watersmart/

A.2. Objective of this Funding Opportunity Announcement The objective of this FOA is to invite sponsors of congressionally authorized water reclamation and reuse projects (Projects) to request cost-shared funding for the planning, design, and/or construction of those Projects. A separate FOA for projects eligible under section 4009(c) of the Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation (WIIN) Act, P.L. 114-322, will be released later this year.

A.3. Statutory Authority This FOA is issued under the authority of Title XVI of Public Law 102-575, as amended (43 United States Code [U.S.C.] 390h).

A.4. Other Funding Opportunities WaterSMART: Title XVI Congressionally Authorized Water Reclamation and Reuse Projects - Through this FOA, funding is available for planning, design, and construction of Title XVI Projects specifically authorized for funding under Title XVI of P.L. 102-575, as amended (43 U.S.C. 390h through 390h-39).

WaterSMART: Title XVI WIIN Water Reclamation and Reuse Projects - Through this FOA, funding is available for planning, design, and construction of Title XVI Projects eligible under Section 4009(c) of the WIIN Act.

WaterSMART: Title XVI Water Reclamation and Reuse Research - Through this FOA, funding is available for research activities that seek to address water supply challenges by establishing or expanding the use of water reclamation and reuse, improving existing water reuse facilities, and/or streamlining the implementation of state-of-the-art technology for new facilities.

WaterSMART: Desalination Construction Projects Under the WIIN Act - Through this FOA, funding is available for planning, design, and construction of desalination projects eligible under Section 4009(a) of the WIIN Act.

Desalination and Water Purification Research and Development: Laboratory and Pilot Scale Projects - Through this FOA, funding is available for laboratory and pilot scale research studies to determine the viability of a novel process, new materials, or process modifications in conjunction with individuals, institutions of higher education, commercial or industrial organizations, private entities, public entities (including state and local), and Indian tribal governments.

Desalination and Water Purification Research and Development: Pitch to Pilot - Through this FOA, funding is available to develop innovative and disruptive new technologies or processes at the pilot scale with the goal to augment water supplies and address costs, energy usage, and environmental impacts of water treatment technologies.

Section B. Award Information

B.1. Total Program Funding The amount of funding available under this FOA will be based on final appropriations for each fiscal year.

B.2. Project Funding Limitations The Federal share (i.e., Reclamation’s share in addition to any other sources of Federal funding), of any Title XVI Project, including any funding provided as a result of this FOA, shall not exceed 25 percent of the total Project cost.

Eligible applicants are invited to request funding for planning, design, and/or construction of Projects. Although the evaluation criteria listed in this FOA will be applied to the Project as a whole, funding requests submitted under this FOA must be based on the expenditures already incurred or planned to be incurred by September 30, 2023 for fiscal year (FY) 2020 funding.

This may include work:

• Planned through September 30, 2023 for FY 2020 funding

• Completed work that was conducted after the date of the project’s congressional authorization.

This FOA will be updated to provide project funding limitations in FY 2021, contingent on appropriations.

All costs incurred by Reclamation related to the development and administration of any award under this FOA are considered part of the total Project costs, and the recipient will be required to provide cost share for these costs. All Reclamation administrative costs will also be included in the Federal cost share for the Project.

B.3. Assistance Instrument Awards will be made through a grant or cooperative agreement as applicable to the selected 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. Note: The development and administration of an award under this FOA is not considered substantial involvement.

• 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 an agreement. If you would like to receive Reclamation technical 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

C.1. Eligible Applicants Sponsors of any one of the 53 Title XVI Projects specifically authorized by the Title XVI Act;

provided that the Title XVI Project has not reached its Federal funding ceiling as specified in the Title XVI Act. For a list of authorized projects please visit the Title XVI website https://www.usbr.gov/watersmart/title/authorized.html. A separate FOA open to sponsors of projects eligible under section 4009(c) of the WIIN Act will be released later this year.

C.2. Cost-Sharing Requirements Applicants must be capable of cost sharing 75 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 Sections D.2.2.7. Project Budget and D.2.2.9. Official Resolution 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 the Electronic Code of Federal Regulations www.ecfr.gov.

https://www.usbr.gov/watersmart/title/authorized.html https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/ECFR?page=browse

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 The planning, design, and construction of water reclamation and reuse facilities that are components of a congressionally authorized Title XVI Project. If the funding requested will be used for construction activities, the Project must have a completed Feasibility Study that has been reviewed by Reclamation and found to meet all of the requirements of Reclamation Manual Directives and Standards WTR 11-01, Title XVI Water Reclamation and Reuse Program and Desalination Construction Program Feasibility Study Review Process, by the date this FOA is posted.

Note: Some Title XVI Projects authorized prior to 1996 are exempt from this requirement.

C.3.2. Ineligible Projects Projects not eligible for funding under this FOA include, but are not limited to:

• Projects that do not have a project specific congressional authorization

• Projects eligible under Section 4009(c) of the WIIN Act (A separate FOA for projects eligible under section 4009(c) of the WIIN Act will be released later this year.)

• Projects eligible under Section 4009(a) of the WIIN Act (A separate FOA for projects eligible under Section 4009(a) of the WIIN Act will be released later this year.)

• Congressionally authorized projects which have already reached the specified Federal funding ceiling for the authorization

• Operations, maintenance, and replacement (OM&R) activities. 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:

o Replacing malfunctioning components of an existing facility with the same components o Improving an existing facility to operate as originally designed https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/ECFR?page=browse o Performing an activity on a recurring basis, even if that period is extended (e.g., 10-year interval) o Sealing expansion joints of concrete lining because the original sealer or the water stops have failed o Replacing broken meters with new meters of the same type o Replacing leaky pipes with new pipes of the same type o 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.

C.3.3. Length of Projects Applicants can only request funding for work that is already completed (going back to the pre-award cost deadlines identified in Sections B.2. Project Funding Limitations and D.6. Funding Resetrictions: Pre-Award Costs of this FOA) or work that is planned through September 30, 2023 for FY 2020 funding. This FOA will be updated to provide project funding limitations in FY 2021, contingent on appropriations. The work that funding is being requested for must be ready to proceed within a reasonable amount of time once a financial assistance agreement is in place.

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: Ms. Catherine Reed P.O. Box 25007, MS 84-27814 Denver, CO 80225

By e-mail: creed@usbr.gov

By telephone: 303-445-2461

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 total application package shall be no more than 75 consecutively numbered pages. If an application exceeds 75 pages, only the first 75 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. Oversized pages will not be accepted. Margins should be standard 1-inch margins.

The technical proposal and evaluation criteria section shall be limited to a maximum of 50 pages.

The SF-424 forms, SF-LLL, letters of Project support, and official resolution will not be considered in the total page count.

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.

mailto:creed@usbr.gov

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-424C Budget Information—Construction Programs o SF-424D Assurances—Construction Programs o SF-LLL Disclosure of Lobbying Activities (if applicable)

SF-424, SF-424C, SF-424D, and SF-LLL 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 Technical project 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 (will not count toward the page limitation)

• Official resolution (will not count toward the page limitation)

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

SF-424 Application for Federal Assistance 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.

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

SF-424 Budget Information A fully completed SF-424C Budget Information—Construction Programs must be submitted with the application

SF-424 Assurances 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 Section G. Agency Contacts. Failure to submit a properly signed SF-424D may result in the elimination of the application from further consideration.

SF-LLL

A fully completed and signed SF-LLL Disclosure of Lobbying Activities 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

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) Technical Project description

(3) Evaluation criteria

Executive Summary The executive summary should include:

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

• A one paragraph summary of the work for which funding is being requested, including how funds will be used to accomplish specific Project activities.

Technical Project Description The technical project description should describe the Project in its entirety. This description shall have sufficient detail to permit a comprehensive evaluation of the proposal.

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. The evaluation criteria should be applied to the entire Project.

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. Environmental and Cultural Resources Compliance To allow Reclamation to assess the probable environmental and cultural resources impacts and costs associated with each application, all applicants must respond to the following list of questions focusing on the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA), and Endangered Species Act (ESA) requirements. Please answer the following questions to the best of your knowledge. If any question is not applicable to the Project, please explain why. The application should include the answers to:

• Will the proposed Project impact the surrounding environment (e.g., soil [dust], air, water [quality and quantity], animal habitat)? Please briefly describe all earth-disturbing work and any work that will affect the air, water, or animal habitat in the Project area.

Please also explain the impacts of such work on the surrounding environment and any steps that could be taken to minimize the impacts.

• Are you aware of any species listed or proposed to be listed as a Federal threatened or endangered species, or designated critical habitat in the Project area? If so, would they be affected by any activities associated with the proposed Project?

• Are there wetlands or other surface waters inside the Project boundaries that potentially fall under Clean Water Act (CWA) jurisdiction as “Waters of the United States”? If so, please describe and estimate any impacts the proposed Project may have.

• When was the water delivery system constructed?

• Will the proposed Project result in any modification of or effects to, individual features of an irrigation system (e.g., headgates, canals, or flumes)? If so, state when those features were constructed and describe the nature and timing of any extensive alterations or modifications to those features completed previously.

• Are any buildings, structures, or features in the irrigation district listed or eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic Places? A cultural resources specialist at your local Reclamation office or the State Historic Preservation Office can assist in answering this question.

• Are there any known archeological sites in the proposed Project area?

• Will the proposed Project have a disproportionately high and adverse effect on low income or minority populations?

• Will the proposed Project limit access to and ceremonial use of Indian sacred sites or result in other impacts on tribal lands?

• Will the proposed Project contribute to the introduction, continued existence, or spread of noxious weeds or non-native invasive species known to occur in the area?

Note: if mitigation is required to lessen environmental impacts, the applicant may, at Reclamation’s discretion, be required to report on progress and completion of these commitments. Reclamation will coordinate with the applicant to establish reporting requirements and intervals accordingly.

Under no circumstances may an applicant begin any ground-disturbing activities (including grading, clearing, and other preliminary activities) on a Project before environmental compliance is complete and Reclamation explicitly authorizes work to proceed. This pertains to all components of the proposed Project, including those that are part of the applicant’s non-Federal cost-share. Reclamation will provide a successful applicant with information once environmental compliance is complete. An applicant that proceeds before environmental compliance is complete may risk forfeiting Reclamation funding under this FOA.

D.2.2.6. Required Permits or Approvals Applicants must state in the application whether any permits or approvals are required and explain the plan for obtaining such permits or approvals.

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 P.L. 111-11, Section 9504(a)(3)(B). Reclamation may also require additional reviews and approvals prior to award to ensure that any necessary easements, land use authorizations, or special permits can be approved consistent with the requirements of 43 CFR §429, and that the development will not impact or impair project operations or efficiency.

D.2.2.7. Project Budget The project budget includes:

(1) Funding plan and letters of commitment

(2) Budget proposal

(3) Budget narrative

Funding Plan and Letters of Commitment Describe how the non-Federal share of Project costs will be provided.

The funding plan should include all planning, design, and construction costs for the Project components and activities that will be completed under an award under this FOA. The funding plan must 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:

• The project expenditure and amount

• The date of cost incurrence

• How the expenditure benefits the Project

Please include the following chart (Table 1) to summarize all funding sources. Denote in-kind contributions with an asterisk (*).

Table 1.—Summary of Non-Federal and Federal Funding Sources

FUNDING SOURCES AMOUNT

Non-Federal Entities

1.

2.

3.

Non-Federal Subtotal

Other Federal Entities

1.

2.

3.

Other Federal Subtotal

REQESTED RECLAMATION FUNDING

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.

Note: Applicants are not required to have non-Federal cost-share funding secured for the entire Project at the time of award. Applicants must demonstrate sufficient evidence that non-Federal cost-share for the initial Federal obligation will be available at the time of award and must describe a plan and schedule for securing the remaining non-Federal cost share funding for 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. The budget proposal should include detailed information on the categories listed below and must clearly identify all Project costs, 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.

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 $

Table 2.—Sample Budget Proposal Format

BUDGET ITEM DESCRIPTION

COMPUTATION Quantity

Type

TOTAL

COST $/Unit Quantity

Supplies and Materials Item A $ Item B $ Contractual/Construction Contractor A $ Contractor 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 position. 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 the final Project and evaluation. Please see Section F.3. Reporting Requirements and Distribution for information on types and frequency of reports required.

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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. Note:

Travel costs incurred by contractors should not be included in this section, but these costs can be included in the contract cost estimate.

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 work proposed for funding 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 purchased 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, past experience, engineering estimates, or other methodology). Note: If the materials/supplies will be furnished and installed under a construction contract, the equipment should be included in the construction contract cost estimate.

Contractual Identify all work that will be accomplished by subrecipients, 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 http://www.publications.usace.army.mil/USACE-Publications/Engineer-Pamphlets/u43545q/313131302D312D38 http://www.publications.usace.army.mil/USACE-Publications/Engineer-Pamphlets/u43545q/313131302D312D38 selection. Please note that all contracts with an anticipated value of $10,000 or more must use a competitive procurement method. 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 Identify all work that will be accomplished by third-party contributors, 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. Third-party in- kind contributions, including contracts, must comply with all applicable administrative and cost principles criteria, established in 2 CFR Part 200, available at www.ecfr.gov, and all other requirements of this FOA.

Environmental and Regulatory Compliance Costs Prior to awarding financial assistance, Reclamation must first ensure compliance with Federal environmental and cultural resources laws and other regulations (“environmental compliance”).

Every project funded under this program will have environmental compliance costs associated with activities undertaken by Reclamation and the recipient.

To estimate environmental compliance costs, please contact compliance staff at your local Reclamation Office for additional details regarding the type and costs of compliance that may be required for your project. Note, support for your compliance costs estimate will be considered during review of your application. See Section G. Agency Contacts of this FOA for a list of Reclamation staff by region to contact regarding compliance costs and requirements.

Environmental compliance costs are considered project costs and must be included as a line item in the project budget and will be cost shared accordingly. The amount of the line item should be based on the actual expected environmental compliance costs for the project, including Reclamation’s cost to review environmental compliance documentation.

Environmental compliance costs will vary based on project type, location, and potential impacts to the environment and cultural resources.

How environmental compliance activities will be performed (e.g., by Reclamation, the applicant, or a consultant) and how the environmental compliance funds will be spent, will be determined pursuant to subsequent agreement between Reclamation and the applicant. The amount of funding required for Reclamation to conduct any environmental compliance activities, including Reclamation’s cost to review environmental compliance documentation, will be withheld from the Federal award amount and placed in an environmental compliance account to cover such costs. If any portion of the funds budgeted for environmental compliance is not required for compliance activities, such funds may be reallocated to the project, if appropriate.

Costs associated with environmental and regulatory compliance must be included in the budget.

Compliance costs include costs associated with any required documentation of environmental compliance, analyses, permits, or approvals. Applicable Federal environmental laws could include the NEPA, ESA, NHPA, CWA, and other regulations depending on the project. Such costs may include, but are not limited to:

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• The cost incurred by Reclamation to determine the level of environmental compliance required for the project

• The cost incurred by Reclamation, the recipient, or a consultant to prepare any necessary environmental compliance documents or reports

• The cost incurred by Reclamation to review any environmental compliance documents prepared by a consultant

• The cost incurred by the recipient in acquiring any required approvals or permits, or in implementing any required mitigation measures

Other Expenses Any other expenses not included in the above categories shall be listed in this category, along with a description of the item and why it is necessary. No profit or fee will be allowed.

Indirect Costs Indirect costs that will be incurred during the development or construction of a Project, which will not otherwise be recovered, may be included as part of the applicant’s Project budget. Show the proposed rate, cost base, and proposed amount for allowable indirect costs based on the applicable cost principles for the recipient’s organization. It is not acceptable to simply incorporate indirect rates within other direct cost line items.

If the applicant has never received a Federal negotiated indirect cost rate, the budget may include a de minimis rate of up to 10 percent of modified total direct costs. For further information on modified total direct costs, refer to 2 CFR§200.68 available at https://www.ecfr.gov.

If the applicant does not have a federally approved indirect cost rate agreement and is proposing a rate greater than the de minimis 10 percent rate, include the computational basis for the indirect expense pool and corresponding allocation base for each rate. Information on “Preparing and Submitting Indirect Cost Proposals” is available from the Department’s Interior Business Center, and Indirect Cost Services, at www.doi.gov/ibc/services/finance/indirect-cost-services.

If the proposed project is selected for award, the recipient will be required to submit an indirect cost rate proposal with their cognizant agency within 3 months of award.

Total Costs Indicate total amount of Project costs, including the Federal and non-Federal cost share amounts.

D.2.2.8. Letters of Support Please include letters from interested stakeholders supporting the Project. To ensure your proposal is accurately reviewed, please attach all letters of support/ partnership letters as an appendix. (Note: This will not count against the application page limit.) Letters of support received after the application deadline for this FOA will not be considered in the evaluation of the proposal.

https://www.ecfr.gov/ https://www.doi.gov/ibc/services/finance/indirect-cost-services

D.2.2.9. Official Resolution Include an official resolution adopted by the applicant’s board of directors or governing body, or, for State government entities, a signed statement from an official authorized to commit…