program announcement-r.docx

UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT

OF THE INTERIOR

U.S. GEOLOGICAL SURVEY

-- EDMAP --

The Educational Component of the National Cooperative Geologic Mapping Program

Authorized by The National Geologic Mapping Reauthorization Act of 2009 (Public Law 111-11)

PROGRAM ANNOUNCEMENT No. G13AS00007

For Fiscal Year 2013

ISSUE DATE: September 24, 2012

CLOSING DATE & TIME

November 14, 2012 at 3:00 p.m. EST

PLEASE READ THE ENTIRE ANNOUNCEMENT CAREFULLY AND NOTE ANY CHANGES

Paperwork Reduction Act Approval – OMB control number 1028-0088; Expiration Date 8/31/2015

USGS-NCGMP 2013 EDMAP PROGRAM ANNOUNCEMENT No. G13AS00007

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page

Table of Contents i

List of Attachments ii

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

PART II. Timetables, Eligibility, Format Instructions, and Proposal Evaluation 3

PART III. Proposal Delivery and Submission Instructions 10

PART IV. General Provisions 11

LIST OF ATTACHMENTS

Proposal Submission Forms and their Instructions

A. EDMAP Proposal Summary Sheet

B. Budget Sheets (Total Proposal and Individual Projects)

C. Special Terms and Conditions

Program and Financial Contact Information

D. State Geological Surveys - Contact Information

E. USGS Project - Contacts Information

F. Forms required during and at the end of the project period

SF-425 – Federal Financial Report (due at the end of project period and submitted electronically through FedConnect) ii

USGS-NCGMP 2013 EDMAP PROGRAM ANNOUNCEMENT NO. G13AS00007

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

A. The National Geologic Mapping Act The 102nd Congress recognized that the USGS and the State Geological Surveys needed a coordinated program to prioritize the geologic mapping requirements of the Nation, and to increase production of these geologic maps. The National Geologic Mapping Act (Public Law 102-285) was signed into law in 1992 and created the National Cooperative Geologic Mapping Program. The Act has been re-authorized three times since then, most recently by the 111th Congress in 2009 (Public Law 111-11, sec. 11001). The Act recognizes that geologic maps are the primary database for virtually all applied and basic earth-science investigations. To read copies of the original act and the two reauthorizations, visit: http://ncgmp.usgs.gov/about/

The objectives of the National Cooperative Geologic Mapping Program (NCGMP) as outlined in the Act are to:

1. Determine the Nation’s geologic framework through the systematic development of geologic maps; such maps will contribute to the National Geologic Map Database.

2. Develop complementary national databases (e.g., geophysical and paleontologic databases) that provide value-added information to the National Geologic Map Database.

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

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

For more information about the future goals of the NCGMP, our NCGMP 5-Year Plan is available at: http://ncgmp.usgs.gov/about/

B. EDMAP Component of the NCGMP

The primary objective of the EDMAP component of the NCGMP is to train the next generation of geologic mappers. To do this NCGMP provides funds for graduate and undergraduate students in academic research projects that involve geologic mapping as a major component. Through cooperative agreements NCGMP hopes to expand the research and educational capacity of academic programs that teach earth science students the techniques of geologic mapping and field data analysis. Another important goal is to increase the level of communication between the Nation’s geologic surveys (both the USGS and State Geological Surveys) and geologic mappers in the academic community. We hope that this improved communication will have two results: 1) that the academic mapping community will learn more about the societal needs that drive geologic mapping projects at the USGS and State Geologic Surveys, and 2) more geologic maps produced in academia will eventually be made available to the public.

Since 2012, EDMAP has funded over 1000 students from 144 universities. The success of the Program is apparent in that 95% of student respondents to an annual survey either received jobs in geoscience fields or pursued further degrees. The Program tracks students 3 years after completion of their EDMAP project to evaluate the success of the program.

For more information about the USGS NCGMP EDMAP program please visit: http://ncgmp.usgs.gov/about/edmap.html

EDMAP Proposals

Only one proposal will be accepted from an individual Principal Investigator (PI) (Professor or faculty advisor), although more than one proposal will be accepted from a single university if authored by different Principal Investigators. The Principal Investigator is required to write and submit the proposal. The primary emphasis of the proposal must be on student mapping in the field. All proposals must inform or coordinate with a State Geological Survey or a Project in the USGS National Cooperative Geologic Mapping Program or other USGS projects that have a significant geologic mapping component. (To obtain contact information for State Geological Surveys see Attachment D or visit: http://www.stategeologists.org/.; to obtain contact information for USGS Projects see Attachment E or visit http://ncgmp.usgs.gov/about/fedmap.html.) Even if you do not seek active participation by the State Geological Survey or the USGS, letting them know that you are planning a project in their state or field area fulfills this requirement. As part of this coordination and planning process, the method of eventual geologic map publication should be discussed very early in the planning process. However, receiving EDMAP funds does not constitute a guaranteed publication of any map. A written letter of acknowledgement or support from a State Geologist or USGS Project Chief must also accompany all proposals.

Geologic Map Products

A geologic map is defined as a map that depicts the geographic distribution at the earth’s surface of bedrock and/or surficial geologic materials and structures, on a published base map showing topography, hydrography, culture, cadastral, and other base information. Digital geologic maps may also contain a great variety of point data for specific sites, creating a 3-dimensional database. A geologic map should include: (1) a clear and legible base (include base map credit and map projection), (2) scale and contour interval, (3) north arrow and magnetic declination, (4) title, authorship, publisher, and date, (5) location index map, (6) field data or field data stations, (7) description of map units, (8) explanation of map symbols, and (9) unit symbols on map. A geologic map may also include correlation or sequence of map units, stratigraphic columns, cross sections, and text. Examples of items or maps that are not considered appropriate substitutes for geologic maps include: structure contour maps, isopach maps, stratigraphic and/or facies diagrams, aquifer maps, gravity or magnetic anomaly maps, and element-distribution geochemical maps. If these types of derivative maps are to be produced, they must be in addition to a basic geologic map deliverable.

Deliverable geologic maps will consist of new data acquired during the award period and should be at a scale of 1:24,000 or larger. If smaller scale geologic mapping is proposed, it should be well justified. It is hoped that students will learn the techniques of detailed field mapping, and in most cases reconnaissance mapping and compilation is not considered appropriate. Emphasis is on the development of new geologic maps. Principal Investigators must plan mapping projects in coordination with other mapping projects in your field area since the NCGMP will not fund two maps (quadrangles) of equitable scale from both EDMAP and STATEMAP programs.

Note: New for FY 2013

This year we will begin the transition of all EDMAP deliverables to be delivered as a high quality digital Portable Document Format (PDF or GeoPDF) files. At the end of an awarded cooperative agreement period of performance, a color version of your EDMAP deliverable is required to be transmitted either by mail or electronically to the EDMAP Program Coordinator at the address shown in Part IV, Section F. Current options for delivery are by CD/DVD media via mail, FTP, DropBox, or email for smaller files. The exception to the new requirement is only for interim geologic maps that may not be complete by the end of the first field season. These geologic maps may be submitted in paper format as draft “field sheet” quality as long as there is clear evidence that the student has made significant progress.

At the discretion of the Principal Investigator, geologic maps submitted to the EDMAP program can be made available to the public, via the National Geologic Map Database's Map Catalog (NGMDB) (http://ngmdb.usgs.gov/), which currently provides access to more than 83,000 geoscience publications. At that website, EDMAP map images can be made available for viewing, PDFs and images can be available for download, and GIS files can be archived. An example from the NGMDB of an EDMAP student geologic map can be found at: http://ngmdb.usgs.gov/Prodesc/proddesc_81551.htm

To assist the student and Principal Investigator in map preparation, a Digital Cartographic Resources website is available at: http://ngmdb.usgs.gov/Info/cartores/. It is recommended that it be used as one starting point for preparation of the EDMAP product. Suggestions for improving that website are welcomed by contacting Dave Soller (drsoller@usgs.gov).

PART II. Timetables, Eligibility, Format Instructions, and Proposal Evaluation A. Timetables Proposal Announcement Date: September 24, 2012.

Closing Date and Time for Proposal Submission: November 14, 2012 @ 3:00 p.m. (EST)

B. Eligibility - Who May Submit a Proposal

U.S. accredited university Geoscience or related departments are eligible for EDMAP funds. University professors must write and submit the proposals. EDMAP cooperative agreements are intended to fund graduate (Masters and Doctoral) and upper level (junior and senior) undergraduate students conducting geologic mapping in the field. Undergraduate students must have received mineralogy, petrology and structural geology training prior to the time they are to begin the proposed geologic mapping project. While it is proper for the Principal Investigator or faculty advisor to ask for some logistical support so that they may be with their student(s) in the field for a credible amount of time, the bulk of the award is intended to support the student’s mapping efforts. EDMAP cooperative agreements do not support faculty salaries nor do they support student tuition.

NOTE: Since the timing of proposal submission comes soon after the beginning of the school year, we appreciate that it is sometimes difficult to identify the student(s) who will do the mapping, especially in the case of new graduate students. Proposals submitted that do not identify the actual students who will do the mapping is allowed. However, the name and vitae (qualifications) of ALL students must be submitted to the USGS, before the Office of Acquisition and Grants formally issues the cooperative agreement. This should give professors two or more extra months to identify student mappers. It is preferred that most students will be identified in the original proposals. Finally, even if the name and vitae of the student(s) is not included in the proposal, it must be made clear whether the student is an undergraduate, a Masters, or a Doctoral student. Otherwise the Proposal Evaluation Panel will not be able to determine if the students are qualified to do the described level of work.

Universities that have been previously funded under EDMAP must be in compliance with requirements specified in previous EDMAP awards and must have no outstanding deliverables (geologic maps and technical reports) due. Failure to meet previous award requirements will be grounds for ineligibility.

Student Eligibility

Students are eligible for two years of EDMAP funding. Although the program envisions that students may be funded for two consecutive field seasons, a student may also be proposed from two different institutions, degrees, or Principal Investigators. However, the student is only eligible for two years of funding cumulatively. The Principal Investigator must indicate in the proposal if the student has received any prior EDMAP funding.

C. Proposal Format Instructions

Proposals must be arranged according to the format provided below. Following this format ensures that every proposal contains all essential information, and is evaluated equitably. All documents must be submitted as a Portable Document Format (PDF) file. Please organize your documents in the following order and combine them into one PDF file for submission.

All proposals must include the following documents:

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

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

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

4. Negotiated Rate Agreement. Most States and Universities have a rate agreement. They are usually titled “State and Local Rate Agreement” or “Colleges and Universities Rate Agreement.” The document provides the rates approved for use on grants, contracts and other agreements with the Federal Government. Some may have an individual audit agency review and provide an agreement. It is basically the documentation that is used that determines the indirect cost rate that is listed on your budget. You can include this as an attachment at the end of your proposal. If your university requests fringe benefits or indirect costs this agreement is required to verify rates.

5. Support letter from State Geologist or USGS Project Chief. A letter of acknowledgement or support from the State Geologist in the state that you are proposing to conduct field mapping or a USGS Project Chief is mandatory. It is highly recommended that discussions occur with the State Geologist and/or the USGS Project Chief prior to the request of a letter of support. Informing them of your proposed field mapping and research is of benefit to everyone. If other organizations are supporting your proposed project, letters of support are welcome. To find a list of State Geologists and USGS Project Chiefs please refer to Attachments D and E of this program announcement.

6. EDMAP Proposal Summary Sheet (Attachment A).

7. Proposal Technical Section. This section of the proposal is limited to 10 single-spaced pages, no smaller than 11-point font size, and 1-inch margins. Remember that a graphic is worth a thousand words, and the Proposal Evaluation Panel has many proposals to read. The 10-page limit includes all text, figures, references, and vitae. (The attachments and budget sheets are not included in the 10-page limit.) Exceeding the page limit will not be to your benefit. The technical section of your proposal includes the following:

a. Abstract. The abstract must be no more than 350 words and include: (1) a statement of purpose, objective, or hypothesis, (2) research methods to accomplish the goal, (3) expected scientific or societal impacts of your research, (4) expected conclusions or outcomes, and (5) identify the state and quadrangle or areas that you will be mapping in. Please be clear and concise to briefly describe what you propose to do in your project. Do not include personal information. This abstract will be used to report EDMAP cooperative agreement awardees and post to the USGS EDMAP website.

b. Introduction. The introduction is a brief description of the problem and background. Particular reference should be made to any earlier mapping, or mapping going on nearby at present time. If the student has received an EDMAP award in a previous year, results of that work should be briefly summarized in a paragraph. Please state if this project is a significant part of a thesis. The introduction is a good place to discuss coordination with a state geological survey or USGS.

c. Location and geologic setting. A clear, readable map (with scale) showing the location (with coordinates) of your project area or quadrangle should accompany the text. Remember that the Proposal Evaluation Panel may not know your proposed field area’s geography as well as you.

d. Purpose and Justification. This section should answer a few simple, but important questions. Why are you doing this mapping? What scientific questions are you addressing? What benefits will society receive from the mapping? It is helpful to include basic science benefits as well as the applied science. If you have previously proposed similar research it is to your benefit to convey how the current proposal ties into it and how it is different. It is best to avoid boilerplate proposals from year-to-year.

e. Strategy for Performing the Geologic Mapping. This section should explain how you plan to achieve the scientific results presented in the previous section through geologic mapping. A short discussion about the digital cartography and GIS component of the mapping is also beneficial. If the objectives can only be accomplished with the support of drilling, or other support investigations such as geochronology or geochemistry, please describe these activities here. Keep in mind that most of the budget request should go toward getting the student in the field, and that these support investigations should be a limited percentage of the overall request.

f. Timetable and mentoring strategy. Provide a realistic timetable and approach for completing the mapping project. A table embedded in your proposal can be a clear and concise way of conveying this information. Explain how much time the Principal Investigator/faculty advisor will spend in the field with the student and what his/her specific role will be. Clearly discuss how the Principal Investigator/faculty advisor will mentor the student before, during, and after the fieldwork. If the student has experience in geologic mapping (for example, a second year EDMAP student), then explain why you may have a more flexible mentoring schedule versus working with a junior or senior undergraduate student. Will there be any student interaction with or advisement from State Geological Survey staff or USGS scientists? The program considers project review by USGS and State Geological Survey partners an important part of EDMAP Projects and sharing your project plan with them is beneficial.

g. Deliverables. You must provide a list all maps and accompanying technical reports by quadrangle, portion of quadrangle, or area (indicate bounding coordinates), and their scale, that will be produced by this project. This year the EDMAP program is transitioning to digital map and technical report deliverables as discussed in Part I, Section D. Geologic Map Products above. Indicate here what delivery method that you intend to use (CD/DVD by mail, FTP, DropBox, or email for small files) and if you foresee any difficulties in providing digital (PDF or GeoPDF) maps and accompanying technical reports. See Part IV, Section F for more information about Project Deliverables.

h. Project Personnel. Proposed personnel must include the name of Principal Investigator, other supervising professor(s), and student(s). A short biography of each will assist the Proposal Evaluation Panel to judge both the qualifications of the professor(s), and the ability of the student(s) to complete the geologic mapping project. The Principal Investigator should include educational information about the students prior geologic mapping experience (field camp or other mapping projects), and any course work that would help significantly in geologic mapping. The Principal Investigator and other supervising professors should include teaching experience of geologic mapping or related courses, prior geologic mapping publications, and other geologic mapping experience. Clarify if secondary students are field assistants or undergraduate mappers. NCGMP strongly encourages geologic mapping projects to be a team approach to promote safe field practices.

i. Other support. If the student has pending requests for support from other institutions, these requests should be listed.

8. Budget Sheets (Attachment B). Only one budget sheet per proposal is required, but if, for logistical reasons, the budget request for one student is significantly different than another student, it may be useful to submit separate budget sheets. Itemize budget sheets and include rates for salary and travel logistics. If there is a cost item that represents a large proportion of your proposal budget, the Proposal Evaluation Panel will want to know details. Please include a description of the cost share (cash vs. in kind). Examples of cost share (university costs) include the Principal Investigator salary, student salary or assistantships, travel expenses, laboratory analysis, or other non-Federal support. If cost share includes support from another organization outside of the university, include a letter from that organization as evidence.

PLEASE READ EACH CATEGORY DESCRIPTION BELOW AND PROVIDE THE DETAILED BREAKDOWN THAT IS REQUIRED FOR EACH. THIS WILL HELP AVOID POSSIBLE DELAYS IN PROCESSING A FUNDED PROPOSAL, AS AN AWARD WILL NOT BE ISSUED UNTIL ALL REQUIRED INFORMATION IS PROVIDED.

The budget should contain the following:

Note: EDMAP allows the total of Direct and Indirect charges to equal $17,500 for graduate students and $10,000 for undergraduate students per year.

a. Salaries. Include all students (list number of students, salary rate and amount of time on project for each student). Federal EDMAP funds are not intended to support Teaching Assistantships. Research Assistantships are allowed but only for students working exclusively on the proposed geologic mapping project. No faculty salary is allowed.

b. Fringe Benefits. Propose your rates/amounts. If rates are audit approved, include a copy of the audit agreement and/or the name of the audit agency.

c. Field Expenses. Itemize the estimated travel costs (i.e., number of people, number of travel days, per diem rate, mileage rate, airfare or other transportation, and any other travel costs).

d. Miscellaneous. Federal EDMAP funds are not intended for the purchase or rental of capital equipment, such as computers, GPS units, cameras, or other nonexpendable items. Matching funds may be used for this purpose, provided they are directly related and essential to the project. Itemize supplies such as base maps, aerial photographs, petrographic thin sections, film, and other expendable field and office supplies. List any contractual services and associated costs. Use this section to itemize costs that are not identified elsewhere on the budget sheet. (Provide an estimated breakdown to include number and cost for each item.)

e. Non-allowable Expenses

· Tuition and course fees. Federal EDMAP funds are not intended to pay tuition or course fees, and use of tuition waivers as matching funds is not acceptable. Tuition remission is not an acceptable match.

· Teaching assistantships. Federal EDMAP funds are not intended for teaching assistantship salaries. Federal EDMAP funds may be used to support student research assistantships as long as the student is working exclusively on the EDMAP project.

· Professional meetings. Federal EDMAP funds are not intended for travel to professional meetings nor are they an acceptable Federal match.

· Overhead expenses. It is not permissible to use items or facilities (computers, computer facilities, plotters, rock lab, etc.) as match that are already a university/department overhead expense. These items should be covered by indirect costs.

f. Total Direct Charges. Total for items a – d. Total direct charges MUST have a 1:1 Federal/University match. Failure to do so will result in ineligibility.

g. Indirect Charges. Show proposed rate and amount. Proposals must include a copy of the Indirect Negotiated Cost Rate between the institution and the Federal Government. Important Note: The 2009 Reauthorization of the National Geologic Mapping Act (Public Law 111-11) states that the USGS and recipients of EDMAP grants shall not use more than 15.25 percent of Federal funds to pay for indirect, servicing, or program management charges. This is equivalent to 18% of your total direct costs or charges.

Regardless of the University’s federally negotiated indirect cost rate, a University must show a 1:1 match of the total direct costs and no more than 18% on the Federal indirect cost line. Up to 18% of a University’s total direct costs may be used as a University match on the University’s indirect cost line. If a University chooses (or is required) to show a higher than 18% rate on the University’s indirect cost line it can be listed under “uncollected indirect costs” on the University side, the result will be a higher University budget total than the Federal budget total. If the University approved rate is less than 18%, the approved rate must be used.

Please read the statement below carefully to fully understand the matching requirements.

h. Total. Total for items f and g. NOT TO EXCEED $17,500 FOR, FOR EACH GRADUATE STUDENT AND $10,000 FOR UNDERGRADUATES PER YEAR.

PLEASE NOTE THAT THE ABOVE COST CATEGORIES (Direct and Indirect Charges) MUST BE BROKEN DOWN AS DESCRIBED ABOVE.

The following is a summary of what is required in regards to the 1:1 match.

· A 1:1 Federal/University match is required for TOTAL DIRECT CHARGES for each Proposed Individual Project Budget

· A 1:1 Federal/University match is required for TOTAL DIRECT CHARGES on the Proposed Total Budget

· A 1:1 Federal/University match is required for each Proposed Individual Project Budget TOTAL (this includes direct costs and indirect costs)

· A 1:1 Federal/University match is required for the TOTAL on the Proposed Total Budget (this included direct costs and indirect costs)

D. Proposal Evaluation

EDMAP proposals will be reviewed by a 10-member panel in early January. Five (5) members will be professors. Two (2) members will be State Geologists chosen by the Association of American State Geologists. Three (3) members will be USGS geologists, including the EDMAP Program Coordinator who will serve as Chair, and who will choose the other two USGS members. All members will serve 3-year terms. The professors will act as lead reviewers. No panelist may review, or take part in any discussion with other panel members prior to or during a panel meeting about a proposal that originated from her/his university, or for which other potential conflicts of interest are recognized.

Evaluation Criteria. All proposals for funding will be considered using the criteria outlined below. Each reviewer will complete an evaluation form for each proposal reviewed, and these forms will become part of the official proceedings of the Proposal Evaluation Panel meeting. A summary of the review panel comments will be provided to the Principal Investigators for all proposals reviewed. The criteria are:

1. Coordination. What is the degree of coordination between the Principal Investigator and student geologic mapper? Have they discussed or planned their mapping project with the appropriate State Geologist or USGS Project Chief? What is the degree of this coordination? (15 points)

2. Justification. How well does the proposed geologic mapping project answer any significant scientific questions, either pure or applied? How well does the mapping project address a problem that has any significant societal value? (15 points)

3. Technical quality. Are the scientific objectives clearly stated? How well does the proposal stress what is important and new? How does the proposal address necessary support data, such as paleontologic or geochemical information, if that data is critical to the success of the geologic mapping? Does the student appear to be capable of accomplishing the objectives stated, and in the time allowed? (30 points)

4. Mentorship. What is the level of faculty mentoring and will the faculty member be spending adequate time advising the student on geologic mapping techniques and other aspects of the project? How well does the proposal address details on mentoring activities including time before, during, and after the fieldwork? Are geologists from other organizations, such as the USGS or State Geological Surveys, included in the project? (25 points)

5. Budget. Is the proposed budget commensurate with the level of effort required to accomplish the objectives? Is the cost reasonable relative to the anticipated results? Are non-Federal funds or in-kind services available to at least equally match the requested Federal funding amount? (For example, this could consist of documentation showing salary paid or intended to be paid to graduate student for any work relating to the field project. In addition, university stipends for RA (Research Assistant) work paid to the student for any work related to the research project during the year can be used as the university match. Alternatively, match can be shown as money paid to undergraduate field assistants during work on the research project.) Is the budget designed primarily to get the student into the field to learn and conduct geologic mapping? Is the amount of money budgeted to support the faculty advisor modest and reasonable? (15 points) PART III. Proposal Delivery and Submission Instructions

Hard copies of the proposals are no longer required. Applicants are held responsible for the proposal to be electronically submitted into GRANTS.GOV (www.grants.gov) by November 14, 2012 @ 3:00 p.m. (EST). To obtain step by step instructions for GRANTS.GOV please visit the following website: http://www.usgs.gov/contracts/grants/grantsgov.html. Please be aware that the electronic submission system is relatively complex for first-time users and involves several preliminary registration steps to be taken before the proposal can be submitted (go to www.grants.gov and click on the “Get Registered” link in the red Applicants section on the left side of the page). Be advised that it is virtually impossible to begin the process of electronic submission for the first time if you start just a few days before the proposal submission due date. Please contact your Office of Sponsored Programs as they may already have completed the registration process and should work with you to submit the application.

Please allow sufficient time for the proposal to be submitted electronically and allow time for possible computer delays. It is strongly advised not to wait until the last minute for submission. A proposal received after the closing date and time will not be considered for award. If it is determined that a proposal will not be considered due to lateness, the applicant will be so notified immediately.

All grant programs are required to use GRANTS.GOV to advertise program announcements. Any form that is not available online may be submitted as attachments at the end of the proposal through the online application process.

PART IV. General Provisions

A. General Provisions of the National Cooperative Geologic Mapping Program

By accepting Federal assistance, your institution agrees to abide by the provisions of the National Cooperative Geologic Mapping Program.

1. The National Geologic Mapping Act of 2009, Public Law 111-11.

2. OMB Circular A16 Coordination of Surveying and Mapping Activities http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/circulars/a016/a016_rev.html

B. Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Circulars

By accepting Federal assistance, your organization agrees to abide by the applicable OMB Circulars in the expenditure of Federal funds and performance under this program. A university can, however, propose other circulars in their proposal if these circulars are not applicable. Copies of these Circulars can be obtained from the Internet at: http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/circulars/index.html.

1. 2 CFR 220 "Cost Principles for Educational Institutions" (OMB Circular No. A-21)

2. OMB Circular A -110, "Uniform Administrative Requirements for Grants and Other Agreements with Institutions of Higher Education, Hospitals, and Other Nonprofit Organizations”

3. OMB Circular A-133, "Audits of States, Local Governments, and NonProfit Organizations."

C. Rights in technical data

The U.S. Government may publish, reproduce, and use all technical data developed as a result of this assistance award in any manner and for any purpose, without limitation, and may authorize others to do the same. The Program Coordinator agrees to contact the authors of any EDMAP product for review and coordination in the release of technical data. Full credit for authorship will be given. Every effort to protect the scientific integrity of newly gathered data will be made by the EDMAP Program Coordinator.

D. Publication

1. Publication of any map produced under EDMAP is contingent upon final acceptance by the State Geologist and USGS and is not based on having received an award. Publication may be in conventional format in paper copy, reproducible mylar or similar material, and electronic format as digital files on computer readable disk or CD-ROM. Guidelines for publication of digital map products can be found at: http://ngmdb.usgs.gov/Info/standards/dataexch/STATEMAPguidelines.html. Although specifically written for STATEMAP deliverables, it is equally appropriate as an EDMAP guideline. Additional map content and design guidance is available http://ngmdb.usgs.gov/Info/cartores/. Maps with explanatory information submitted to journals, professional organizations, or commercial firms, for publication shall be accompanied by the following notation:

"This map and explanatory information is submitted for publication with the understanding that the United States Government is authorized to reproduce and distribute reprints for governmental use."

2. A copy of each map with all accompanying explanatory information shall be submitted to the Project Officer simultaneously with its submission for publication. If a map has been prepared as an electronic digital data file (or files), the cover letter accompanying the maps should state how a copy of these files could be obtained if needed by either the USGS or state geological survey. One reprint of each map shall be submitted to the Project Officer immediately following publication. One reprint should also be sent to the appropriate state geological survey.

3. Program credit. All geologic maps resulting from any project carried out under this assistance award resulting wholly or in part from the cooperative agreement will bear the following credit statement in the map header, on the title page of an accompanying explanatory text, and in the acknowledgments that accompany the map or any resulting report:

“Support (or partial support) provided by the U.S. Geological Survey, National Cooperative Geologic Mapping Program.” [Include award number and year funded]

4. Disclaimer. All maps and explanatory text submitted for publication by professional societies or commercial firms shall carry the following notation:

"The views and conclusions contained in this document are those of the authors and should not be interpreted as necessarily representing the official policies, either expressed or implied, of the U.S. Government."

E. Funding

1. The EDMAP program is designed to be carried out on a 1:1 Federal/University match. Recipients shall match each Federal dollar with a non-Federal dollar (both direct and indirect costs). The non-Federal share may be contribution of funds or services. Such services can include those related to the student research project or cash provided to contractors. The source(s) of the university contribution must be listed in the proposal. The matching requirement must be met annually. If other non-Federal funds are used as match, a letter or item of evidence should be included with the proposal to support these funds.

2. USGS funds cannot be used for the purchase of equipment.

3. Funds for the 2013 National Cooperative Geologic Mapping Program and in turn, EDMAP funds will not be available until enactment of USGS appropriations. Student awards will be made in the form of cooperative agreements to the supervising faculty member and the institution. Within the total award, a maximum of 15 percent of total direct costs may be included for support of the supervising faculty member. Student mapping projects may last up to two years (a student in eligible for a total of two years of EDMAP funds); awards are only issued one year at a time, and a new proposal must be submitted for competition in the second year. Funding for the first year does not guarantee funding in the second year. We anticipate issuing awards in the spring of 2013 therefore you should plan project start dates between March 15, 2013 and September 15, 2013.

4. If a university or college has been awarded a cooperative agreement for several students, and one or more of those students are unable for any reason to fulfill their geologic mapping project, those funds awarded to the student(s) must be forfeited, and cannot be reallocated to the remaining students doing mapping at that institution.

5. Requests for no-cost extensions shall be forwarded to the Grant Specialist/Contracting Officer for consideration not later than 30 days prior to the effective proposal end date. After discussion with EDMAP Program Coordinator, the Grant Specialist/Contracting Officer will make a final decision on a case-by-case basis and notify the Recipient in writing. Asking for a no-cost extension in no way jeopardizes the success of a future proposal. However, if a Principal Investigator asks for a no-cost extension, it cannot extend past a date 30 days in advance of the EDMAP Proposal Evaluation Panel meeting for the next funding cycle.

SPECIAL NOTE: A cooperative agreement issued by the USGS Office of Acquisition and Grants, approved and released by the USGS Contracting Officer, obligates USGS funds. Notification of a successful proposal does not constitute authority to incur costs. Costs incurred prior to receipt of an approved cooperative agreement will be at the risk of the university. Once the cooperative agreement for a successful proposal has been approved and released through FedConnect by the USGS Contracting Officer, the university may incur costs.

F. Project Deliverables

All geologic map deliverables (geologic map and technical report) must be sent to the EDMAP Program Coordinator at the following address before the last day of the performance period. All geologic maps and accompanying technical reports must include all student authors names (identify funded EDMAP students) and the statement of Program Credit including the award number and year funded (Part IV, Section D3).

U.S. Geological Survey Attn: Douglas A. Howard 908 National Center 12201 Sunrise Valley Drive Reston, Virginia 20192 Email: dahoward@usgs.gov

Note: New requirement for FY 2013

This year we will begin the transition of all EDMAP deliverables to be delivered as a high quality digital Portable Document Format (PDF or GeoPDF) files. At the end of an awarded cooperative agreement period of performance, a color version of your EDMAP deliverable(s) is required to be transmitted either by mail or electronically to the EDMAP Program Coordinator at the address shown above. Current options for delivery are by CD/DVD media via mail, FTP, DropBox, or email for smaller files. First year or interim map products can be of "in progress" or "field sheet" quality, but field data and other map information should be included so an evaluation of the progress of the project can be made.

At the time the geologic map and accompanying technical report are submitted to the EDMAP Program Coordinator, a copy should be sent to the appropriate State Geological Survey for their files.

-- END OF PROGRAM ANNOUNCEMENT –

ATTACHMENT A

USE THE FOLLOWING FORMAT

EDMAP PROPOSAL SUMMARY SHEET

(University/College, City & State)

1. PROPOSED PROJECT TITLE: __________________________________________

2. PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR(s)/SUPERVISING FACULTY:

Name: ___________________________________________________________________ Address: _________________________________________________________________ Phone: ___________________________________________________________________ E-mail: __________________________________________________________________

3. STUDENT NAME(s)/DEGREE PROGRAM: _________________________________________________________________________

4. AUTHORIZED INSTITUTIONAL REPRESENTATIVE

Name: ___________________________________________________________________ Address: _________________________________________________________________ Phone: ___________________________________________________________________ E-mail: __________________________________________________________________

5. LIST OF 7.5-MINUTE QUADRANGLES, OR PARTS OF QUADRANGLES, THAT WILL BE MAPPED IN EACH PART OF THIS PROPOSAL: _____________

6. NAME OF CONTACT/COOPERATOR AT EITHER A STATE GEOLOGICAL SURVEY OR USGS: ______________________________________________________

7. HAS ANY STUDENT ON THIS PROPOSAL RECEIVED PREVIOUS EDMAP SUPPORT?: _____________

Attachment B

USE THE FOLLOWING FORMAT

University: __________________________ Proposal Short Title: ______________________________

National Cooperative Geologic Mapping Program Educational Geologic Mapping Program Element Proposed Total Budget

Note: Must include totals of all requests for MS and PhD funded students from a University or College.

SALARIES:

FRINGE BENEFITS:

Supported by negotiated rate agreement check one:

( ) yes ( ) no

FIELD EXPENSES

MISCELLANEOUS SUPPLIES

*Not to exceed 18% Attachment B

USE THE FOLLOWING FORMAT

University: __________________________ Proposal Short Title: ______________________________ National Cooperative Geologic Mapping Program Educational Geologic Mapping Program Element Proposed Individual Project Budget Note: Must include totals of all requests for MS and PhD funded students from a University or College.

SALARIES:

FRINGE BENEFITS:

Supported by negotiated rate agreement check one:

( ) yes ( ) no

FIELD EXPENSES

MISCELLANEOUS SUPPLIES

* Not to exceed 18%

ATTACHMENT C

I. SPECIAL TERMS AND CONDITIONS

1. Cooperative Agreement Administration

This cooperative agreement will be administered by:

U.S. Geological Survey Office of Acquisition and Grants Kimberly L. Dove, Grants Specialist 12201 Sunrise Valley Drive, MS 211 Reston, VA 20192 Telephone (703) 648-7487

Written communication shall make reference to the Cooperative Agreement number and shall be mailed to the address above or email to kdove@usgs.gov.

2. Consideration

(a) The recipient’s proposal as identified on Page 1, Block 10 is incorporated by reference. The total estimated cost of the USGS share for the performance of this cooperative agreement is the total amount indicated in Block 13. Costs hereunder shall in no event exceed that amount without prior written approval of the CO.

(b) Prior approval of the CO is not required for transfer of funds between direct cost categories when the cumulative amount of the transfers during the performance period does not exceed ten (10) percent of the total USGS cash award. Prior written approval is required from the CO for transfers in excess of the ten (10) percent limitation.

3. Payment

Payments under financial assistance awards must be made using the Department of the Treasury Automated Standard Application for Payments (ASAP) system (www.asap.gov).

a. The Recipient agrees that it has established or will establish an account with ASAP. USGS will initiate enrollment in ASAP. If the Recipient does not currently have an ASAP account, they must designate an individual (name, title, address, phone and e-mail) who will serve as the Point of Contact (POC).

b. With the award of each grant/cooperative agreement, a sub-account will be set up from which the Recipient can draw down funds. After recipients complete enrollment in ASAP and link their banking information to the USGS ALC (14080001), it may take up to 10 days for sub-accounts to be activated and for funds to be authorized for drawdown in ASAP.

c. Inquiries regarding payment should be directed to:

Philadelphia, PA 19115-6317

Kansas City, MO 64116-0599

Oakland, CA 94623-1700

d. Payments may be drawn in advance only as needed to meet immediate cash disbursement needs.

A waiver has been granted by the Associate Director for Administrative Policy and Services because this award involves payments to a foreign recipient.

a. Payment will be made by Treasury Check upon receipt of a properly prepared SF 270 REQUEST FOR ADVANCE OR REIMBURSEMENT. Submit the SF 270 form to the address specified in E.1. Requests should be submitted on a quarterly basis. Request for the entire award amount will be denied.

b. Payments may be drawn in advance only as needed to meet immediate cash disbursement needs.

4. Definitions A. Grant Agreement

A grant agreement is the legal instrument reflecting a relationship between the Federal Government and a state or local government or other recipient whenever:

(1) the principal purpose of the relationship is the transfer of money, property, services, or anything of value to the state or local government or other recipient in order to accomplish a public purpose of support or stimulation authorized by Federal statute, rather than acquisition, by purchase, lease, or barter, of property or services for the direct benefit or use of the Federal Government; and

(2) no substantial involvement is anticipated between the executive agency, acting for the Federal Government, and the state or local government or other recipient during performance of the contemplated activity.

B. Cooperative Agreement

A cooperative agreement is the legal instrument reflecting a relationship between the Federal Government and a state or local government or other recipient whenever:

(1) the principal purpose of the relationship is the transfer of money, property, services, or anything of value to the state or local government or other recipient to accomplish a public purpose of support, or stimulation authorized by Federal statute, rather than acquisition, by purchase, lease, or barter, of property or services for the direct benefit or use of the Federal Government; and

(2) substantial involvement is anticipated between the executive agency, acting for the Federal Government, and state or local government or other recipient during performance of the activity.

C. Grantee/Cooperator

Grantee or cooperator means the nonprofit corporation or other legal entity to which a grant or cooperative agreement is awarded and which is accountable to the Federal Government for the use of the funds provided. The grantee or cooperator is the entire legal entity even if only a particular component of the entity is designated in the award document. For example, a grant or cooperative agreement award document may name as the grantee one school or campus of a university. In this case, the granting agency usually intends, or actually requires, that the named component assume primary or sole responsibility for administering the grant-assisted project or program. Nevertheless, the naming of a component of a legal entity as the grantee or cooperator in a grant or cooperative agreement award document shall not be construed as relieving the whole legal entity from accountability to the Federal Government for the use of the funds provided.

The term “grantee” or “cooperator” does not include secondary recipients such as sub grantees, contractors, etc., who may receive funds from a grantee pursuant to a grant.

D. Recipient

Recipient means grantee or cooperator.

E. Principal Investigator

The Principal Investigator is the individual designated by the Recipient (and approved by the…