RAP DHA RFI FINAL - updated.pdf

United States Department of Agriculture

United States Forest Service 1

Federal Agency Name: United States Department of Agriculture, Forest Service

Request for Information: U. S. Forest Service Resource Assistants Program National and

Regional Level Cooperator Organizations Request for Information (RFI)

Opportunity Number: USDA-FS-2020-FSRAP

Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) Number: 10.699

Proposals due date: December 6, 2019 Extended until December 12

Type of Instrument: Other

Informational Sessions: Join the USDA Forest Service for an informational session regarding the request for information to become a U. S. Forest Service Resource Assistants Program

National or Regional Level Cooperator Organization.

November 15, 2019 2-3:30PM EST

Recording available: https://usfs.adobeconnect.com/pqc37s422t3m/

Contact Name:

Merlene Mazyck, Program Manager

Keyana Ellis Reynolds, PhD, Program Coordinator

United States Department of Agriculture, Forest Service Volunteers & Service, SM.FS.WOVolServ@usda.gov

Subject: U. S. Forest Service Resource Assistants Program National and Regional Level

Cooperator Organizations Request for Information (RFI)

Legislative Authorities:

16 U.S. Code Chapter 37, Subchapter II - RESOURCE ASSISTANTS Code § 1721-1725

Public Law 103-82 title 1 §105, Public Lands Corps Act of 1993

Public Law 109-154, Public Lands Corps Healthy Forests Restoration Act of 2005

Public Law 116-9 §9003, John D. Dingell Jr. Conservation, Management, and Recreation Act of

SUMMARY

Established in 2016, the U.S. Forest Service Resource Assistants Program (RAP) is a rigorous and immersive, paid experience for individuals interested in conservation, natural and cultural resources, environmental management, research and development, or other career opportunities.

The Forest Service invites organizations to submit proposals outlining their interest to become an approved national or regional cooperator organization (Cooperator).

Proposals must demonstrate the organization’s capability to administer appropriate recruitment and outreach for high-quality, diverse individuals; provide administrative oversight, tracking, and reporting; and, implement training and support as part of a RAP Community of Practice

(CoP) with other Cooperators, partners, resource assistants, and Forest Service staff.

FOREST SERVICE OVERVIEW

https://usfs.adobeconnect.com/pqc37s422t3m/ mailto:SM.FS.WOVolServ@usda.gov

United States Forest Service 2

The U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service delivers world-class science, technology, and land management to sustain the Nation's forests and grasslands in collaboration with communities and our partners. The Forest Service manages 193 million acres of land, including

154 national forests, 20 national grasslands, 7 research stations, and 81 experimental forests and ranges, as well as other special areas, in support of its’ mission “to sustain the health, diversity and productivity of the nation’s forests and grasslands to meet the needs of present and future generations.”

As the lead federal agency in natural resource conservation, the Forest Service provides leadership in the protection, management, and use of the nation's forest, rangeland, and aquatic ecosystems. Through implementation of land and resource management plans, the agency ensures sustainable ecosystems by restoring and maintaining species diversity and ecological productivity that helps provide recreation, water, timber, minerals, fish, wildlife, wilderness, and aesthetic values for current and future generations of people.

The goals of the Forest Service are to: 1) Sustain Our Nation’s Forests and Grasslands; 2)

Deliver Benefits to the Public; 3) Apply Knowledge Globally; and, 4) Excel as a High-

Performing Agency. As a values-based, purpose driven and relationship-focused organization, the Forest Service emphasizes working in collaboration with communities and our partners;

providing access to resources and experiences that promote economic, ecological and social vitality; connecting people to the land and one another; and delivering world-class science, technology and land management. The Forest Service believes in service — to each other and the planet; the interdependency of people and nature; that conservation means we protect, preserve and restore public lands for the people and enjoyment; that diversity is key—people and cultures, experiences and ecosystems; and safety underpins everything we do. These are our values and what we value in our partners and volunteers.

STATEMENT OF WORK

16 U.S. Code Chapter 37, Subchapter II - § 1725 RESOURCE ASSISTANTS authorizes the

Secretary of the U. S. Department of Agriculture to provide individual placements of resource assistants with any Federal land managing agency under the jurisdiction of the Secretary to carry out research or resource protection activities on behalf of the Agency.

Established in 2016, the U.S. Forest Service Resource Assistants Program (RAP) is a rigorous and immersive paid experience for individuals interested in conservation, natural and cultural resources, environmental management, research and development, or other career opportunities.

RAP prioritizes the engagement of current students, recent graduates, especially from minority-serving institutions, and underrepresented populations. To date, the Forest Service has successfully engaged nearly 600 resource assistants who have made significant contributions to essential work on a wide range of projects. Of the 300 resource assistants who have completed program requirements, almost 60 resource assistants are now part of the Forest Service legacy as permanent, full-time Federal employees.

Through this Request for Information (RFI), the Forest Service invites organizations to submit proposals outlining their interest to become an approved national or regional cooperator organization (Cooperator) through the RAP. The Forest Service seeks information to inform a

United States Forest Service 3 competitive review process to: identify organizations that demonstrate capability to administer appropriate recruitment and outreach practices; provide administrative oversight and document elements of participation and performance; and, implement professional development training and support as part of a RAP Community of practice (CoP) with other Cooperators, partners, resource assistants, and Forest Service staff. Nonprofit organizations, higher education institutions, government, tribal organizations/entities, and other entities that engage emerging professionals in workforce development opportunities are encouraged to respond.

Responses to the RFI will be evaluated based on the respondent’s ability to achieve the outcomes defined herein. Cooperators who clearly demonstrate both capacity and capability to work with the Forest Service to effectively implement RAP priorities and align with the agency’s values will be invited to establish an official Forest Service Master Partnership Agreement at the national or regional level.

In general, Cooperators are not approved to deliver RAP objectives through subrecipients, unless clearly defined in the proposal submitted. Selected Cooperators will be required to submit subrecipients to the Forest Service program manager for prior approval. However, the Forest

Service relationship will be through the selected Cooperator who will be held accountable to the timeline, standards, financial arrangements and other requirements as defined in the agreement instrument.

Through shared stewardship agreements, the Forest Service leverages relationships with partners for mutual benefit—thereby increasing the potential, outcomes, and capacity of the RAP to support Forest Service priorities. RAP partnerships increase the Forest Service capacity to address critical project work, while contributing to cultural transformation and workforce development goals.

USDA FOREST SERVICE RESOURCE ASSISTANTS PROGRAM OVERVIEW

The Forest Service Resource Assistants Program establishes work opportunities focused on policy, program, science and/or operations for emerging professionals on Forest Service units and mission-supported projects. Resource assistants, U.S. citizens or permanent residents age 17 and above, are mentored and coached by Forest Service staff in a structured experience designed to enhance their capacity to contribute to land, natural and cultural resources management priorities and to develop leadership, critical thinking and strategic communication skills.

Resource assistants are primarily emerging professionals, i.e. recent graduates or new to the field.

RAP is an intentional approach to develop the next generation of resource stewards by recruiting and engaging individuals interested in increasing their understanding of our Nation’s natural and cultural resources in an immersive work and learn experience. The RAP draws from many populations to emphasize and encourage diversity in the workforce; thereby, widening the hiring pool for the next generation of conservation stewards.

The objectives of the RAP are to:

United States Forest Service 4

▪ Engage highly motivated candidates through workforce development experiences under the mentorship and coaching of Forest Service staff;

▪ Instill stewardship values in the next generation of natural and cultural resource management professionals through career exploration and professional development;

▪ Expand and enhance the capacity of the Forest Service to accomplish critical work and high-priority projects; and,

▪ Attract and retain a diverse and inclusive workforce to support the Forest Service mission to “sustain the Nation’s forests and grasslands to meet the needs of present and future generations.”

After completing a minimum of 960 hours of satisfactory work as a resource assistant and obtaining a post-secondary degree (associate or higher), resource assistants may become eligible to apply for and/or be considered for permanent Forest Service positions through noncompetitive hiring authority and the direct hiring authority for up to two years. Resource assistants can apply for permanent General Schedule vacancy announcements on USAJOBS through noncompetitive hiring authority and can be considered for term, temporary, and permanent positions through direct hire authority initiated by a Forest Service hiring manager.

Resource Assistants Program Standards & Outcomes

▪ Promotes a CoP inclusive of Forest Service staff, Cooperators, partners and resource assistants working together to share stewardship of Forest lands and to accomplish critical work. Outcomes of the CoP are to actively discuss and navigate successes and challenges, highlight lessons learned, share progress and findings, identify opportunities and pinpoint effective best practices.

▪ Outreach and recruitment for resource assistants targets diverse audiences and are inclusive of current students, recent graduates and underrepresented populations.

Outreach and recruitment activities to potential applicants who demonstrate interest in pursuing careers in natural and cultural resource management, environmental management, green industries, research and development fields, or the public sector, in general, are also emphasized.

▪ Preference shall be given to individuals enrolled in an institution of higher education, including vocational and certificate programs which qualify for an associate degree, or who are recent graduates from an institution of higher education. Particular attention will be given to ensure full representation of women and participants from multiple demographics including ethnicity, people with disabilities, veterans, geographic, income levels, sexual orientation and other underserved groups.

▪ All resource assistants are engaged in work experiences comparable to a minimum GS-4 level that will result in meeting experience qualifications for GS-5 and above positions.

Resource assistants may also be engaged in work at higher GS levels as appropriate.

▪ All resource assistants are engaged in high-level professional development training, coaching, and feedback as part of their experience. Resource assistants will receive

United States Forest Service 5 coaching and mentorships through one-on-one sessions, webinars, assessments, and other activities to develop the knowledge, skills and awareness necessary to thrive in challenging, team-based work environments, meet deadlines and performance objectives, and transition to rewarding careers.

▪ All resource assistants must be able to participate without undue financial hardship.

Minimum stipends, health care (unless they opt out), and housing allowances will be required and funded by the Forest Service through executed participating agreements.

▪ All resource assistants will be eligible for paid leave for Federal holidays and other leave as approved.

▪ All resource assistants are afforded an experience that considers their safety and wellbeing.

RAP Implementation Overview

▪ Annual Workplan. All Forest Service units will be required to identify their annual resource assistant needs at the start of the fiscal year, October 1, annually. Based on the needs identified by the Agency and commitment of resources as an outcome of the annual work planning process, the regional and national offices will obligate funds to partnership agreements that are pre-approved to support RAP outreach and administration.

▪ Types of Work. Resource assistant opportunities are identified by local Forest Service units as part of the annual workplan process. In the past, resource assistants have:

provided support as researchers in support of the National Historic Preservation Act and wildlife and local fauna inventories; as field rangers, hydrologists and recreational specialists; as engineers, surveyors, and conservation specialists to support lands and facilities management and planning; as specialists protecting and restoring lands, trails, and facilities; and, in conservation education and interpretive services, public affairs and volunteer and partnership coordination roles, to name just a few. Resource assistants work in all four Forest Service deputy areas with most opportunities available in the

National Forest System and in almost every single discipline in the Forest Service except firefighting and law enforcement. However, resource assistants may be assigned to roles and work that support these functions. Resource assistants engaged in fire mitigation or other fuels reduction work may be required to assume an Administratively Determined

Casual (ADC) member role in a fire crew. Hours worked as an ADC may not be counted toward the 960 hours needed to successfully complete the RAP.

▪ Cohort Approach. Resource assistants will be onboarded in cohorts--a group of participants recruited, selected, and oriented at one time. The Forest Service will onboard two to three cohorts annually based on need and interest. The Forest Service plans to onboard two cohorts of up to 100 resource assistants each for a total of 200 resource assistants in FY 2020, October 1, 2019 – September 30, 2020. The number of cohorts engaged in FY 2021 is anticipated to expand to three.

▪ Agreements. A total of 10 – 20 new Master Agreements with Cooperators will be established at the national and regional levels inclusive of Forest Service Research &

Development, State & Private Forestry, and Business Operations. Resources will be

United States Forest Service 6 obligated to Supplemental Project Agreements tiered from Master Agreements by the

Forest Service.

▪ Onboarding and Orientation. All selected resource assistants will participate in centrally coordinated and delivered onboarding and orientation training managed by Forest Service staff and with support from Cooperators as appropriate. The primary outcomes of the onboarding and orientation training are to complete all administrative requirements for engagement, define program expectations and prepare the resource assistants for a high-quality work experience and to show up at their assigned unit ready to work.

▪ Performance Reporting & Monitoring. Accountability for taxpayer resources is a critical requirement of our shared stewardship emphasis as it provides compelling evidence of

RAP outcomes, informs continuous improvement, and documents the experience of resource assistants and the units that host resource assistants. Cooperators and Forest

Service unit staff who host resource assistants will be required to comply with monthly, quarterly and annual reporting and monitoring requirements.

Cooperators will maintain comprehensive documentation of resource assistant records to include their position description, resume, approved timesheets, training and career development plan, and monthly performance assessment reports; and, manage human resources and performance requirements in coordination with FS staff. Quarterly resource assistant tracking reports will be submitted by the 15th of January, April, July and

October for the preceding quarter. Semi-annual and final progress reports, and an annual financial report are required. Final progress reports must include information on the measurable results and outcomes as defined in the Master Agreement and supplemental information such as high-resolution photos, illustrations, diagrams, and/or maps that help convey the impact of the project.

▪ Budget. As outlined in Table 1, the Forest Service will allocate funds to engage resource assistants a minimum of 26 weeks as per requirements. Base direct costs to RAs are between $24,000 and 30,000 depending on the final housing allowance and health costs incurred. The Forest Service will commit to base RA costs and program support, administrative support and indirect costs incurred by cooperators to successfully achieve goals and objectives of the RAP. Costs charged to the Forest Service will include: living allowance/stipend, travel & training, housing, commuting, uniforms/special gear, recruitment, health insurance, program support, administrative support, other flexible benefits, Cooperator indirect cost rate, and any other costs (i.e., fringe benefits, federal income tax, FICA). Certain costs are considered a minimum, maximum, or flexible amount as noted.

Table 1: Budget item description and estimated cost for engaging a resource assistant per

26 weeks

Budget Item Description Estimated Cost

Living Allowance/Stipend (Minimum 26 weeks) A $13,000 living allowance is the base cost for a term commitment of 26 weeks in

$13,000

United States Forest Service 7 full-time status. The minimum weekly rate for all resource assistant positions is $500 full time and $300 part time. If necessary to recruit unique skill sets and/or the work is in a highly-competitive field, resource assistants may earn a higher weekly rate. Resource assistants will be responsible for taxes incurred from the living allowance in the taxable year.

Training and Travel Allowance (Minimum)

Each resource assistant will have a minimum budget of $5,000 for travel, orientation, and training. Cooperators will be responsible for reimbursing costs for confirming travel and training logistics.

Additional funds for training and travel could be included in an agreement if there are needs relative to the Cooperator and/or resource assistant’s placement and assignment.

$5,000

Housing Allowance (Maximum)

All resource assistants will be provided a housing allowance from

$300 up to $1,500 per month based on the location of their assignment, cost of living, unique situation and need. When available, government housing may be substituted for a housing allowance.

$9,000

Daily Commuting Allowance (Maximum)

The Forest Service will provide up to $100.00 per month for documented daily commuting costs incurred by resource assistants for the duration of their assignment.

$600

Uniforms/Special Gear (Maximum)

Costs incurred for uniforms and other special gear will be covered up to $250 for the full term of service for Cooperator uniforms.

Cooperators will be responsible for reimbursing incurred costs. The

Forest Service will be able to purchase other uniforms and special gear needed to engage resource assistants.

$250

Recruitment (Maximum)

The Forest Service will reimburse recruitment costs up to $450 per resource assistant for newly recruited resource assistants.

Recruitment costs are inclusive of marketing and networking to identify a wide range of high-quality applicants for RA positions.

The Forest Service will not reimburse for additional recruitment costs for resource assistants extended through a modification to an agreement or for resource assistants who roll over into subsequent resource assistant slots with the same partner.

$450

Health Insurance (Flexible)

Resource assistants must be provided health insurance unless the resource assistant opts out in writing.

(Cooperator determined)

Program Support (Flexible)

Indirect support costs incurred by the cooperator to effectively deliver agreement goals and objectives. For instance, staff time dedicated to tasks and activities such as screening applicant RAs

(Cooperator determined)

United States Forest Service 8 and preparing applicant packages, coordinating approved travel and training for resource assistants, personnel support, etc. Program support costs can be calculated as a percentage of the total agreement cost if additional information about what is included in the percentage calculation is provided. Estimated costs must be clearly outlined and Federally allowable. The Forest Service may consider reimbursements for costs as outlined.

Administrative Support (Flexible)

Indirect support costs that contribute to the cooperator’s ability to successfully administer day-to-day activities and manage payments to resource assistants, provide health care and other benefits as appropriate, and management of the agreement. Administrative support costs can be calculated as a percentage of the total agreement cost if additional information about what is included in the percentage calculation is provided. Estimated costs must be clearly outlined and Federally allowable. The Forest Service may consider reimbursements for costs as outlined.

(Cooperator determined)

Other Benefits and Costs (Flexible)

There may be other flexible benefits and allowances necessary to engage resource assistants such as specialized gear, training and technology, and educational awards and bonuses, as identified by the Cooperator. Estimated costs must be clearly outlined and

Federally allowable. In addition, there may be other flexible costs such as Federal income tax, FICA, etc. as identified by Cooperator.

The Forest Service may consider reimbursements for costs as outlined.

(Cooperator

Indirect Cost Rate (NICRA)

(Cooperator

The Forest Service has determined, that in accordance with federal cost principles, the entire match contribution in a 1580 agreement from a Forest Service (FS) cooperator may be met with in-kind contributions. The Forest Service also affirms that all Forest Service non-cash contributions (personnel, supplies, equipment, etc.) and indirect costs attributed towards the planning, execution and implementation of an agreement should be included in the agreement financial plan and the total FS share, against which match is calculated.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

Cooperators eligible to respond to this RFI include nonprofits, educational institutions, government, tribal organizations/entities, and other entities that engage emerging professionals in workforce development opportunities. The Forest Service is particularly interested in organizations that have experience and expertise working with diverse populations and networks to support workforce development initiatives and facilitating career opportunities for emerging professionals and others to career opportunities with government and nongovernmental agencies.

Eligible organizations must also demonstrate capacity to administer appropriate recruitment and

United States Forest Service 9 outreach practices; provide administrative oversight, and document elements of participation and performance; and, implement professional development training and support during engagement.

Cooperators are entities that voluntarily desire to cooperate with the Forest Service and are willing to formalize that relationship by entering into a participating agreement. Selection as a

Cooperator:

▪ Does not guarantee funding and is limited to a period of up to five years. The Forest

Service is not obligated to make an award with a specific amount of funding. No minimal funding amount is guaranteed at the national or regional level.

▪ Will result in the negotiation and establishment of a Master Agreement laying out terms of the partnership. Supplemental project agreements, tiered from the Master Agreement, will be established to fund resource assistants. Cooperators selected as a national partner must be able to demonstrate consistent, national recruitment efforts across all regions.

Regional partners must be able to demonstrate consistent recruitment efforts in a specific

Forest Service regional area. (Note, several National level Master Agreements will be established with Cooperators to support the Forest Service National Forest System

Deputy Area. One National level Master Agreement will be established with a

Cooperator to support the Forest Service State and Private Forestry, Research and

Development, and Business Operations Deputy Areas, respectively. One regional level

Master Agreement will be established with a Cooperator for each Forest Service Region:

Northern Region – Region 1, Rocky Mountain Region – Region 2, Southwestern Region –

Region 3, Intermountain Region - Region 4, Pacific Southwest Region – Region 5, Pacific

Northwest Region – Region 6, Southern Region – Region 8, Eastern Region – Region 9, and Alaska Region – Region 10.)

▪ Will require a minimum 25 percent match requirement which can be met in full with cash, non-cash, and in-kind contributions such as the value of volunteer labor. However, other types of match contributions are encouraged.

Agreements are designed to support U.S. Forest Service priorities to enhance sustainable recreation opportunities; improve water quality and quantity; support the conservation of indigenous species; restore resilient landscapes; nurture thriving communities; assist with wildland fire fuel management; promote safety; build diversity and inclusion; and identify workforce development opportunities in conservation stewardship and natural and cultural resources. Agreement instruments document partnerships for job training, personal development, conservation service, and natural resource appreciation, while at the same time accomplish work that contributes to and benefits public lands and interests managed by the Forest Service.

Cooperative partner organizations must demonstrate the following:

▪ Be in full compliance with all the relevant statutes and policies of the Code of Federal

Regulation (CFR) as they pertain to this request for information, and comply with all

Federal laws and regulations related to the completion of projects;

▪ Ability to engage participants who are U.S. citizens, national, or lawful permanent resident aliens of the United States, meeting the same citizenship requirements as those for serving in AmeriCorps (http://www.nationalservice.gov/programs/americorps) and

Public Lands Corps (http://www.corpsnetwork.org/public-lands-service-corps-act);

http://www.nationalservice.gov/programs/americorps http://www.corpsnetwork.org/public-lands-service-corps-act

United States Forest Service 10

▪ Ability to competitively recruit and outreach to diverse, high-quality candidates for positions, prescreen all applications, and provide a minimum 3 resumes for the Forest

Service consideration and selection;

▪ Embrace a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion through culturally-competent support services and approaches;

▪ Capacity to provide ongoing customer service to resource assistants and Forest Service host sites and program managers;

▪ Manage the administrative oversight and ongoing program support including paying stipends, coordinating travel and training logistics, providing access to health care and liability coverage, and other support as appropriate;

▪ Provide a minimum 25 percent match requirement which can be met in full with cash, non-cash, and in-kind contributions such as the value of volunteer labor. The matching 25 percent of costs must be from nonfederal sources and certain federal match (like, CNCS awards) and can be in the form of funds, donations, services, facilities, materials, equipment, and/or any combination. Applicants may attribute some or all of their allowable indirect costs as voluntary committed cost-share/match. Although partner organizations can meet their match solely with in-kind labor, it is encouraged that all FS units and partners evaluate each project based upon all allowable contributions (cash, supplies, equipment, etc.) and to negotiate agreements with the best interest of the

Federal government in mind;

▪ Maintain competent and proven operational systems and infrastructure, and, data information systems that protect personal identification information;

▪ Maintain comprehensive documentation of records to include position description, resume, application, health insurance enrollment or waiver, Government-issued photo identification, including proof of citizenship or permanent residency and age, tax related information, approved timesheets, training and career development plan, performance assessment reports, copy of certificate of hiring eligibility, onboarding and exit assessments, and, other information as necessary;

▪ Certify initial, standard background screenings and eligibility reviews are conducted on all applicants to positions;

▪ Present clearly defined and documented risk management policies and procedures;

▪ Prepare, in consultation with the FS sponsoring unit, tracking and performance reports regarding resource assistants’ progress, program challenges, and performance benchmarks; including periodic evaluations to assess resource assistant experience and outcomes;

▪ Serve as an active contributor to the RAP CoP willing to strengthen program objectives, implementation, and outcomes;

In general, Cooperators are not approved to deliver RAP objectives through subrecipients, unless clearly defined in the proposal submitted. Selected Cooperators will be required to submit subrecipients to the Forest Service program manager for prior approval. However, the Forest

Service relationship will be through the selected Cooperator who will be held accountable to the

United States Forest Service 11 timeline, standards, financial arrangements and other requirements as defined in the agreement instrument.

EVALUATION CRITERIA

The Forest Service will only consider responsive applications which conform to the RFI and are most advantageous to the Government, in consideration of the evaluation factors listed below as part of the review and selection process.

First Level Screening -- Basic Eligibility

First level screening will include a review to ensure that proposals meet basic eligibility requirements to eliminate applications that are unresponsive to the following requirements:

▪ Program and/or legislative authority requirements;

▪ Specific formatting requirements (word limit and page limit, when identified; and single-spaced, Times New Roman font, 12pt size, with 1" margins), including the proposal narrative format as outlined;

▪ Complete and inclusive of all required documentation;

▪ Clearly identifies prior experience with workforce development, engagement, and diversity outreach for individual placements of emerging professionals; and,

▪ Clearly identifies interest for national or regional level partnership.

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

Second Level Evaluation -- Merit Review Evaluation

Eligible applications will be evaluated in an objective and unbiased manner using a merit review evaluation and numerical scoring-based index on a 100-point maximum score. The evaluation criteria should be addressed in a proposal narrative of the application. Applications should thoroughly address each component and any sub-component in the order presented below. See

Appendix B for more information on the required format and components, including minimum questions that must be answered in a proposal.

Successful applications will clearly articulate responses to the following components:

1. Organization’s mission, core values, goals, organizational structure and their alignment with the Forest Service Goals and values. (10 points)

2. Outreach and recruitment model to engage diverse populations for conservation positions in natural and cultural resource. (30 points)

3. Ability to meet programmatic and administrative oversight requirements such as providing customer service, timely and comprehensive reporting and tracking, project monitoring and evaluative practices, and other administrative needs as required. (25 points)

4. Prior experience, outcomes and accomplishments working with land management agencies on workforce development and conservation. (15 points)

United States Forest Service 12

5. Experience working with collaborative teams and willingness to work in the RAP

CoP to facilitate learning, innovation and continuous improvement. (10 points)

6. A detailed budget narrative and an estimated budget template inclusive of required base costs and cooperator determined costs such as health care, program support, administrative support, indirect, and other costs will be charged to the Forest Service.

(15 points)

a. Respondents must provide a copy of the organization’s status determination letter received from the Internal Revenue Service and documentation of official indirect cost rate.

7. Optional: Respondents may submit up to two (2) letters of support from prior business partners, funders, or others who can speak to the organization’s experience managing workforce development outreach, recruitment, and ideally natural and cultural resource management. Letters of support are optional and do not increase scoring or consideration of an organization’s proposal submission. Letters must be no more than one page, single-spaced, Times New Roman font, 12pt size, with 1" margins.

Applications eligible for merit review will be evaluated by an evaluation team assembled to review, rate, rank, and recommend applications for award using the evaluation components outlined above. Evaluation teams are made up of three or more qualified personnel familiar with the program and certified to have no conflict of interest with any persons or organizations applying for award. Reviews are handled as confidential documents. Once award decisions are made applicants may request in writing a written summary of the evaluation of their application/proposal. A total of 100 points will be used to score each proposal received. The scores assigned to each component in the second level evaluation correspond to their relative importance. Proposals that do not include all the requested information will not score well in the evaluation process.

ESTABLISHING AGREEMENTS

The Forest Service has general authority to negotiate and enter into a Master Agreement executed between the Forest Service and a Cooperator that establishes a framework for completion of separate but related projects. In general, the Master Agreement provides an overview of the terms of the partnership, work projects that can be approved within the cited authority, purpose, scope, duration, period of performance, terms and conditions, a statement of mutual interest and benefit, and contact information. Master Agreements should also review party responsibilities and a description of financial terms, including estimated costs, and other rules for engagement and requirements. The Master Agreement will provide guidance for the development of tiered Supplemental Project Agreements, which will add funding, outline specific project deliverables and location, and identifies any additional provisions not specified in the Master Agreement.

Negotiating Agreements

When negotiating agreements with prospective cooperators/applicants, discussions will cover at a minimum, the appropriate statutory authority; a description of the project, United States Forest Service 13 including methodology and technical specifications; contributions and the responsibilities of the parties; deliverables and reporting requirements; the period of performance; and monitoring. All elements of a project are subject to negotiation. Any party may terminate discussions at any time. Agreements must be executed prior to performance of any work or incurrence of costs, except when pre-award costs are permitted.

Cost sharing or Match

The Secretary is authorized to pay not more than 75 percent of the costs of any appropriate conservation project carried out pursuant to this subchapter on public lands by a qualified youth or conservation corps. The remaining 25 percent of the costs of such a project may be provided from nonfederal sources and certain federal match (like, CNCS awards) and can be in the form of funds, donations, services, facilities, materials, equipment, and/or any combination. No cost sharing shall be required in the case of any appropriate conservation project carried out on Indian lands or Hawaiian home lands.” As noted, the 25 percent match requirement by a RAP cooperative partner organization can be met with in-kind contributions. Thus, our partners can meet their entire 25 percent match with in-kind labor. Although partner organizations can meet their match solely with in-kind labor, it is encouraged that all FS units and partners evaluate each project based upon all allowable contributions (cash, supplies, equipment, etc.) and to negotiate agreements with the best interest of the Federal government in mind.

Financial Reports

All recipients must use the SF-425, Federal Financial Report form for financial reporting.

At a minimum, all recipients must submit a final financial report. Final reports are due no later than 90 calendar days after the award period of performance end date or termination date. For awards with periods of performance longer than 12 months, recipients are required to submit interim financial reports on the frequency established in the Notice of

Award.

Performance Reports

Performance reports must contain a comparison of actual accomplishments with the established goals and objectives of the award; a description of reasons why established goals were not met, if appropriate; and any other pertinent information relevant to the project results. At a minimum, all recipients must submit a final performance report.

Final reports are due no later than 90 calendar days after the award period of performance end date or termination date. For awards with periods of performance longer than 12 months, recipients are required to submit interim financial reports on the frequency established in the Notice of Award.

Audits

Although not mandatory, Forest Service initiated audits may be performed whenever:

1. It is suspected that unallowable or inappropriate costs are being billed, such as equipment purchases which were not approved under the agreement financial plan;

2. There is reason to believe or suspect that the recipient/cooperator has not contributed their match as agreed; or, any other questionable circumstances that arise justifying

United States Forest Service 14 an audit. Encourage annual audits where numerous and/or continuous agreements are executed with the same recipient/cooperator. When annual audits are performed either by Forest Service or outside audit groups, all Forest Service agreements executed with the recipient/cooperator for the period being reviewed should be audited, regardless of which Forest Service unit(s) issued the agreement.

Insurance and Indemnification

Recipients of awards arising from this announcement will be required to agree to the following:

▪ Insurance. The recipient will be required to (1) obtain liability insurance or (2) demonstrate present financial resources in an amount determined sufficient by the

Government to cover claims brought by third parties for death, bodily injury, property damage, or other loss resulting from one or more identified activities carried out in connection with this financial assistance agreement.

▪ Insured. The federal government shall be named as an additional insured under the recipient's insurance policy.

To purchase public and employee liability insurance at its own expense from a responsible company or companies with a minimum limitation of one million dollars

($1,000,000.00) per person for any one claim, and an aggregate limitation of two million dollars ($2,000,000.00) for any number of claims arising from any one incident. The policies shall name the United States as an additional insured, shall specify that the insured shall have no right of subrogation against the United States for payments of any premiums or deductibles due thereunder, and shall specify that the insurance shall be assumed by, be for the account of, and be at the insured's sole risk. Prior to beginning the activities authorized herein, the recipient shall provide the Forest Service with confirmation of such insurance coverage. Each policy shall have a certificate evidencing the insurance coverage and identifying the assistance agreement number.

To pay the United States the full value for all damage to the lands or other property of the

United States caused by the recipient, its officers, employees, or (members, participants, agents, representatives, agents as appropriate).

To cooperate with the Forest Service in the investigation and defense of any claims that may be filed with the Forest Service arising out of the activities of the recipient, its agents, and employees.

In the event of damage to or destruction of the buildings and facilities assigned for the use of the recipient in whole or in part by any cause whatsoever, nothing herein contained shall be deemed to require the Forest Service to replace or repair the buildings or facilities. If the Forest Service determines in writing, after consultation with the recipient that damage to the buildings or portions thereof renders such buildings unsuitable for continued use by the recipient, the Forest Service shall assume sole control over such buildings or portions thereof. If the buildings or facilities rendered unsuitable for use are essential for conducting operations authorized under this agreement, then failure to

United States Forest Service 15 substitute and assign other facilities acceptable to the recipient will constitute termination of this agreement by the Forest Service.

Proposals submitted and approved for use of equipment, hazardous materials or engage in high-risk activities, which have the potential for claims brought by third parties for death, bodily injury, property damage, or other loss resulting in one or more activities must purchase additional insurance and liability.

Indirect cost

Indirect costs are approved for reimbursement or as a cost-share requirement and have an effective period applicable to the term of master and supplemental agreements. Expenses that are necessary for the operation of an organization, but not specifically identified with or traceable to a specific program or output, that is, not a direct cost but rather a cost distributed across many programs or outputs. Often referred to as “overhead,” or in the

Forest Service as “burden,” indirect costs are incurred as part of general management and administrative support of an organization, and may include office and personnel expenses, computers, and utilities.

▪ If the cooperative partner organization has never received or does not currently have a negotiated indirect cost rate, they are eligible for a de minimis indirect cost rate up to

10 percent of modified total direct costs (MTDC). MTDC is defined as all salaries and wages, fringe benefits, materials and supplies, services, travel, and contracts up to the first $25,000 of each contract.

▪ For rates greater than 10 percent and less than 25 percent, the cooperative partner organization shall maintain documentation to support the rate. Documentation may include, but is not limited to, accounting records, audit results, cost allocation plan, letter of indirect cost rate approval from an independent accounting firm, or other

Federal agency approved rate notice applicable to agreements.

▪ For a rate greater than 25 percent, the U.S. Forest Service may require that request a federally approved rate from the cooperative partner organization’s cognizant audit agency no later than 3 months after the effective date of the agreement. The cooperative partner organization will be reimbursed for indirect costs or allowed to cost-share at the rate reflected in the agreement until the rate is formalized in the negotiated indirect cost rate (NICRA) at which time, reimbursements for prior indirect costs or cost-sharing may be subject to adjustment.

▪ Failure to provide adequate documentation supporting the indirect cost rate, if requested, could result in disallowed costs and repayment to the U.S. Forest Service.

APPLICATION PROCESS

Submit all applications for this RAP selection opportunity through Grants.gov by December 12, 2019. Search for grant Opportunity Number USDA-FS-2020-FSRAP or CFDA, 10.699, United

States Department of Agriculture, Forest Service. See the Grants.gov organization registration page for further detail on how to register and apply for opportunities through Grants.gov. If an interested organization encounters major challenges submitting their application to

United States Forest Service 16

Grants.gov, applicants may submit their grant proposal to SM.FS.WOVolServ@usda.gov.

No hardcopy applications will be accepted.

Applicants are required to apply online through Grants.gov using Workspace. Workspace is a shared, online environment where members of a grant team may access and edit different webforms within an application. After creating a Workspace, you may work online or download the application package, instructions, and forms, if you prefer to work offline. Grants.gov recommends submitting your application package 24–48 hours before the closing date to give you time to correct any potential technical issues that could disrupt your initial application submission.

If you have not applied for a grant through Grants.gov before, you must complete several registration steps before you can submit your application. All electronic applicants must be registered with Grants.gov prior to submitting their proposal. Creating a Grants.gov account can be completed in minutes, but DUNS and SAM registrations may take several weeks. If an organization is already registered in Grants.gov, they do not need to register again. Please review the requirements for submitting an application and take steps early to be ready to submit your application by the deadline.

Registrations must be current and in place at the time you submit your application, including these:

▪ System for Award Management (SAM) registration

▪ Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS) registration

▪ Grants.gov registration by an authorized organization representative (AOR)

See Appendix A for more information submission and receipt instructions for U. S. Forest

Service Resource Assistants Program Cooperative National and Regional Agreements

USDA-FS-2020-FSRAP applications through Grants.gov. Grants.gov provides customer support via the toll-free number 1-800-518-4726 and by email at support@grants.gov. For questions related to the specific grant opportunity, contact the numbers listed in the Contacts section of this document.

Application Package and Forms

The application package must include the following in separate attachments:

mailto:SM.FS.WOVolServ@usda.gov

United States Forest Service 17

SF 424 SF-424, Application for Federal Assistance

SF 424B SF424B, Assurances (Non-Construction Programs)

AD-1047 Certification Regarding Debarment, Suspension

Form

FS 1500-35 FS 1500-35, Certification Regarding Lobbying

Proposal narrative submitted as an attachment in one .pdf document to include:

Statement of Interest

Visual flowchart

Components 1-6 (Required)

Component 7 (Optional)

Copy of IRS status determination letter and documentation of indirect cost rate agreement

See Appendix B for more information on the required format and evaluation criteria for the proposal narrative. Narratives must be one single-spaced, Times New Roman font, 12pt size, with 1" margins. Please do not attach unsolicited documentation to the proposal as it will be removed and destroyed.

Note, the Forest Service may require additional forms, review, and risk assessment to be completed prior to establishing a national or regional level Master Agreement.

FEDERAL AGENCY CONTACTS AND UPCOMING INFORMATIONAL SESSION

Contact Name:

Merlene Mazyck, Program Manager

Keyana Ellis Reynolds, PhD, Program Coordinator

United States Department of Agriculture, Forest Service Volunteers & Service, SM.FS.WOVolServ@usda.gov

Subject: U. S. Forest Service Resource Assistants Program National and Regional Level

Cooperator Organizations Information (RFI)

Informational Sessions: Join the USDA Forest Service for an informational session regarding the request for information to become a U. S. Forest Service Resource Assistants Program

National or Regional Level Cooperator Organization.

November 15, 2019 2-3:30PM EST

Recording available: https://usfs.adobeconnect.com/pqc37s422t3m/ http://fsweb.wo.fs.fed.us/aqm3/static/pages/grants-agreements/SF424_2_1-V2.1.docx https://www.ocio.usda.gov/sites/default/files/docs/2012/AD1047-F-01-92.PDF https://www.ocio.usda.gov/sites/default/files/docs/2012/AD1047-F-01-92.PDF http://fsweb.wo.fs.fed.us/aqm3/static/pages/grants-agreements/FS%201500-35%20Certification%20Regarding%20Lobbying.docx mailto:SM.FS.WOVolServ@usda.gov

United States Forest Service 18

Appendix A. Grants.gov Application Submission and Receipt Procedures

This section…