RARI NOFO_051326.docx

National Park Service

Notice of Funding Opportunity

Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) State & Local Assistance Program - Readiness and Recreation Initiative (RARI) – Recurring 5 Year Notice

Funding Opportunity Number

Announcement # P26AS00146

FAMD-1443-001-2026-01

FAMD-1443-001-2026-01 Page 2 of 26 Table of Contents

BASIC INFORMATION

Announcement Type: Initial

Funding Opportunity Number: Announcement #

Assistance Listing Number(s): 15.916

Estimated Total Program Funding: $9,000,000

Expected Number of Awards: 10

Award Ceiling: $3,000,000

Award Floor: $250,000

Award Floor/Ceiling Explanation: An estimated range of $250,000 to $3,000,000 of funding is anticipated for each award. The amount of funding available per award for this NOFO will be determined as part of the application review process based on applications received and funding made available through appropriations.

Cost Sharing Required? Yes

Closing Date Explanation: Applications will be evaluated on a rolling basis as they are received.

U.S. states and local governments may be required under Executive Order 12372, Intergovernmental Review of Federal Programs to submit their application to their State Single Point of Contact (SPOC) for review.

Have Questions? RARI_Inquiries@nps.gov

Executive Summary This Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) invites applications for the Readiness and Recreation Initiative (RARI), administered by the National Park Service (NPS). The purpose of the program is to: 1) provide outdoor recreation opportunities, and 2) promote or support compatible land uses and avoid incompatible development in areas in the vicinity of, or ecologically related to, a military installation or military airspace, and/or to maintain or enhance disaster resilience. RARI is a program within the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF). State and Local Assistance Program. RARI funding is available in addition to traditional LWCF state formula grants and does not affect state apportionments.

RARI operates in partnership with the Department of War (DOW) and seeks to leverage funding across departments to benefit the general public and military communities. RARI is dollar for dollar match, meaning it covers up to 50% of all project costs and applicants are responsible for funding the remaining 50% of project costs. However, for RARI projects, DOW Readiness and Environmental Protection Integration (REPI) funds are allowable to meet the LWCF Act’s cost-share requirement (10 U.S.C. 2684a). Therefore, 100% of project costs could be funded through these two federal programs.

To be eligible, proposed projects must:

· Include a land acquisition component.

· Be in a Readiness and Environmental Protection Integration (REPI) Partnership Opportunity Area or Sentinel Landscape.

· Have a Letter of Support from a Military Installation or Range commander.[footnoteRef:2] [2: Military installation is hereafter referred to as “REPI Partnership Opportunity Area” or "sentinel landscape" for the purposes of this notice.]

Additional LWCF requirements for the RARI program:

· Perpetuity Requirement - Projects assisted through RARI must be maintained and accessible exclusively for public outdoor recreation use in perpetuity. This applies to the assisted park or site in its entirety, not just the area assisted by the grant funds.

· Alignment with LWCF Law and Policy - As an LWCF program, RARI projects must align with the purposes and requirements of the LWCF Act and LWCF Manual. This includes meeting a priority need or goal identified in the Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP).

· Alignment with National Priorities – Projects must be responsive to Executive and National priorities, including those outlined in Executive Order 14313, “Establishing the President's Make America Beautiful Again Commission” and Secretarial Order 3442, “Land and Water Conservation Fund Implementation by the U.S. Department of the Interior.”

Figure 1. Steps to Secure Funding for the Readiness & Recreation Initiative

ELIGIBILITY

Eligible Applicants ☒ State governments ☒ Territorial governments The following entities are eligible to apply directly for funding through RARI:

· State and Territorial Lead Agencies, in each of the 50 states as well as American Samoa, the District of Columbia, Guam, Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands

· About State and Territorial Lead Agencies - In accordance with the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) Act (54 U.S.C. 200305(a)), each state has a State Lead Agency designated by the state’s Governor or by state legislation for the purposes of implementing LWCF. A State Lead Agency may submit applications on behalf of themselves or an eligible sub-recipient.

The following entities are eligible sub-recipients and must apply through their State or Territorial Lead Agency:

· Other state agencies

· Federally recognized Indian tribes

· Local units of governments and special purpose districts (must be an entity created by a legislative authority vested sovereignty and with a stated mission that includes acquiring, developing, owning and managing recreation areas, and be able to demonstrate it can meet the perpetual protection requirement of the LWCF program) Additional Information on Eligibility Eligible Areas - Projects must serve an eligible area, defined as: an active REPI Partnership Opportunity Area or a Sentinel Landscape.

Applicants can check whether their proposed project is in a REPI Partnership Opportunity Area and/or Sentinel Landscape via the REPI Interactive Map.

· Filter the Layer list to include “Military > REPI Partnership Opportunity Area” and “Sentinel Landscapes > Sentinel Landscapes”

Cost Sharing Requirement Cost Sharing Required?

Yes.

In accordance with the LWCF Act, non-Federal cost share in the amount of 50% or 1:1 ratio is required to be eligible for an award under this NOFO. Applicants are not required to have their cost-share secured at the time of their application to this NOFO, but they must provide documentation of their plan to secure matching funds. Applicants must secure their cost-share before finalizing a grant agreement with the NPS. This could be up to one year after selection through this NOFO. Applicants must document all cost share contributions in their final Budget Narrative.

The eligible non-Federal contributions may include land donation or purchase, cash, in-kind contributions, or volunteer services, in line with federal award requirements (2 CFR § 200.306). Additionally, the following will be accepted as contributions for non-Federal share:

· Existing State or local government-owned lands not currently used for recreation may be used as part of the non-Federal matching share for acquisition grants.

· Property donated between a State and its subdivisions may be used as part of the non-Federal matching share.

Per 54 U.S.C. 200305(f)(1), projects applying for a RARI grant can only include Congressionally designated Federal cost-share sources in their budgets. Other Federal sources, such as LWCF formula funds, are not permitted, even if all program cost share requirements are met. Projects including other federal funds within the proposed budget, unless they are serving as authorized cost share, will be eliminated from the competition without consideration.

Exception for Non-Federal Requirement: Certain federal programs are authorized by their enabling legislation to be treated as non-federal match. For this notice, applicants can use federal Department of War Readiness and Environmental Protection Integration (REPI) Program funds to meet LWCF’s required cost-share, as specified in 2 CFR 200.306(b)(5). REPI funding may be used to “to satisfy any matching funds or cost- sharing requirement of any conservation or resilience program of any Federal agency notwithstanding any limitation of such program on the source of matching or cost-sharing funds” (10 U.S.C. 2684a).

More information on DOW REPI funding can be found on the following REPI Program websites:

· REPI - Readiness and Environmental Protection Integration Program

· https://www.repi.mil/Buffer-Projects/Project-List/.

· https://www.repi.mil/Buffer-Projects/REPI-Challenge/

Exception for Insular Areas: American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, and the U.S. Virgin Islands do not need to provide 50% non-Federal cost share. These areas can receive full (100%) federal funding.

GET READY TO APPLY

Required System Registrations Unique Entity Identifier and SAM.gov Registration

Before applying, all directly eligible applicants (see eligible applicants section above) must be registered in SAM.gov. During the SAM.gov registration the entity will obtain their Unique Entity Identifier (UEI).

The SAM.gov registration process can take several months. If your organization is not already registered in SAM.gov, begin the registration process as soon as possible. To register in SAM.gov, go to the SAM.gov website and use the available resources to complete registration.

· Financial assistance registrants must review and certify compliance with the SAM.gov “Financial Assistance General Representations and Certifications”.

· Already registered? You already have a Unique Entity ID. Before applying, check that your “Financial Assistance General Representations and Certifications” on SAM.gov is complete. Remember to renew your registration every year to keep it active while you have an award or application in progress. You can update your registration whenever you need, including during renewal.

· Need help? For additional information and contacts on the SAM.gov Help page.

GRANTS.GOV

This program accepts applications through Grants.gov so once you receive your UEI return to Grants.gov to register with Grants.gov. Please allow for 30 days to register and set up a Workspace in Grants.gov. See Submission Instructions section below for additional details.

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

Program Goals The purpose of the program is to: 1) provide outdoor recreation opportunities, and 2) promote or support compatible land uses and avoid incompatible development in areas in the vicinity of, or ecologically related to, a military installation or military airspace, and/or to maintain or enhance disaster resilience.

The goals of the Readiness and Recreation Initiative (RARI) are as follows:

· Expand access to outdoor recreation for military communities and the general public;

· Establish or preserve compatible land use buffers around military installations that support military readiness and operations

· Preserve natural resources and improve community disaster resilience.

· Leverage resources across partners (military installations, governments, non-profit organizations, private sector, etc.) to further readiness and recreation.

· Address the unique needs of military communities and stimulate local economies.

Within the context of these statutory priorities, the RARI Program will also prioritize projects that further Secretarial and Executive Orders, including Executive Order 14313, “Establishing the President's Make America Beautiful Again Commission” and Secretarial Order 3442, “Land and Water Conservation Fund Implementation by the U.S. Department of the Interior.”

Program Description Congress established Land and Water Conservation Fund in 1965 to create more recreational opportunities for, and strengthen the health and vitality of the American people. LWCF’s State and Local Assistance Program provides matching grants to States, and through States to local units of government, for the acquisition and development of public outdoor recreation sites and facilities. Since its inception, LWCF has funded over 46,000 projects across the country, totaling over $5 billion in investment.

In 2019, the John D. Dingell, Jr. Conservation, Management, and Recreation Act permanently reauthorized LWCF. In 2020, the Great American Outdoors Act permanently funded the LWCF.

The Readiness and Recreation Initiative (RARI) is a program within LWCF State and Local Assistance. The National Park Service and Department of War partnered in 2023 to create RARI as a complement to the LWCF formula grant program. Congress allocates money for LWCF, which is then apportioned to the states. RARI provides an additional funding opportunity from unobligated LWCF balances, which is then awarded to eligible entities through a competitive process.

Eligible Project Types Eligible project types include acquisition of lands, wetlands, and waters for public outdoor recreation, including new areas or additions to existing parks, forests, wildlife management areas, beaches, and other similar areas dedicated to public outdoor recreation, as well as physical connections among them (e.g. trails, waterways, land between recreation areas, wildlife habitat corridors).

In addition, a project for acquisition may include the development of outdoor recreation resources. Development should encompass essential public outdoor recreation activities and the necessary support facilities for public use. Projects could involve a combination of land acquisition and site development. These projects can cater to a diverse range of public outdoor recreation activities and facilities required to enhance the use and enjoyment for the public.

Ineligible Project Types Stand-alone development projects without a land acquisition component.

Additional Funding Restrictions RARI funds may not be used for:

· Acquisition support costs such as appraisals or title work.

· Facilities that support semi-professional or professional athletics such as baseball stadiums or soccer arenas.

· Indoor facilities such as recreation centers or facilities that support primarily non-outdoor purposes like nature centers, community centers, education centers, dining facilities or overnight accommodation (such as a lodge or hotel).

· Acquisition of lands, or interests in lands, that completely restrict access to specific persons (e.g., non-residents of a community).

In Perpetuity Requirement The LWCF Act requires that no property acquired or developed with assistance under the RARI Program will, without the approval of the Secretary of the Interior, be converted to other than public outdoor recreation use. The Secretary may approve a conversion only if the Secretary finds it to be in accordance with the state’s Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan and only on such conditions as the Secretary considers necessary to ensure the substitution of other recreation properties of at least equal fair market value and of reasonably equivalent usefulness and location. (see 16 U.S.C. § 8464(b)(4)(C)(i)).

Therefore, as a condition of the grant, the NPS requires that language be recorded against the deed of the assisted park/recreation property advising that the property was acquired and/or developed with Federal funds from the LWCF and that the property must be preserved for outdoor recreation uses in perpetuity and cannot be converted to any use other than public outdoor recreation use without the written approval of the Secretary of the Interior.

Buy America Preferences for Infrastructure Projects This program has Federal funding for infrastructure projects. Buy America preferences apply to Federal awards for infrastructure projects in the United States. Reference 2 CFR Part 184 - Buy America Preferences for Infrastructure Project for further guidance. The recipient is responsible for complying with the BABA requirements for the entirety of the project, from bidding through construction. Additionally, the recipient is required to comply with the award terms and conditions. This includes ensuring subawards, if applicable, follow all BABA requirements and regulations of the federal award. BABA compliance is the responsibility of recipients. The federal role is limited to applying relevant award conditions, processing submitted waivers, and enforcing compliance. Similarly, the Uniform Guidance places the responsibility for internal controls and documentation on recipients, and subrecipients, in 2 CFR Part 200 Subpart D – Post Federal Award Requirements.

Legislative Authority

· Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) Act, as amended (Public Law (P.L.) 88-578, codified at 54 U.S.C. 2003 et. seq.)

· 10 U.S.C. § 2684a, Agreements to limit encroachments and other constraints on military training, testing, and operations.

· Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2014, P.L. 113-76 and accompanying Explanatory Statement

· The Great American Outdoors Act, P.L. 116-152

· Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023, P.L. 117-328.

Type of Award Projects will be funded through G (Grant).

Other Information: Applications for renewal or supplementation of existing projects are eligible to compete with applications for new Federal awards.

PREPARE YOUR APPLICATION

Application Contents and Format Pre-Application Requirements Prior to submitting an application, applicants should review presidential actions found at: https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/ and DOI Secretary’s Orders found at: https://www.doi.gov/document-library/secretary-order. By submitting an application in response to this Notice of Funding Opportunity, the applicant certifies awareness and compliance with all current and applicable executive and secretary orders, including the President’s EO on Ending Radical and Wasteful Government DEI Programs and Preferencing as well as the EO and SO on Restoring Truth and Sanity to American History.

It is highly recommended to consult with your State Lead Agency and military installation while preparing your application. Early coordination with your State and Military Installation will help ensure that the project aligns with the objectives and goals of the RARI Program, and your State or Territorial Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP).

Application Documents Applicants must submit the following forms with their application as specified below. Instructions for accessing and submitting application forms are provided in the Submission Instructions section of this document below. For instructions on completing form fields, see the form instructions on the Grants.gov Forms Repository.

SF-424A, Budget Information for Non-Construction Programs, SF-424B, Assurances for Non-Construction Programs; and/or

SF-424C, Budget Information for Construction Programs, SF-424D, Assurances for Construction Program Required, as applicable

Document Instructions

1. SF-424 Application for Federal Assistance Form All applicants will need to complete an SF-424 Application for Federal Domestic Assistance, which is the standard form required for all applications for federal financial assistance.

2. SF-424 Forms: A, B, C and D For non-construction projects, applicants need to complete the SF-424A, Budget Information for Non-Construction Programs & SF-424B, Assurances for Non-Construction Programs.

For development/construction, acquisition, or a combination of development and acquisition projects, applicants need to complete the SF-424C, Budget Information for Construction Programs & SF-424D, Assurances for Construction Programs.

3. Project Abstract Summary Required form (OMB 4040-0019) - Must include, in plain language:

· Award purpose

· Activities to be performed

· Expected deliverables or outcomes

· Intended beneficiaries

· Subrecipient activities (if known at time of award)

4. Project Narrative The proposal is a narrative description that should specifically address each of the review criteria (see the Application Review Information section on page 16). The project narrative must be under 10 pages, in font size of 11 or larger, and have 1-inch margins. The 10-page limit includes all text and figures. Only include information that is pertinent to the proposal.

The Project Narrative consists of the following three sections, each detailed below:

SECTION 1: PROJECT DATA PAGE

· Indicate the submission date (DD/MM/YYYY)

· Applicant name and contact information

· Sub-recipient name and contact information (if applicable)

· Project Title

· Name of Park/Property

· Name of Property Title Holder

· Project Property Address/Location

· Acreage of the project site and proposed boundary

· Project Type: land acquisition, new development, renovation, combination, etc.

· Previous LWCF or RARI Recipient: Yes/No, if yes provide the year and funding amount.

· Brief description of the project and its proposed impact (100-words or less).

SECTION 2: PROJECT OVERVIEW

Site Description (required)

· Describe the property’s physical features (e.g., terrain, water features, built structures, existing amenities) and quantify where possible (e.g. 50 acres of forested land).

· Describe current uses of the property and note any uses that will be discontinued or remain in place once the project is completed.

· Identify any known site constraints, such as utilities, easements, rights‑of‑way, contamination history, or other physical or legal limitations.

Acquisition Description (required)

· Describe the property’s current ownership.

· State whether the acquisition would create a new public park/recreation area or if it will expand an existing site, and if so, by how many acres.

· Optional: Describe the current acquisition status, including negotiations, due‑diligence steps completed or in progress (title work, appraisal status, basis of value if no appraisal yet completed).

Development Description (only complete if development is proposed):

· Describe the planned physical improvements and facilities, and whether they are new construction, rehabilitation, areas for conservation, or replacement.

· Explain any expected impacts on the natural landscape (e.g., temporary disturbance, permanent changes).

Eligible Area Description (required)

· Describe the REPI Opportunity Zone or Sentinel Landscape that this project is located in. You can find this information using the REPI Interactive Map

· Filter the Layer list to include “Military > REPI Partnership Opportunity Area” and “Sentinel Landscapes > Sentinel Landscapes”

· Describe the project’s proximity to a military installation and a military community.

SECTION 3: RESPONSES TO MERIT REVIEW CRITERIA

Projects will be evaluated on the extent to which they:

1) Expand Access to Outdoor Recreation for Military Communities and the Public

2) Promote Compatible Land Use and Natural Resource Protection

3) Align with Community Needs

4) Leverage Resources in Support of Readiness and Recreation

5) Demonstrate Feasibility See the “Application Review Information” section for more details on each criterion, including how it will be scored. It is highly recommended that this section of the project narrative is labeled by criterion.

5. Budget Narrative Applicants must describe and justify items and costs listed in their budget. Applicants can use the recommended budget template linked in this Notice in Appendix A, although it is not required. The budget narrative must identify the following cost items: total estimated costs, non-Federal cost share, third-party contributions, and any pre-award costs. Total project cost is the sum of all allowable costs, including required and voluntary cost share and third-party contributions. Budget items must be:

· Reasonable, allowable, allocable, and necessary, and

· Compliant with 2 CFR §200 Subpart E cost principles Indirect Costs: Applicants must indicate in their budget narrative how they will charge indirect costs, including the rate to be applied:

· De Minimis Rate: If eligible, state if your organization is opting to use the de minimis rate of up to 15% of total modified direct costs. Entities that do not have a current Federal negotiated indirect cost rate (including provisional rate) may propose to use the de minimis rate. For more information, refer to 2 CFR 200.414(f).

· Negotiated Rate: State if your organization will negotiate with your cognizant agency. If your organization has previously negotiated a rate, attach a copy of the most recently negotiated rate agreement (active or expired).

The budget should reflect only the costs related to construction or acquisition activities to be completed under a RARI grant if selected. A separate total budget for the entire project (including work beyond what would be funded under the grant) may also be provided. The RARI-funded portion of the project must result in a viable park or recreation opportunity that is not dependent on other funding, even within the scope of a larger project.

6. Indirect Rate Agreement (NICRA) If your organization has previously negotiated an indirect cost rate, attach a copy of the most recently negotiated rate agreement (active or expired).

7. Project Timeline (1 Page Limit) Detailed timeline showing all project milestones, and measures that will provide quantifiable progress towards reaching the project’s milestones. Each planned contract must be listed with an expected date for bidding.

8. Project Site Map(s) and Rendering(s) Provide high-quality PDF or JPG files for maps and renderings and avoid using compressed or scanned images.

· Map (or Aerial Photo) Delineating Project Area and Proposed Boundary - clearly indicate area to be acquired and/or developed, as well as the proposed boundary of the larger park/recreation area that would be subject to the perpetual protection provisions of the LWCF Act (54 U.S.C. 200305(f)(3)), all known outstanding rights and interests in the area held by others, total acres within the boundary(ies), scale, and a north arrow.

· Site Analysis Map that illustrates site attributes such as flood zones, storm data, slopes, conservation areas, tree canopy, nutrient-rich soils, impervious surfaces, view sheds, and impervious cover.

· Plan or Sketch of Planned Site Features that highlight locations for public access, parking, playgrounds, conservation areas, rain gardens, concepts for managing stormwater, and other features, aligned with site analysis and community feedback.

· Any other supporting graphics that illustrate the objectives of the project proposal.

9. Letters of Commitment for Cost Share or Plans for Securing Cost Share For Already Secured Sources of Cost Share: Clearly state the amount, type, and anticipated date of contribution.

For Planned Sources of Cost Share: Describe the source, anticipated amount, and status of cost share discussions. Identify any major barriers that could prevent the share from being realized.

10. Letter of Support from Military Installation Commander Applicants must provide a letter from their relevant installation’s commander demonstrating support for the proposed RARI project.

11. Overlap or Duplication of Effort Statement This program reviews applications for potential overlap or duplication between the proposed project and any other funded or proposed project. Depending on the circumstances, NPS may choose not to make an award.

Applicants must state in their application if the activities, costs or time commitment of key personnel proposed in this application overlap with those in any other Federal proposal or award or not. If no overlap exists, include a statement to that effect. If any overlap exists, provide:

· Activities: Description of any overlapping activities.

· Costs: Description of any overlapping costs.

· Time: Description of any overlapping key personnel time.

· A copy of any overlapping or duplicative proposal submitted to any other potential funding entity.

· Details on when any overlapping proposal was submitted, to whom, and the expected date of the funding decision.

If no such overlap or duplication exists, state, “There are no overlaps or duplication between this application and any of our other Federal applications or funded projects”.

12. SF-LLL, Disclosure of Lobbying Activities (Required if applicable) Required if one is not already on file with the LWCF Program. State Lead Agency applicants do not need to submit a new SF‑LLL with their RARI application if a current annual SF‑LLL is already on file.

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

13. Conflict of Interest and Unresolved Matters Disclosures (Required, if applicable) If any actual or potential conflict of interest exists related to this project at the time of application, the applicant must provide sufficient information to support a program determination of significance per 2 CFR 1402.112. Refer to 2 CFR 200.112 Conflict of Interest and 2 CFR 200.113.

14. Uniform Audit Reporting Statement (Required) U.S. states, local governments, federally recognized Indian tribes, institutions of higher education, and non-profit organizations expending $1,000,000 USD or more in Federal award funds in the applicant’s fiscal year must submit a Single Audit report for that year through the Federal Audit Clearinghouse’s Internet Data Entry System, in accordance with 2 CFR 200 subpart F. U.S. state, local government, federally recognized Indian tribes, institutions of higher education, and non-profit applicants must state if your organization was or was not required to submit a Single Audit report for the most recently closed fiscal year. If your organization was required to submit a Single Audit report for the most recently closed fiscal year, provide the EIN associated with that report and state if it is available through the Federal Audit Clearinghouse website.

15. General Letters of Support (OPTIONAL) If an applicant includes letters of support from elected officials, community members, or other supporters, they must be uploaded with the application in Grants.gov to be considered. Please do not send separately from application.

16. Site and Process Photos (OPTIONAL) Applicants may choose to provide photos of the site and proposed development. These could include site features or constraints, community engagement, or current uses.

SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS AND DEADLINES

Address to Request Application Package Everything required to complete application is available through Grants.gov and are detailed within this Notice. Applications are only considered eligible when received through Grants.gov from an eligible applicant.

Submission Dates and Times Closing Date for Applications: This notice will be through November 1, 2030. During that timeframe, applications will be evaluated on a rolling basis as they are received.

Closing Date Explanation: Applications will be evaluated on a rolling basis as they are received. Notification of award selection and non-selection typically will occur within 180 days of application receipt. Grant Agreements will be negotiated and awarded on a case-by-case basis after selection notification.

Submission Instructions Applications must be submitted through Grants.gov In the event the applicant experiences technical difficulties with submitting their application, please contact the Grants.gov Support Center.

Apply Through Grants.gov To apply through Grants.gov, please follow the instructions in the Quick Start Guide for Applicants. Before applying, ensure that at least one person at your organization is registered and has the Authorized Organization Representative (AOR). Only the AOR can submit the application. If you need more users, they must create their own Grants.gov account. Follow these steps below to apply:

· Create a Workspace: Creating a workspace allows you to complete it online and route it through your organization for review before submitting.

· Complete a Workspace: Invite participants to the workspace so you can collaborate on the application. Required applications forms are included in the Grants.gov Funding Opportunity Package and can be completed in the Workspace, unless noted otherwise in the Required Forms table above. Check for errors before submission.

· Submit a Workspace: An application may be submitted through workspace by clicking the Sign and Submit button on the Manage Workspace page, under the Forms tab

· Track a Workspace Submission: After successfully submitting a workspace application, a Grants.gov Tracking Number (GRANTXXXXXXXX) is automatically assigned to the application.

The system generates a date and time stamp and sends it to the applicant’s AOR via email as proof of submission. Make sure your application passes the Grants.gov validation checks. Do not encrypt, zip, or password-protect any files. Only registered individuals in SAM as both a user and an AOR can submit applications. Please allow 30 days to register in Grants.gov.

Application System Technical Support: For Grants.gov technical registration and submission, downloading forms, and application packages, contact Grants.gov Customer Support 1-800-518-4726 or by email at Support@grants.gov

APPLICATION REVIEW INFORMATION

Eligibility Review During the eligibility review, the application is checked for timely submission, completed packages (see Application Documents above) and alignment with the requirements of this announcement. The Federal agency may remove an application if it does not pass the eligibility review. To be eligible for RARI funding, projects must:

· Be submitted by an eligible applicant, as described in the "Eligibility" Section

· Include a land acquisition component.

· Be located within an active REPI Partnership Opportunity Area or a sentinel landscape.

· Have a letter of support from a Military Installation Commander.

· Have satisfied all cost sharing requirements.

· Align with the Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP), as mentioned above under "Additional Eligibility Requirements."

· Must meet all eligibility requirements outlined in this NOFO.

Applicants must: (1) Be registered in SAM.gov before applying; (2) Maintain a current and active registration in SAM.gov at all times during which it has an active Federal award as a recipient or an application under consideration by a Federal agency. (3) See 2 CFR 25.200 for additional information.

Prior to making an award, the DOI checks the anticipated recipient and their key project personnel against the current list of prohibited or restricted persons or entities in the System for Award Management (SAM.gov) Exclusions database. DOI is prohibited from making an award if a recipient or any key personnel are found ineligible, prohibited, restricted, or otherwise excluded from receiving or participating in an award, as their ineligibility condition applies to this program.

If selected for award, NPS reserves the right to request additional or clarifying information for any reason deemed necessary, including, but not limited to:

(a) Other budget information

(b) Financial capability

(c) Evaluation of risk

(d) Name and phone number of the Designated Responsible Employee for complying with national policies prohibiting discrimination (See 43 C.F.R. § 17) If an application is removed from consideration for ineligibility, the Federal agency will notify the applicant in writing.

Merit Review NPS will evaluate and consider only those applications that separately address each of the merit review criteria in the Project Narrative application requirement. Each applicant is required to provide a detailed project narrative of the following criteria elements. It is highly recommended that the project narrative has sections labeled by criterion.

Criterion 1 – Expanding Access to Outdoor Recreation for Military Communities and the Public 5 total points

To what extent does the project:

· Expand outdoor recreation opportunities for both military communities and the general public;

· Address a gap in recreation access; and

· Meet an outdoor recreation priority identified in the State or Territory’s SCORP.

Criterion 2 – Promoting Compatible Land Use and Natural Resource Protection 5 total points

To what extent does the project:

· Establish or preserve compatible land use buffers around military installations;

· Support military readiness and operations;

· Enhance disaster resiliency for communities and military installations;

· Protect natural resources, such as wildlife habitat, open space, ecological connectivity, etc.; and

· Contribute to long‑term conservation outcomes.

Criterion 3 – Aligning with Community Needs

To what extent does the project:

· Address the unique needs of the military community and other communities near the project, such as improving community wellbeing and stimulating local economies.

· Meaningfully incorporate community engagement.

Criterion 4 – Leveraging Resources in Support of Readiness and Recreation

To what extent does the project:

· Demonstrate strong partnerships and efficient use of resources to advance recreation access and promote mission‑compatible landscapes.

· Foster collaboration among partners (military installations, government, non-profit organizations, private sector, etc.) to further the RARI mission.

Criterion 5 – Project Feasibility

To what extent does the project:

· Have a sound and reasonable project plan?

· Have a clear, feasible, well-detailed budget, including a plan to meet the 1:1 match requirement and minimize administrative costs?

· Demonstrate the ability to complete the proposed scope of work and maintain the project in the long term.

Review and Selection Process This program reviews proposed budgets to ensure:

· figures are correct

· estimated costs are necessary and reasonable and clearly linked to project narratives

· avoid obviously unallowable costs

· identify costs requiring prior approval

· ensure indirect cost rates are applied correctly

· confirm cost sharing requirements are reflected in the budget.

This program reviews applications for potential overlap or duplication between the proposed project and any other funded or proposed project. Depending on the circumstances, DOI may choose to not make an award.

NPS personnel, and in some cases independent reviewers, will review all proposals. All proposals for funding will be considered using the criteria outlined above. A summary of the review panel comments may be provided to the applicant if requested.

a. Initial Review Prior to conducting the comprehensive merit review, an initial review will be performed to determine whether: (1) the applicant is eligible for an award; (2) the information required by the NOFO has been submitted; (3) all mandatory requirements of the NOFO are satisfied; (4) the proposed project is responsive to the program objectives of the NOFO (program determination); and (5) the proposed project is in compliance with all applicable executive and secretary orders, including the President’s EO on Ending Radical and Wasteful Government DEI Programs and Preferencing as well as the EO and SO on Restoring Truth and Sanity to American History. If an applicant fails to meet the requirements or objectives of the NOFO, or does not provide sufficient information for review, the applicant will be considered non-responsive and eliminated from further review.

b. Comprehensive Merit Review All applications that pass the initial review will be eligible for the Comprehensive Merit Review. RARI Review Panels, composed of independent reviewers with relevant expertise in military communities, land management, parks and recreation, landscape architecture, public health, etc., will review and evaluate all eligible applications using the criteria outlined above. A summary of the review panel comments may be provided to the applicant if requested.

Each criteria element will be scored on a 0–5-point scale, where the following numerical ratings can be assigned: 5, 4, 3, 2, and 1. The scoring of each criterion must be based on the strengths and weaknesses of the application narrative. To assist in assigning an appropriate score, the following will be used as a general guideline, with more specific guidelines for each criterion outlined in the previous “Merit Criteria” section:

C. Selection The Selection Official will consider the merit review panel recommendations, the amount of funds available, and the following program policy factors when making recommendations for funding:

1. Geographic distribution

2. Distribution of funding to a range of program objectives

3. Range of project types, sizes, and partners represented

4. Lower relative administrative costs

D. Discussions and Award The Government may enter into discussions with a selected applicant for any reason deemed necessary, including, but not limited to: (1) only a portion of the application is selected for award; (2) the Government needs additional information to determine that the applicant is capable of complying with the requirements of the Department of Interior (DOI) Financial Assistance Regulations, and/or (3) additional specific terms and conditions are required. Failure to satisfactorily resolve the issues identified by the Government may preclude award to the applicant.

Selected applicants have one year from the date of their notification of selection to finalize a grant agreement with the NPS.

Selected applicants must meet with NPS staff for an orientation session regarding the requirements and steps for finalizing a grant agreement. This process includes reviews for compliance with federal laws, most notably the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA). If these reviews reveal features of the project that affect its eligibility or viability, the NPS will not be able to make the award.

The following table provides examples of the documentation required to finalize a grant agreement with the NPS. Note that exact requirements will depend on the project and current program policy. Applicants are encouraged to start compiling these items as soon as possible after selection.

REQUIRED AFTER SELECTION – Within 1 year

Revisions to original application documents

LWCF Boundary Map

LWCF Program Specific Documentation - after selection documentation will be determined with NPS.

Proof of Ownership – typically includes parcel maps, deeds, title reports, leases, etc.

National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA) Documentation - documentation will be determined with NPS to complete NHPA consultation. These often include Cultural Resource Surveys, APE Description, etc.

National Environmental Preservation Act (NEPA) Documentation - documentation will be determined with NPS to complete the NEPA process. These often include state/local environmental review documents, threatened & endangered species report, federal permits, etc.

Appraisal and Appraisal Review - must meet Federal Award Requirements and may include additional requests for documentation like a parcel map.

Site Development Plan

Additional items may be required in the award negotiation process.

Risk Review Prior to making an award, the applicant will be assessed for their level of risk per 2 CFR 200.206. This assessment includes the applicant's financial management capabilities, project delivery experience, staffing resources, past award performance, administration and reporting compliance records, and overall project complexity and potential for challenges. If an award will be made, special conditions may be applied to the award corresponding to the assessed risk. For awards over the simplified acquisition threshold (currently $350,000), a review of the applicant's eligibility and financial integrity information in the applicant's SAM.gov records will also be performed per 2 CFR 200.206.

AWARD NOTICES

Grant Agreements are sent electronically via GrantSolutions or e-mail. These agreements outline the terms, conditions, and payment instructions per 2 CFR 200.211. The Grant Agreement signed by an authorized Grants Officer is the legal instrument obligating financial assistance to a recipient. Any other prior agreement is not an authorization to begin work. If the program allows pre-award costs per 2 CFR 200.458, beginning work before receiving a Grant Agreement is at the applicant’s own risk.

Anticipated Project Start Date: 1 year from selection notification Anticipated Project End Date: Fully awarded projects should take one to three years to complete from the project start date on the Grant Agreement document.

POST-AWARD REQUIREMENTS AND ADMINISTRATION

Administration and National Policy Requirements For award administration and national policy requirements, see the DOI Standard Terms and Conditions. Infrastructure projects require the use of American iron, steel, manufacture products, and construction materials per 2 CFR 184.

NPS will communicate any other program- or project-specific special terms and conditions to recipients in their notices of award.

As authorized by 2 CFR § 200.340(a)(4), awards…