USDA-APHIS-10028-WSNWRC00-21-009.pdf

USDA APHIS Tribal Nations Wild Cervid Chronic Wasting Disease Opportunities 2021 Cooperative Agreements

Fiscal Year 2021 CWD Funding Opportunity

Funding Opportunity Number: USDA-APHIS-10028-WSNWRC00-21-0009

Publication Date: April 20, 2021

Application Due Date: July 4, 2021 at 11:59 PM Eastern Daylight Savings Time

Funding Opportunity: USDA APHIS Tribal Nations Wild Cervid CWD Opportunities 2021 The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) Wildlife Services (WS) is announcing the availability of up to $300,000 in cooperative agreement funding to further develop and implement wild cervid chronic wasting disease (CWD) surveillance, testing, management, and response activities, including further development and evaluation of techniques and strategies to prevent or control CWD in wild cervids on lands owned or managed by Tribal entities.

SYNOPSIS

Funding Opportunity Title: FY21 Tribal Nations Wild Cervid CWD Opportunities

Funding Opportunity Number: USDA-APHIS-10028-WSNWRC00-21-0009

Funding Type: Cooperative Agreement

CFDA Number: 10.028 Wildlife Services

Application Due Date: Proposals must be received by July 4, 2021 at 11:59 PM Eastern Daylight Savings Time through ezFedGrants. Proposals received after this deadline will not be reviewed or considered for funding. Submissions through grants.gov will not be accepted.

Funding Opportunity Description: In this 2021 opportunity, APHIS WS will make available up to $300,000 in funds to further develop and implement wild cervid CWD surveillance, testing, management, and response activities, including further development and evaluation of techniques and strategies to control CWD in wild cervids on lands owned or managed by Tribal entities.

Eligible Applicants: This opportunity is open to the following entities, provided they have regulatory oversight or direct responsibility for wild cervids: Federally recognized Native American tribal governments.1

Eligible applicants can also apply for funding under the competitive Funding Opportunity Announcements below, as applicable:

Funding Opportunity Number: USDA-APHIS-10028-WSNWRC00-21-0008 Funding Opportunity Title: Wild Cervid Chronic Wasting Disease Management and Response Activities

Funding Opportunity Number: USDA-APHIS-10025-VSSPRS00-21-0108 Funding Opportunity Title: Farmed Cervid Chronic Wasting Disease Management and Response Activities

Funding will not be provided for the same projects, as determined by APHIS, submitted through the competitive cooperative agreement process.

1 Federally recognized Native American tribal governments are listed on the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Interior;

Indian Entities Recognized by and Eligible To Receive Services From the United States Bureau of Indian Affairs website.

https://www.nfc.usda.gov/FSS/ClientServices/ezFedGrants/index.php https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2021/01/29/2021-01606/indian-entities-recognized-by-and-eligible-to-receive-services-from-the-united-states-bureau-of https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2021/01/29/2021-01606/indian-entities-recognized-by-and-eligible-to-receive-services-from-the-united-states-bureau-of

Cost Sharing: Although cost sharing is not required, APHIS WS may take an eligible entity’s ability to contribute non-Federal funds for proposed activities into consideration.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Synopsis A. Program Description

A.1 Funding Opportunity Description A.2 Funding Priorities A.3 Other Funding Considerations A.4 Alignment with USDA APHIS Goals A.5 Legislative Authority

B. Federal Award Information B.1 Cost Guidance

C. Eligibility Information C.1 Eligible Applicants C.2 Cost Sharing or Matching C.3 Other Criteria for Eligibility C.4 Administrative Eligibility Criteria

D. Proposal and Submission Information D.1 Obtaining a Proposal Package D.2 Content and Form of the Proposal Package D.3 Unique Entity Identifier and System for Award Management (SAM) D.4 Submission Dates and Times D.5 Intergovernmental Review D.6 Funding Restrictions D.7 Other Submission Requirements

E. Application Review Information E.1 Evaluation Criteria E.2 Review and Selection Process E.3 Anticipated Announcement and Federal Award Dates

F. Federal Award Administration Information F.1 Federal Award Notices F.2 Administrative and National Policy Requirements F.3 Reporting F.4 Project Evaluation

G. Federal Awarding Agency Contacts H. Other Information Appendix 1: Funding Opportunity Criteria Appendix 2: Proposal Checklist and Tips Appendix 3: Proposal Work Plan Template Appendix 4: Proposal Financial Plan Template

A. PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

Awarding Agency Name: USDA APHIS WS

Funding Opportunity Title: USDA APHIS Tribal Nations Wild Cervid CWD Opportunities 2021

Announcement Type: Initial Announcement

Funding Opportunity Number: USDA-APHIS-10028-WSNWRC00-21-0009

CFDA Number: 10.028 Wildlife Services

Key Dates: Proposals must be received by July 4, 2021 at 11:59 PM Eastern Daylight Savings Time through ezFedGrants. Proposals received after this deadline will not be reviewed or considered for funding. Submissions through grants.gov will not be accepted.

The performance period will begin prior to October 1, 2021 and should end no later than twelve months after the start date. There is an allowance of a one-time extension request of the performance period up to twelve months to complete the project, assuming there is no increase in funding requested. This request must be submitted in accordance with the cooperative agreement terms and conditions in order to be considered.

Applicants can find the funding opportunity information on the ezFedGrants or Grants.gov by searching either the CFDA number 10.028 or the Funding Opportunity Number USDA-APHIS-10028-WSNWRC00- 21-0009.

A.1 FUNDING OPPORTUNITY DESCRIPTION

This funding opportunity is provided to control and prevent CWD in wild cervids, including the development and/or implementation of CWD surveillance, testing, management, prevention, and response activities.

APHIS WS will make available up to $300,000 in funds for the following entities, provided they have regulatory oversight or direct responsibility for wild cervids: Federally recognized Native American tribal governments.

If all funds are not awarded through this funding opportunity, the unawarded funds will be used to fund projects submitted to the Wild Cervid Chronic Wasting Disease Management and Response Activities 2021 submitted by Federally recognized Native American tribal governments and Native American tribal organizations representing Federally recognize Native American tribal governments.

The overall objective of the funding opportunity is to control and prevent CWD in wild cervids.

Through this funding opportunity, APHIS WS is soliciting collaborators who will further develop and implement wild cervid CWD surveillance, testing, management, prevention, and response activities, including the use of funds for providing the information or tools needed to control and prevent CWD.

Funds may also be provided to further develop and evaluate techniques and strategies for controlling CWD in wild cervids.

Eligible applicants can also apply for funding under the competitive Funding Opportunity Announcements below, as applicable:

Funding Opportunity Number: USDA-APHIS-10028-WSNWRC00-21-0008 https://www.nfc.usda.gov/FSS/ClientServices/ezFedGrants/index.php https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/ourfocus/business-services/financial-management-division/Financial_Services_Branch/Agreements_Service_Center/terms-conditions-for-aphis-awards https://www.nfc.usda.gov/FSS/ClientServices/ezFedGrants/index.php https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/search-grants.html

Funding Opportunity Title: Wild Cervid Chronic Wasting Disease Management and Response Activities

Applicants can find the funding opportunity information on the ezFedGrants website by searching either the CFDA number 10.028 or the Funding Opportunity Number USDA-APHIS-10028-WSNWRC00-21- 0008.

Funding Opportunity Number: USDA-APHIS-10025-VSSPRS00-21-0108 Funding Opportunity Title: Farmed Cervid Chronic Wasting Disease Management and Response Activities

Applicants can find the funding opportunity information on the ezFedGrants website by searching either the CFDA number 10.025 or the Funding Opportunity Number USDA-APHIS-10025-VSSPRS00-21-0108.

Funding will not be provided for the same projects, as determined by APHIS, submitted through the competitive cooperative agreement process.

A.2 FUNDING PRIORITIES

Eligible applicants are encouraged to develop project proposals that directly support at least one of the five funding priorities described below:

1. Improve the management of CWD-affected wild cervid populations. For the purpose of this priority, management means effectively controlling CWD in affected cervid populations by implementing or improving upon current guidance, such as the Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies (AFWA) Best Management Practices. Examples of activities that may be included under this priority are: disease detection, investigation, and response; the development and use of novel CWD tests in wild cervids, epidemiology and risk analysis; wild cervid movement monitoring and control (traceability); identification and investigation of treatment options for CWD; wild cervid population management; sample collection training programs for sample collectors; surveillance of CWD in wild cervids; prevention of CWD in wild cervids; or, test result reporting to APHIS.

2. Improve the management of wild cervid CWD-affected areas. For the purpose of this priority, management means managing the environment to effectively control CWD in wild cervid affected areas (CWD endemic areas) to control or prevent the spread of CWD by implementing or improving upon current guidance, such as the AFWA Best Management Practices. Examples of activities that may be included under this priority are: the development and use of novel CWD tests for environmental testing; environmental decontamination; environmental testing; wild cervid carcass and waste management; identification and investigation of treatment options for CWD; or, investigating the role of scavengers or predators in CWD transmission to or within wild cervid populations or managing these risks.

3. Conduct research on amplification assays in wild cervids. Amplification assays are test methods that identify CWD by amplifying small amount of prion protein to levels that are detectable [i.e.

Protein Misfolding Cyclic Amplification (PMCA), real-time quaking induced conversion (RT-QuIC), etc.]. Specifically, this funding opportunity is interested in novel proposals which further the use of amplification assays as diagnostic or environmental tests. Examples of activities that may also be included under this priority: are the development of new amplification assays, or the expanded use of amplification assays for novel samples types and applications.

https://www.nfc.usda.gov/FSS/ClientServices/ezFedGrants/index.php https://www.nfc.usda.gov/FSS/ClientServices/ezFedGrants/index.php https://www.fishwildlife.org/application/files/5215/3729/1805/AFWA_CWD_BMPS_12_September_2018_FINAL.pdf https://www.fishwildlife.org/application/files/5215/3729/1805/AFWA_CWD_BMPS_12_September_2018_FINAL.pdf

4. Develop whole genome predictive genetics for wild cervids. 2 Research to support the use of whole genome predictive genetics to determine and understand the susceptibility of wild cervids to CWD on the landscape.

5. Develop and/or deliver educational outreach materials or programs to wild cervid stakeholders. For purposes of this priority, educational outreach means the methods, processes, or actions that provide education and facilitate learning of critical knowledge necessary to control and/or prevent CWD and its spread in wild cervids to various cervid populations, including the study of human dimensions on CWD prevention and control.

Behavioral messaging research may also be included as part of an outreach program.

Any other proposed projects or activities that would further develop and implement wild cervid CWD control, prevention, surveillance, testing, management, and response fall within the scope of activities for this funding opportunity. While proposals within this scope that do not fall under the priorities, they will be reviewed and may still be funded.

A.3 OTHER FUNDING CONSIDERATIONS

Each proposal should describe how the project will leverage existing resources through partnerships with local, State, and/or Federal government agencies, Native American tribal governments and Native American tribal organizations representing Native American tribal governments, industry organizations, professional associations, producer groups, and/or non-profit organizations with direct and significant interest in the control or prevention of CWD in wild cervids. Successful projects will meet the criteria described in Section E.1.

While all proposals meeting the administrative eligibility criteria listed in Section C.4 will be considered for funding, APHIS WS may give priority to proposals submitted by an eligible entity (1) in Tribal lands that has either experienced recent incidents of CWD in wild cervids or that have wild cervid populations bordering a CWD endemic area; and, (2) has a CWD control program that includes, but is not limited to, monitoring and surveillance, or that proposes to create a control program. Eligible applicants not meeting these criteria are encouraged to apply and their proposals may still be considered for funding.

Applicants should describe the anticipated involvement by APHIS personnel needed to complete the proposed activities in the Work Plan and Financial Plan (excluding personnel to administer or oversee the cooperative agreement). APHIS intends to collaborate with recipients to successfully complete activities funded via this opportunity; however, due to the limited availability of personnel, APHIS encourages proposals that are not contingent on APHIS participation where possible, unless participation was agreed upon during the development of the proposal.

A.4 ALIGNMENT WITH USDA APHIS GOALS

The mission of APHIS is to protect the health and value of American agriculture and natural resources.

APHIS works in a variety of ways to protect and improve the health and quality of our nation’s animals by taking steps to prevent, control, and eliminate those diseases and conditions facing animals today.

2 An eligible applicant including a genome predictive genetics strategy as a proposed activity should plan to submit ninety-eight samples at a time and include a laboratory cost of $75.00 per sample when completing the project proposal Financial Plan.

This funding opportunity supports the overall mission of USDA, which is to protect and promote food, agriculture, natural resources, and related issues, and USDA Strategic Goal 2 – Maximize the ability of American agricultural producers to prosper by feeding and clothing the world. Specifically, this funding opportunity supports the following USDA APHIS Strategic Goals:

USDA APHIS Strategic Goal 2: Safeguard American agriculture.

Objective 2.2: Manage plant and animal pests and diseases once established in the United States to promote plant and animal health.

Tactic: Collaborate with industry, Tribes, and States to develop approaches that take advantage of best management and husbandry practices to minimize the damage and spread of plant and animal diseases.

Objective 2.4: Manage conflicts caused by wildlife, detect and control wildlife disease, and protect agriculture and natural resources.

Tactic: Develop and implement science-based, effective, and practical methods and new technology for eliminating and managing wildlife damage and threats posed by diseases to agricultural resources, livestock, property, human health and safety, and natural resources.

Emphasize the development of methods that present a low environmental burden and a high degree of species-specificity.

Objective 2.6: Provide and coordinate timely diagnostic laboratory support and services.

Tactic: Provide leadership and coordinate with other partners on diagnostic techniques, assays, and new technologies including scientific computing to support greater use of genomics and bioinformatics.

A.5 LEGISLATIVE AUTHORITY

Under the Act of March 2, 1931, (46 Stat. 1468-69; 7 USC §§ 8351-8352, as amended), and the Act of December 22, 1987 (Public Law No. 100-202, §101(k), 101 Stat. 1329-331, 7 USC § 8353), the Secretary of Agriculture may conduct a program of wildlife services with respect to injurious animal species and take any action the Secretary considers necessary in conducting the program.

Additionally, the Secretary of Agriculture, except for urban rodent control, is authorized to conduct activities to control nuisance mammals and birds and those mammal and bird species that are reservoirs for zoonotic diseases. In carrying out a program of wildlife services involving injurious and/or nuisance animal species or involving mammal and bird species that are reservoirs for zoonotic diseases, the Secretary is authorized to cooperate with States, local jurisdictions, individuals, public and private agencies, organizations, and institutions.

Under the Animal Health Protection Act (AHPA), as amended, (7 USC § 8301 et seq.), the Secretary of Agriculture is authorized to issue regulations and orders and to carry out operations and measures to prevent, detect, control, and eradicate diseases and pests of livestock and to cooperate with other Federal agencies, States or political subdivisions of States, national governments of foreign countries, local governments of foreign countries, domestic or international organizations, domestic or international associations, Indian Tribes, and other persons to carry out the purposes of the AHPA.

Pursuant to 7 USC § 2279 (g) and, notwithstanding Chapter 63 of Title 31, APHIS is authorized to use cooperative agreements to reflect a relationship with a state or other recipient to carry out programs to https://www.usda.gov/sites/default/files/documents/usda-strategic-goals-2018-updated-1.pdf https://www.aphis.usda.gov/about_aphis/downloads/aphis-strategic-plan.pdf https://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?path=/prelim@title7/chapter109&edition=prelim protect the nation's animal and plant resources or to carry out educational programs or special studies to improve the safety of the nation's food supply.

B. FEDERAL AWARD INFORMATION

Total Amount to be Awarded: APHIS WS will make available up to $300,000 in funds to support projects that address the funding priorities described in Section A.2.

Type of Assistance Instrument: Awards will be funded via cooperative agreements. Cooperative agreements include substantial involvement by APHIS WS to assist in the completion of the goals and objectives of the work.

Anticipated Awards: APHIS WS anticipates awarding around five cooperative agreements and the amount awarded will range from $10,000 to $75,000 each. Based on reviewer recommendations, APHIS WS may award less than the requested amount of funds to a project. In these cases, applicants may accept or decline the offered award. If accepted, applicants must submit a revised proposal package that addresses reviewer concerns and aligns with the amount awarded. APHIS WS will provide additional guidance to applicants in these situations.

Anticipated Award Start Date: The performance period will begin prior to October 1, 2021.

Period of Performance: Projects must be completed no later than twelve months after the start date.

Funding will not be allowed, nor activities approved to occur, outside of the period of performance.

There is an allowance of a one-time extension request of the performance period up to twelve months to complete the project, assuming there is no increase in funding requested. This request must be submitted in accordance with the cooperative agreement terms and conditions in order to be considered.

Cost Sharing: Although cost sharing is not required, APHIS WS may take into consideration an eligible entity’s ability to contribute non-Federal funds to carry out a cooperative agreement. Additional information on cost sharing is outlined in Section C.2.

B.1 COST GUIDANCE

Each applicant must submit a detailed Financial Plan that provides sufficient information to determine the costs for each of the proposed project activities and objectives.

Allowable costs must be reasonable, allocable, and necessary to the project. Office of Management and Budget (OMB) cost principles (2 CFR Subpart E) must be used to determine whether a cost can be charged to the project and, if so, the extent to which it can be charged. Funds are intended to complement and build upon activities associated with other APHIS cooperative programs geared toward controlling or preventing CWD in wild cervids.

Allowable uses of cooperative agreement funds include, but are not limited to, activities, equipment, supplies, and services needed to complete approved program activities that support the priorities and considerations described in Section A.2. This may include:

• Equipment. The Federal definition of equipment is tangible personal property (including information technology systems) having a useful life of more than one year and a per unit value of $5,000 or more unless the applicant’s definition of equipment is more restrictive.

https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/ourfocus/business-services/financial-management-division/Financial_Services_Branch/Agreements_Service_Center/terms-conditions-for-aphis-awards https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?SID=36bff1b1599bd122d722fcb83c76da10&mc=true&node=sp2.1.200.e&rgn=div6

• Information technology systems. The term “information technology,” defined in 2 CFR Part 200.1 includes, but is not limited to, computers, network, and ancillary equipment, software, firmware, and similar procedures, services (including support services), and related resources.

This also includes any equipment, interconnected system(s), or subsystem(s) of equipment that is used in the automatic acquisition, storage, manipulation, movement, control, display, switching, interchange, transmission, or reception of data or information.

• Outreach materials. Whenever possible, existing publications or audiovisuals, referred to as outreach materials, should be used. A draft of any publications or audiovisuals produced with cooperative agreement funds for public use must be reviewed and approved by APHIS WS, the Office of the Deputy Administrator, and the Office of Legislative and Public Affairs. A determination will be made if the USDA logo may be used and APHIS’ participation in the project may be acknowledged. Please allow a minimum of four weeks for review and approval of materials (pamphlets, flyers, posters, etc.). Approval must be obtained prior to printing.

• Personnel. APHIS will allow costs for salaries and wages provided the total compensation to individual employees is reasonable for the work performed, conforms to the established policy of the organization, and is consistently applied to Government and nongovernmental activities.

• Travel. Funds may be requested for field work, trainings, attendance at meetings and conferences, and other travel costs associated with the proposed work. Recipients should follow their Tribal government’s written travel policies when calculating travel costs. If there is no travel policy, Federal per diem rates should be used in the calculation of travel costs.

Project funds must be obligated by the recipient during the performance period identified in the Award Document. Reimbursement of costs prior to the performance period identified in the Award Document will not be reimbursed.

Funds may NOT be used for the following:

• Land acquisition

• Compensation for Federal Employees

• Travel of Federal Employees

• Federal subawards

• Construction and/or major rehabilitation of buildings

• Bonuses or commissions

• Fundraising

• Meeting, conference, symposia, or workshop honoraria, which is payment to individuals or guests other than for documented professional services

• Vehicle purchases or leases

• Positions funded with other federal cooperative agreements or grants

• International travel

• Projects or activities associated by APHIS-State-Industry cooperative program activities already funded via USDA APHIS annual cooperative agreements

• Promotional, outreach, or giveaway items such as calendars, rulers, pens, pencils, squishy balls, cups, refreshments, etc.

Nothing in this section prevents an eligible entity from using funds received to enter into sub-agreements with another eligible entity, University, or nonprofit entity or to reimburse a state, or local agency for services rendered, such as for animal depopulation or testing.

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C. ELIGIBILITY INFORMATION

C.1 ELIGIBLE APPLICANTS

The following entities are eligible for funding through this opportunity, provided they have regulatory oversight or direct responsibility for wild cervids:

1. Federally recognized Native American tribal governments. 3

This list does not preclude award recipients from collaborating with other entities who may have direct and significant interest in the control or prevention of CWD in wild cervids, such as land grant or other universities, State or national livestock, wildlife, sporting groups, conservation organizations, or a Federal Agency.

C.2 COST SHARING OR MATCHING

Cost sharing and matching is defined in 2 CFR Part 200.1 as a “portion of the project costs not paid by Federal funds (unless otherwise authorized by Federal statute).” For more information on cost share please reference 2 CFR Part 200.306.

Although cost sharing is not required, APHIS WS may take into consideration an eligible entity’s ability to contribute non-Federal funds to carry out such a cooperative agreement, but shall not require an eligible entity to make a contribution as a condition to enter into a cooperative agreement.

If applicable, applicants should describe cost-share or in-kind funding for the project. Once the cooperative agreement is accepted and finalized, the cost share becomes legally binding and the recipient will be required to meet the cost share ratio.

C.3 OTHER CRITERIA FOR ELIGIBILITY

All applicant organizations must have at least two users registered in ezFedGrants, a Grants Administrative Officer and a Signatory Official, in order to successfully submit a proposal package.. This system will be used for all stages of the funding opportunity process, including submitting the proposal package, signing the cooperative agreement, and submitting reports.

Applicants will be checked against the System for Award Management (SAM) to ensure they have not been disbarred or suspended, proposed for debarment, declared ineligible, or voluntarily excluded from covered transactions by any Federal department or agency. See Section D.3.

C.4 ADMINISTRATIVE ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

Proposal packages must meet these initial screening criteria to be considered for further review.

Proposals that do not meet these criteria will not be considered. Applicants should refer to Appendix 1:

3 Federally recognized Native American tribal governments are listed on the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Interior;

Indian Entities Recognized by and Eligible To Receive Services From the United States Bureau of Indian Affairs website.

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Funding Opportunity Criteria for a full list of both the Administrative Eligibility Criteria and the Evaluation Criteria for this opportunity.

1. Proposals must be received by the deadline. Proposals received after the established deadline will not be reviewed or considered.

2. Proposals must be submitted an eligible applicant.

3. Proposals address at least one of the funding priorities or the scope of activities described in Section A.2.

4. All required documents and forms listed in Section D.2 must be (a) included in the proposal package, and (b) comply with the submission instructions described in Section D of this announcement. Any proposal package with missing or incomplete documents or forms may not be considered for review and could result in a rejected proposal.

5. Proposals must be consistent with allowed use of funds guidance. Proposals that do not align with the cost guidance described in Section B.1 of this announcement will not be considered.

D. PROPOSAL AND SUBMISSION INFORMATION

An eligible applicant may submit multiple proposals for this opportunity, requesting up to $75,000 per proposal for activities to control or prevent CWD in wild cervids. Applicants who wish to submit multiple proposals must submit each proposal as a separate proposal package. Based on reviewer scoring, multiple proposals from a single eligible entity may be selected for funding.

Applicants should refer to Appendix 2: Proposal Checklist and Tips for initial steps to take when developing a proposal.

D.1 OBTAINING A PROPOSAL PACKAGE

All application materials are available through this announcement and ezFedGrants.

If assistance is needed with locating application materials, please reach out to APHIS- WS.CWD_Agreements@usda.gov at least 72 hours prior to the application deadline.

D.2 CONTENT AND FORM OF THE PROPOSAL PACKAGE

The proposal package must include the following:

□ SF-424, “Application for Federal Assistance” – Completed when applying to the Opportunity in ezFedGrants

□ SF-424A, “Budget Information – Non-Construction Programs” that matches the submitted Financial Plan – Completed when applying to the Opportunity in ezFedGrants

□ Certification Regarding Lobbying (for Federal Assistance greater than $100,000)

□ SF-LLL, “Disclosure of Lobbying Activities” (for Federal Assistance greater than $100,000 when there are activities to disclose)

□ Waiver or approval response letter from the State’s Single Point of Contact (SPOC) if the applicant is in a state that is required to comply with Executive Order 12372, Intergovernmental Review of Federal Programs (See Section D.5 for additional information) https://nfc.usda.gov/FSS/ClientServices/ezFedGrants/index.php mailto:APHIS-WS.CWD_Agreements@usda.gov mailto:APHIS-WS.CWD_Agreements@usda.gov https://www.aphis.usda.gov/library/forms/pdf/certification_regarding_lobbying.pdf https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/forms/post-award-reporting-forms.html#sortby=1

□ Copy of the current, signed Negotiated BHI Indirect Cost Rate Agreement, if indirect costs are being claimed

□ CWD Project Proposal Work Plan (See Appendix 3 Proposal Work Plan Template below)

□ CWD Project Proposal Financial Plan (See Appendix 4 Proposal Financial Plan Template below)

Applicants should refer to the Appendix 2: Proposal Checklist and Tips when preparing a proposal package for submission. Failure to submit any required documents may result in a rejected proposal.

Letters of support are not required but may be included in the proposal package. Applicants should not request letters of support from APHIS employees; however, informal discussions are encouraged.

Project Proposal Work Plan

Applicants must submit a project proposal Work Plan and include all of the information outlined in the CWD Project Proposal Work Plan Template available in Appendix 3 Proposal Work Plan Template.

Applicants are encouraged, but not required, to use the CWD Project Proposal Work Plan Template.

Project proposal Work Plans using this template may not exceed twenty pages in 12-point font. Project Proposal Work Plans that do not use the template may not exceed ten pages in 12-point font. The use of diagrams, visuals, and reference sheets, as well as any letters of collaboration from contributors, will not count toward the ten-page limitation.

Project Proposal Work Plans should address at least one of the priorities or the scope of activities described in Section A.2 with individual objectives directed toward wild cervid management or research.

Applicants are encouraged to submit separate proposals for each priority provided the objectives or activities are not dependent on each proposal being selected for funding. If multiple priorities are addressed within a single Work Plan, applicants should specify which funding priority is addressed for each objective.

Project Proposal Financial Plan

Applicants must submit a project proposal Financial Plan that clearly identifies the costs associated with the proposed activities for each objective listed in the project proposal Work Plan and include all of the information outlined in the CWD Project Proposal Financial Plan Template available in Appendix 4 Proposal Financial Plan Template. Applicants are encouraged, but not required, to use the CWD Project Proposal Financial Plan Template. Project proposal Financial Plans must match and provide additional details on the information provided in the required SF-424A submitted through ezFedGrants. When preparing a project proposal Financial Plan, applicants must comply with the cost guidance and funding restrictions described in Section B.1.

D.3 UNIQUE ENTITY IDENTIFIER AND SYSTEM FOR AWARD MANAGEMENT (SAM)

All applicants are required to register in SAM prior to submitting a proposal for this funding opportunity and to maintain current information throughout the award period of performance(2 CFR Part 200.206). 4 To register, go to the SAM Website. Please allow a minimum of 5 days to complete the SAM registration.

Frequently Asked Questions, User Guides, Demonstration Videos, etc. can be found at the SAM Website, 4 Unless the applicant is an individual or Federal awarding agency that is excepted from those requirements under 2 CFR 25.110(b) or (c), or has an exception approved by the Federal awarding agency under 2 CFR 25.110(d).

https://nfc.usda.gov/FSS/ClientServices/ezFedGrants/index.php https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?SID=b8fd810a032fbf5915e8d5bce3b3d7d4&node=2:1.1.2.2.1&rgn=div5#se2.1.200_1206 https://www.sam.gov/SAM/pages/public/index.jsf https://www.sam.gov/SAM/pages/public/index.jsf https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?SID=4d5e0e92e308e9a84b696976485dae76&mc=true&node=se2.1.25_1110&rgn=div8 https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?SID=4d5e0e92e308e9a84b696976485dae76&mc=true&node=se2.1.25_1110&rgn=div8 under the “Help” tab. Registration is free. During the SAM registration process, it is mandatory to complete the Financial Assistance Certification Report in order to receive federal financial assistance.

In order to register in SAM, your organization will need a valid Data Universal Number System (DUNS) number. A DUNS number is a unique nine-character identification number provided by the commercial company, Dun & Bradstreet (D&B). To see if your organization already has a DUNS number or to obtain a DUNS number, contact D&B at 1-866-705-5711 or visit the D & B website. Please note that the registration may take up to 14 business days to complete. Registration is free.

Be sure to complete the Marketing Partner ID (MPIN) and Electronic Business Primary Point of Contact fields during the registration process. These are mandatory fields that are required when submitting applications.

During the application package review process, APHIS will conduct a risk assessment. All applicants will be verified in SAM to ensure they have not been disbarred or suspended, proposed for debarment, declared ineligible, or voluntarily excluded from covered transactions by any Federal department or agency. APHIS may not make a Federal award to an applicant until the applicant has complied with all applicable unique entity identifier and SAM requirements. If an applicant has not fully complied with the requirements, APHIS may determine that the applicant is not qualified to receive a Federal award and use that determination as a basis for making a Federal award to another applicant.

When the anticipated total Federal share exceeds the simplified acquisition threshold, APHIS is required to review and consider any information about the applicant that is in the designated integrity and performance system accessible through SAM. An applicant, if desired, may review and comment on any information about their organization that a Federal awarding agency previously entered and is currently in the designated integrity and performance systems accessible through SAM. APHIS will consider any comments provided by the applicant, in addition to the other information in the designated integrity and performance system, in making a judgment about the applicant's integrity, business ethics, and record of performance under Federal awards when completing the risk assessment.

D.4 SUBMISSION DATES AND TIMES

All proposals must be completed and received electronically through ezFedGrants no later than July 4, 2021, 11:59 PM Eastern Daylight Savings Time. The electronic date and time stamp from ezFedGrants will be used to determine whether proposals were received before the deadline. Submissions through Grants.gov will not be accepted.

An overview of the ezFedGrants application process can be obtained at ezFedGrants Applications Quick Reference. We understand unanticipated issues can arise; therefore, we urge applicants to submit their application package early to allow time to address any complications. If you are experiencing technical difficulties, please reach out to APHIS-WS.CWD_Agreements@usda.gov at least 72 hours prior to the deadline for assistance. Proposal packages received after the deadline will not be reviewed or considered.

Applicants should refer to Appendix 2: Proposal Checklist and Tips to ensure that all documents are included prior to submission of the proposal package.

https://iupdate.dnb.com/iUpdate/companylookup.htm https://nfc.usda.gov/FSS/ClientServices/ezFedGrants/index.php https://www.nfc.usda.gov/FSS/Training/Online/ezFedGrants/Resources/JA-EP_Application_Process_Overview.pdf https://www.nfc.usda.gov/FSS/Training/Online/ezFedGrants/Resources/JA-EP_Application_Process_Overview.pdf mailto:APHIS-WS.CWD_Agreements@usda.gov

D.5 INTERGOVERNMENTAL REVIEW

The Intergovernmental Review Process (CFDA 10.028) is subject to Executive Order 12372, “Intergovernmental Review of Federal Programs” in the States or Territories of: American Samoa, Arkansas, California, Delaware, District of Columbia, Iowa (State Agencies only), Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nevada (private and non-profits only), New Hampshire, Puerto Rico, Utah (State Agencies only), Virgin Islands, and West Virginia. Awards will not be made until this process has been completed in applicable states.

Names and addresses of States’ Single Point of Contact (SPOC) are listed in thehttps://www.aphis.usda.gov/mrpbs/fmd/downloads/spoc_list.pdf. Please reach out to your State’s SPOC for additional information on your specific state requirements.

Please upload a waiver or approval response letter from the SPOC to your proposal package in ezFedGrants to fulfill this requirement. Awards will not be made until this process has been completed in the applicable states.

D.6 FUNDING RESTRICTIONS

Project funds are only available during the period of performance and must be obligated by the recipient within 12 months from the date the funds are made available by APHIS WS (the beginning date of the period of performance on the Award Document unless otherwise stated in the Award Document.

Any expenses prior to the beginning date of the period of performance will not be reimbursed.

Construction is not authorized.

Applicants must submit a copy of their fully executed current Negotiated Indirect Cost Rate Agreement, negotiated by its recognized Federal Agency, when indirect costs are assessed in the budget. Indirect costs for any sub-award must be disclosed.

Higher education institutions and non-profit organizations’ assessment of indirect costs are limited to not more than ten percent of total direct costs or the application of their Negotiated Indirect Cost Rate Agreement, whichever is less.

Please refer to the cost guidance in Section B.1 for additional information on funding restrictions and limitations.

D.7 OTHER SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS

Only electronic submissions of proposals through ezFedGrants will be accepted. Hard copy proposals and submissions through Grants.gov will not be accepted. APHIS follows compliance with the Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.

Applicants experiencing technical difficulties should reach out to APHIS- WS.CWD_Agreements@usda.gov at least 72 hours prior to the application deadline of July 4, 2021, 11:59 PM Eastern Daylight Savings Time for assistance. If technical difficulties cannot be resolved APHIS may allow submission by email on a case by case basis. Proposals received after the deadline will not be reviewed or considered.

https://www.archives.gov/federal-register/codification/executive-order/12372.html https://www.aphis.usda.gov/mrpbs/fmd/downloads/spoc_list.pdf https://nfc.usda.gov/FSS/ClientServices/ezFedGrants/index.php https://nfc.usda.gov/FSS/ClientServices/ezFedGrants/index.php https://www.fcc.gov/general/section-508-rehabilitation-act https://www.fcc.gov/general/section-508-rehabilitation-act

E. APPLICATION REVIEW INFORMATION

E.1 EVALUATION CRITERIA

APHIS WS will use the following criteria to evaluate proposals during the review process. Applicants should consider the criteria when preparing the proposal package. Applicants should refer to Appendix 1: Funding Opportunity Criteria for a full list of both the Administrative Eligibility Criteria and the Evaluation Criteria for this opportunity

Evaluation Criteria

1. Addresses the Priorities and Requirements in the Announcement. This criterion assesses the extent to which the proposal strongly supports and clearly addresses one or more of the priorities identified in Section A.2.

a. Strong and direct support for at least one of the funding priorities. This criterion assesses the extent to which the proposed activities directly address a concern identified in at least one of the funding priorities, as well as the extent to which the expected outcomes and deliverables will strongly support the funding priority area of concern.

b. Strong and direct support for the overarching goal of the funding priority. This criterion assesses the extent to which the expected outcomes and deliverables will support the overarching goal of the funding opportunity, which is to control or prevent CWD through the development and implementation of CWD surveillance, testing, management, and response activities.

c. Sound knowledge of existing activity associated with the funding priority topic. This criterion assesses the extent to which the proposal demonstrates awareness of current concerns, known gaps, activities conducted by other entities, and the regulatory landscape related to the funding priority topic, if applicable.

d. The degree to which a proposal complements and builds on existing activities. This criterion assesses the extent to which the proposal addresses known gaps and avoid redundancy with similar work already conducted by other entities, including but not limited to work conducted by USDA. Proposed activities must also align with current federal and state regulations.

2. Feasibility of success. This criterion assesses the extent to which the proposal is likely to successfully produce the expected outcomes and deliverables based on key factors, such as a well-organized and sound approach, a reasonable schedule, effective partnerships and collaborations, and the applicant’s skills, knowledge, and experiences.

a. Plan of action. This criterion assesses the extent to which the Work Plan and Financial Plan lay out a plan of action that is logical, well organized, complete, and likely to successfully produce the expected outcomes and deliverables. It considers whether the approach is explained in sufficient detail for the reader to understand what activities will be performed, how they will be conducted, and what will be produced.

b. Proposed work and methods. This criterion assesses the extent to which the proposed work is technically sound. The proposed methods should be supported by current scientific knowledge and, in the case of management proposals, relevant experience supporting the proposed activities. References, including unpublished data from previous actions, should be included to support the proposed methods or approach.

c. Adequate budget. This criterion assesses the extent to which the budget is realistic, adequate, and sufficient to successfully produce the outcomes and deliverables described in the proposal.

d. Reasonable schedule. This criterion assesses whether the project schedule allows an appropriate amount of time for completing all proposed activities in a one year performance period, including but not limited to considering a reasonable amount of time to complete each activity, the competing time commitments of stakeholders who are critical to project completion, and other risks that may cause schedule delays.

e. Partnerships and collaboration. This criterion assesses the extent to which the proposal identifies and describes the partnerships and collaborations necessary to successfully produce the expected outcomes and deliverables. It also considers the likelihood the project will develop and strengthen relationships that are likely to foster progress in the funding priority area or related areas.

f. Skills, knowledge, and experience. This criterion considers the extent to which the key persons who will carry out the project have the qualifications, skills, ability, experience, and infrastructure (facilities and equipment) to successfully conduct the proposed activities and produce successful outcomes and deliverables.

3. Impact and value of outcomes. This criterion assesses the extent to which the expected outcomes and deliverables are likely to have measurable and significant impact and value in the funding priority area.

a. Scope of impact. This criterion assesses scope of impact on controlling or preventing CWD, including whether the project will create an impact at:

i. State, regional, national, or other geographic levels; or

ii. For one stakeholder interest group or many.

b. Value of outcomes. This criterion assesses the likelihood the project will produce outcomes and deliverables that are high value with respect to positively impacting the funding priority area.

c. Knowledge transfer. This criterion assesses the extent to which the outcomes and deliverables are likely to be used by other groups and stakeholders, either by replicating the activity in other regions or by using the information to support policies and decisions.

Proposals should indicate how the applicant will share the project outcomes and deliverables so other entities can make use of them.

4. Cost Effectiveness. This criterion assesses the extent to which the proposal identifies a cost-effective approach to produce the desired outcomes and deliverables as compared to alternatives.

a. All costs are reasonable and necessary. This criterion assesses the extent to which the Financial Plan is clear, logical, and includes only reasonable and necessary costs to produce the expected outcomes and deliverables. It also assesses the extent to which the Financial Plan provides sufficient detail for reviewers to fully understand how each budget item specifically supports the activities outlined in the Work Plan, without including budget items that are not allowed or appear superfluous or tangential to producing the outcomes and deliverables.

b. Use of existing resources. This criterion assesses the extent to which the proposal includes cost-saving measures by leveraging existing resources or partnerships where possible. For example, the proposal describes practical use of existing personnel, vehicles, computers, venues, supplies, and other items to complete the project. Cost share will be evaluated in this criterion and will make up less than five percent of the total score.

E.2 REVIEW AND SELECTION PROCESS

APHIS WS has final authority in determining which projects are funded for this initiative. Based on reviewer recommendations, a project may be selected for partial funding of specific objectives or activities within a proposed project Work Plan.

Proposals that meet the eligibility criteria in Section C will be subject to an administrative review by a APHIS WS Grants Specialist and evaluated by reviewers based on the merit of the proposal. APHIS WS is responsible for reviewing proposals against the evaluation criteria and will seek assistance and counsel from Federally recognized Native American tribal governments, and internal and external subject-matter experts as appropriate. High quality proposals are those that strongly support the priorities and address the needs, considerations, and evaluation criteria described in this Funding Opportunity Announcement.

Reviewers will have no association with projects they are reviewing to avoid potential conflicts of interest. In the event of a real or perceived conflict of interest, a reviewer shall recuse themselves as appropriate.

A risk assessment will be conducted as part of the selection and review process. See Section D.3 for additional information on the components of this risk assessment.

E.3 ANTICIPATED ANNOUNCEMENT AND FEDERAL AWARD DATES

There is a single application deadline followed by the simultaneous review of all applications. APHIS WS will review proposals within 55 days of the application deadline and applicants will be notified by email of award status.

F.…