W912HZ16BAA01.pdf

BROAD AGENCY ANNOUNCEMENT

W912HZ-16-BAA-01

U.S. ARMY ENGINEER

RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER

(ERDC)

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W912HZ-16-BAA-01 ERDC Broad Agency Announcement January 2016

TABLE OF CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION……………………………………………………………………………………..3

PART I BACKGROUND & RESEARCH INTERESTS……………………………………………6

Conference & Symposia Grants

Coastal & Hydraulics Laboratory…………………………………………………………………...10

Geotechnical & Structures Laboratory……………………………………………………………..19

Environmental Laboratory…………………………………………………………………………...30

Information Technology Laboratory………………………………………………………………..54

Construction Engineering Research Laboratory………………………………………………….58

Cold Regions Research & Engineering Laboratory………………………………………………72

Geopsatial Research Laboratory…………………………………………………………………...86

Reachback Operations Center………………………………………………………………………96

PART II PRE-PROPOSAL & PROPOSAL EVALUTION…………………………………………96

PART III PRE-PROPOSAL & PROPOSAL PREPARATION…………………………………….97

Introduction……………………………………………………………………………………………97

General Information………………………………………………………………………………

Type of Contract…………………………………………………………………………………….102

Contents of Pre-Proposal………………………………………………………………………….102

Contents of Full Proposal………………………………………………………………………….103

ATTACHMENTS…………………………………………………………………………………….105

Attachment A – Clauses of Fixed Price Contracts

Attachment B – Clauses for Cost-Reimbursable Contracts

Attachment C – Additional Representations and Certifications

POINTS OF CONTACT

For contractual questions concerning proposals to CHL, EL, GSL, ITL, GRL, and UROC contact:

Mike Lee at 601-634-3903 or via email at Michael.G.Lee@usace.army.mil

For contractual questions concerning proposals to CERL contact:

Wanda Huber at 217-373-6730 or Wanda.L.Huber@usace.army.mil or Andrea J. Krouse at 217-373-6746 or Andrea.J.Krouse@usace.army.mil.

For contractual questions concerning proposals to CRREL contact:

Ashley Jenkins at 217-373-7297 or Ashley.M.Jenkins@usace.army.mil.

For technical questions, contact the technical personnel listed at the end of each topic area.

PREPARATION INSTRUCTIONS AND ADDRESSES SHOWN IN PART III.

For more information about ERDC visit our website at: http://www.erdc.usace.army.mil/

INTRODUCTION

The U.S. Army Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC) includes the Coastal and Hydraulics Lab (CHL), the Geotechnical and Structures Lab (GSL), the Reachback Operations Center (UROC), the Environmental Lab (EL) and the Information Technology Lab (ITL) in Vicksburg, Mississippi, the Cold Regions Research and Engineering Lab (CRREL) in Hanover, New Hampshire, the Construction Engineering Research Lab (CERL) in Champaign, Illinois, and the Geospatial Research Laboratory (GRL) in Alexandria, Virginia. The ERDC is responsible for conducting research in the broad fields of hydraulics, dredging, coastal engineering, instrumentation, oceanography, remote sensing, geotechnical engineering, earthquake engineering, soil effects, vehicle mobility, self-contained munitions, military engineering, geophysics, pavements, protective structures, aquatic plants, water quality, dredged material, treatment of hazardous waste, wetlands, physical/mechanical/ chemical properties of snow and other frozen precipitation, infrastructure and environmental issues for installations, computer science, telecommunications management, energy, facilities maintenance, materials and structures, engineering processes, environmental processes, land and heritage conservation, and ecological processes. This research is conducted by Govern-ment personnel and by contract with educational institutions, non-profit organizations and private industries.

“The provisions of the Competition in Contracting Act of 1984 (P.L. 98-369) as implemented in the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR 35.016) provide for the issuance of a Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) as a means of soliciting proposals for basic and applied research and that part of development not related to the development of a specific system or http://www.erdc.usace.army.mil/ hardware procurement. To be eligible for consideration and possible contract award, the technology or methodology shall be either basic research, applied research, advanced technology development not for a specific system/hardware, or demonstration and validation.

BAAs may be used by agencies to fulfill their requirements for scientific study and experimentation directed toward advancing the state-of-the-art or increasing knowledge or understanding rather than focusing on a specific system or hardware solution. The BAA shall only be used when meaningful proposals with varying technical/scientific approaches can be reasonably anticipated. “Basic Research” is defined as research directed toward increasing knowledge in science with the primary aim being a fuller knowledge or understanding of the subject under study, rather than any practical application of that knowledge. “Applied Research” is the effort that normally follows basic research, but may not be severable from the related basic research; attempts to determine and exploit the potential of scientific discoveries or improvements in technology, materials, processes, methods, devices, or techniques; and attempts to advance the state-of-the-art. This announcement must be general in nature, identify the areas of research interest, include criteria for selecting proposals, and solicit the participation of all offerors capable of satisfying the Government's needs. The proposals submitted under this BAA will be subject to peer or scientific review. Proposals that are selected for award are considered to be the result of full and open competition and in full compliance with the provisions of PL 98-369, the Competition in Contracting Act of 1984.

Resulting agreements may be in the form of purchase orders, contracts, grants, or cooperative agreements depending upon the specifics of the effort, such as extent of Government involvement, actual scope of work, and cost.

This guide constitutes the BAA of this Command and conforms to regulatory requirements of the Federal Acquisition Regulation. This guide provides prospective offerors information on the preparation of proposals for basic or applied research. Directions as to form and procedures are included. This guide is also posted on www.Grants.gov.

Proposals from U. S. Government facilities and organizations will not be considered under this program announcement.

PERSONS SUBMITTING PROPOSALS ARE CAUTIONED THAT ONLY A

CONTRACTING OFFICER MAY OBLIGATE THE GOVERNMENT TO ANY AGREEMENT

INVOLVING EXPENDITURE OF GOVERNMENT FUNDS.

This BAA supersedes all previous editions and shall remain in effect until superseded.

Proposals are encouraged from Historically Black Colleges and Universities or Minority Institutions (HBCUs/MIs) for students to provide research support to any of the research and development areas listed in this BAA. HBCU/MIs interested in submitting a proposal must address the specific areas of research under which they are submitting. They must also clearly state within their proposal their capability to perform the contract and include a positive statement of their eligibility as an HBCU or MI. These contracts will be written in accordance with the Contract Student Regulation as regards pay, GPA requirements, place of performance and every other requirement or statement within the regulation.

http://www.grants.gov/

ERDC also encourages small business concerns, women owned small businesses, small disadvantaged business concerns, small businesses located in HUBZones, businesses participating in the Small Business Administration 8(a) program, and service disabled veteran-owned small businesses to submit research proposals for consideration.

The Offeror, by submission of an offer or execution of a contract in response to this solicitation, certifies that the Offeror is not debarred, suspended, declared ineligible for award of public contracts, or proposed for debarment pursuant to FAR 9.406-2. If the Offeror cannot so certify, or if the status of the Offeror changes prior to award, the Offeror must provide detailed information as to its current status.

Proposals submitted under the BAA should clearly identify within the proposal any research that is expected to be fundamental in nature as defined in National Security Defense Directive 189. Fundamental research means basic and applied research in science and engineering, the results of which ordinarily are published and shared broadly within the scientific community, as distinguished from proprietary research and from industrial development, design, production, and product utilization, the results of which ordinarily are restricted for proprietary or national security reasons.

Please see page 30 for white paper/pre-proposal submittal information. (e.g., Strategic Environmental Research and Development Program (SERDP), Environmental Security Technology Certification Program (ESTCP), DoD Basic 6.1 Research Program, etc.)

Federally Funded Research and Development Centers (FFRDCs) and Government entities (Government/National laboratories, military educational institutions, etc.) are subject to applicable direct competition limitations and cannot propose to this BAA in any capacity unless they meet the following conditions. FFRDCs must clearly demonstrate that the work is not otherwise available from the private sector AND they also provide a letter on letterhead from their sponsoring organization citing the specific authority establishing their eligibility to propose to government solicitations and compete with industry, and compliance with the associated FFRDC sponsor agreement and terms and conditions. This information is required for FFRDCs proposing to be prime or subcontractors. Government entities must clearly demonstrate that the work is not otherwise available from the private sector and provide written documentation citing the specific statutory authority (as well as, where relevant, contractual authority) establishing their ability to propose to Government solicitations. At the present time, DARPA does not consider 15 U.S.C. 3710a to be sufficient legal authority to show eligibility.

While 10U.S.C. 2539b may be the appropriate statutory starting point for some entities, specific supporting regulatory guidance, together with evidence of agency approval, will still be required to fully establish eligibility. DARPA will consider eligibility submissions on a case-by-case basis; however, the burden to prove eligibility for all team members rests solely with the Proposer.

Located in London, England, the International Research Office (IRO) (http://www.erdc.usace.army.mil/Media/FactSheets/FactSheetArticleView/tabid/9254/Article/4 76750/international-research-office.aspx) of the US Army Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC) (http://www.erdc.usace.army.mil/Home.aspx) promotes cooperation with the international research community as a means to advance science and engineering knowledge and technical capabilities in areas relevant to ERDC research interests. Research Grants that address topics in this BAA; Visiting Scientist Travel Grants to ERDC laboratories; and Conference/Workshop Grants are available in this context. Please address questions for IRO concerning the submission of proposals to: Julian Richmond (Tel:

+44-1895-62-652 Email: Julian.p.richmond.ln@mail.mil

PART I

BACKGROUND AND RESEARCH INTERESTS OF THE RESEARCH LABORATORIES

The COASTAL AND HYDRAULICS LABORATORY (CHL) has nationally - and interna-tionally - recognized engineering and scientific expertise related to inland waterways and the estuarine and coastal zones. CHL has foremost capabilities in prototype data collection, experimental research and numerical modeling and simulation of processes involving water levels, current, winds, waves and tides, and their interaction with sediments and structures.

Specific and unique expertise exists in the engineering, hydrodynamics, sediment transport, dredging and dredged material disposal, physical processes associated with environmental analyses, groundwater modeling, military hydrology, harbor engineering, and riverbank and shore protection. CHL has the Tri-Service Reliance mission for Logistics-Over-the Shore (LOTS) for Sustainment Engineering. The Shore Protection Manual, which is internationally recognized as the most authoritative source of engineering design and guidance for the coastal engineering profession, was originally developed by the Coastal Engineering Research Center (CERC), and is being replaced by the CHL with an updated and greatly expanded Coastal Engineering Manual.

The GEOTECHNICAL and STRUCTURES LABORATORY (GSL) performs research, development and testing in many areas such as: soil mechanics, foundation design, slope stability, seepage analysis, pavements (both expedient and permanent), rock mechanics, engineering geology and geophysics, earthquake engineering, vehicle mobility and trafficability, structural dynamics, explosion and weapon effects, survivability, earth dynamics, construction materials, impact of high-velocity projectiles, development of methods for installation of fixed installation camouflage, concealment and deception, and design and analysis of structures to resist static and dynamic loading. The Geotechnical and Structures Laboratory is equipped to perform any type of laboratory testing, including centrifuge applications, needed to assist in the types of research described herein.

The ENVIRONMENTAL LABORATORY (EL) conducts Military and Civil Works R&D for the Corps of Engineers, other Department of Defense elements, and other Government agencies in the general areas of Environmental Restoration (Clean-up) and Environmental Conservation. Areas of research include: (a) environmental sensing development, (b) http://www.erdc.usace.army.mil/Media/FactSheets/FactSheetArticleView/tabid/9254/Article/476750/international-research-office.aspx http://www.erdc.usace.army.mil/Media/FactSheets/FactSheetArticleView/tabid/9254/Article/476750/international-research-office.aspx http://www.erdc.usace.army.mil/Home.aspx mailto:Julian.p.richmond.ln@mail.mil hazardous waste site characterization and treatment, (c) sediment geochemistry and biological effects, (d) water quality modeling, and unexploded ordnance (UXO).

Environmental Conservation deals with sustaining natural resources entrusted to DoD for continued use through improving and developing tools and technologies, which conserve, protect, and enhance natural and cultural resources and foster stewardship. Areas of research include: (a) environmental database development; (b) environmental impact prediction, assessment, and management; (c) environmental criteria for stream channel alteration;

(d) natural resource management; (e) aquatic nuisance species management; (f) threatened and endangered species protection and management;

(g) ecology, restoration, and management of plant communities in aquatic ecosystems; (h) water quality; (i) outdoor recreation; (j) cultural resources; and (k) ecosystem simulation.

The INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY LABORATORY (ITL) conducts research, development, and studies and provides technical assistance and operational support in information technology (IT) and closely related fields, with particular emphasis on the areas of computer-aided interdisciplinary engineering, computer-aided design and drafting, building information modeling, computer-aided facilities management, computer science, high performance computing, advanced computer security, general-purpose computing, and sensor and instrumentation systems. These activities are conducted to support and enable execution of missions of USACE, the Army, and DoD.

The U.S. Army CONSTRUCTION ENGINEERING RESEARCH LABORATORY (CERL) offers research and development (R&D) support, as well as technical assistance, to a variety of customers throughout the Department of the Army (DA) and other Government agencies. CERL is the lead Army facility for conducting R&D on infrastructure and environmental issues for installations. CERL’s research is directed toward increasing the Army’s ability to more efficiently construct, operate, and maintain its installations and ensure environmental quality and safety at a reduced life-cycle cost. To accomplish the mission, CERL has two Divisions: Facilities and Installations. Researchers in these Divisions are matrixed across the ERDC organization in multi-disciplinary teams that bring the best expertise to bear on solving problems for the Department of Defense.

The mission of the COLD REGIONS RESEARCH AND ENGINEERING LABORATORY (CRREL) is to solve interdisciplinary, strategically important problems of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Army, Department of Defense, and the Nation by advancing and applying science and engineering to complex environments, materials, and processes in all seasons and climates, with unique core competencies related to the Earth’s cold regions.

CRREL provides innovative products and solutions in support of the warfighter, homeland security, environment, infrastructure, and civil works water resources requirements. CRREL’s research staff utilizes a multi-disciplinary approach to solve difficult environmental physics and cold regions engineering problems. Technical areas of research include Signature Physics, Terrain Properties and Processes, Biogeochemical Processes in Earth Materials, Environmental Fate and Transport Geochemistry, Maneuver Support and Sustainment, Cold Regions Infrastructure, Water Resources and Geospatial Applications, and Hydrology and Hydraulics.

The GEOSPATIAL RESEARCH LABORATORY’s (GRL) mission is to provide the

Warfighter with a superior knowledge of the battlefield. This mission is accomplished through research, development, operations and systems support, and the application of expertise in the geospatial, topographic and related sciences. Throughout its history, GRL has developed and exploited geospatial-related technologies critical to meeting the Nation’s military. GRL has applied its expertise to the needs of homeland defense and the global war on terrorism. These technologies and their related research, operations and systems development activities, essential to the Army in accomplishing its global mission, include the following:

• Timely acquisition, fusing, analysis, display, and dissemination of remotely sensed, multi-sourced information depicting imagery, features, elevation, and other information essential to accurately describe the land warrior battle space.

• The development of geographic information software that enables reliable, efficient, and secure information management, interoperability and accessibility for various user communities operating globally, each with different needs.

• The development of globally fielded applications and systems for acquiring, accessing, fusing, and delivering terrain and feature information to the soldier.

• The development of accurate on-the-fly global positioning systems for use with inertial guidance as essential positioning engines for acquiring near real time, dynamic, high-accuracy, remotely sensed 3-d terrain and feature information.

• The development of increasingly compact, more efficient, and more comprehensive applications and systems aimed at providing low echelon combat units with information in near-real-time, enabling rapid response to developing situations in any battle space.

• The development of new and innovative techniques to understand and visualize terrain and battle space information in all dimensions, and to accommodate reasoning within analytical results.

• The development of accurate and efficient survey and mapping systems for use by both military and civil communities.

• Capabilities in acquisition, testing and fielding of topographic systems; advanced and engineering development of imagery systems; and research and development in the areas of imagery and intelligence data exploitation.

Operational capabilities in geospatial information and imagery requirements development;

terrain, hydrologic, and environmental analysis; and information services.

The USACE REACHBACK OPERATIONS CENTER (UROC) is an engineering analysis reach back (i.e., telepresence) capability to support personnel in the execution of their mission across the full operational spectrum. Research in this area includes the development and/or integration of models (empirical, analytical, numerical, etc.) and hardware to improve subject matter expert (SME) response time, provide highly accurate engineer analysis to deployed personnel, and improve the capability of personnel in the field to collect engineering data.

CONFERENCE AND SYMPOSIA GRANTS

I. Introduction

The ERDC supports conferences and symposia in special areas of science that bring experts together to discuss recent research or educational findings or to expose other researchers or advanced graduate students to new research and educational techniques. The ERDC encourages the convening, in the United States, of major international conferences, symposia, and assemblies of international alliances.

II. Eligibility

Notwithstanding the above, the Department of Defense (DOD) has imposed certain restrictions on the ERDC’s co-sponsorship of scientific and technical conferences and symposia. Specifically, DOD instruction 5410.20 prohibits co-sponsorship of conferences and symposia with commercial concerns, i.e., ERDC cannot co-sponsor conferences or symposia with a for-profit company. Scientific, technical, or professional organizations which qualify for tax exemption under the provision of 26 U.S.C. Sec. 501 (c) (3) may receive conference and symposia grants.

III. Conference Support

Conference support proposals should be submitted a minimum of six (6) months prior to the date of the conference.

IV. Technical Proposal Preparation

The technical portion of a proposal for support of a conference or symposium should include:

a. A one page or less summary indicating the objectives of the project.

b. The topics to be covered.

c. The location and probable date(s) and why the conference is considered appropriate at the time specified.

d. An explanation of how the conference will relate to the research interests of the ERDC and how it will contribute to the enhancement and improvement of scientific, engineering, and/or educational activities as outlined in the BAA.

e. The name of chairperson(s)/principal investigator(s) and his/her biographical information.

f. A list of proposed participants and the methods of announcement or invitation.

g. A summary of how the results of the meeting will be disseminated.

Cost Proposal Preparation

The cost portion of the proposal should show:

a. Total project conference costs by major cost elements.

b. Anticipated sources of conference income amount from each.

c. Anticipated use of funds requested.

V. Participant Support

Funds provided cannot be used for payment to any federal government employee for support, subsistence, or services in connection with the proposed conference or symposium.

COASTAL AND HYDRAULICS LABORATORY

Research is performed in the areas of hydraulic structures such as locks, dams, outlet works, control gates, stilling basins, spillways, channels, fish handling systems, and pumping stations, flood control channels; navigation channels; riverine and estuarine hydrodynamics and transport processes; groundwater; hydrology; dredging-related equipment; and on coastal problems related to shoreline protection; beach erosion; navigation; sedimentation; inlet stabilization; and construction, operation and maintenance of coastal structures (break-water, jetties, groins, seawalls, etc.). Major areas of interest include coastal hydrodynamics (wind waves, tides, currents, wind related water levels); coastal sedimentation (longshore transport, inlet sedimentation); coastal geology and geomorphology; design and stability of coastal structures; and interaction of structures and coastal processes. Other activities include descriptions of coastal processes; theoretical studies; Watershed and regional sediment and water systems studies; numerical and physical model techniques; data collection and analysis techniques; development of laboratory and prototype instrumentation and equipment. The following sections contain information on these research areas and specific research thrusts.

II. Research Areas

A. Physical Processes in Estuaries (CHL-1)

1. The research program in estuarine physical processes deals with the hydrodynamic and transport characteristics of water bodies located between the sea and the upland limit of tidal effects. Research is directed toward knowledge that will improve field measurements and predictions of these processes.

2. Specific areas of required research include the following physical processes in estuaries and other tidal waters.

(a) The propagation of tides.

(b) Transport of salinity, mixing processes, stratified flows.

(c) Transport, erosion, and deposition of sediments, including settling velocity, aggregation of sediment, consolidation of sediment.

(d) Behavior and characteristics of sediment beds, including movement, consolidation, armoring, bonding, physical chemical characteristics, density, erodability.

(e) Flow between aquifers and surface waters.

3. Specific areas of required research include the following activities with respect to the physical processes listed.

(a) The effect of human activities, including dredging construction, vessel traffic, flow diversion, training, structures, and protective structures.

(b) Measurements of parameters that are indicative or descriptive of the processes listed in paragraph 2 by in-situ and remote methods in the lab and field.

(c) Prediction of processes listed in paragraph 2 by analytical methods, physical models, numerical models, and other techniques.

(d) Conceptual and mathematical descriptions of the processes listed in paragraph 2.

(e) Development of materials, equipment, and methods that potentially lead to applied research that would make human activities listed safer, more economical, or more effective.

(f) Development of methods, techniques, and procedures that enable the treatment of an estuary as a system. (Contact: Rob McAdory, 601-634-3057; Email:

Robert.T.McAdory@usace.army.mil)

B. Inland Hydraulic Structures (CHL-2)

1. The research program in hydraulic structures is related to the hydraulic performance of locks, dams, outlet works, control gates, stilling basins, spillways, channels, bank protection, riprap stability, pumping plants and other hydraulic structures, and with physical and/or numerical model studies to predict and analyze the physical water quality aspects of water resources projects.

2. Specific areas of required research include the following:

(a) Physical and numerical hydraulic model investigations of a wide variety of hydraulic structures to verify proposed designs and develop more effective and economical designs.

(b) Analysis of model and prototype data and inspection of field installations to develop design criteria for hydraulic structures.

(c) Develop methods of correlating theoretical and experimental information with design methods used by the Corps of Engineers to improve existing procedures and provide material for inclusion in appropriate manuals.

(d) Develop physical and/or numerical models to predict and analyze the water quality aspects of water resources projects and design appropriate hydraulic structures to control water as well as water quantity while satisfying the desired objectives.

(e) Conduct research and/or develop numerical codes to develop techniques for analyzing physical aspects of water quality in lakes and rivers through a better understanding of the hydrodynamics in density-stratified environments and for improving water quality within and downstream of density-stratified reservoirs and to investigate the ability of existing and proposed water resources projects to satisfy established water quality standards.

(f) Basic studies related to development of hydraulic design and operation guidance for hydraulic structures used in inland waterways for navigation and flood control purposes, including wave forces/loads on gates (tainter, miter, etc).

(g) Performance tests, both model and prototype, of hydraulic appurtenances to flood control and navigation dams such as spillways, outlet works, energy dissipaters, and approach and exit channels, are conducted and/or analyzed to develop design guidance that will provide structures of maximum efficiency and reliability with minimum maintenance.

(h) Develop innovative methods to prepare and revise engineering manuals for hydraulic design of various hydraulic structures.

(i) Develop innovative methods to conduct training courses on design of various hydraulic structures.

(j) Develop innovative methods to prepare technical reports of all work conducted. (Contact: Jackie Pettway, 601-634-2288; Email:

Jackie.S.Pettway@usace.army.mil)

C. Open Channel Flow and Sedimentation (CHL-3)

1. The Stable Flood Control Channel research project consists of basic studies related to development of hydraulic design guidance for designing modifications to natural stream channels to provide for local flood protection. Emphasis is placed on channel stability as well as channel flow capacity.

2. Specific areas of required research include the following:

(a) Studies related to the development of effective methods to analyze a natural stream's response to modifications made for flood control purposes.

(b) Studies applicable to development of stream bank and streambed protection methods where channel instability exists.

(c) Studies applicable to development of sediment transport, local scour, and stream form relationships for a broad range of stream types, bed and bank materials, and meteorological and hydrological conditions.

(d) Collection and analysis of data which aid in evaluating existing methods and/or developing new methods to analyze channel stability for the variety of channel flow conditions and stream types existing in natural stream systems. (Contact: Loren Wehmeyer, 601-634-2923; Email: Loren.L.Wehmeyer@usace.army.mil)

D. Dredging Research (CHL-4)

Protection and enhancement of the environment associated with operation and maintenance of navigable U.S. waterway infrastructure through dredging activities is a national priority. Dredging operations and environmental requirements of navigation projects are inseparable. Research is required to predict the time-dependent movement of non-contaminated sand and sand/silt mixtures of dredged materials placed in the near shore zone, and all materials placed in the offshore region. The cost of dredging operations attributable to compliance with environmental windows that are determined to be over-restrictive, inconsistent, or technically unjustified can be reduced. More effective contaminated sediment characterization and management will reduce costs and enhance the reliability of methods associated with the assessment, dredging, placement, and control of sediments from navigation projects. Better instrumentation for dredge and site monitoring is required to implement automated dredge inspection and payment methods, and accurately monitor placement of contaminated materials. Emerging technologies regarding innovative equipment and processes should be expeditiously introduced into the dredging arena. Enhanced ecological risk management for dredging and disposal projects through technically sound approaches for characterizing, managing, and conducting risk-based evaluations are required for expanding options regarding both contaminated and non-contaminated dredged materials. (Contact: Eddie Wiggins, 601-634-2471; Email:

Charles.E.Wiggins@usace.army.mil)

E. Navigation Channel Design (CHL-5)

1. The research program in navigation channel design involves basic research to develop design guidance for the design of new channels and modifications of existing waterways. It involves identifying maneuvering requirements in restricted waterways that affect the channel dimensions, alignment, and location of appurtenances in the navigation channel under various environmental and vessel traffic conditions. It also involves identifying the stability of the channel, maintenance requirements and designing structures that reduce or eliminate the maintenance requirements. Finally, it involves quantifying the flow and pressure fields generated by a tow or ship passing through a waterway and the related impacts on the sediment re suspension in the channel, channel border, and side channel/backwater areas.

Studies involve deep and shallow draft navigation channels and physical and mathematical models. Human factors are included in research and project studies using a ship and tow simulator.

2. Specific areas of required research include the following:

(a) Physical model investigations of a wide variety of navigation channel configurations in many environments with different type vessels to verify proposed designs and to develop more efficient and safe designs and to lower environmental impacts.

(b) Development and enhancement of mathematical models of vessels, both ships and push-tows, for use on the simulator to add vessel types not available or to increase the accuracy with which the model reproduces the vessels response.

(c) Development of methods and modeling techniques to predict the currents and sediment transport characteristics of various channel designs and integrate this with the navigation model studies, including those generated by the vessel movement.

(d) Development of methods and modeling techniques to predict the currents and sediment transport characteristics of various channel designs and integrate this with the navigation model studies.

(e) Development of methods and techniques to prepare and display visual information for the pilot on the simulator projection system.

(f) Development of methods and measurement equipment, techniques for measuring scale model performance in physical model navigation studies.

(g) Development of methods and techniques to improve ship simulator and increase reliability of design estimates, including data and tools for ship motions, draw down, squat, ship-generated waves, and ship maneuvering.

(h) Development of methods and techniques for the analysis and evaluation of model results to optimize the channel design and to determine the level of safety, or conversely, risk involved with the various designs and ship transits. (Contact:

Richard Styles, 601-634-4065; Email: Richard.Styles@usace.army.mil)

F. Computer-Aided Hydraulic Engineering (CHL-6)

The objective of this research program is to develop computer-aided design tools that can be used by hydraulic engineers in planning, design, construction, operation, and maintenance of navigation and flood control projects. The scope includes open channel and closed conduit flows, equipment, structures, and sediment transport analysis and modeling.

(Contact: Gary Brown, 601-634-4417; Email: Gary.L.Brown@usace.army.mil)

G. Groundwater (CHL-7)

The groundwater modeling research program is structured to enhance understanding and predict capabilities, including the development of numerical codes, groundwater flows and contaminant transport in both the saturated and unsaturated zones for both porous and fractured media. The goal of the program is the development of modeling techniques, including remedial alternative simulation, for optimal design and operation of the site cleanups. (Contact: Stacy Howington, 601-634-2939; Email:

Stacy.E.Howington@usace.army.mil)

H. Hydrology (CHL-8)

1. Research in this area primarily addresses military applications related to mobility, counter mobility and water supply.

2. Specific research involves the following areas:

(a) Remote sensing and quantification of precipitation.

(b) Development of spatially varying precipitation hydrology models.

(c) Visualization of results for hydrology and dam break models.

(d) Rapid procedures for flood forecasting.

(e) GIS interfacing with existing and new hydrology models.

(f) Groundwater surface water interaction processes.

(g) Interfacing watershed models with water quality and other environmental models. (Contact: Aaron Byrd, 601-634-2473; Email:

Aaron.R.Byrd@usace.army.mil)

I. H&H GIS/Database Development (CHL-9)

Research involves the following areas:

(a) Electronic Navigation Charting.

(b) Integration of GIS/Database and H&H models.

(c) Watershed management for erosion control.

(d) Larger River System management for flood control navigation.

(e) Visualization Techniques. (Contact: Jeff Lillycrop, 202-761-4229; Email:

Jeff.Lillycrop@.usace.army.mil)

J. Coastal Hydrodynamics, Coastal Processes (CHL-10)

Research in shallow water wave estimation; forecasting and hind casting of wind generated waves for oceanic to local regions; wave theory; statistical distribution of wave parameters; simulation of spectral conditions in wave basins; near shore currents; wave breaking; wave/current and wave structure interactions; long and short waves in ports and harbors; tsunami modeling; wind generated currents; storm surge; tidal circulation; two- and three dimensional numerical simulation models (including finite difference, finite element, and curvilinear coordinate techniques); coastal meteorology; explosion generated waves; ship response to winds, currents and waves; moored ship response; mooring design and analysis, ribbon bridge hydrodynamics and turbulence. (Contact: Ty Wamsley, 601-634-2099; Email:

Ty.V.Wamsley@usace.army.mil and/or Jackie Pettway, 601-634-2288; Email:

Jackie.S.Pettway@usace.army.mil)

K. Coastal Inlets, Navigation Channels (CHL-11)

Sediment shoaling in coastal inlet channels; stability and performance of inlet channels;

scour at structures; sediment transport modeling; influence of structures such as jetties and breakwaters on wave, current, and sedimentation processes. Numerical modeling of inlet hydrodynamics and sediment-transport processes. Shoreline evolution modeling and storm erosion of beaches, particularly concerning over wash and breaching near inlets; wind and wave generated sediment transport; sediment budget analysis; coastal and inlet geomorphology; and PC-, workstation-, and mainframe-based automated coastal engineering software (including relational and GIS data bases). (Contact: Julie Rosati, 251-694-3719;

Email: Julie.D.Rosati@usace.army.mil)

L. Coastal Structure and Facility Design (CHL-12)

Development of functional and stability design criteria for coastal structures and facilities (breakwaters, seawalls, jetties, groins, harbors, marinas, etc.); wave run-up, over-topping, refraction, diffraction, transmission, reflection, etc.; design of floating breakwaters; breakwater stability; application of spectral wave conditions to coastal engineering; stability of riprap to irregular wave attack; stability and functional design of overtopped rubble mound breakwaters;

scale modeling of armor unit strength; analysis of structural data for floating breakwaters;

investigation of numerical structural models for floating breakwaters; development of wave run-up gage for rough and porous slopes; investigation of attenuation/mooring force models of floating breakwaters; development of materials and techniques to produce high quality break-water model armor units; analysis of wave run-up overtopping, refraction, diffraction, transmission and/or reflection data on coastal structures and beaches and design of struc-tures for Logistics-Over-The-Shore (LOTS) operations. (Contact: Jackie Pettway, 601-634- 2288; Email: Jackie.S.Pettway@usace.army.mil)

M. Field and Laboratory Measurements, Data Collection, and Analysis (CHL-13)

Technologies, instrumentation, and monitoring systems in coastal and riverine settings for collecting, analyzing, and disseminating data related to measurements of coastal waves, surface currents, water levels, water quality, sediment, and wind, primarily in the field, but also in a sediment laboratory; advanced data analysis (spectral and non-spectral) techniques;

remote sensing techniques; bed load and suspended sediment transport; monitoring and evaluating technical and structural stability of coastal projects; advanced hydrographic survey techniques, field measurement of coastal processes; bathymetric survey systems. (Contact:

James “Pat” McKinney, 601-634-3754, Email: James.P.McKinney@usace.army.mil)

N. Experimental Coastal Model Equipment, Operation and Analysis (CHL-14)

Development of equipment and techniques for specialized model construction, experimental wave generation equipment, specialized data acquisition and analysis systems, advanced model operations techniques, and laboratory and scale effects in movable bed model studies. (Contact: Jackie Pettway, 601-634-2288; Email:

Jackie.S.Pettway@usace.army.mil)

O. General Coastal Engineering, Coastal Geology, and Dredging Investigations (CHL-15)

Sand bypassing systems and equipment; beach fill design; coastal geology and geomorphology; functional design and evaluation of coastal works and coastal structures;

littoral transport; coastal and offshore dredging studies; agitation dredging systems and equipment; physical monitoring of dredged material; physical processes in coastal wetlands;

application of Geographic Information Systems; design of nearshore and offshore dredged material placement; evaluation of dredged material disposal sites; analysis of dredging operations management. (Contact: Tanya Beck, 601-634-2603; Email:

Tanya.M.Beck@usace.army.mil)

P. Regional and Watershed Sediment Management (CHL-16)

Regional Sediment Management (RSM) research is intended to provide knowledge and tools that the Corps and the Nation need for effective water resource projects. RSM implies the holistic management of sediment within systems or regions to produce environmentally and economically sustainable projects. Goals include improved project design, operation, and maintenance methods, minimized disruption of natural sediment pathways and processes, and mediation of natural processes that have adverse environmental or economic impact.

The approach of the Corps research is to produce targeted R&D serving multiple Corps business areas; to employ ongoing projects’ experience (including Demonstration Projects) to provide data and lessons learned; to use enabling technologies of local-scale products and tools, including those generated by other R&D programs within and outside the Corps; to generate technologies that integrate the best available knowledge on sediment behavior and regional morphology into management decision support tools for a) regional and basin scale analyses and b) evaluation of the impacts of projects and management decisions on and by long-term, large-scale sedimentation processes. A key element in ERDC research is full coordination with other organizations with sediment management or monitoring expertise.

(Contact: Linda Lillycrop, 202-761-1837; Email: Linda.S.Lillycrop@usace.army.mil)

Q. Marine Transportation Technologies (CHL-17)

1. OBJECTIVE: The USACE has as one of its primary missions to provide safe, reliable, efficient, effective, and environmentally sustainable waterborne transportation systems for movement of commerce, national security needs, and recreation. To accomplish this mission, the USACE requires R&D to facilitate tracking of vessels on inland waterways (shallow draft) and coastal ports (deep draft). Knowing what vessels are arriving, when, the commodities being carried, etc., will provide lock operators and operations project managers valuable tools to improve safety, efficiency, asset management, and help to make decisions on performance based funding for navigation project maintenance and improvements.

2. DESCRIPTION:

a. Focus. This topic focuses on software that uses the United States Coast Guard’s (USCG) Automated Identification Systems (AIS) vessel mounted transmitters which broadcasts a radio signal with the vessels name, position, heading, velocity, and a wide range of other information. Proposals are sought for developing the following:

i. Capability that will take the full suite of standard CG AIS messages and provide them in near real time to the Corps facilities in the immediate area of the vessel.

ii. Capability to allow collection of the full suite of standard AIS messages simultaneously at all pertinent Corps Inland and Deep Draft facilities.

iii. Capability to customize user interface to allow the Corps operations staff to view vessels in the vicinity of the Corps facilities to make decisions on the order in which to allow commercial tows to pass through lock.

iv. Provide the capability for Corps facilities to transmit pertinent information to the vessels in the immediate vicinity of the Corps facilities via AIS.

b. Special Considerations. The level of understanding of AIS technology and signal processing, the number of successful installations of similar AIS software processing capabilities; experience with USCG staff, facilities, regulations and procedures.

(Contract: Jeff Lillycrop, 601-634-2693 or 202-761-4229; Email Jeff.Lillycrop@usace.army.mil )

GEOTECHNICAL AND STRUCTURES LABORATORY

Research performed by the Geotechnical and Structures Laboratory’s (GSL) eight branches consists of investigations in the areas of soil mechanics, engineering geology, geophysics and seismology, earthquake engineering, pavements (both expedient and permanent), mobility and traffic ability of military vehicles, structural design and performance of structures under both static and dynamic loadings, earth dynamics, and the uses and performance of concrete, cement, and other construction materials. Research areas also include measurement and analysis of seismic and acoustic signals to locate airborne and ground military targets and buried objects (including unexploded ordnance) and to characterize earth media. Research on concrete and cement is predominantly related to current recognized needs, both civil and military. Military expediency focuses additional attention on ease and speed of concrete placement, development of very high-strength materials, and use of non-traditional, indigenous, and other special materials in concrete construction. Civil works research focuses primarily on the need to improve the performance of both new and old concrete structures. Structures research involves development, testing, and evaluation of a broad class of structures to resist the effects of static and dynamic loads induced by earthquakes and other sources. The Geotechnical and Structures Laboratory also conducts research involving all aspects for improving the survivability of fixed installations.

Research in numerical modeling and computer simulation of many of these topics is also undertaken. The following paragraphs provide a synopsis of the GSL’s research mailto:Jeff.Lillycrop@usace.army.mil responsibilities and, more specifically, describe those areas in which pre-proposals will be considered.

II. Research Areas

A. Earthquake Engineering (GSL-1)

Research areas of interest include the dynamic behavior of soil and rock; liquefaction of soils, including coarse-grained and fine-grained soils; in-situ testing to evaluate properties related to dynamic behavior; in-situ testing to evaluate susceptibility to liquefaction; methods of analysis of dynamic behavior of earth materials; methods of analysis of dynamic soil-structure interaction; risk-based and probability-based methods of analysis; seismic wave propagation in earth materials; seismically induced settlements in soils and remedial treatment of soils potentially susceptible to earthquake-induced instability or strength loss; computer visualization and dynamic simulation; site response analysis; and strong motion instrumentation. (Contact: Mr. Chad Gartrell, 601-634-2313, Chad.A.Gartrell@usace.army.mil)

B. Geophysics (GSL-2)

ERDC supports research in the development of land, air, or waterborne geophysical methods to be used for characterization of hazardous waste sites, detection and monitoring of seepage, nondestructive investigation of archeological sites, location of groundwater, and detection of buried objects; analytical and data-processing techniques, borehole surveys, cross hole seismic imaging, electromagnetic detection of anomalies, seismic surveys, sub bottom profiling, and acoustic impedance surveys; and uses of microgravity.

(Contact: Mr. Chad Gartrell, 601-634-2313, Chad.A.Gartrell@usace.army.mil)

C. Mobility of Vehicles (GSL-3)

The Mobility Systems Branch addresses engineering research on the performance of vehicles operating cross country and on-road, and/or in negotiating dry and wet obstacles in worldwide terrains. This is a highly specialized technical area involving engineering mechanics, vehicle dynamics, mathematics, statistics, computer specialties, geology, and soil mechanics. Research in this area includes developing fundamental relations between soil and vehicle running gear; improving criteria concerning the effects of vehicle vibration on human response; developing algorithms describing weather effects on terrain, multi-vehicle movements along road nets, stochastic processes describing influence of uncertainties of data elements, and developing modeling and simulation capabilities for near real-time assessments of mobility and counter mobility for battlefield operations and operations other than war.

(Contact: Ms. Victoria D. Moore, 601-634-4636; Vickey.D.Davis@usace.army.mil)

D. Pavement Technology (GSL-4)

Research is conducted in support of the Corps mission, requiring the design and construction of roads and airfields worldwide and other engineering functions as they relate to pavements and expedient surfacing. This involves the formulation of engineering criteria for the design, construction, evaluation, maintenance, and rehabilitation of permanent and expedient airfields, pavements, railroads, and ports.