wrp-usda-nrcs-ga-04.docx

DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE

AGENCY: Natural Resources Conservation Service, Commodity Credit Corporation

ACTION: NOTICE

Georgia Wetlands Reserve Program (WRP) Monitoring - Announcement for Program Funding

Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) Number: 10.072

SUMMARY: The NRCS requests proposals for Wetlands Reserve Program (WRP) annual monitoring services from individuals and organizations that share a common interest in the conservation and restoration of wetland resources throughout Georgia. Services shall be provided throughout the State of Georgia. One (1) to four (4) grant agreements may be awarded as a result of this AFO. A single award may include multiple (1‐4) Areas. Georgia NRCS anticipates that the amount available for support of easement monitoring will be no more than $200,000. Applications are requested from eligible governmental or non-governmental organizations or individuals for competitive consideration of grant awards for projects between 3 years in duration.

This notice identifies the objectives, eligibility criteria, and application instructions for WRP Monitoring proposals. Applications will be screened for completeness and compliance with the provisions of this notice. Incomplete applications will be eliminated from competition, and notification of elimination will be mailed to the applicant.

DATES: Applications must be received in 355 East Hancock Avenue, Athens, GA 30601 (Georgia NRCS State Office) by 4 p.m. Eastern Standard Time (EST) on September 18, 2012.

Notification of selected applications will be announced by September 24, 2012.

ADDRESSES: Applications sent via hand-delivery, express mail or overnight courier service must be sent to the following address: Sharon Holbrooks, Easement Specialist, Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service, 355 East Hancock Avenue, Mail Stop 200, Athens, GA 30601. The contact phone number for hand-delivered applications is: (706) 546-2272.

Applications sent via the United States Postal Service must be sent to the following address: Sharon Holbrooks, Easement Specialist, Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service, 355 East Hancock Avenue, Mail Stop 200, Athens, GA 30601.

Applications sent electronically must be sent through Grants.gov or sharon.holbrooks@ga.usda.gov.

For more information contact:

Sharon Holbrooks Conservation Easement Specialist Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service 355 East Hancock Avenue, Mail Stop 200 Athens, GA 30601 Phone: (706) 546-2272 E-mail: sharon.holbrooks@ga.usda.gov

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION

I. FUNDING OPPORTUNITY DESCRIPTION

A. Legislative Authority The Wetlands Reserve Program (WRP) is authorized by USC16 Section 3837; regulations at 7CFR Part 1467 and the Food, Conservation and Energy Act of 2008 which provides that the Secretary may request the services of non‐Federal entities to assist in providing services necessary to develop, implement, and monitor conservation programs. WRP is funded and administered by NRCS under the authorities of the CCC.

B. Overview The Wetlands Reserve Program is a voluntary wetlands conservation program that promotes the restoration, enhancement, and protection of wetland systems and associated uplands. Through WRP, landowners receive funds for the purchase of permanent or 30-year conservation easements, and landowners may receive financial and technical assistance to install or implement structural or vegetative wetland and associated upland restoration practices on eligible land. The objective of WRP is to provide technical and financial assistance to landowners in planning, designing and implementing wetland and associated upland restoration that maximizes wildlife habitat in wetland systems, as well as provide water quality improvements, reduced soil erosion, reduced impacts of flooding and improve wildlife habitat for threatened and endangered species. The agency is directing resources toward the monitoring of these easements across Georgia.

Recipients will provide assistance necessary to complete WRP monitoring and compliance reviews for the State of Georgia per the procedures outlined in the National Easement Stewardship Land Monitoring and Condition Documentation Circular21, as well as the Easement Monitoring – State Operating Procedure NRCS-Georgia. Performance only includes WRP easements. Performance will include contacting landowner, conducting the site review, filling out the monitoring form, taking photographs, documenting violations, and providing the monitoring form, photos, and support documentation in electronic copy to the local Field Office and Easement Specialist, and original paper copy of the monitoring to the Easement Specialist . Applicants will perform work in close coordination with Georgia NRCS representatives, including the local District Conservationists. Landowners must be given an opportunity to participate in the review. All digital data will be provided to NRCS in addition to paper products. Completed monitoring documentation must be delivered to the NRCS representative by the attached deadlines.

NRCS will accept applications for multi-year projects, not to exceed 3 years, submitted to NRCS from eligible entities including federally recognized Indian tribes, State and local units of government, and non-governmental organizations and individuals.

Complete applications received by applicable deadlines will be evaluated by a technical peer review panel based on the Criteria for Application Evaluation identified in the application instructions in section V.B.

Full proposal applications, along with their associated technical peer review, will be forwarded to the Georgia State Conservationist. The State Conservationist will make the final selections.

C. Monitoring Proposals The proposal shall include a capabilities statement that addresses the following as a minimum:

Note: The below information must be provided for the recipient, or all employees of the recipient that would be assigned the responsibility of this AFO.

1. A description of the specialized experience, technical competence, financial responsibility, and available organizational resources necessary to successfully perform ecologically sound wetland monitoring.

2. Description of knowledge of wetland restoration techniques, including engineering skills, habitat design, and hydrology, if any; Also describe knowledge of Wetland Wildlife Habitat Management, Wetland Restoration, Wetland Enhancement, Upland Wildlife Habitat Management, and Restoration and Management of Rare and Declining Habitats, as they pertain to NRCS Conservation Practice Standards identified in the NRCS Field Office Technical Guide (FOTG.)

3. Description of knowledge of conservation easements and the WRP Warranty Easement Deed.

4. Detailed explanation of experience conducting monitoring, ecological evaluation, wetland restoration, and conservation program compliance.

5. Calculated expenses on a per site basis. Please carefully review all Attachments, the list of sites per county and Map. The price should include all expenses, including salary, travel, equipment, materials, supplies, etc.

6. The application may include an appendix. Material should be included only when necessary to support information provided in the narrative. Copies of documents, certifications, etc., are encouraged to demonstrate experience, knowledge, skills and abilities. Materials will not be returned.

7. Application must include a list of

· The adequacy of organizational, personnel, and financial resources and experience to successfully perform the listed monitoring activities.

· Illustration of understanding the intent of the WRP program. The applicants recognition of the value and need of the project and the understanding of the intent of WRP.

· Ability to demonstrate successful past history and credibility in working on wetland restoration in the State of

· Georgia or similar ecosystems.

· Ability to demonstrate knowledge and past experience working with threatened and endangered species, conservation program compliance, violations, and compatible uses.

· Ability to work with private landowners, including conducting the site visit in the company of the landowner.

II. FUNDING AVAILABILITY

NRCS anticipates that the amount available for support of this program in FY 2012 will be a maximum of $200,000. NRCS may award one (1) to four (4) awards.

WRP Monitoring agreements will fund multi-year projects, not to exceed 3 years (anticipated project start date of September 27, 2012). Funds will be awarded through a competitive grants process. The maximum award amount for any project will not exceed $200,000 in FY 2012.

III. ELIGIBILITY INFORMATION

A. Applicant Eligibility To be eligible for WRP Monitoring Agreements, all applicants must be:

1. One of the following types of organizations:

· State governments

· County governments

· City or township governments

· Special district governments

· Native American tribal governments (Federally recognized)

· Native American tribal organizations (other than Federally recognized tribal governments)

· Nonprofits having a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS, other than institutions of higher education Nonprofits that do not have a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS, other than institutions of higher education Individuals

· For profit organizations other than small businesses

· Small businesses

2. Registered with the Central Contractor Registry (CCR). This database is used as a central location for maintaining organizational information for organizations seeking and receiving grants/agreements from Federal agencies. Please visit the: http://www.grants.gov Get Started section to register. Allow a minimum of 5 days to complete the CCR registration.

3. The Federal Government requires that all applicants for Federal Grants and Cooperative Agreements excluding individuals other than sole proprietors have a unique nine digit identification number provided by Dun & Bradstreet, Data Universal Number System (DUNS) number. The DUNS number will be used to identify related organizations receiving Federal funding under Grants/Cooperative Agreements; and to provide consistent name and address data for electronic submission through grant application systems. To request a DUNS number, please call 1‐866‐705‐5711 (toll free), between 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. (M‐F) local time of caller when calling within the United States or visit: RequestaDUNS.htm. The process to request a number takes about 5‐10 minutes. A DUNS number will be assigned at the conclusion of the call. Please have the following information ready before requesting your DUNS number: Legal Name of Entity or Doing Business as (DBA), Employer/Vendor Identification Number (EIN/VIN), Address, and Telephone Number.

4. The entity certifies that it is in compliance with the Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2012, P.L. No. 112-55, Division A, Sections 738 and 739 regarding corporate felony convictions and corporate federal tax delinquencies. Accordingly, by accepting this award the recipient acknowledges that it: (1) does not have a tax delinquency, meaning that it is not subject to any unpaid Federal tax liability that has been assessed, for which all judicial and administrative remedies have been exhausted or have lapsed, and that is not being paid in a timely manner pursuant to an agreement with the authority responsible for collecting the tax liability, and (2) has not been convicted (or had an officer or agent acting on its behalf convicted) of a felony criminal violation under any Federal or State law within 24 months preceding the award, unless a suspending and debarring official of the United States Department of Agriculture has considered suspension or debarment of the recipient corporation, or such officer or agent, based on these convictions and/or tax delinquencies and determined that suspension or debarment is not necessary to protect the interests of the Government. If the recipient fails to comply with these provisions, Natural Resources Conservation Service will annul this agreement and may recover any funds the recipient has expended in violation of sections 738 and 739.

IV. APPLICATION and SUBMISSION INFORMATION

A. PROPOSAL SUBMISSION

All Office of Management and Budget standard forms necessary for WRP Monitoring proposal submission are posted on the following web site: Grants.gov - Forms Repository.

1. Content and Format Applications are required to contain the content, format, and information set forth below in order to receive consideration for funding. Applicants should not assume prior knowledge on the part of NRCS or others as to the relative merits of the project described in the application. Applicants must submit one original copy of the application in the following format:

· A description of the specialized experience, technical competence, financial responsibility, and available organizational resources necessary to successfully perform ecologically sound wetland monitoring.

· Description of knowledge of wetland restoration techniques, including engineering skills, habitat design, and hydrology, if any; Also describe knowledge of Wetland Wildlife Habitat Management, Wetland Restoration, Wetland Enhancement, Upland Wildlife Habitat Management, and Restoration and Management of Rare and Declining Habitats, as they pertain to NRCS Conservation Practice Standards identified in the NRCS Field Office Technical Guide (FOTG.)

· Description of knowledge of conservation easements and the WRP Warranty Easement Deed.

· Detailed explanation of experience conducting monitoring, ecological evaluation, wetland restoration, and conservation program compliance.

· Calculated expenses on a per site basis. Please carefully review all Attachments, the list of sites per county and Map. The price should include all expenses, including salary, travel, equipment, materials, supplies, etc.

· The application may include an appendix. Material should be included only when necessary to support information provided in the narrative. Copies of documents, certifications, etc., are encouraged to demonstrate experience, knowledge, skills and abilities. Materials will not be returned.

c. Additional Information: Bibliographies and/or resumes (not to exceed two pages per person), and references.

d. Budget Information: The budget portion of the application consists of three parts described below.

1. Standard Form (SF) 424A Budget Information- Non-Construction Programs: Fill in all spaces as appropriate. Section B, Item 6, column 1 should reflect the NRCS funds requested.

2. Detailed Budget Description: Specific item by item breakdown of the totals provided in Item 6 of the SF-424A should be provided. This detail should show what individual costs were added together to arrive at the totals presented in each of Object Class Categories on the SF-424. The format of this information should be readable in 8.5 by 11 printable pages. It may be in a chart, spreadsheet, table, etc. The information needs to be presented in such a way that the evaluators and NRCS can readily understand what expenses will be incurred to support the project. Listed below are some suggested items that should be shown in the budget details. These are suggested details and are not inclusive:

6a. Personnel; A list of personnel, their salary, hourly rate, hours, % time 6b. Fringe Benefits: % of salary, differing rates for different staff 6c. Travel: basis for airfare, mileage rate (NTE Federal govt. rate), per diem, hotel, car rental, how many trips, how many days, number of staff 6d. Equipment: type of equipment, cost per item, per batch, per load, quantity 6e. Supplies: type of supplies, cost per item, per batch, per load, quantity (a general statement such as “office supplies $3,000” is not acceptable) 6f. Contractual; Cost of each subcontract – the total of all subcontracts should be shown on the SF-424, but an itemized budget should be provided for each potential subcontract. The budgets for the subcontracts should follow this same format and be submitted with your proposal.

6g. Construction: N/A 6h. Other: Cost per item, per batch, per load, quantity

3. Budget Narrative: Provide a detailed narrative in support of the budget for the project, broken down by each project year, by easement group, and totals. Discuss how the budget specifically supports the proposed activities. Justify the project cost effectiveness and include justification for personnel and consultant salaries with a description of duties. In addition to the information above, the subcontractors and consultants must also submit a statement of work..

e. Certifications: Standard Form (SF) 424B - Assurances, Non-construction Programs. All applications must include this document. The SF-424B may be found at: Grants.gov - Forms Repository or by contacting the State office. Applicants, by signing and submitting an application, assure and certify that they are in compliance with the following from 7 CFR:

a. Part 3017, Government wide Debarment and Suspension (Non-procurement)

b. Part 3018, New Restrictions on Lobbying

c. Part 3021, Government wide Requirements for Drug Free Workplace (Financial Assistance)

f. DUNS Number: A Dun and Bradstreet (D&B) Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS) number is a unique nine-digit sequence recognized as the universal standard for identifying and keeping track of over 70 million businesses worldwide. CIG applicants must obtain a DUNS Number. Information on how to obtain a DUNS number can be found at: http://fedgov.dnb.com/webform or by calling 1-866-705-5711. Please note that the registration may take up to 14 business days to complete.

g. Central Contractor Registry (CCR) Registration: The CCR is a database that serves as the primary government repository for contractor information required for the conduct of business with the government. This database is also used as a central location for maintaining organizational information for organizations seeking and receiving grants from the government. CIG applicants must register with the CCR. To register, go to: http://www.ccr.gov. Allow a minimum of 5 days to complete the CCR registration.

2. RESPONSIBLITIES OF PARTIES:

If an agreement is pursued with the applicant, they must understand the following:

The NRCS will:

1. Conduct an initial briefing at the Georgia NRCS State Office in Athens, Georgia to review the terms of the agreements and review required documentation and procedures.

2. Provide recipient with list of easement landowners and contact information, location maps, restoration maps and/or restoration plans, pertinent information regarding T&E species and other management objectives, compatible use agreements, known violations and other information as needed.

3. Will review a minimum of 5% of the reports that are submitted for accuracy, quality, and completeness.

The Recipient will:

1. Perform all services in accordance with applicable NRCS policy and criteria that can be found in the following:

a. National Easement Stewardship Land Monitoring Documentation Circular 21,

b. NRCS Field Office Technical Guide: http://efotg.nrcs.usda.gov

c. Easement Monitoring State Operating Procedure, NRCS-Georgia

d. Acknowledgement of Section 1619 Compliance (Attachment F)

2. Contact all landowners via letter to let them know that your company will be providing monitoring services on behalf of NRCS. This shall be done soon after award is made.

3. Contact all landowners prior to completing the onsite/summary reviews to notify landowner of presence, and to offer the landowner the opportunity to participate in the onsite. The Recipient will not enter the land without expressed permission by the landowner. The Recipient will immediately notify the Easement Specialist if a landowner will not grant access permission, or if there is adversarial confrontation with the landowner.

4. Complete the monitoring form electronically, print and sign, and provide a signed copy (or electronic scan) to the local field office and the original to the Easement Specialist in the State Office.

5. Attend trainings and meetings regarding monitoring provided by NRCS, maximum of two (2) per duration of agreement.

How to Submit an Application Applicants may submit applications electronically through Grants.gov or to the e-mail address listed below. Alternatively, applications may be submitted in person or via express mail, overnight courier service, or U.S. Postal Service to the addresses listed below. Applications submitted through Grants.gov or e-mail must contain all of the elements of a complete package and meet the requirements described above. Instructions for electronically submitting the required standard forms, and instructions for adding attachments are posted on Grants.gov. Applications submitted electronically are date and time stamped by Grants.gov and must be received by the identified closing date of September 18, 2012. E-mailed applications must be received by NRCS before the submission deadline.

Note: NRCS is not responsible for any technical malfunctions or web site problems related to Grants.gov or e-mailed submissions. Applicants should begin the Grants.gov process or send their e-mail in advance of the submission deadline to avoid problems.

E-mail address: sharon.holbrooks@ga.usda.gov

The address for submitting an application via hand-delivery, express mail or overnight courier service is:

Sharon Holbrooks, Easement Specialist Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service 355 East Hancock Avenue, Mail Stop 200 Athens, GA 30601

The contact phone number for hand-delivered applications is (706) 546-2272.

The address for applications sent via the United States Postal Service is:

Sharon Holbrooks, Easement Specialist Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service 355 East Hancock Avenue, Mail Stop 200 Athens, GA 30601 Note: Applicants must submit one signed original copy of each project application. Applications submitted by fax will not be considered.

Due Date Applications must be received at 355 East Hancock Avenue, Mail Stop 200, Athens, GA, by 4:00 p.m. EST on September 18, 2012. The applicant assumes the risk of any delays in application delivery. Applicants are strongly encouraged to submit completed applications via e-mail, overnight mail, or delivery service to ensure timely receipt by NRCS.

Acknowledgement of Submission NRCS will acknowledge receipt of timely applications via e-mail. An applicant who does not receive such an e-mail acknowledgement within 30 days of their submission but believes he/she submitted a timely application must contact the NRCS program contact below within 30 days. Failure to do so will result in the application not being considered for the second phase of the application process.

WRP Contact:

Sharon Holbrooks Conservation Easement Specialist

USDA-NRCS

355 East Hancock Avenue, Mail Stop 200 Athens, GA 30601 Phone: (706) 546-2272 Fax: (706) 546-2120 E-mail: sharon.holbrooks@ga.usda.gov

Withdrawal Applications may be withdrawn by written notice at any time before selections are made. Applications may be withdrawn by the applicant, or by an authorized representative.

Funding Restrictions WRP funds may not be used to pay any of the following costs unless otherwise permitted by law, or approved in writing by the Authorized Departmental Officer in advance of incurring such costs:

a. Costs above the amount of funds authorized for the project;

b. Costs incurred prior to the effective date of the grant;

c. Costs which lie outside the scope of the approved project and any amendments thereto;

d. Entertainment costs, regardless of their apparent relationship to project objectives;

e. Compensation for injuries to persons, or damage to property arising out of project activities;

f. Consulting services performed by a Federal employee during official duty hours when such consulting services result in the payment of additional compensation to the employee; and,

g. Renovation or refurbishment of research or related spaces; the purchase or installation of fixed equipment in such spaces; and the planning, repair, rehabilitation, acquisition, or construction of buildings or facilities.

This list is not exhaustive. Questions regarding the allowances of particular items of cost should be directed to the administrative contact person.

Review Applications will be screened for completeness and compliance with the provisions of this notice. Incomplete applications will be eliminated from competition, and notification of elimination will be mailed to the applicant. Complete applications will be evaluated by a technical peer review panel based on the Criteria for Application Evaluation identified in the application instructions in section V.B.

Applications with technically-based recommendations from the peer review groups will be forwarded to the State Conservationist. The Georgia NRCS State Conservationist will make the final selections.

Patents and Inventions Allocation of rights to patents and inventions shall be in accordance with USDA regulation 7 CFR §3019.36 and 7 CFR §3019.2. USDA receives a royalty-free license for Federal Government use, reserves the right to require the patentee to license others in certain circumstances, and requires that anyone exclusively licensed to sell the invention in the United States must normally manufacture it domestically.

V. APPLICATION REVIEW INFORMATION

A. Review and Selection Process There are three steps in evaluating full WRP Monitoring Proposals. Proposals will be reviewed by a group of individuals with appropriate technical expertise. Applications will be reviewed based on the WRP Monitoring Technical Evaluation Criteria listed in Part V.B below.

The Technical Review Panel will forward their recommendations and the proposals to the WRP Program Contact, who will then review the Technical Review Panels’ recommendations and ensure that the application evaluations are consistent with program objectives. The applicants along with the Review Panel recommendations will be forwarded to the Georgia State Conservationist for final selection.

B. Criteria for Application Evaluation Each proposal will be evaluated in accordance with the capabilities statements requested in the proposal, and in accordance with the National NRCS Easement Stewardship Land Monitoring and Condition Documentation Circular 21. Discussions may be held with each applicant to clarify aspects of the proposal prior to selection.

C. Anticipated Announcement and Award Dates WRP Monitoring selections are anticipated to be announced by September 24, 2012; all agreements are expected to be awarded by September 24, 2012. Funds are not awarded, and work may not start until an agreement is signed by both NRCS and the grantee. Applicants should plan their projects based on a project start date of September 27, 2012.

VI. AWARD ADMINISTRATION INFORMATION

Applicants who have been selected for funding will receive a letter of official notification from the Georgia NRCS State Office in Athens, Georgia. However, all selections are contingent upon successful completion of the environmental review process and financial review.

VII. AGENCY CONTACTS

Sharon Holbrooks Conservation Easement Specialist

USDA-NRCS

355 East Hancock Avenue, Mail Stop 200 Athens, GA 30601 Phone: (706) 546-2272 Fax: (706) 546-2120 E-mail: sharon.holbrooks@ga.usda.gov

ATTACHMENTS LIST

A. National NRCS Easement Stewardship Land Monitoring and Condition Documentation Circular 21 B. Easement Monitoring SOP – Georgia and Monitoring Worksheet C. Total WRP Easements by Group D. Total WRP Easements by County E. Georgia WRP Counties through FY 2012 Map F. Milestones and Deadlines for Deliverables G. Easements with Type of Monitoring Needed H. Bid Sheet (Per Administrative Group) I. Acknowledgement of Section 1619 Compliance

OTHER INFORMATION

Important: Applications Missing Any of These Required Items Will Not Be Considered

CONSERVATION INNOVATION GRANTS

FISCAL YEAR 2012 FULL APPLICATION PACKAGE CHECK LIST

· A. Proposal Cover Sheet: Submit Standard Form 424 Application for Federal Assistance

· B. Project Description: (12 pages maximum, single-spaced, single-sided, 12 point font)

a. A description of the specialized experience, technical competence, financial responsibility, and available organizational resources necessary to successfully perform ecologically sound wetland monitoring.

b. Description of knowledge of wetland restoration techniques, including engineering skills, habitat design, and hydrology, if any; Also describe knowledge of Wetland Wildlife Habitat Management, Wetland Restoration, Wetland Enhancement, Upland Wildlife Habitat Management, and Restoration and Management of Rare and Declining Habitats, as they pertain to NRCS Conservation Practice Standards identified in the NRCS Field Office Technical Guide (FOTG.)

c. Description of knowledge of conservation easements and the WRP Warranty Easement Deed.

d. Detailed explanation of experience conducting monitoring, ecological evaluation, wetland restoration, and conservation program compliance.

e. Calculated expenses on a per site basis. The price should include all expenses, including salary, travel, equipment, materials, supplies, etc.

f. The application may include an appendix. Material should be included only when necessary to support information provided in the narrative. Copies of documents, certifications, etc., are encouraged to demonstrate experience, knowledge, skills and abilities.

g. Application must include a list of

· C. Additional Information: Bibliography, resumes, and/or references

· D. Budget Information: Submit a completed Standard Form 424A (SF-424A) Budget Information-Non-Construction Programs.

1. Complete SF-424A

2. Detailed budget description

3. Budget narrative

· K. Certifications: Complete Standard Form 424B (SF-424B) Assurances-Non-Construction Programs.

· L. DUNS Number: For information about how to obtain a DUNS number, go to http://fedgov.dnb.com/webform or call 1-866-705-5711. Please note that the registration may take up to 14 business days to complete.

· M. Central Contractor Registry (CCR): To register, visit www.SAM.gov. Allow a minimum of 5 days to complete the CCR registration.

WRP-USDA-NRCS-GA-04

ATTACMENT A: See Document Titled “Circular NO21_Monitoring.docx”

ATTACHMENT B

Easement Programs Monitoring–Standard Operating Procedure NRCS-GEORGIA

PURPOSE

NRCS is responsible, from a practical and legal standpoint, to enforce easements effectively and to detect violations. To prevent violations, and encourage proper participation, NRCS will monitor all easements for compliance with terms of the warranty easement deed and ensure the operation and maintenance plan for restoration practices is implemented to NRCS standards.

The key to successfully preventing violations is a good relationship with the landowner; a history of regular, systematic, and well-documented monitoring occurrences will reinforce the provisions of the easement and answer questions that may arise. For more information, NRCS-Georgia will refer to WRP Manual 514.66 and to Circular No. 21, dated June 21, 2011 for further details on easement monitoring. All easements will be monitored using the standard monitoring worksheets provided at the end of this document. The original monitoring worksheets will be kept in the official enrollment file maintained at the state office and are to be retained for the duration of the enrollment.

TYPES OF MONITROING

OR = Ownership Review; 1-page Worksheet, with verification through contact with landowner and with local tax records; required the year after onsite monitoring.

OS = Onsite Review; Full Monitoring Worksheet, photo points, complete boundary sign survey, checking restoration practices and effectiveness; required every 3 years after restoration completed and then every fifth year therein; verify compliance with easement terms and effectiveness of the restoration practices.

SR = Summary Review; 2-page Monitoring worksheet, including Ownership Review and Brief Onsite Review (Page 1 only of Monitoring Worksheet), checking for Warranty Easement Deed compliance; required annually after closing but before restoration is completed.

AP = Aerial Photography; 2-page Monitoring Worksheet, including Ownership Review and Offsite Form; use the most recent aerial photography available; ensure the integrity of the easement during times there is no site visit.

INFORMATION GATHERED

At a minimum, the monitoring process for closed easements with restoration complete will include:

1. Verification of current ownership

2. Confirmation of boundary markings (see attached Boundary Sign Coordinate sheet)

3. Photographs taken at predetermined photo points and maintained in the file

a. Pick photo points according to restoration activities or other points of interest. For example, take photos of ditch plugs or stream crossings, property line considerations, Compatible Use points of interest, or locations identified via aerial photography.

b. The number of photographs will be proportionate to easement size with a goal of achieving a 5-10% sample threshold.

i. For example, a 50 acre WRP could have 5 photo points (10%), whereas a 500 acre WRP could have 25 photo points (5%). This will vary by the needs and size of the property (i.e. if the property is very large and habitat is similar, less sample size is acceptable)

c. If any problems or potential violations are discovered, photo documentation is required.

4. Documentation that all other easement, contract, or agreement conditions are within policy.

LANDOWNER NOTIFICATION

NRCS will notify the landowners prior to each site visit or field inspection of the enrollment area. When a site visit is being planned, the fee title landowner must be contacted and provided the opportunity to participate. To the extent practicable, the planned inspection should accommodate the landowner’s schedule.

RESTORATION ACTIVITIES ON CLOSED EASEMENTS

If restoration activities were implemented on the easement, onsite monitoring will include a review of:

1. If restoration requirements have been met

2. Whether the installed practices are operating as planned

3. Whether maintenance activities are adequate to keep the installed practices effective

4. Whether the site provides quality wildlife habitat for priority species

5. If further restoration, management, maintenance, or enhancement is required

These visits will be conducted as often as needed to ensure proper installation of restoration activities during the life of the restoration agreement, with a minimum visit every 6 months during construction.

OTHER CIRCUMSTANCES

Other additional monitoring circumstances include:

1. For easements with active Compatible Use Authorizations (CUA’s), onsite visits must occur for the first 2 years of the CUA to ensure compliance.

2. Projects will have onsite monitoring at least 2 consecutive years following a complete change in ownership.

3. Projects will have onsite monitoring for at least 2 consecutive years following a documented violation.

4. Projects will have onsite monitoring after any significant weather event that could have damaged WRP restoration practices, including but not limited to flooding, forest fire, or other major storms.

SUSPECTED VIOLATIONS

Any suspected violations should be immediately reported to the State Office, who will contact the appropriate National Manager and the Office of General Counsel. Do not inform the landowner. When a possible violation is found by remote sensing or otherwise, an onsite inspection is necessary to verify. For more information on violations, Georgia will refer to: WRP Manual 514.67; GRP Dept. Manual 9500-012, Chapter 8, Part 3; HFRP Manual 511.97.

CHANGE IN OWNERSHIP

If the land has had a change in ownership, please alert the State Office Easement Specialist so that the land can be monitored according to this policy. Communication will need to occur between the new landowner, NRCS Field Office, and NRCS State Office staff. The deed requirements and restrictions will be reviewed with the new landowners, so that violations can be prevented. The WRP restoration requirements and operation and maintenance plan will also be reviewed with the landowner.

WEATHER EVENTS

If a significant weather event such as flooding, forest fire, tornadoes, or other major storm has occurred, please use the form provided to document any damages to restoration structures and provide detailed information as to whether NRCS needs to pursue the replacement of any structures or vegetation.

Easement Ownership Review

Landowner___________________________________________ Review Date _____________

Agreement Number___________________ Reviewer(s) _____________________________________

Method of Landowner Contact: PHONE LETTER OTHER: _________

Has land ownership changed? YES NO (If yes, please contact State Office)

If there is a new landowner, were they notified of the easement and have been FSA and other records been updated? YES NO

New Landowner Contact Information: _______________________________________

Does the landowner have any concerns or suggestions for improvement of the easement?

(If yes, provide details)

VERIFIED THROUGH TAX RECORDS: ____________ (Date) (include attachment)

Reviewer/Verifier signature: _____________________________________ Date: _____________

AERIAL PHOTOGRAPHY/OFFSITE MONITORING WORKSHEET

Landowner___________________________________ Review Date ___________________

Agreement Number__________________________ Reviewer(s) ___________________________

Is there any apparent encroachment on the easement boundary? YES NO

Is there any evidence of disposal activities on the enrollment area (i.e. household waste, construction debris, drums, batteries, automotive parts, pesticides, paint or other petroleum products, or other potentially hazardous materials)? YES NO (If yes, this is a violation, please contact State Office)

Has there been any planting or harvesting of crops? YES NO (This does NOT include food plots for wildlife)

Can the wetlands be identified? Do they look to be intact and functioning properly? YES NO

Does upland vegetation look to be intact and properly maintained in the buffer? YES NO

Are there any areas that require further follow up through site visit? YES NO

Are the Compatible Uses for this agreement being followed? YES NO (Food plots, thinning, burning, firebreaks, etc.)

Additional Observations or Comments:

Reviewer signature: _____________________________________ Date: ___________

Wetlands Reserve Program (WRP) Monitoring Worksheet Page 1 of 2

Landowner___________________________________________ Review Date _____________

Agreement Number_______________________ Reviewer(s) _________________________________

The purpose of easement monitoring is to ensure compliance with easement requirements, evaluate restoration progress, determine what restoration repairs or enhancements are needed to ensure maximum wetland/wildlife benefits, and maintain contact with landowner or partner. Staff familiar with wetland restoration, management and wildlife habitat should collect the information. The landowner should be offered the opportunity to participate in monitoring reviews.

Take photographs from designated photo point when doing onsite monitoring and to document any problems or potential violations. Record photo log on attached form. Record boundary sign coordinates and locations on attached form.

If you answer “NO” to any questions, provide detailed explanation and take pictures.

Was landowner present during review? YES NO

Has land ownership changed? YES NO

Does the landowner have any concerns or suggestions for improvement of the easement? YES NO

EASEMENT MONITORING

Are the terms and conditions of the easement deed being met? YES NO (e.g. no encroachment, dumping, unauthorized uses like infrastructure, roads, hydrology alteration, mining, grazing, etc. List any unauthorized uses below)

Is easement boundary clearly marked and identifiable and are easement signs still in place? YES NO (Typically boundary signs are located at 500’ intervals along the WRP boundary lines. See boundary coordinate form)

Has there been any evidence of disposal activities on the enrollment area? YES NO (i.e. household waste, construction debris, drums, batteries, automotive parts, pesticides, paint or other petroleum products, or other potentially hazardous materials -if yes, this is a violation, please contact State Office)

Has there been any planting or harvesting of crops? YES NO (This does NOT include food plots for wildlife)

Is the ingress/egress being maintained and is the easement easily accessible through the ingress/egress? YES NO

Wetlands Reserve Program (WRP) Monitoring Worksheet Page 2 of 2

Agreement Number_____________________________ Review Date _________________

RESTORATON PLAN/ACTIVITY MONITORING

Is the restoration plan being implemented to NRCS standards? YES NO

Are restoration practices being properly operated and maintained? YES NO

Have wetlands/hydrologic flow been restored across the easement area? YES NO

Are wildlife objectives being achieved? YES NO This would be documented through waterfowl or other wading birds in the wetlands. If Threatened or Endangered Species are present on the easement area, a plan developed by USFWS should be followed

Is desired hydrophytic vegetation been established and properly maintained? YES NO

Has desired upland vegetation been established and properly maintained in the buffer? YES NO

Are invasive or noxious species present on the property? YES NO (If yes, explain)

Are there opportunities to enhance wildlife habitat components? YES NO (If yes, explain)

COMPATIBLE USE AUTHORIZATIONS

Make notes here if there are any CUA’s on the property and if they are being followed

Additional Observations or Comments:

Reviewer signature: _____________________________________ Date: ___________ Wetlands Reserve Program (WRP) Monitoring Photo Log

Agreement Number______________________________ Review Date _________________

Wetlands Reserve Program (WRP) Monitoring Boundary Sign Locations

Agreement Number____________________________ Review Date _________________

If coordinates for each boundary sign are provided, please locate each of them. If the sign is missing, please note. If boundary sign coordinates are NOT provided, please take a waypoint at each WRP Boundary sign as it is located based upon the survey plat. Use as many of these sheets as needed.

Wetlands Reserve Program (WRP) Monitoring Worksheet WEATHER EVENT CHECKLIST Landowner___________________________________________ Review Date _____________ Contract Number___________________ Reviewer(s) _______________________________________

WEATHER EVENTS

If a significant weather event has occurred that may have damaged the WRP easement area or any prior installed restoration activities, please use this form and the photo log to document damages.

Type of Weather event: ______________________ Date of event: _______________ If no damages occurred, please document by checking “No Damage.”

Ditch plugs:

_________No Damage _________Debris _________Erosion _________Other Stream Crossings:

_________No Damage _________Debris _________Erosion _________Other

Culvert Crossings:

_________No Damage _________Debris/Clogged _________Erosion _________General Damage _________Other Water Control structures:

_________No Damage _________Debris/Clogged _________General Damage _________Erosion

Upland trees:

_________No Damage _________Flood damage _________Fire damage _________Wind damage _________Insect damage _________Other Wetland vegetation:

_________No Damage _________Flood damage _________Fire damage _________Wind damage _________Insect damage

Reviewer signature: _____________________________________

NOTES:

Attachment C. Total Completed WRP Easements by Administrative Area

Attachment D. Total Completed WRP Easements and Acres by County

ATTACHMENT E: Map of Counties

ATTACHMENT F: Milestones and Deadlines

ATTACHMENT G: Easements with what type of Monitoring Needed