Cooperative Research and Training Programs – Resources of the National Park System

To establish and maintain cooperative study units, in partnership with federal, state, and local governments, tribes, nonprofit organizations, and institutions of higher education, to facilitate multi-disciplinary science and integrated information p

The Cooperative Research and Training Programs support a nationwide network of university‑based study units that work with the National Park Service to address natural and cultural resource challenges. Through collaborative research, technical assistance, and education, the program helps develop practical, science‑based information that improves stewardship of parks and their surrounding landscapes. This assistance listing strengthens partnerships between academic institutions, researchers, students, and resource managers by funding projects that study wildlife, plants, water, air quality, historic sites, and other park resources. It also provides training opportunities for students and emerging professionals, expanding the scientific and technical workforce needed to care for public lands. The program serves state and local governments, tribal governments, nonprofit organizations, universities, conservation partners, researchers, communities, and the general public. What makes this program unique is its focus on cooperative, interdisciplinary science conducted through long‑standing partnerships that bring together local knowledge, academic expertise, and park management needs. These collaborations help ensure that decisions about park resources are informed, transparent, and grounded in shared research.

State and local governments, federally recognized Indian tribal governments, public/private nonprofit organizations, institutions of higher education, and the public.

The objectives of the CESU program are: 1) Provide usable knowledge to support informed decision making; 2) Ensure the independence and objectivity of research; 3) Create and maintain effective partnerships among the Federal agencies and universities to share resources and expertise; 4) Take full advantage of university resources while benefiting faculty and students; 5) Encourage professional development of current and future Federal scientists, resource managers, and environmental leaders; and 6) Manage Federal resources effectively.

Assistance length and time depends on project complexity.

Pre-application coordination will be specified in the Funding Opportunity Announcement, if applicable.

Specific evaluation criteria will be included in the funding announcements posted on www.grants.gov.

Proposals received in response to announcements on grants.gov are reviewed on the basis of a competitive, merit-based review process, and are rated in accordance with the evaluation criteria stated in the announcement. Awards may be made to the highest rated proposals based on the amount of funding available each year.

Varies depending on the type and complexity of the project. Further information will be available for each specific project at the time the funding opportunity announcement is posted on www.grants.gov and may be obtained by contacting the Program Manager listed as the point of contact. Generally 30 - 120 days.

Projects may generally be renewed on an annual basis, not to exceed a total of 5 years. If renewals or extensions are applicable to the project, this information will be included in the funding opportunity announcement. When renewals or extensions are applicable, continuation of funding for these activities is at the discretion of Congress and will be subject to availability of appropriated funds.

None. Final award decisions are not subject to appeal; however, the National Park Service will provide applicants with information on why their proposals were not selected for award, upon request.