National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Program
FY 2012 Notice of Availability of Grants and Request for Applications
Program Overview Information
Federal Agency Name:
U.S. Department of the Interior
Fish and Wildlife Service (Service)
Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration Program (WSFR) and Fisheries and Habitat Conservation
Program (FHC)
Funding Opportunity Title:
Coastal Wetlands Planning, Protection, and Restoration Act ‐ National Coastal Wetlands
Conservation Grant Program
Announcement Type:
Announcement of availability of grants for Fiscal Year (FY) 2012 and request for applications.
Funding Opportunity Number: CWG‐12
Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) Number: 15.614
Dates: Hard copy applications are due to the Regional Fish and Wildlife Service WSFR Office by
June 30, 2011, 4:00 p.m. local time. Electronic applications submitted through Grants.gov will be
accepted up until June 30, 2011, 11:59 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time. We recommend electronic
applications be submitted through Grants.gov at least two days before the deadline to allow for
any unforeseen technical complications. We will not consider for funding applications received
after the due date.
Applicants that want comments or assistance with their applications are encouraged to contact
the Fish and Wildlife Service Regional Office approximately 4‐6 weeks prior to the due date.
Although there is no guarantee that the Regional Office will provide comments, feedback
generally includes recommendations to improve the application. Applicants can contact their
Regional Office for additional information about submitting early (see contact information in
section IV. A.).
We encourage applicants to submit letters of financial commitment by the June 30, 2011 due
date, however we will accept letters at the Regional Office up through Sept. 9, 2011, 4:00 p.m.
local time. We will not consider letters received after the Sept. 9, 2011, 4:00 p.m. deadline.
1
The announcement of awards will be in December 2011 or January 2012.
Additional information: The Coastal Wetlands Planning, Protection, and Restoration Act (Section
305, Title III, Public Law 101‐646, 16 U.S.C. 3954) established the National Coastal Wetlands
Conservation Grant Program to acquire, restore, and enhance wetlands in coastal States through
competitive matching grants to State agencies. The primary goal of the National Coastal
Wetlands Conservation Grant Program is the long‐term conservation of coastal wetland
ecosystems. In FY 2011, the National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Program awarded
$19.1 million to 12 States to fund 24 individual projects encompassing nearly 5,951 acres of
coastal habitat.
The Final Rule establishing the requirements for participation in the National Coastal Wetlands
Conservation Grant Program was published in the Federal Register July 30, 2002 (67 FR 49264).
The program regulations are in 50 CFR 84. Additional information about the Program is online at
http://www.fws.gov/coastal/CoastalGrants. Before applying for a grant, please carefully review
Attachment A to this announcement, Clarification of Select Ranking Criteria in 50 CFR 84.32
and General Program Questions.
I. Funding Opportunity Description
Coastal wetlands are valued because they protect against flooding, help maintain water quality,
and provide habitat for wildlife. Coastal environments are also important economically,
generating billions of dollars annually through such industries as commercial fishing and tourism.
The National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Program provides States with financial
assistance to protect and restore these valuable resources.
Projects can include (1) acquisition of a real property interest (e.g., conservation easement or fee
title) in coastal lands or waters (coastal wetlands ecosystems) from willing sellers or partners for
long‐term conservation or (2) restoration, enhancement, or management of coastal wetlands
ecosystems. All projects must ensure long‐term conservation.
Examples of restoration efforts that could be funded include:
•
•
Restoring wetland hydrology by plugging drainage ditches, breaking tile drainage systems,
installing water control structures, dike construction, or re‐establishing historic
connections with waterways, or
Planting native vegetation and/or removing invasive plants and animals that compete
with native fish and wildlife and alter native habitats.
We rank applications based on criteria published in title 50 of the Code of Federal Regulations,
Part 84.32. Also see Attachment A to this announcement that clarifies select ranking criteria and
addresses questions regarding 50 CFR 84.
2
II. Award Information:
The Fish and Wildlife Service expects that approximately $17.5 million will be available for grants
from the National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Program in FY 2012. Awards typically
range from $200,000 (there is no specific minimum) to a maximum of $1,000,000. We expect to
announce the awards in December 2011 or January 2012.
III. Eligibility Information
A. Eligible Applicants
Eligible applicants are any State agency or State agencies designated by the Governor of a
coastal State. It is usually a State natural resource or fish and wildlife agency. If your agency is
uncertain of its eligibility, please contact the Regional Fish and Wildlife Service WSFR Office (see
section IV. A.). The Regional Offices maintain the list of certified eligible agencies in each coastal
State in the Region.
Eligible coastal States are States bordering the Great Lakes (Illinois, Indiana, Michigan,
Minnesota, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin); States bordering the Atlantic, Gulf
(except Louisiana), and Pacific coasts (Alabama, Alaska, California, Connecticut, Delaware,
Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Mississippi, New Hampshire, New
Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Texas, Virginia, and
Washington); and American Samoa, Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, Guam,
Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands. Louisiana is not an eligible coastal State for this program as
dictated by the Coastal Wetlands Planning, Protection, and Resources Act (16 U.S.C 3955 (b)(1)).
B. Cost‐Sharing or Matching
The maximum Federal cost share for this Program is 75 percent of total project costs in States
that have a fund established and used for acquiring coastal wetlands, other natural areas, or
open spaces. States that do not have a fund are limited to a maximum 50 percent Federal cost
share. The following insular areas: American Samoa, Guam, the Commonwealth of the Northern
Mariana Islands, and the U.S. Virgin Islands are not required to provide a match, in which case
the Federal government may provide 100 percent of the project costs. Puerto Rico is not exempt
from the match requirements of this Program.
The maximum Federal cost share of 75 percent is based on project costs, i.e., the amount
requested from the National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Program plus the amount of
non‐Federal cost share (match). Other funds that are related to the project or are part of a larger
project, but are not designated for match or cost share will not count towards project costs when
calculating the match requirement/maximum Federal cost share.
The cost‐sharing requirements are detailed in 50 CFR 84.46. The requirements allow for in‐kind
contributions for the required non‐Federal match. To receive points under the ranking criterion
3
“Federal share reduced” (50 CFR 84.32 (a)(11)), however, match above the required non‐Federal
share must be cash. See Attachment A: Clarification of Select Ranking Criteria in 50 CFR 84.32
and General Program Questions for more information.
Cost share examples (State with dedicated fund):
Example 1 – State agency requests maximum Federal share (75%) and the maximum award
amount ($1 million)
Total project cost: $1,333,334
National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Program Request: $1,000,000
Non‐Federal cost share: $333,334.
Example 2 – The proposed project will be part of a larger effort costing $10 million, but the
application is to acquire and restore a distinct parcel with project costs of $1,333,334. State
agency requests maximum Federal share (75%) and the maximum award amount ($1 million).
Total project cost: $1,333,334
National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Program Request: $1,000,000
Non‐Federal cost share: $333,334
The other costs are not associated with the project, and therefore are not listed on the SF‐424.
Example 3 – State agency requests maximum Federal share (75%) and less than the maximum
award amount.
Total project cost: $600,000
National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Program Request: $450,000
Non‐Federal cost share: $150,000
Example 4 – State agency requests less than maximum Federal share to maximize points for
ranking criterion 11 and the maximum award amount ($1 million).
Total project cost: $1,454,555
National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Program Request: $1,000,000
Non‐Federal cost share: $454,555 (with at least $90,916 of this amount in cash)
- required non‐Federal share = 25% = $363,639
- cash above required non‐Federal share = $454,555 ‐ $363,639 = $90,916
- percent above required non‐Federal share = $90,916 / $363,639 = 25% = 5 points
Example 5 – State agency requests less than maximum Federal share to maximize points for
criterion 11 and less than the maximum award amount.
Total project cost: $654,555
National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Program Request: $450,000
Non‐Federal cost share: $204,555 (with at least $40,916 of this amount in cash)
- required non‐Federal share = 25% = $163,639
- cash above required non‐Federal share = $204,555 ‐ $163,639 = $40,916
4
-
percent above required non‐Federal share = 40,916 / $163,639 = 25% = 5 points
To apply for a 75 percent Federal cost share, applicant must provide either a description of the
State trust fund that supports a request for a 75 percent Federal share (in sufficient detail for the
Service to make an eligibility determination), or a statement that eligibility has been previously
approved and there has been no change in the fund.
If an applicant proposes to use land as all or a portion of the non‐Federal share, he or she
should explain in the project overview how the land is necessary and reasonable to accomplish
the objectives of the project. Applicants should include information on both (a) parcels
proposed for acquisition/restoration, and (b) match parcels in adequate detail for each ranking
criteria so reviewers can make informed scoring decisions.
You must document in the application all third‐party matching funds, those supplied by
organizations or individuals other than the applicant, with a signed letter of financial
commitment from an authorized representative of the match provider. The letter of financial
commitment must detail the amount of matching funds or value of donated land and/or services.
The State is responsible for ensuring the full amount of the non‐Federal match as listed on the
SF‐424.
Please note that if match is being provided by a third‐party, and the letter of financial
commitment is missing and/or late, the match will not be counted, and the application may be
deemed ineligible.
C. Other
Although only approved State agencies can apply for and receive grants from this Program, we
encourage partnering with Tribes, Federal agencies, other State agencies, non‐governmental
organizations, local governments and others.
IV. Application and Submission Information
A. Address to Request/Submit Application Package
Potential applicants can receive application forms and other material necessary to apply for this
Program by contacting one of the Fish and Wildlife Service’s Regional Offices. Application forms
are also available through the Grants.gov web site. Below is a list of Regional Office contacts:
Coastal States by
Fish and Wildlife Service Region
American Samoa, Commonwealth of the
Northern Mariana Islands, Guam, Hawaii,
Oregon, and Washington
Regional Contact Information
Nell Fuller
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Region 1
Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration Program
Eastside Federal Complex
5
911 NE 11th Avenue
Portland, OR 97232‐4181
503‐231‐6758
Texas
Susan MacMullin
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Region 2
Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration Program
P.O. Box 1306
500 Gold Avenue, SW, Suite #9019
Albuquerque, NM 87103
505‐248‐7450
Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio Paul Glander
and Wisconsin
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Region 3
Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration Program
Bishop Henry Whipple Federal Building
1 Federal Drive
Fort Snelling, MN 55111
612‐713‐5130
Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi,
Scott White
North Carolina, Puerto Rico, South Carolina, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Region 4
and the Virgin Islands
Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration Program
1875 Century Boulevard, Suite 240
Atlanta, GA 30345‐3319
404‐679‐7113
Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Maryland,
Colleen Sculley
Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York,
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Region 5
Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, and Virginia
Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration Program
300 Westgate Center Drive
Hadley, MA 01035‐9589
413‐253‐8508
Alaska
Cliff Schleusner
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Region 7
Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration Program
1011 East Tudor Road, MS 261
Anchorage, AK 99503
907‐786‐3631
6
California
Bart Prose
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Region 8
Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration Program
2800 Cottage Way Room W‐1729
Sacramento, CA 95825
916‐978‐6152
B. Content and Form of Application
Applications submitted for funding from the National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant
Program must include:
1. Application for Federal Assistance (Standard Form 424). Please list the project area
Congressional district in box 16.
2. Budget Information, i.e., estimated costs to achieve the project objectives (applicants
can use Standard Form 424C or present the information in a similar table).
Contingencies must not be included in estimated costs, as they are ineligible costs.
The various activities or components of each project should be broken out by cost and
by partner.
3. Statement of Assurances of compliance with applicable Federal laws, regulations, and
policies (Standard Form 424D).
4. A project overview that concisely describes the project. The project overview should
not detail the ranking criteria in 5. The project overview should address:
a. The need for the proposed project;
b. Discrete, quantifiable, and verifiable objectives to be accomplished during a
specific time period;
c. Expected results or benefits in terms of coastal lands and waters, the
hydrology, water quality, or fish and wildlife dependent on the wetlands;
d. The approach to be used in meeting the objectives, including specific
procedures, schedules, key personnel, and cooperators;
e. The project location;
f. Either a description of the State trust fund that supports a request for a 75
percent Federal share in sufficient detail for the Service to make an eligibility
determination, or a statement that eligibility has been previously approved
and no change has occurred in the fund;
g. List of other current coastal acquisition, restoration, enhancement and
management actions; agencies involved; relationship to the proposed grant;
and how the application fits into comprehensive natural resource plans for the
area; and
k. Any public involvement or interagency coordination on coastal wetlands
conservation projects that has occurred or is planned that relates to the
application (Specify the organization or agencies involved and dates of
involvement).
5. A description, with appropriate documentation, of how the proposed project
addresses each of the 13 numeric ranking criteria in 50 CFR 84.32. We recommend
7
applicants address each ranking criteria individually with a brief statement or table. If
land is proposed as match, applicants should include information on both (a) parcels
proposed for acquisition/restoration and (b) match parcels in adequate detail for each
ranking criteria so reviewers can make informed scoring decisions.
6. Two maps of the project location: a map of the State showing the general location of
the application and a map of the project site. If the project location is part of a larger
effort, please detail what land area is specific to the proposed grant activities and
what land area is part of the larger effort. If land will be used as match, please show
the match parcel(s). Additional maps and/or photos of the project site may be
included.
7. Signed letter(s) of financial commitment from an authorized representative of all
third‐party match provider(s). The letter(s) of financial commitment must detail the
amount of matching funds or value of donated land and/or services.
There is a 35 page limit for the narrative section of the application package. This includes the
project overview, information addressing the ranking criteria, and accompanying materials (4. –
5.). Exempt from the page limit are the forms (1. – 3.), pages of only maps and/or photos (6.),
and letters of financial commitment (7.). If the narrative section of the application is over the 35
page limit, the reviewer(s) will not consider the information beyond page 35 in their review
and/or scoring of the application.
Application packages should be arranged in the following order:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
SF 424
SF 424 C (or budget table)
SF 424 D
project overview
ranking criteria information
color maps and/or photos
letters of financial commitment
Applications should be on 8.5’’ X 11’’ paper, with 1’’ margins at the top, bottom, and both sides
and page numbers at the bottom of the page (starting with the project overview). Fonts should
be legible, i.e., preferably 12 point Arial, Times New Roman, or other commonly used font. Please
number your pages starting with the project overview.
In accepting Federal funds, applicants must comply with all applicable Federal laws, regulations,
and policies. Evidence of compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act, National
Historic Preservation Act, Endangered Species Act, Clean Water Act, and other Federal laws must
be provided if selected for award.
C. Submission Dates and Times
8
Applications are due in the Service’s Regional Offices (see contact information in section IV. A.) or
on Grants.gov by June 30, 2011. Hard copy applications are due to the Regional Fish and Wildlife
Service WSFR Office by June 30, 2011, 4:00 p.m. local time. Electronic applications submitted
through Grants.gov will be accepted up until June 30, 2011, 11:59 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time.
We recommend electronic applications be submitted through Grants.gov at least two days
before the deadline to allow for any unforeseen technical complications. We will not consider
for funding applications received after the due date.
Applicants are encouraged to submit applications approximately 4‐6 weeks before the due date if
they would like the Fish and Wildlife Service to provide comments on their application. Although
there is no guarantee that comments will be provided, feedback generally includes
recommendations to improve the application. Applicants can contact their Regional Fish and
Wildlife Service WSFR contact for additional information about submitting early (see contact
information in section IV.A.).
We encourage applicants to submit letters of financial commitment by the June 30, 2011 due
date, however we will accept letters at the Regional Office up through Sept. 9, 2011, 4:00 p.m.
local time. We will not consider letters received after the Sept. 9, 2011, 4:00 p.m. local time
deadline.
D. Intergovernmental Review
The National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Program is subject to Executive Order 12372
“Intergovernmental Review of Federal Programs.” Coastal States and territories that have
chosen to participate in the Executive Order process have established Single Points of Contact
(SPOCs). Applicants from jurisdictions that have not chosen to participate do not need to take
any action regarding E.O. 12372. All other applicants should alert their SPOCs early in the
application process. If you, as an applicant, are required to submit materials to a SPOC, indicate
the date of this submittal (or the date of contact if no submittal is required) on the Standard
Form 424.
E. Funding Restrictions
Ineligible activities include:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Projects that primarily benefit navigation, irrigation, flood control, or mariculture;
Acquisition, restoration, enhancement or management of lands to mitigate habitat losses;
Creation of wetlands where wetlands did not previously exist;
Enforcement of fish and wildlife laws and regulations, except when necessary for the
accomplishment of approved project purposes;
Research;
Planning as a primary project focus;
Operations and maintenance, including long‐term invasive species management;
9
•
•
Acquisition and/or restoration of upper portions of watersheds where benefits to the
coastal wetlands ecosystem are not significant and direct; and
Projects providing less than 20 years of conservation benefits.
F. Other Submission Requirements
If an applicant submits a hard copy application, it must be sent to the appropriate Regional Office
(see section IV.A.).
If an applicant submits an electronic application, it must be submitted through Grants.gov. It is
suggested that applicants verify that their version of Adobe Reader is compatible with Grants.gov
to avoid problems in submitting and/or downloading application forms. The Grants.gov
homepage has a link that allows users to verify compatibility of Adobe Reader.
As a courtesy, all applicants are also encouraged to send a single pdf file comprising their entire
application package, including all standard forms (424, 424C, 424D), project overview, ranking
criteria information, maps and photos, and letters of financial commitment to their Regional
WSFR contact (see contact information in section IV. A.) by the deadline.
For further information or questions on hard copy or electronic submission, contact your
Regional Office.
V. Application Review Information
A. Criteria
Criteria for reviewing and ranking projects were established in the final rule for administering the
National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Program (67 FR 48264;
http://wsfrprograms.fws.gov/subpages/toolkitfiles/50cfr84.pdf; see 50 CFR 84.32). Attachment
A to this announcement clarifies select ranking criteria in 50 CFR 84.32 and answers general
program questions. A brief summary of the 13 ranking criteria follows:
1. Wetlands conservation. Will the project reverse coastal wetland loss or habitat
degradation in decreasing or stable coastal wetland types?
2. Maritime forests on coastal barriers. Will the application significantly benefit maritime
forests on coastal barriers?
3. Long‐term conservation. Will the project ensure long‐term conservation of coastal
wetland functions? The project must provide at least 20 years of conservation benefits to be
eligible.
4. Coastal watershed management. Will the completed project help accomplish the natural
resource goals and objectives of one or more formal, ongoing coastal watershed
management plan or effort?
5. Conservation of threatened and endangered species. Will the project benefit any
federally listed endangered or threatened species, species proposed for Federal listing,
10
recently delisted species or designated or proposed critical habitat in coastal wetlands? Will it
benefit State‐listed species?
6. Benefits to fish. Will the project provide, restore or enhance important fisheries habitat?
7. Benefits to coastal‐dependent or migratory birds. Will the project provide, restore, or
enhance important habitat for coastal‐dependent or migratory birds?
8. Prevent or reduce contamination. Will the project prevent or reduce input of
contaminants to the coastal wetlands and associated coastal waters that are already
contaminated?
9. Catalyst for future conservation. Will the project leverage other ongoing coastal wetlands
conservation efforts in an area or provide additional impetus for conservation?
10. Partners in conservation. Will the project receive financial support, including in‐kind
match, from private, local or other Federal interests?
11. Federal share reduced. Does the application significantly reduce the Federal share by
providing more than the required match amount? (Only cash above the required match
applies.)
12. Education/outreach program or wildlife‐oriented recreation. Is the project designed to
increase environmental awareness and develop support for coastal wetlands conservation?
Does it provide recreational opportunities that are consistent with the conservation goals of
the site?
13. Other factors. Do any other factors, not covered in the previous criteria, make this
project or site particularly unique and valuable?
B. Review and Selection Process
Project selection is a three‐step process: application acceptance, application ranking, and
application selection.
•
Application acceptance ‐ The Regional WSFR Offices determine agency eligibility and
whether applications are complete, substantial, and contain only activities that are
eligible. Applications that are ineligible are returned to the State agency. Revision and
resubmission of returned applications is allowable up until the identified deadline for
application submittals.
•
Application ranking ‐ Once an application is accepted by the Regional WSFR Office, the
Regional Office forwards the application to Fisheries and Habitat Conservation (FHC). FHC
coordinates an internal, cross‐programmatic review of all accepted applications by a
National Review Panel.
•
Application selection ‐ The National Review Panel scores and ranks all accepted applications and
provides the Director of the Fish and Wildlife Service with a list of recommended projects for
funding. The final list of awards is determined by the Director of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
The awards will be announced in December 2011 or January 2012. Successful applicants will
receive a letter informing them that their application was awarded funding and the amount of the
award.
11
VI. Award Administration Information
A. Award Notices
Successful applicants will receive a letter informing them that their application was awarded
funding, the amount of the award, and the remaining process needed to complete the grant
award. The Service will also publish on its website a national press release announcing the
awards.
B. Administrative and National Policy Requirements
When a project is awarded funding, compliance with all applicable Federal laws, regulations, and
policies, including environmental laws such as the Endangered Species Act, and applicable
executive orders must be satisfied before the Service can approve an award and make funding
available.
In accordance with the Federal Funding Accountability and Transparency Act (FFATA) of 2006,
eligible State agencies, as prime recipients, must register with the Central Contractor Registration
(CCR) at http://www.ccr.gov. Eligible State agencies and sub‐award recipients must also obtain a
Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS) number through http://www.dnb.com.
All financial assistance awards are subject to Federal financial administration requirements. The
Regional WSFR Offices will work with applicants to ensure that all financial arrangements comply
with these requirements.
To find out more about the rules, including administrative requirements and cost principles, you
can review them on the WSFR Toolkit
(http://wsfrprograms.fws.gov/Subpages/ToolkitFiles/toolkit.pdf).
12
The rules that apply to different recipients are detailed here:
Table 1. Federal Financial Administrative Guidance
Categories of Recipients
Individuals, private firms, and non‐profits
excluded from coverage under OMB Circular No.
A‐122
Non‐profit organizations covered under OMB
Circular No. A‐122
Educational Institutions (even if part of a State or
local government)
States, local governments and Tribes
Specific Rules and Guidance
‐ Federal Acquisition Subpart 31.2
‐ 43 CFR 18 (New Restrictions on Lobbying)
‐ 48 CFR 31 (Contracts with Commercial
Organizations)
‐ 43 CFR 18 (New Restrictions on Lobbying)
‐ 2 CFR 215 (Administrative Requirements for
Grants)
‐ 2 CFR 230 (Cost Principles)
‐ OMB Circular No. A‐133 (Audits)
‐ 43 CFR 18 (New Restrictions on Lobbying)
‐ 2 CFR 220 (Cost Principles)
‐ 2 CFR 215 (Administrative Requirements for
Grants)
OMB Circular No. A‐133 (Audits)
‐ 43 CFR 12 (Administrative and Audit
Requirements and Cost Principles for Assistance
Programs)
‐ 43 CFR 18 (New Restrictions on Lobbying)
‐ 2 CFR 225 (Cost Principles)
‐ OMB Circular No. A‐102 (Grants and Cooperative
Agreements)
‐ OMB Circular No. A‐133 (Audits)
C. Reporting
Reporting requirements include retention and access requirements that are specified in 43 CFR
12.82. Additional details regarding new requirements, guidance, consequences, etc. are available
in the document “Interim Guidance for Financial and Performance Reporting,” located at
http://wsfrprograms.fws.gov/subpages/toolkitfiles/intgdrpt.pdf.
VII. Agency Contacts
The National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Program is administered jointly by the
Divisions of Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration and Fisheries and Habitat Conservation. National
level program information can be obtained by contacting:
Chris Darnell
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Fisheries and Habitat Conservation
MS 730
4401 North Fairfax Drive
Arlington, VA 22203
703‐358‐2236
Chris_Darnell@fws.gov
13
or
Christy Vigfusson
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration Program
WSFR‐4020
4401 North Fairfax Drive
Arlington, VA 22203
703‐358‐1748
Christy_Vigfusson@fws.gov
For project specific information and application details, contact your Regional WSFR Office.
(See contact information in IV.A.)
VIII. Other Information
The Federal government is not bound to financially support any project until an authorized
Service financial officer has approved the award.
OMB Control Number 1018‐0109
PAPERWORK REDUCTION ACT STATEMENT: The Paperwork Reduction Act requires us to tell you
why we are collecting this information, how we will use it, and whether or not you have to
respond. We will use the information that we collect to evaluate applications submitted to
acquire funding for Clean Vessel Act Grant Program funds. Your response is required to receive
funding. A Federal agency may not conduct or sponsor and you are not required to respond to a
collection of information unless it displays a currently valid OMB Control Number. We estimate
that it will take an average of 50 hours to complete the application. The average estimated
annual burden associated with writing and submitting required performance reports is 6 hours.
You may send comments concerning the burden estimates or any aspect of this information
collection to the Information Collection Clearance Officer, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, MS 222
ARLSQ, 4401 N. Fairfax Drive, Arlington, VA 22203.
14
Attachment A
Clarification of Select Ranking Criteria in 50 CFR 84.32 and
General Program Questions
Sections of this attachment have been revised for FY 2012 – please read
The purpose of this attachment is to provide clarification of certain criteria in Title 50 of the Code
of Federal Regulations, Part 84. General questions are listed first, followed by questions specific
to ranking criteria.
General Questions:
Are lands used for match purposes used in calculating points for ranking criteria?
Yes. Because lands that are used for match purposes are part of the project area, reviewers
consider both lands being proposed for acquisition/restoration with grant funds and lands
proposed for contribution as match when assigning points for ranking criteria. Therefore,
information on both parcels proposed for acquisition/restoration and match parcels should be
described in adequate detail for each ranking criteria so reviewers can make informed scoring
decisions.
Does land used for all of or part of the non‐Federal cost share need to be necessary and
reasonable?
Yes. The land used for match purposes must be necessary and reasonable to achieving project
objectives. Please explain how the match parcel(s) relate to the overall project and remember to
detail information about the match parcel for all ranking criteria.
If a project includes a conservation easement, what information about the conservation
easement is helpful for reviewers?
Applicants should describe the general terms of the conservation easement, including the length
of the conservation easement, who will hold the conservation easement, allowable and
prohibited uses, and plans for long‐term monitoring and stewardship of the easement. This
information helps reviewers understand the conservation benefit(s) of the conservation
easement.
Who holds title to land acquired under this program or contributed as match?
Title to real property acquired under a grant or subgrant or contributed as match will vest upon
acquisition in the grantee or subgrantee, respectively, as directed by 43 CFR 12.71 and 43 CFR
12.64.
15
Should applicants include letters of support that are not financial commitment letters or those
detailing scientific information specific to a project?
Given the volume of material reviewers must read, letters of general support for a project should
not be included in the application package. However, it is required to include letters of financial
commitment from third‐party sources.
What are “total costs” in 50 CFR 84, including 84.21(f), 84.32(a)(11), and 84.46?
“Total costs” are the costs to complete a project, including the total amount of funds requested
from the NCWCGP and the non‐Federal share. It does not include other Federal funds or non‐
matching funds.
For example, if total costs of a project are $1,333,334, the maximum Federal share (National
Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Program request) would be either $1,000,000 (75%) or
$666,667 (50%), depending on whether or not the State has a designated fund (see definition of
fund in 50 CFR 84.11).
Does “maximum Federal share” under 50 CFR 84, including 84.32 (a)(11) and 84.46 (h), refer to
the maximum percentage of Federal dollars of the project costs, i.e., 75% or 50%, or the
maximum grant amount from the NCWCGP, i.e., $1 million?
“Maximum Federal share” refers to the percentage, i.e., 75% or 50%, of Federal dollars of the
project costs, not the maximum grant amount from the NCWCGP, i.e., $1 million. For example, if
total project costs are $1,333,334, the maximum Federal share would be either $1,000,000 (75%)
or $666,667 (50%), depending on whether or not the State has a designated fund. If the
applicant only provides the minimum non‐Federal share (25% or 50% of total project costs), no
points will be awarded for reducing the Federal share (50 CFR 84.32 (a)(11), Criterion 11).
What changes are allowed to an application after its submission?
Applications submitted to the Service for consideration in the national competition must be in
final format by the due date specified in the Request for Applications. The only application
changes that will be accepted after the due date are those that will not impact the project
scoring, such as small corrective or clarifying statements. Regional Office and/or Washington
Office representatives may also request that the applicant make modifications to an application
after the due date to correct inconsistencies within an application or change any other error that
would cause the National Review Panel difficulty in accurately assessing the application during
review.
16
50 CFR 84.32 (a)(1) (Criterion 1):
Must a score of 7 be given for all applications that result in over 50% of the project area
conserving, restoring, or protecting decreasing coastal wetlands types?
Yes. Applications that document that over 50% of the project area will be, upon project
completion, decreasing coastal wetlands types will receive the full 7 points. You may find specific
guidance on how reviewers score this criterion at 50 CFR 84.32 (a)(1).
Should a graduated scale be used to further delineate applications?
The program regulations in 50 CFR 84.32 (a)(1) provide guidance on the use of intermediate
scores (i.e., less than 7 points) for projects that document that, upon project completion, a
minimum of 50% of the project area will be a combination of decreasing and stable types of
wetlands, and for projects that are less than 50% wetlands.
50 CFR 84.32 (a)(2) (Criterion 2):
What qualifies as a maritime forest?
A thorough description of what is considered to be a maritime forest for the purpose of the
National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant program is found in the program regulations in
the Definitions section, 50 CFR 84.11.
How will this criterion be scored?
In order to receive the maximum 7 points for this criterion, the project must significantly benefit
maritime forests which meet the following descriptions: 1) are located on coastal barriers (see
definition of “Coastal barrier” in 50 CFR 84.11) along the mainland coast from Delaware to Texas,
and 2) are broad‐leaved forests. Examples of maritime forests are primarily characterized by a
closed canopy of various combinations of live oak, upland laurel oak, pignut hickory, southern
magnolia, sugarberry, and cabbage palm.
Intermediate scores of less than 7 points are acceptable (1) for applications in which the
significance of the benefit to maritime forests is unclear, or (2) for applications in which it is
unclear if the forests meet the strict definition of maritime forest.
50 CFR 84.32 (a)(5, 6, 7) (Criteria 5, 6, and 7):
What information should I include about threatened and endangered species, fish, and coastal‐
dependent or migratory birds in responses to ranking criteria 5, 6, and 7?
You should include the information requested in the ranking criteria. It is important to also note
if species have been observed within the project boundary or only in the general vicinity. It is
17
suggested that applicants supply this information in table format. The column headings can
include: common name, scientific name, status (Federally listing, delisted within the last 5 years,
State listing, etc.), observed within project boundary, habitat type provided, restored, or
enhanced (nesting, breeding, feeding, nursery areas), etc. See ranking criteria language for
additional information.
50 CFR 84.32 (a)(10) (Criterion 10):
Can applications receive points for more than one State agency’s participation in a proposed
project?
In general, applications will only receive credit for one State agency. The exception to this
practice will occur when an application includes multiple States. In these instances, the
application may receive points for each additional State that is participating in the proposed
project.
What documentation is required to receive points for this criterion for non‐Federal partners?
A signed letter of financial commitment of matching funds or in‐kind match from an authorized
representative of any third‐party match provider or partner(s) must accompany the application
to receive points. Partners that are providing financial support that is not match will not be
counted for this ranking criterion. Applicants are ultimately accountable for third party
commitments of financial support.
What documentation is required to receive points for this criterion for Federal partners?
A signed letter committing project involvement that is necessary and reasonable to completing
the project objectives from an authorized representative of the Federal partner(s) must
accompany the application to receive points. Project involvement that is not necessary or
reasonable to complete the project objectives will not be counted as a partner for this criterion.
50 CFR 84.32 (a)(11) (Criterion 11):
Can in‐kind services or contributions be used as the required State match?
Yes. In‐kind services can be used for the entire portion of the State’s required cost share (i.e.,
25% or 50%). However, the applicant will not receive points for this ranking criterion.
Can in‐kind services or contributions, including bargain land sale, be used to score points for
this criterion?
No. We only consider cash contributions that exceed the required match when scoring points for
Criterion 11. Cash is a liquid asset and can be tracked easily through audit procedures and also
serves as a proxy for the State’s commitment towards a project. Federal regulations and
18
guidance clearly identify a landowner’s acceptance of a reduced price for his or her property as
an in‐kind service or contribution, not cash. As such, so‐called “bargain sales” cannot be used to
receive points for decreasing the Federal share.
Can the in‐kind contribution of a landowner accepting an offer below market value for his
property be used for the required State match?
Yes. The in‐kind contribution of a landowner accepting a reduced price for his property can be
used as part of or all of the State’s required cost share of 25% or 50%.
50 CFR 84.32(b)(4) (Additional considerations):
Please clarify the ‘provides lands as part of the State matching share’.
The purpose of this tie‐breaking factor is to consider applications which include the donation of
lands owned by a third party as part of the overall project. Such donations increase the overall
acreage of land managed by the State agency, increasing the likelihood that the land will be
managed to conserve the natural resources and increase the management options for the grant
property.
19
