[Federal Register: December 1, 2003 (Volume 68, Number 230)]
[Notices]
[Page 67133-67144]
From the Federal Register Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]
[DOCID:fr01de03-34]
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DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
Cooperative State Research, Education, and Extension Service
Decision Support, Education, and Workforce Development Through
Geospatial Extension Specialists Program: Request for Applications and
Request for Input
AGENCY: Cooperative State Research, Education, and Extension Service,
USDA.
ACTION: Notice of request for applications and request for input.
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SUMMARY: As part of a collaborative, interagency effort, the
Cooperative State Research, Education, and Extension Service (CSREES)
of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is soliciting applications
for the Decision Support, Education, and Workforce
[[Page 67134]]
Development through Geospatial Extension Specialists (GES) Program for
fiscal year (FY) 2004 to support programmatic activities (1) in states
that establish new Geospatial Extension Specialist positions, and (2)
in on-going Geospatial Extension Specialist programs. Beginning with
the use of FY 2003 funds in this RFA, the participating agencies
anticipate allocating a total of approximately $1 million over three
years to fund the GES Program.
The GES Program is supported by CSREES, the Earth Science
Enterprise (ESE) of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration
(NASA), and the National Sea Grant College Program of the National
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Department of Commerce
(DOC) as described in this Request for Applications (RFA). CSREES will
administer GES Program grants and cooperative agreements.
DATES: Applications must be received by close of business (COB) on
April 1, 2004, (5 p.m. eastern standard time). Applications received
after this deadline will not be considered for funding. Comments
regarding this RFA are requested within three months from the issuance
of this notice. Comments received after that date will be considered to
the extent practicable.
ADDRESSES: The address for hand-delivered applications or applications
submitted using an express mail or overnight courier service is:
Geospatial Extension Specialists Program; c/o Proposal Services Unit;
Cooperative State Research, Education, and Extension Service; U.S.
Department of Agriculture; Room 1420, Waterfront Centre; 800 9th
Street, SW.; Washington, DC 20024; Telephone: (202) 401-5048.
Applications sent via the U.S. Postal Service must be sent to the
following address: Geospatial Extension Specialists Program; c/o
Proposal Services Unit; Cooperative State Research, Education, and
Extension Service; U.S. Department of Agriculture; STOP 2245; 1400
Independence Avenue, SW.; Washington, DC 20250-2245.
Written stakeholder comments should be submitted by mail to: Policy
and Program Liaison Staff; Office of Extramural Programs; USDA-CSREES;
STOP 2299; 1400 Independence Avenue, SW.; Washington, DC 20250-2299; or via e-mail to: RFP-OEP@csrees.usda.gov. (This e-mail address is
intended only for receiving comments regarding this RFA and not
requesting information or forms.) In your comments, please state that
you are responding to the Geospatial Extension Specialists Program RFA.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Greg Crosby; National Program Leader;
Cooperative State Research, Education, and Extension Service; U.S.
Department of Agriculture; STOP 2210; 1400 Independence Avenue, SW.;
Washington, DC 20250-2210; Telephone: (202) 401-6050; Fax: (202) 401-1706; E-mail: gcrosby@csrees.usda.gov; or Mr. Edwin Sheffner; Earth
Science Enterprise, Code YO; National Aeronautics and Space
Administration; 300 E Street, SW.; Washington, DC 20546; telephone: (202) 358-0239; fax: (202) 358-2770; e-mail: edwin.j.sheffner@nasa.gov;
or Mr. Rodney McKellip; Earth Science Applications Directorate; John C.
Stennis Space Center; Code MA00 Bldg. 1100; SCC, MS 29529-6000;
telephone: (228) 688-2984; fax: (228) 688-7455; e-mail: rmckelli@ssc.nasa.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Table of Contents
Stakeholder Input
Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance
Part I. General
A. Legislative Authority and Background
B. Purpose, Priorities and Fund Availability
C. Eligibility
D. Indirect Costs
E. Matching Requirements
F. Funding Restrictions
G. Types of Applications
Part II. Program Description
A. Project Types
B. Program Description
Part III. Preparation of an Application
A. Program Application Materials
B. Content of Applications
C. Submission of Applications
D. Acknowledgment of Applications
Part IV. Review Process
A. General
B. Evaluation Criteria
C. Conflicts of Interest and Confidentiality
Part V. Award Administration
A. General
B. Organizational Management Information
C. Award Document and Notice of Award
Part VI. Additional Information
A. Access to Review Information
B. Use of Funds; Changes
C. Expected Program Outputs and Reporting Requirements
D. Applicable Federal Statutes and Regulations
E. Safety
F. Confidential Aspects of Applications and Awards
G. Regulatory Information
H. Grants.gov Implementation Plans
I. DUNS Number
J. Required Registration for Grants.gov
Stakeholder Input
CSREES is requesting comments regarding this RFA from any
interested party. These comments will be considered in the development
of any subsequent RFA for the program. Such comments will be used to
meet the requirements of section 103(c)(2) of the Agricultural
Research, Extension, and Education Reform Act of 1998 (7 U.S.C.
7613(c)(2)). This section requires the Secretary to solicit and
consider input on a current RFA from persons who conduct or use
agricultural research, extension and education for use in formulating
future RFAs for competitive programs. Comments should be submitted as
provided in the ADDRESSES and DATES portions of this announcement.
Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance
This program is listed in the Catalog of Federal Domestic
Assistance under 10.206 for USDA and 43.002 for NASA.
Part I. General
A. Legislative Authority and Background
Section 737 of the General Provisions of the Consolidated
Appropriations Resolution, 2003 (Division A of Pub. L. 108-7) provides
CSREES with the authority to use up to twenty percent of the amount
made available in the Act for the National Research Initiative
Competitive Grants Program (NRI), to carry out a competitive grants
program under the same terms and conditions as those provided in
section 401 of the Agricultural Research, Extension, and Education
Reform Act of 1998 (AREERA) (7 U.S.C. 7621).
Section 401 of AREERA established in the Treasury of the United
States an account and authorized the Secretary of Agriculture to
establish a research, extension, and education competitive grants
program to address critical emerging U.S. agricultural and rural issues
related to future food production; environmental quality and natural
resource management; farm income; or rural, economic and business and
community development policy.
The authority for NASA participation in the GES Program is found in
the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Act of 1958, as
amended, 42 U.S.C. 2473 (c)(5), and section 316 of the National
Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2000, Pub. L.
106-391 (7 U.S.C. 5935 note).
B. Purpose, Priorities and Fund Availability
The GES Program supports programmatic activities (1) in states that
establish new Geospatial Extension Specialist positions, and (2) in on-
going Geospatial Extension Specialist
[[Page 67135]]
programs. Using funds made available in FY 2003, this RFA solicits GES
Program applications for projects that: Improve, through the use of
geospatial information, the decision support systems of users at local,
county and state levels; improve education in remote sensing and
related geospatial technology at the local, county and state levels;
and, promote development of a workforce skilled in the use of
geospatial technology and integrated with the staffs of user
organizations. Examples of activities the GES Program may support are
included in Part II, B.
Priority will be given to projects with a documented commitment to
initiate or continue a Geospatial Extension Specialist position, that
take full advantage of Space Grant, Sea Grant, and Cooperative
Extension activities in the state, and that demonstrate links to the
user communities within the state (as described in Part II, B.).
There is no commitment by CSREES to fund a particular application
or to make a specific number of awards. Beginning with the use of FY
2003 funds in this RFA, the participating agencies anticipate
allocating a total of approximately $1 million over three years to fund
the GES Program. CSREES's obligation to make award(s) is contingent
upon the availability of appropriated funds from which payment can be
made and the receipt of proposals that are deemed acceptable for award
under this solicitation.
C. Eligibility
The following entities are eligible to apply for and receive a
competitive grant: (1) A Federal research agency; (2) a national
laboratory; (3) a college or university or a research foundation
maintained by a college or university; (4) a private research
organization with an established and demonstrated capacity to perform
research or technology transfer; or (5) a State agricultural experiment
station. Unsolicited applications will not be considered and
applications from scientists at non-United States organizations will
not be accepted.
Applications are expected to involve the participation of the
applicant state's land-grant institution and Space Grant Consortium
(SGC). Participation of the applicant state's Sea Grant institution is
encouraged, where appropriate. Award recipients may subcontract to
organizations not eligible to apply provided such organizations are
necessary for the conduct of the project.
USDA and NASA encourage researchers in other U.S. government
agencies with remote sensing applications responsibilities to
participate as members in no-cost or low-cost applications, but civil
servants may not request salary reimbursement. Civil servants in other
U.S. government research laboratories are eligible to participate, but
also may not request salary reimbursement.
D. Indirect Costs
Section 1462 of the National Agricultural Research, Extension, and
Teaching Policy Act of 1977 (7 U.S.C. 3310) requires that CSREES limit
the recovery of indirect costs on all competitive awards to 19 percent
of total Federal funds provided under the award. Therefore, the
recovery of indirect costs on awards made by CSREES under the GES
Program may not exceed the lesser of the institution's official
negotiated indirect cost rate or the equivalent of 19 percent of total
Federal funds awarded. Another method of calculating the maximum
allowable is 23.456 percent of the total direct costs. (This limitation
also applies to the recovery of indirect costs by any subawardee or
subcontractor, and should be reflected in the subrecipient budget.) If
no rate has been negotiated, a reasonable dollar amount (equivalent to
or less than 19 percent of total Federal funds requested) in lieu of
indirect costs may be requested, subject to approval by CSREES. This
same indirect cost limitation applies to subcontracts.
E. Matching Requirements
The identification of institutional financial support for the GES
position and/or project will be considered an indicator of commitment
in the evaluation of applications (see Part IV, B. and Part III, B.
5(e)).
If a grant provides a particular benefit to a specific agricultural
commodity, the grant recipient is required to match the USDA funds
awarded on a dollar-for-dollar basis from non-Federal sources with cash
and/or in-kind contributions.
CSREES may waive the matching funds requirement for a grant if
CSREES determines that: (a) the results of the project, while of
particular benefit to a specific agricultural commodity, are likely to
be applicable to agricultural commodities generally; or (b) the project
involves a minor commodity, the project deals with scientifically
important research, and the grant recipient is unable to satisfy the
matching funds requirement.
F. Funding Restrictions
Funds may not be used for the renovation or refurbishment of
research spaces; purchase or installation of fixed equipment in such
spaces; or planning, repair, rehabilitation, acquisition, or
construction of buildings or facilities.
G. Types of Applications
1. New Position
This is an application from a state where a new Geospatial
Extension Specialist position has been created (a state other than the
ten listed in Part II, B.). New Position applications may request a
maximum of $100,000 per year for up to three (3) years.
2. Pre-existing Position
This is an application from a state that already has a Geospatial
Extension Specialist. Pre-existing Position applications may request a
maximum of $50,000 for one year, with the possibility of continuation
for two (2) additional years at the same level (see Part II, A. for
further information).
Part II. Program Description
A. Project Types
New Position applications may request a maximum of $100,000 per
year for up to three (3) years. Pre-existing Position applications may
request a maximum of $50,000 for one year, with the possibility of
continuation for two (2) additional years at the same level. A
continuation grant is a grant instrument by which CSREES agrees to
support a specified level of effort for a predetermined project period
with a statement of intention to provide additional support at a future
date, provided that performance has been satisfactory, appropriations
are available for this purpose, and continued support would be in the
best interest of the Federal government and the public.
CSREES anticipates funding three (3) New Position applications and
two (2) Pre-existing Position applications. Awards will be made as
grants or cooperative agreements as determined at the time of each
award. Award amounts will depend on reviewers' recommendations,
participating agencies' priorities, and the availability of funds.
Funding sponsored projects beyond the grant period will be the
responsibility of the state or another source. Funding from NASA's
Earth Science Applications Division for the GES Program will be limited
to three years in each state. This limitation does not preclude a
state's Geospatial Extension Specialist from applying for additional
support for specific applications development projects through USDA or
NASA research announcements, unsolicited applications or other
mechanisms,
[[Page 67136]]
concurrent with, or following, the term of this support.
B. Program Description
The past decade has witnessed an explosion in the availability and
use of information technology. This is especially true in the three
allied ``geospatial'' technologies--remote sensing, GIS, and GPS.
Technological advances often have occurred so quickly that many of the
most obvious potential users, such as those involved in the use and
management of agriculture and natural resources, and urban and regional
planning, have been left behind. New sources of data from NASA (e.g.,
Landsat 7, Terra, and Aqua) and high-resolution data from commercial
sources are now available. These new sources of data, accompanied by
new methods for data processing and analysis, provide the basis for new
applications and increase the challenge of assuring that the broad,
potential user community receives the benefits of available technology.
USDA/CSREES, NASA/ESE, the NASA Space Grant program, and NOAA Sea
Grant share a commitment to bring science to society by returning the
maximum benefit to the American taxpayer from new science and
technology. Geospatial Extension Specialist positions help fulfill this
commitment by building on existing resources to put geospatial
technology to practical use around the country. The GES Program's goal
will be met in each state through development and implementation of
projects by the Geospatial Extension Specialists that improve the
decision support tools of users at local to statewide levels, improve
education in remote sensing and geospatial technology, and develop a
workforce skilled in geospatial technology and integrated with the
staffs of user organizations.
Geospatial Extension Specialists facilitate the use of NASA Earth
science capabilities, which include Earth observations from space,
modeling and systems engineering, and other geospatial technology
(e.g., geographic information systems (GIS) and global positioning
systems (GPS)). They provide geospatial information and decision
support tools that address the operational needs of users at local,
regional and statewide levels. Users include individuals, agencies,
groups, and associations in the public, private and educational.
Geospatial Extension Specialists also serve as statewide resources for
education in remote sensing, GIS, GPS and related technologies.
GES programs have been established in ten states over the last
three years. These programs, in Alabama, Arizona, Connecticut,
Mississippi, Nebraska, New Hampshire, North Dakota, Oklahoma,
Utah and Virginia, are partnerships between land-grant institutions and
the NASA SGC within the states. Geospatial Extension Specialist
positions are located within the regular Cooperative Extension Service
(CES) structure in each participating state, and provide technical
support to CES agents and clients (as do other extension specialists).
They are eligible for tenure or other comparable professional
appointment, and are expected to draw on existing expertise available
through the land-grant system, SGC, and the network of NASA Principal
Investigators.
States creating new Geospatial Extension Services positions should
establish a geospatial technology delivery system at the county level.
They can achieve this by building linkages among existing programs,
including:
1. NASA Earth Science Enterprise comprised of Earth science
results, data, technology and a well-established nationwide research
infrastructure. (http://frwebgate.access.gpo.gov/cgi-bin/leaving.cgi?from=leavingFR.html&log=linklog&to=http://www.earth.nasa.gov).
2. NASA Space Grant comprised of an Earth and space science
research, education, and outreach network that exists in each state.
(http://frwebgate.access.gpo.gov/cgi-bin/leaving.cgi?from=leavingFR.html&log=linklog&to=http://www.education.nasa.gov/spacegrant).
3. USDA and Land-Grant Cooperative Extension--a technology transfer
network connected with a diverse user base and found in virtually every
county of the Nation. (http://frwebgate.access.gpo.gov/cgi-bin/leaving.cgi?from=leavingFR.html&log=linklog&to=http://www.reeusda.gov/1700/statepartners/usa.htm
).
4. National Sea Grant College Program--a technology transfer
network for stewardship of marine resources. (http://frwebgate.access.gpo.gov/cgi-bin/leaving.cgi?from=leavingFR.html&log=linklog&to=http://www.nsgo.seagrant.org/
).
The following examples of activities the GES Program may support
have been included to suggest approaches to meeting the Program's
goals:
1. Decision Support--A primary objective of the GES Program is to
initiate projects that will lead to operational use of remote sensing
and geospatial technology in the decision support processes of an
operational entity. To ensure that the operational focus is maintained,
end users must be identified when projects are initiated. End users
should be actively involved in defining project goals and routinely
involved in developing applications. Participation of the commercial
sector in data acquisition, value-added product generation and
operations management is encouraged.
2. Education--A second objective of the program is to increase
geospatial literacy. The following constituencies need to be addressed:
(a) General public--There is a strong need for a continued
awareness campaign for the general public that emphasizes in a non-
technical fashion the practical applications of geospatial information
technologies and their potential to solve pressing challenges in the
state. Examples of such applications are: Natural resource management;
disaster management; and business, including real estate,
transportation, and insurance.
(b) County extension agents--Within the CES, at the state level,
the level of knowledge about geospatial information technologies is
uneven and needs to be improved. Educating county extension agents is
an important goal since the agents are the resource to which users turn
for information. Many other specialists within CES will benefit from
the GES Program in their activities.
(c) User groups--The GES Program will conduct education and
training of potential user groups in the state, such as farmers,
foresters, businesses, disaster management teams, etc.
(d) Youth education--The GES Program will play an important role in
youth education through 4-H organizations and through education and
outreach programs sponsored by the SGC in the state. The full use of
the complementary CES and SGC networks will be key to success.
(e) State and local government personnel--State and local
government personnel will benefit from educational and training
programs initiated by the GES Program.
3. Workforce Development--The third objective of the GES Program is
to develop a workforce skilled in remote sensing and geospatial
technology for on-going activities in the states. The Geospatial
Extension Specialist will assist the SGC in the state and others in
developing a skilled workforce in geospatial information technologies.
For example, Space Grant Fellows working with the GES Program will
develop skills in applied geospatial research. Real world challenges
addressed by the specialist in the state can be integrated into
geospatial teaching curricula, thereby enhancing the learning process
at the undergraduate level. The specific activities that might be
pursued by Geospatial Extension Specialists vary to fit the needs of
users in the states.
Additional information about sponsored projects is available online
at http://frwebgate.access.gpo.gov/cgi-bin/leaving.cgi?from=leavingFR.html&log=linklog&to=http://earthgrant.auburn.edu and http://frwebgate.access.gpo.gov/cgi-bin/leaving.cgi?from=leavingFR.html&log=linklog&to=http://aria.arizona.edu/extension/program
.html.
[[Page 67137]]
The intent of the program is to maximize impact and ``return on
investment.'' Projects included in applications should focus on
significant topics within the state or region. Because Geospatial
Extension Specialists are intended to provide meaningful assistance to
users within the state, the applications they choose to address should
be of high priority for a reasonably large group to insure relevance,
visibility and impact. Projects are also encouraged that build on
existing resources. NASA (ESE and Space Grant) has built a considerable
Earth science infrastructure within the nation. Similarly, through the
land-grant system, the states have built an unparalleled research and
technology infrastructure that often includes some NASA resources
(i.e., NASA PIs and their centers). These existing resources should
form the base for proposed activities. The relative strengths of these
resources will vary from state to state, but the intent is to build
from existing centers and strengths, rather than create new ones.
Activities will be managed cooperatively at the national and state
levels. Nationally, the program will be the shared responsibility of
NASA, through the Office of Education and the Office of Earth Science
(OES); USDA, through CSREES; and NOAA, through the National Sea Grant
College Program. A Program Coordinating Group (PCG) comprised of the
Space Grant Director at NASA, the manager of the applications research
program in the Earth Science Applications Division of NASA/OES, the
designated appointee of CSREES for USDA, and the designated appointee
of the National Sea Grant College Program for NOAA, will be responsible
for operational decisions in the program, subject to review by senior
management.
Management of the program at the state level will be led by
Geospatial Extension Specialists with concurrence from Directors of the
state CES and the SGC, as appropriate. The CES Director will be the
primary resource for questions regarding applications and demonstration
projects. The state Space Grant Director will be the primary resource
for issues related to geospatial research, education and workforce
development.
Part III. Preparation of an Application
A. Program Application Materials
The participating agencies have agreed to use the USDA guidelines
for application format (see below) and application kit. Program
application materials are available at the CSREES Web site (http://frwebgate.access.gpo.gov/cgi-bin/leaving.cgi?from=leavingFR.html&log=linklog&to=http://www.reeusda.gov/1700/funding/ourfund.htm
). If you do not have access to
the CSREES web page or have trouble downloading material, you may
contact the Proposal Services Unit, Competitive Programs, USDA/CSREES
at (202) 401-5048. When calling the Proposal Services Unit, please
indicate that you are requesting forms for the Geospatial Extension
Specialists Program. These materials may also be requested via Internet
by sending a message with your name, mailing address (not e-mail) and phone number to psb@csrees.usda.gov. State that you want a copy of the
Program Description and application materials for the FY 2004
Geospatial Extension Specialists Program.
B. Content of Applications
Applications should be prepared following the guidelines and the
instructions below. Each application must contain the following
elements in the order indicated:
1. General
The application should follow these guidelines, enabling reviewers
to more easily evaluate the merits of each application in a systematic,
consistent fashion:
(a) The application should be prepared on only one side of the page
using standard size (8\1/2\'' x 11'') white paper, one inch margins,
typed or word processed using no type smaller than 12 point font, and
single- or double-spaced. Use an easily readable font face (e.g.,
Geneva, Helvetica, Times Roman).
(b) Number each page of the application sequentially, starting with
the Project Description, including the budget pages, required forms,
and any appendices.
(c) Staple the application in the upper left-hand corner. Do not
bind. An original and fourteen (14) copies of the application, along
with ten (10) additional copies of the Project Summary, must be
submitted in one package.
(d) Include original illustrations (photographs, color prints,
etc.) in all copies of the application to prevent loss of meaning
through poor quality reproduction.
(e) The contents of the application should be assembled in the
following order:
(1) Application Cover Page (Form CSREES-2002)
(2) Table of Contents
(3) Project Summary (Form CSREES-2003)
(4) Response to Previous Review (if applicable)
(5) Project Description (see instructions for page limitations)
(6) References to Project Description
(7) Appendices to Project Description
(8) Facilities and Equipment
(9) Key Personnel (vitae and publications list)
(10) Collaborative Arrangements (including letters of support)
(11) Conflict-of-Interest List (Form CSREES-2007)
(12) Budget (Form CSREES-2004)
(13) Budget Narrative
(14) Matching (if required)
(15) Current and Pending Support (Form CSREES-2005)
(16) Assurance Statement(s) (Form CSREES-2008)
(17) Compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) (Form
CSREES-2006)
2. Proposal Cover Page (Form CSREES-2002)
Page A. Each copy of each grant application must contain a Proposal
Cover Page, Form CSREES-2002. One copy of the application, preferably
the original, must contain the pen-and-ink signature(s) of the
proposing PDs and the AOR, the individual who possesses the necessary
authority to commit the organization's time and other relevant
resources to the project. If there are more than three co-PDs for an
application, please list additional co-PDs on a separate sheet of paper
(with appropriate information and signatures) and attach to the
Proposal Cover Page (Form CSREES-2002). Any proposed PD or co-PD whose
signature does not appear on Form CSREES-2002 or attached additional
sheets will not be listed on any resulting grant award. Complete both
signature blocks located at the bottom of the Proposal Cover Page form.
Please note that Form CSREES-2002 is comprised of two parts--Page A,
which is the ``Proposal Cover Page'', and Page B, which is the
``Personal Data on Project Director.''
Form CSREES-2002 serves as a source document for the CSREES grant
database; it is therefore important that it be accurately completed in
its entirety, especially the e-mail addresses requested in Blocks 4.c.
and 18.c. However, the following items are highlighted as having a high
potential for errors or misinterpretations:
(a) Type of Performing Organization (Block 6.a. and 6.b.). For
Block 6.a., a check should be placed in the appropriate box to identify
the type of organization which is the legal recipient named in Block 1.
Only one box should be checked. For Block 6.b., please check as many
boxes that apply to the affiliation of the PD listed in Block 16.
(b) Title of Proposed Project (Block 7). The title of the project
must be brief
[[Page 67138]]
(140-character maximum, including spaces), yet represent the major
thrust of the effort being proposed. Project titles are read by a
variety of nonscientific people; therefore, highly technical words or
phraseology should be avoided where possible. In addition, introductory
phrases such as ``investigation of,'' ``research on,'' ``education
for,'' or ``outreach that'' should not be used.
(c) Program to Which You Are Applying (Block 8). Enter ``Geospatial
Extension Specialists Program'' in this block.
(d) DUNS NO. (Data Universal Numbering System) (Block 11.). A DUNS
number must be included for the legal recipient named in Block 1.
(except applications from individuals). See Part VI, I.
(e) Type of Request (Block 14). Check the appropriate block box for
your application. For ``Renewals'' and ``Resubmitted Renewals,'' the
prior USDA Award No. must be identified.
(f) Project Director (PD) (Blocks 16-19). Blocks 16-18 are used to
identify the PD and Block 19 to identify co-PDs. If needed, additional
co-PDs may be listed on a separate sheet of paper and attached to Form
CSREES-2002, the Proposal Cover Page, with the applicable co-PD
information and signatures. Listing multiple co-PDs, beyond those
required for genuine collaboration, is discouraged.
(g) Other Possible Sponsors (Block 21). List the names or acronyms
of all other public or private sponsors including other agencies within
USDA to which your application has been or might be sent. In the event
you decide to send your application to another organization or agency
at a later date, you must inform the identified CSREES program contact
as soon as practicable. Submitting your application to other potential
sponsors will not prejudice its review by CSREES; however, submitting
the same (i.e., duplicate) application to another CSREES program is not
permissible.
Page B. Page B should be submitted only with the original signature
copy of the application and should be placed as the last page of the
original copy of the application. This page contains personal data on
the PD(s). CSREES requests this information in order to monitor the
operation of its review and awards processes. This page will not be
duplicated or used during the review process. Please note that failure
to submit this information will in no way affect consideration of your
application.
3. Table of Contents
For ease in locating information, each application must contain a
detailed Table of Contents just after the Proposal Cover Page. The
Table of Contents should include page numbers for each component of the
application. Pagination should begin with the first page of the Project
Description.
4. Project Summary (Form CSREES 2003)
The application must contain a Project Summary, Form CSREES-2003.
The summary should be approximately 250 words, contained within the
box, placed immediately after the Table of Contents, and not numbered.
The names and affiliated organizations of all PDs and co-PDs should be
listed on this form, in addition to the title of the project. The
summary should be a self-contained, specific description of the
activity to be undertaken and should focus on: Overall project goal(s)
and supporting objectives; plans to accomplish project goal(s); and
relevance of the project to the goals of the GES Program. The Project
Summary must indicate whether the applicant is requesting funds for a
New Position or a Pre-existing Position. The importance of a concise,
informative Project Summary cannot be overemphasized. If there are more
than three co-PDs for an application, please list additional co-PDs on
a separate sheet of paper (with appropriate information) and attach to
the Project Summary. (Please check the ``Standard Research Proposal''
box on the upper right-hand portion of the form under ``Proposal
Type'.)
5. Project Description
The Project Description must not exceed 18 pages, including tables,
diagrams and other visual material. This page limitation applies
regardless of whether figures or tables are included. All pages,
including those with figures or tables, should be numbered
sequentially. Applications exceeding this page limitation may be
returned without review. This maximum has been established to ensure
fair and equitable competition. The Project Description must include
all of the following:
(a) Introduction--A clear statement of the long-term goal(s) and
supporting objectives of the proposed activities should be included.
Summarize the intention of each project proposed by the Geospatial
Extension Specialist, and identify the relevant area of the project
(decision support, education or workforce development); and
(b) Relevance and Significance--Identify the objectives of each
project including the current state of the intended target process in
decision support, education or workforce development, and the
improvement that will ensue from the proposed project.
In addition, New Position applications must include the following
information about the Geospatial Extension Specialist position:
(1) Organization
Institution--A general description of the institution housing the
Geospatial Extension Specialist including name, location and other
general information that might be relevant (e.g., number of students;
academic strengths; traditional role within the state);
Home unit--A description of the unit in which the position would
reside with a rationale explaining that choice; and
Existing institutional resources--Facilities and other resources on
which the position could draw either at the home institution or
resources offered by other partners (e.g., Space Grant, remote sensing
or GIS centers; NASA PIs; service providers in the private sector).
(2) Position Function
Scope--The role the position serves in a broader institutional
vision within the Land Grant function (e.g., support of a precision
agriculture initiative) as well as the Space Grant function (e.g.,
support of a Space Grant intern program);
Objectives--The overall objectives of the Geospatial Extension
Specialist; and
Activities--The types of activities that the Geospatial Extension
Specialist is expected to perform.
(c) Approach--The activities proposed or problems being addressed
must be clearly stated and the approaches being applied clearly
described. The following should be included: (1) A description of the
activities proposed; (2) methods to be used in carrying out the
project, including the feasibility of the methods; (3) expected
outcomes; (4) means by which results will be analyzed, assessed, or
interpreted; and (5) how results or products will be used.
(d) Time Table--Provide an expected timeline for completing the
project in the requested duration.
(e) Management Plan--
(1) Management structure--Describe both line authority, and more
importantly, cooperating mechanisms through which existing resources or
partners might be tapped by the Geospatial Extension Specialist using
the Land Grant and Space Grant structures.
(2) Outreach plan--Identify vehicles by which potential users,
students,
[[Page 67139]]
educators, and the public-at-large will be involved in the proposed GES
activities. In addition to conventional print media, each project will
seek to reach a broader audience through other forms of media. Projects
are expected to develop World Wide Web sites that describe the
projects, and provide linkages to appropriate NASA/ESE, Space Grant and
USDA home pages. Projects are encouraged to find outlets in other media
(e.g., popular press, broadcast) to reach an even broader audience.
Describe how these outreach efforts will be coordinated through the
NASA/ESE, Space Grant and USDA/CSREES outreach teams. NASA Web site
requirements are available at http://frwebgate.access.gpo.gov/cgi-bin/leaving.cgi?from=leavingFR.html&log=linklog&to=http://section508.nasa.gov.
(3) Demonstrated commitments--Provide evidence of commitment to the
proposed project on the part of the proposing institution. For
collaborating organizations, such evidence should be the same as
described in 9., Collaborative and Subcontractual Arrangements (e.g.,
letter of support).
(4) Anticipated performance metrics--Include anticipated outcomes
and impacts of the project on the user community that can be used to
evaluate the performance of the GES position and the effectiveness of
the project.
(f) Evaluation and Monitoring of Project--Provide a plan for
assessing and evaluating the accomplishments of the stated application
objectives during the project and describe ways to determine the
effectiveness of the end results during and upon termination of the
project. Include plans for evaluating and monitoring the administration
of the project, as well. This description should include how funds and
resources will be allocated so that collaborative participation of all
parties is ensured throughout the duration of the project.
6. References in Project Description
All references to works cited should be complete, including titles
and all co-authors, and should conform to an accepted journal format.
References are not considered in the page limitation for the Project
Description.
7. Appendices to Project Description
Each Project Description is expected to be complete, however,
additions to the Project Description (appendices) are allowed if they
are directly germane to the proposed project and strictly limited to a
maximum of two (2) of the following:
(a) Reprints (papers that have been published in peer-reviewed
journals); and
(b) Preprints (manuscripts in press for a peer-reviewed journal,
must be accompanied by letters of acceptance from the publishing
journals).
Manuscripts sent in support of the application should be single-
spaced and printed on both sides of the page. Each manuscript must be
identified with the name of the submitting organization, the name(s) of
the PD(s), and the title of the application, and be securely attached
to each copy of the application.
Program staff will not collate applications or application addenda.
Information may not be appended to an application to circumvent the
page limitations prescribed for the Project Description. Extraneous
materials will not be used during the peer review process.
8. Facilities and Equipment
Facilities and major items of equipment that are available for use
or assignment to the proposed project during the requested period of
support should be described. In addition, items of nonexpendable
equipment necessary to conduct and successfully complete the proposed
project should be listed (including dollar amounts), and, if funds are
requested for their acquisition, justified on a separate page and
attached to the budget.
9. Collaborative and Sub-Contractual Arrangements
If it will be necessary to enter into formal consulting or
collaborative arrangements with others, such arrangements should be
fully explained and justified (e.g., letters of support). In addition,
evidence should be provided that the collaborators involved have agreed
to render these services. If the consultant(s) or collaborator(s) are
known at the time of application, vitae or resume should be provided.
The applicant also will be required to provide additional information
on consultant(s) and collaborator(s) in the Budget portion of the
application. See instructions in the application forms for completing
Form CSREES-2004, Budget. For purposes of application development,
informal day-to-day contacts between key project personnel and outside
experts are not considered to be collaborative arrangements and thus do
not need to be detailed.
10. Key Personnel
The following should be included, as applicable:
(a) The roles and responsibilities of each PD and/or collaborator
should be clearly described, including an estimate of the time each is
committing to the proposed project; and
(b) Vitae for the Geospatial Extension Specialist, senior
associates and other professional personnel. This section should
include vitae of all key persons who are expected to work on the
project, whether or not funding is sought for their support. The vitae
should be limited to two (2) pages in length, excluding publications
listings. A chronological list of all publications in refereed journals
during the past four (4) years, including those in press, must be
provided for each project member for whom a vita is provided. Also list
only those non-refereed technical publications which have relevance to
the proposed project. All authors should be listed in the same order as
they appear on each paper cited, along with the title and complete
reference as these usually appear in journals.
11. Conflict-of-Interest List (Form CSREES-2007)
A Conflict-of-Interest List, Form CSREES-2007, must be provided for
all individuals who have submitted a vita in response to item 10(b) of
this part. Each Form CSREES-2007 must list alphabetically, by last
names, the full names of the individuals in the following categories:
(a) All co-authors on publications within the past four years,
including pending publications and submissions; (b) all collaborators
on projects within the past four years, including current and planned
collaborations; (c) all thesis or postdoctoral advisees/advisors; and
(d) all persons in your field with whom you have had a consulting or
financial arrangement within the past four years, who stand to gain by
seeing the project funded. This form is necessary to assist program
staff in excluding from application review those individuals who have
conflicts of interest with the personnel in the grant application. The
program contact should be informed of any additional conflicts of
interest that arise after the application is submitted.
12. Budget
Prepare the budget, Form CSREES-2004, in accordance with
instructions provided with the application forms. Budgets should be
commensurate with activities proposed. A budget form is required for
each year of requested support. In addition, a cumulative budget is
required detailing the requested total support for the overall project
period. Applicants may include in their requested budgets reasonable
travel expenses for Geospatial Extension Specialists whose work is
supported through this solicitation to attend two meetings per year, at
locations to be determined. The budget form may be
[[Page 67140]]
reproduced as needed by applicants. Funds may be requested under any of
the categories listed on the form, provided that the item or service
for which support is requested is allowable under the authorizing
legislation, the applicable statutes, regulations, and Federal cost
principles, and these program guidelines, and can be justified as
necessary for the successful conduct of the proposed project.
Applicants must also include a Budget Narrative to justify their budget
requests (see 13., below).
13. Budget Narrative
A budget narrative should be included which discusses how the
budget specifically supports the proposed project activities. All
budget categories, with the exception of indirect costs, for which
support is requested must be individually listed (with costs) in the
same order as the budget and justified on a separate sheet of paper and
placed immediately behind the budget. The budget narrative should
explain how each budget item (such as salaries and wages for
professional and technical staff, student workers, travel, equipment,
etc.) is essential to achieving project objectives. Funds may be
requested under any of the categories listed on the budget form,
provided that the item or service for which support is sought is
allowable under the enabling legislation and the applicable Federal
cost principles.
14. Matching
If an applicant concludes that matching funds are not required (as
specified under Part I, E.), a justification should be included in the
Budget Narrative. CSREES will consider this justification when
ascertaining final matching requirements or determining if required
matching can be waived. CSREES retains the right to make final
determinations regarding matching requirements.
For those grants where matching funds are required, as specified
under Part I. E., applications should include written verification of
commitments of matching support (including both cash and in-kind
contributions) from third parties. Written verification means:
For any third party cash contributions, a separate pledge agreement
for each donation, signed by the authorized organizational
representative of the donor organization and the applicant
organization, which must include: (1) The name, address, and telephone
number of the donor; (2) the name of the applicant organization; (3)
the title of the project for which the donation is made; (4) the dollar
amount of the cash donation; and (5) a statement that the donor will
pay the cash contribution during the grant period.
For any third party in-kind contributions, a separate pledge
agreement for each contribution, signed by the authorized
organizational representatives of the donor organization and the
applicant organization, which must include: (1) The name, address, and
telephone number of the donor; (2) the name of the applicant
organization; (3) the title of the project for which the donation is
made; (4) a good faith estimate of the current fair market value of the
third party in-kind contribution; and (5) a statement that the donor
will make the contribution during the grant period.
The sources and the amount of all matching support from outside the
applicant organization should be summarized on a separate page and
placed in the application immediately following the Budget Narrative.
All pledge agreements must be placed in the application immediately
following the summary of matching support.
The value of applicant contributions to the project shall be
established in accordance with the applicable cost principles.
Applicants should refer to OMB Circulars A-21, Cost Principles for
Educational Institutions, A-87, Cost Principles for State, Local, and
Tribal Governments, A-122, Cost Principles for Non-Profit Organizations
and For-Profit Organizations, and the cost principles in the Federal
Acquisition Regulation at 48 CFR 31.2 (see 7 CFR 3015.194) for further
guidance and other requirements relating to matching and allowable
costs.
15. Assurance Statement(s), (Form CSREES-2008)
A number of situations encountered in the conduct of projects
require special assurances, supporting documentation, etc., before
funding can be approved for the project. In addition to any other
situation that may exist with regard to a particular project,
applications involving any of the following elements must comply with
the additional requirements, as applicable.
(a) Recombinant DNA or RNA Research. As stated in 7 CFR part
3015.205 (b)(3), all key personnel identified in the application and
all endorsing officials of the proposing organization are required to
comply with the guidelines established by the National Institutes of
Health entitled, ``Guidelines for Research Involving Recombinant DNA
Molecules,'' as revised. If your project proposes to use recombinant
DNA or RNA techniques, you must so indicate by checking the ``yes'' box
in Block 20 of Form CSREES-2002 (the Cover Page) and by completing
Section A of Form CSREES-2008. For applicable applications recommended
for funding, Institutional Biosafety Committee approval is required
before funds will be released. Please refer to the application forms
for further instructions.
(b) Animal Care. Responsibility for the humane care and treatment
of live vertebrate animals used in any grant project supported with
funds provided by CSREES rests with the performing organization. Where
a project involves the use of living vertebrate animals for
experimental purposes, all key project personnel identified in a
application and all endorsing officials of the proposing organization
are required to comply with the applicable provisions of the Animal
Welfare Act of 1966, as amended (7 U.S.C. 2131 et seq.) and the
regulations promulgated thereunder by the Secretary in 9 CFR parts 1,
2, 3, and 4 pertaining to the care, handling, and treatment of these
animals. If your project will involve these animals, you should check
``yes'' on Block 20 of CSREES-2002 and complete Section B of Form
CSREES-2008. In the event a project involving the use of live
vertebrate animals is recommended for a grant award, funds will be
released only after the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee has
approved the project. Please refer to the application forms for further
instructions.
(c) Protection of Human Subjects. Responsibility for safeguarding
the rights and welfare of human subjects used in any grant project
supported with funds provided by CSREES rests with the performing
organization. Guidance on this issue is contained in the National
Research Act, Public Law 93-348, as amended, and implementing
regulations promulgated by the Department under 7 CFR part 1c. If you
propose to use human subjects for experimental purposes in your
project, you should check the ``yes'' box in Block 20 of Form CSREES-
2002 and complete Section C of Form CSREES-2008. In the event a project
involving human subjects at risk is recommended for a grant award,
funds will be released only after the Institutional Review Board (IRB)
has approved the research plan and CSREES has accepted documentation of
the approval. Please refer to the application forms for further
instructions.
16. Certifications
Note that by signing Form CSREES-2002 the applicant is providing
certifications required by 7 CFR part
[[Page 67141]]
3017, regarding Debarment and Suspension and Drug Free Workplace, and 7
CFR part 3018, regarding Lobbying. The certification forms are included
in the application package for informational purposes only. These forms
should not be submitted with the application since by signing form
CSREES-2002 your organization is providing the required certifications.
If the project will involve a subcontractor or consultant, the
subcontractor/consultant should submit a form AD-1048, Certification
regarding Debarment, Suspension, Ineligibility and Voluntary
Exclusion--Lower Tier Covered Transactions, to the grantee organization
for retention in their records. This form should not be submitted to
USDA.
17. Compliance With the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) (Form
CSREES-2006)
As outlined in 7 CFR part 3407 (the CSREES regulations implementing
NEPA) and 14 CFR part 1216 (the NASA regulations regarding compliance
with NEPA), the environmental data for any proposed project is to be
provided to CSREES so that the Federal agency may determine whether any
further action is needed. In some cases, however, the preparation of
environmental data may not be required. Certain categories of actions
are excluded from the requirements of NEPA.
In order for CSREES to determine whether any further action is
needed with respect to NEPA, pertinent information regarding the
possible environmental impacts of a proposed project is necessary;
therefore, Form CSREES-2006, NEPA Exclusions Form, must be included in
the application indicating whether the applicant is of the opinion that
the project falls within a categorical exclusion and the reasons
therefore. If it is the applicant's opinion that the proposed project
falls within the categorical exclusions, the specific exclusion(s) must
be identified.
Even though a project may fall within the categorical exclusions,
CSREES may determine that an Environmental Assessment or Environmental
Impact Statement is necessary for an activity, if substantial
controversy on environmental grounds exists or if other extraordinary
conditions or circumstances are present which may cause such activity
to have a significant environmental effect.
C. Submission of Applications
1. When To Submit (Deadline Date)
Applications must be received by COB on April 1, 2004 (5 p.m.
eastern standard time). Applications received after this deadline will
not be considered for funding.
2. What To Submit
An original and fourteen (14) copies of the application must be
submitted. In addition, submit ten (10) copies of the application's
Project Summary, Form CSREES-2003. All copies of the application must
be submitted in one package.
3. Where To Submit
Applicants are strongly encouraged to submit completed applications
via overnight mail or delivery service to ensure timely receipt by
USDA. The address for hand-delivered applications or applications
submitted using an express mail or overnight courier service is:
Geospatial Extension Specialists Program, c/o Proposal Services Unit,
Cooperative State Research, Education, and Extension Service, U.S.
Department of Agriculture, Room 1420, Waterfront Centre, 800 9th
Street, SW., Washington, DC 20024, Telephone: (202) 401-5048.
Applications sent via the U.S. Postal Service must be sent to the
following address: Geospatial Extension Specialists Program, c/o
Proposal Services Unit, Cooperative State Research, Education, and
Extension Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, STOP 2245, 1400
Independence Avenue, SW., Washington, DC 20250-2245.
D. Acknowledgment of Applications
The receipt of all applications will be acknowledged by e-mail.
Therefore, applicants are strongly encouraged to provide accurate e-
mail addresses, where designated, on the Form CSREES-2002. If the
applicant's e-mail address is not indicated, CSREES will acknowledge
receipt of the application by letter.
Applicants who do not receive an acknowledgment within 60 days of
the submission deadline should contact the program contact. Once the
application has been assigned a proposal number, that number should be
cited on all future correspondence.
Part IV. Review Process
A. General
Each application will be evaluated in a two-part process. First,
each application will be screened to ensure that it meets the
administrative requirements as stated in the RFA. Applications that do
not fall within the guidelines as stated in the RFA will be eliminated
from program competition and returned to applicants. Second, a review
panel will technically evaluate applications that meet these
requirements. Written comments will be solicited from ad hoc reviewers
when required, and individual written comments and in-depth discussions
will be provided by a peer review panel prior to recommending
applications for funding.
Reviewers will be selected based upon their training and experience
in relevant scientific, extension, or education fields taking into
account the following factors: (a) The level of relevant formal
scientific, technical education, or extension experience of the
individual, as well as the extent to which an individual is engaged in
relevant research, education or extension activities; (b) the need to
include as reviewers experts from various areas of specialization
within relevant scientific, education, or extension fields; (c) the
need to include as reviewers other experts (e.g., producers, range or
resource managers/operators, and consumers) who can assess relevance of
the applications to targeted audiences and to program needs; (d) the
need to include as peer reviewers experts from a variety of
organizational types (e.g., colleges, universities, industry, state and
Federal agencies, private profit and non-profit organizations) and
geographic locations; (e) the need to maintain a balanced composition
of reviewers with regard to minority and female representation and an
equitable age distribution; and (f) the need to include reviewers who
can judge the effective usefulness to producers and the general public
of each application.
B. Evaluation Criteria
Priority will be given to projects with a documented commitment to
initiate or continue a Geospatial Extension Specialist position, that
take full advantage of Space Grant and Cooperative Extension activities
in the state, and that demonstrate links to the user communities within
the state.
The following numbered evaluation criteria will be weighted equally
and used to review all applications submitted in response to this RFA:
1. Technical Approach
(a) Suitability of the proposed project in terms of addressing
significant issues and the probability of meeting stated objectives;
(b) Feasibility, soundness, logic and practicality of the proposed
technical methods and concepts for achieving successful applications
research;
(c) Clear identification of user needs and user benefits from
proposed products or services; and
[[Page 67142]]
(d) Centrality of Earth science, remote sensing, and other
geospatial technologies to achieving program objectives.
2. Cost-Effectiveness
The demonstrated commitment of cooperative extension (or other
university-based extension effort) and/or the Space Grant Consortium to
long-term support of the Geospatial Extension Specialist position.
3. Management and Experience
(a) Demonstrated competence and relevant experience of project
personnel as an indication of their ability to carry the proposed
activity to a successful conclusion as a team;
(b) Feasibility of the management approach as it relates to the
methods and concepts demonstrated by the application;
(c) Feasibility of the outreach plan and the soundness of the
philosophy and methods by which it is effected;
(d) Degree to which all participants in the application and users
are integrated into the proposed activities with well-defined and
appropriate roles; and
(e) Adequacy of the facilities and equipment to support the
proposed activity.
4. Metrics
The adequacy of metrics and other statistics to be collected that
will measure the success of the activity.
C. Conflicts of Interest and Confidentiality
During the peer evaluation process, extreme care will be taken to
prevent any actual or perceived conflicts of interest that may impact
review or evaluation. For the purpose of determining conflicts of
interest, the academic and administrative autonomy of an academic
institution shall be determined by reference to the current version of
the Higher Education Directory, published by Higher Education
Publications, Inc., 6400 Arlington Boulevard, Suite 648, Falls Church,
VA 22042. Phone: (703) 532-2300. Web site: http://frwebgate.access.gpo.gov/cgi-bin/leaving.cgi?from=leavingFR.html&log=linklog&to=http://www.hepinc.com.
Names of submitting institutions and individuals, as well as
application content and peer evaluations, will be kept confidential,
except to those involved in the review process, to the extent permitted
by law. In addition, the identities of peer reviewers will remain
confidential throughout the entire review process. Therefore, the names
of the reviewers will not be released to applicants. At the end of the
fiscal year, names of reviewers will be made available in such a way
that the reviewers cannot be identified with the review of any
particular application.
Part V. Award Administration
A. General
The GES Program will be administered by CSREES but managed as an
interagency program involving participating agencies throughout the
entire process from the development of the program announcement, to the
review, recommendation and monitoring of awards. The interagency
program managers will coordinate program administration activities such
as review of periodic reporting of project evaluations and annual
investigator team meetings.
The amount of each award will be determined jointly by USDA and
NASA and their representatives after the panel review process has been
completed.
Within the limit of funds available for such purpose, CSREES shall
make awards to those responsible, eligible applicants whose
applications are judged most meritorious under the procedures set forth
in this RFA. It should be noted that the project need not be initiated
on the award effective date, but as soon thereafter as practicable so
that project goals may be attained within the funded project period.
All funds granted by CSREES under this RFA shall be expended solely for
the purpose for which the funds are granted in accordance with the
approved application and budget, the terms and conditions of the award,
the applicable Federal cost principles, and the applicable
participating agencies' assistance regulations.
B. Organizational Management Information
Specific management information relating to an applicant shall be
submitted on a one-time basis as part of the responsibility
determination prior to the award of a grant under this RFA if such
information has not been provided previously under this or another
program for which the sponsoring agency is responsible. CSREES will
provide copies of forms recommended for use in fulfilling these
requirements as part of the pre-award process. Although an applicant
may be eligible based on its status as one of these entities, there are
factors that may exclude an applicant from receiving Federal financial
and non-financial assistance and benefits under this program (e.g.,
debarment or suspension of an individual involved or a determination
that an applicant is not responsible based on submitted organizational
management information).
C. Award Document and Notice of Award
The award document will provide pertinent instructions and
information including, at a minimum, the following:
1. Legal name and address of performing organization or institution
to whom the CSREES Administrator has issued an award under the terms of
this request for applications;
2. Title of project;
3. Name(s) and institution(s) of PDs chosen to direct and control
approved activities;
4. Identifying award number assigned by CSREES;
5. Project period, specifying the amount of time CSREES intends to
support the project without requiring recompetition for funds;
6. Total amount of financial assistance approved by the CSREES
Administrator during the project period;
7. Appropriate Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA)
number;
8. Legal authority(ies) under which the grant is made;
9. Applicable award terms and conditions (see http://frwebgate.access.gpo.gov/cgi-bin/leaving.cgi?from=leavingFR.html&log=linklog&to=http://www.reeusda.gov/crgam/oep/awardterms.htm
to view CSREES award terms and
conditions);
10. Approved budget plan for categorizing allocable project funds
to accomplish the stated purpose of the award; and
11. Other information or provisions deemed necessary by CSREES to
carry out its respective awarding activities or to accomplish the
purpose of a particular award.
Part VI. Additional Information
A. Access To Review Information
Copies of reviews, not including the identity of reviewers, and a
summary of the panel comments will be sent to the applicant PD after
the review process has been completed.
B. Use of Funds; Changes
1. Delegation of Fiscal Responsibility
Unless the terms and conditions of the award state otherwise, the
awardee may not in whole or in part delegate or transfer to another
person, institution, or organization the responsibility for use or
expenditure of award funds.
2. Changes in Project Plans
(a) The permissible changes by the awardee, PD(s), or other key
project personnel in the approved project shall be limited to changes
in methodology, techniques, or other similar aspects of the project to
expedite achievement of
[[Page 67143]]
the project's approved goals. If the awardee or the PD(s) is uncertain
as to whether a change complies with this provision, the question must
be referred to the CSREES Authorized Departmental Officer (ADO) for a
final determination.
(b) Changes in approved goals or objectives shall be requested by
the awardee and approved in writing by the CSREES ADO prior to
effecting such changes. In no event shall requests for such changes be
approved which are outside the scope of the original approved project.
(c) Changes in approved project leadership or the replacement or
reassignment of other key project personnel shall be requested by the
awardee and approved in writing by the CSREES ADO prior to effecting
such changes.
(d) Transfers of actual performance of the substantive programmatic
work in whole or in part and provisions for payment of funds, whether
or not Federal funds are involved, shall be requested by the awardee
and approved in writing by the CSREES ADO prior to effecting such
transfers, unless prescribed otherwise in the terms and conditions of
the award.
(e) Changes in Project Period: The project period may be extended
by the awarding agency without additional financial support, for such
additional period(s) as the CSREES ADO determines to be necessary to
complete or fulfill the purposes of an approved project, but in no case
shall the total project period exceed five years. Any extension of time
shall be conditioned upon prior request by the awardee and approval in
writing by the CSREES ADO, unless prescribed otherwise in the terms and
conditions of award.
(f) Changes in Approved Budget: Changes in an approved budget must
be requested by the awardee and approved in writing by the CSREES ADO
prior to instituting such changes if the revision will involve
transfers or expenditures of amounts requiring prior approval as set
forth in the applicable Federal cost principles, Departmental
regulations, or award.
C. Expected Program Outputs and Reporting Requirements
The ultimate success of projects funded under this solicitation is
the continuation of Geospatial Extension Specialist positions beyond
the project period and the positive demonstrable impact these projects
have on the user community. Toward that end, grantees are expected to
provide semi-annual and annual progress reports describing the
activities of the Geospatial Extension Specialist. Geospatial Extension
Specialists whose work is supported through this solicitation should
plan to attend two meetings per year, at locations to be determined, of
all Geospatial Extension Specialists and appropriate CSREES, NASA and
NOAA staff. Applicants may include reasonable travel expenses related
to this requirement in their requested project budgets (see Part III,
B., 12.).
D. Applicable Federal Statutes and Regulations
The following Federal statutes and regulations apply to grant
applications considered for review and to project grants awarded by
USDA under this program:
7 CFR Part 1, Subpart A--USDA implementation of the Freedom of
Information Act.
7 CFR Part 3--USDA implementation of OMB Circular No. A-129
regarding debt collection.
7 CFR Part 15, Subpart A--USDA implementation of Title VI of the
Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended.
7 CFR Part 331 and 9 CFR Part 121--USDA implementation of the
Agricultural Bioterrorism Protection Act of 2002.
7 CFR Part 3015--USDA Uniform Federal Assistance Regulations,
implementing OMB directives (i.e., OMB Circular Nos. A-21 and A-122)
and incorporating provisions of 31 U.S.C. 6301-6308 (formerly the
Federal Grant and Cooperative Agreement Act of 1977, Pub. L. 95-224),
as well as general policy requirements applicable to recipients of
Departmental financial assistance.
7 CFR Part 3017--USDA implementation of Governmentwide Debarment
and Suspension (Nonprocurement) and Governmentwide Requirements for
Drug-Free Workplace (Grants).
7 CFR Part 3018--USDA implementation of Restrictions on Lobbying.
Imposes prohibitions and requirements for disclosure and certification
related to lobbying on recipients of Federal contracts, grants,
cooperative agreements, and loans.
7 CFR Part 3019--USDA implementation of OMB Circular A-110, Uniform
Administrative Requirements for Grants and Other Agreements With
Institutions of Higher Education, Hospitals, and Other Nonprofit
Organizations.
7 CFR Part 3052--USDA implementation of OMB Circular No. A-133,
Audits of States, Local Governments, and Non-profit Organizations.
7 CFR Part 3407--CSREES procedures to implement the National
Environmental Policy Act of 1969, as amended.
29 U.S.C. 794 (sec. 504, Rehabilitation Act of 1973) and 7 CFR Part
15b (USDA implementation of statute)--prohibiting discrimination based
upon physical or mental handicap in Federally assisted programs.
35 U.S.C. 200 et seq.--Bayh-Dole Act, controlling allocation of
rights to inventions made by employees of small business firms and
domestic nonprofit organizations, including universities, in Federally
assisted programs (implementing regulations are contained in 37 CFR
part 401).
E. Safety
Safety is the freedom from those conditions that can cause death,
injury, occupational illness, damage to or loss of equipment or
property, or damage to the environment. NASA's safety priority is to
protect: (1) The public, (2) astronauts and pilots, (3) the NASA
workforce (including employees working under NASA award instruments),
and (4) high-value equipment and property.
F. Confidential Aspects of Applications and Awards
When an application results in an award, it becomes a part of the
record of CSREES transactions, available to the public upon specific
request. Information that the CSREES Administrator determines to be of
a confidential, privileged, or proprietary nature will be held in
confidence to the extent permitted by law. Therefore, any information
that the applicant wishes to have considered as confidential,
privileged, or proprietary should be clearly marked within the
application. The original copy of an application that does not result
in an award (including those that are withdrawn) will be retained by
CSREES for a period of one year. Other copies will be destroyed. Such
an application will be released only with the consent of the applicant
or to the extent required by law. An application may be withdrawn at
any time prior to the final action thereon; however withdrawn
applications normally will not be returned.
G. Regulatory Information
For the reasons set forth in the final Rule-related Notice to 7 CFR
part 3015, subpart V (48 FR 29114, June 24, 1983), this program is
excluded from the scope of the Executive Order 12372 which requires
intergovernmental consultation with State and local officials. Under
the provisions of the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U.S.C.
chapter 35), the collection of information requirements
[[Page 67144]]
contained in this notice have been approved under OMB Document No.
0524-0039.
H. Grants.gov Implementation Plans
Grants.gov is an Internet Web site for grant and other financial
assistance information (e.g., allows grant seekers to find funding
opportunities). It also will serve to facilitate electronic
transmission of information pertaining to grants and other financial
assistance information (e.g., electronic application submission).
Beginning in February 2004, CSREES plans to initiate, on a limited
basis, the receipt of applications electronically through the
Grants.gov (http://frwebgate.access.gpo.gov/cgi-bin/leaving.cgi?from=leavingFR.html&log=linklog&to=http://www.grants.gov) storefront. The ability to expand
the plan for electronically submitting applications is contingent on
the success of the initial electronic application submissions. Detailed
information about CSREES' Grants.gov plans, including important
announcements, program implementation, and detailed requirements, is
posted on the CSREES' Web site, http://frwebgate.access.gpo.gov/cgi-bin/leaving.cgi?from=leavingFR.html&log=linklog&to=http://www.reeusda.gov/egov/csrees/implementation.htm
, which will be updated as appropriate. It is
suggested that this site be visited periodically for important updates.
I. 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. A Federal Register notice of final policy
issuance (68 FR 38402) requires a DUNS number in every application
(i.e., hard copy and electronic) for a grant or cooperative agreement
(except applications from individuals) submitted on or after October 1,
2003. Therefore, potential applicants should verify that they have a
DUNS number or take the steps needed to obtain one. For information
about how to obtain a DUNS number go to http://frwebgate.access.gpo.gov/cgi-bin/leaving.cgi?from=leavingFR.html&log=linklog&to=http://www.grants.gov. Please
note that the registration may take up to 14 business days to complete.
J. Required Registration for Grants.gov
The Central Contract Registry (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 will
also be used as a central location for maintaining organizational
information for organizations seeking and receiving grants from the
Government. Such organizations must register in the CCR prior to the
submission of applications via Grants.gov (a DUNS number is needed for
CCR registration). For information about how to register in the CCR
visit http://frwebgate.access.gpo.gov/cgi-bin/leaving.cgi?from=leavingFR.html&log=linklog&to=http://www.grants.gov. Allow a minimum of 5 days to complete the
CCR registration.
Done at Washington, DC, this 21st day of November, 2003.
Colien Hefferan,
Administrator, Cooperative State Research, Education, and Extension
Service.
[FR Doc. 03-29761 Filed 11-28-03; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 3410-22-P