F24AS00367 FWS - White-nose Syndrome Research for Conservation Grants - 2024

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) is accepting applications for the White-nose Syndrome (WNS) Research for Conservation Grants under the authority of the Endangered Species Act and other conservation laws. This initiative focuses on research and conservation actions to mitigate the impact of WNS, a fungal disease devastating hibernating bat populations in North America. The disease, caused by *Pseudogymnoascus destructans* (Pd), has spread across 40 U.S. states and eight Canadian provinces as of April 2024. Projects funded under this opportunity aim to address critical knowledge gaps, develop management strategies, and promote bat conservation. Proposed projects should yield significant, actionable results within a two-year timeframe, emphasizing collaboration with management authorities. The funding supports three priorities: understanding the invasion and impact of Pd and WNS in various North American regions; characterizing habitats critical to the survival of bat populations affected by WNS; and developing innovative biotechnological tools to mitigate or neutralize the pathogen's impact. Examples include Pd-specific mycovirus applications and tools targeting gene expression to reduce Pd’s pathogenicity. Applicants are expected to align with established methodologies and comply with applicable conservation regulations, including the Endangered Species Act. The total funding available for the program is $1.2 million, with awards ranging from $20,000 to $250,000. The anticipated average award is approximately $150,000, with five awards expected. Applicants must demonstrate that their project directly addresses one or more of the outlined priorities, is cost-effective, and is likely to provide robust and transferable outcomes. Matching funds equal to 30% of the requested federal amount are required. Eligible applicants include state and local governments, Native American tribal organizations, higher education institutions, nonprofits, and private entities. Individuals may also apply under specific conditions. Applications are due electronically by December 15, 2024, with an initial review deadline of July 31, 2024. Proposals will be assessed for their relevance, scientific rigor, feasibility, and budget justification. Projects will also be reviewed for their contribution to national WNS response goals and compliance with required environmental and ethical standards. Notifications for proposals received by the initial deadline are expected by September 16, 2024. Applicants must include detailed narratives describing project objectives, methods, expected outcomes, and alignment with WNS response goals. Letters of support from collaborating organizations and permits for any wildlife work must be submitted with the application. Financial documentation, such as the SF-424A form, and a comprehensive budget narrative are required. All submissions must comply with federal grant standards, including those related to lobbying and conflicts of interest. For assistance, applicants may contact program technical or administrative officers or access technical support through GrantSolutions. Successful projects will be monitored via regular performance and financial reporting. For further information, applicants are encouraged to review USFWS guidance on the WNS Research for Conservation Grants program.