Species Distribution Modeling Project At Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, California

The Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command Southwest (NAVFAC SW) has issued a cooperative agreement funding opportunity titled N62473-25-2-0005, focused on sustaining and enhancing the natural resource resilience of the Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center (MCAGCC). This effort is critical for supporting the training readiness of the United States Marine Corps (USMC), particularly given the sensitivity and complexity of the desert ecosystems that underpin MCAGCC’s operational environment. The grant is authorized under the Sikes Act (16 U.S.C. 670c-1) and is issued in alignment with the MCAGCC’s Integrated Natural Resources Management Plan (INRMP). The primary goal of the funding opportunity is to integrate advanced modeling techniques, including LiDAR and orthophotography, with existing and new biological data to better understand, monitor, and manage the distribution, density, and health of keystone species and ecological communities. These activities aim to improve habitat suitability models, assess ecosystem resilience, and support conservation practices that are compatible with military training needs. Specific tasks include geomorphological analysis, protocol development and testing for environmental monitoring, and digital cartography for ecological mapping. The total estimated funding for FY25 is $292,628, with an expected single award covering a 36-month performance period. Awarded funds are to be used for modeling sensitive species niches, evaluating habitat connectivity, cataloging ecological priorities, and developing tools for adaptive ecosystem management. All deliverables, including a detailed work plan, semi-annual reports, baseline data, and a final report, must follow rigorous submission timelines and content standards. For example, the draft final report is due within 60 days of project completion, followed by a final version due 30 days after receiving government feedback. Eligibility for this opportunity is strictly limited to Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Unit (CESU) Californian cooperative partners who meet the criteria set forth in DoDGARS Part 34 or 2 CFR 200. No cost-sharing or matching is required. Applicants are expected to demonstrate significant subject matter expertise and experience. For example, the Principal Investigator must have at least five years of professional research experience in related work and proven leadership in similar roles. Additional key personnel, such as GIS Analysts and Lab Managers, must also meet specific qualifications, including educational backgrounds in ecology, geography, or related disciplines and professional experience thresholds. The submission deadline is August 4, 2025, by 2:00 PM Pacific Time. Applications can be submitted via Grants.gov or emailed directly to the Grants Officer, Christen Gonzales, at christen.m.gonzales.civ@us.navy.mil. Applicants must ensure registration with Grants.gov and the System for Award Management (SAM) prior to submission. Late submissions may be accepted but are not guaranteed consideration. Notification of award is expected on or around August 25, 2025, with an anticipated project start date of August 31, 2025. Questions related to the opportunity must be submitted no later than July 25, 2025, at 2:00 PM PDT. Evaluation of proposals will be based on the credentials of key personnel, the scientific approach, and cost reasonableness. All factors are equally weighted. Detailed cost breakdowns aligned with project tasks must be submitted using the “Research and Related Budget” form. Optional years, if applicable, must be separately priced and justified. This cooperative agreement represents a strategic investment in the sustainability of a high-value military training site and its associated ecosystems.

Ensure resumes clearly identify required qualifications and adhere strictly to all formatting instructions.