PC-25-02, Probability Analysis of Derelict Fishing Gear Interactions with Floating Offshore Wind Mooring Systems Offshore California

The Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM), operating under the U.S. Department of the Interior, has announced a discretionary funding opportunity through a cooperative agreement aimed at advancing environmental research related to offshore energy infrastructure. This specific funding opportunity, identified by the number M25AS00319 and titled “PC-25-02, Probability Analysis of Derelict Fishing Gear Interactions with Floating Offshore Wind Mooring Systems Offshore California,” is a targeted, non-competitive award. It represents BOEM’s continued investment in environmental studies to support science-based policy and management of offshore resources. The funding opportunity is aligned with BOEM’s broader mission to manage the responsible development of offshore energy and mineral resources on the Outer Continental Shelf in an environmentally and economically sound manner. The objective of the study is to assess the probability and potential impact of derelict fishing gear interactions with floating offshore wind mooring systems, specifically off the coast of California. This research is intended to inform mitigation strategies, identify high-risk regions, and contribute to future predictive modeling efforts. Additionally, the study seeks to provide integrated data products that can be utilized by scientific communities and stakeholders. The outputs will directly support BOEM’s environmental assessments and decision-making processes, enhancing the agency’s ability to manage offshore wind development with reduced ecological risk. This funding opportunity is intended for a single source recipient: the University of California, Santa Cruz. The award leverages the university's ongoing partnership with NOAA Fisheries and their combined expertise in marine ecosystems, modeling, and environmental impact assessment. This partnership has been deemed uniquely qualified to achieve the technical and scientific objectives of the project. Consequently, this is not an open solicitation for proposals, but rather an announcement of BOEM’s intent to enter into a cooperative agreement with a preselected institution. The total estimated funding for the program is $410,168, with a minimum award of $400,000. This range establishes the funding ceiling and floor for the award, suggesting the possibility of budget adjustment within a limited range depending on final scope and project design. BOEM does not require cost-sharing or matching contributions for this opportunity. No information is provided regarding the expected number of awards, but as a single-source award, it is understood there will be only one recipient. Applications for this opportunity must be submitted electronically by August 22, 2025, no later than 11:59 PM Eastern Time. The opportunity was first posted on July 22, 2025, and the same date marks the most recent update. There is no indication that this opportunity will recur in future cycles, nor is it offered on a rolling basis. Applicants or interested parties with questions or technical difficulties can contact Najma Shaikh at najma.shaikh@bsee.gov. The announcement does not include a detailed application question list or time estimate for completion, nor does it mention prior recipients or provide examples of successful proposals. However, as this is a single-source cooperative agreement, such competitive evaluation criteria are not applicable. The unique nature of the partnership and specificity of the intended recipient highlight BOEM's strategy of engaging directly with institutions that hold domain expertise in relevant environmental and marine studies.