Cooperative Agreement for affiliated Partner with the Piedmont South Atlantic Coast Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Unit

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), operating through its Wetland and Aquatic Research Center in Davie, Florida, has announced a cooperative agreement opportunity for a qualified partner affiliated with the Piedmont South Atlantic Coast Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Unit (CESU). This funding opportunity is aimed at supporting genetic research involving threatened and endangered sea turtles captured during relocation trawling projects. These projects were conducted over a span of more than 30 years in the Gulf and Atlantic regions, under the authority of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The research will leverage a rich bank of biological samples, including skin and blood, collected during these efforts. The primary objective of this initiative is to assess the genetic composition and origins of these turtle populations across multiple foraging sites and over an extended historical timeframe. The funded research will utilize mitochondrial DNA analyses to determine the genetic origin of each sample, analyze genetic variability across sites and time, and evaluate the relatedness and regional connectivity of sampled individuals. These findings will be critical in informing conservation and management strategies for sea turtle populations, thereby contributing to the broader mission of protecting biodiversity and ecosystem health. This opportunity is being offered as a cooperative agreement with one expected award. The agreement will span five years, structured as two base years followed by three additional budget years. A total of $49,999 is estimated for the full project, with $25,000 allocated for the initial two-year budget period. Continued funding for subsequent years is contingent upon the grantee's satisfactory progress and the availability of funds. Importantly, no cost sharing or matching funds are required for eligibility. Eligible applicants must be existing members of the Piedmont South Atlantic Coast CESU. The application process is managed via Grants.gov under funding opportunity number G26AS00031. Applicants must complete standard federal forms and submit a proposal that includes a detailed technical narrative, budget narrative, and several supplementary documents, such as a Data Management Plan, Biographical Sketch, and Current and Pending Support. The technical narrative must outline objectives, methods, timelines, deliverables, and qualifications of the project team. Proposals will be evaluated based on four weighted criteria: alignment with the research objectives (25 points), the robustness of the technical approach (25 points), clarity and appropriateness of the budget (25 points), and qualifications and past performance of the applicant (25 points). Award notifications will be determined by the Contracting Officer based on the review panel’s evaluations and recommendations. The deadline for submission is January 6, 2026, by 11:59 PM Eastern Time. All inquiries regarding submission should be directed to Rachel Miller at rachelmiller@usgs.gov. Technical questions may be addressed to Dr. Kristen M. Hart at kristen_hart@usgs.gov. The selected recipient will be expected to comply with federal reporting and publication standards and may use USGS branding on outputs produced through the award.

Follow format instructions for Biographical Sketch and PAS; adhere to budget narrative object classes; ensure DMP includes metadata and preservation plans