Archeological Inventory Survey of Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument (FLFO), Phase 2

The National Park Service (NPS), through its Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument (FLFO) unit, is offering a cooperative agreement opportunity for the second phase of an archeological inventory survey. This project, announced under funding opportunity number P26AS00028, is focused on the comprehensive documentation of cultural resources across 1,500 acres of the FLFO in Colorado. This effort is intended to meet both National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA) Section 110 and Section 106 compliance needs and to address the lack of updated, accurate archeological information within the monument boundaries. The project is not only a vital resource management initiative but also provides hands-on opportunities for educational and professional development in cultural resource management. The survey will update and expand upon outdated inventories, including a 1974 survey that is no longer adequate. The current initiative will contribute to a more robust understanding of the site's archeological significance by recording accurate site locations, boundaries, features, and artifacts using submeter-accurate GPS/GNSS equipment. All fieldwork will adhere to the standards and definitions of the Colorado State Historic Preservation Office and align with the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards and Guidelines. It will also populate the Cultural Resource Information System (CRIS) and improve GIS data layers used by the park and regional offices. Key deliverables include a comprehensive research report detailing the survey findings, including National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) eligibility determinations for sites. Documentation such as field notes, photos, GIS data, and any generated artifacts—although this is a generally no-collection project—must be submitted to FLFO. The award recipient will also provide preliminary, draft, and final reports, with the final version reflecting FLFO feedback. All data and materials will be catalogued into the Museum Collection Management System within a year of project completion, ensuring lasting access for staff, researchers, and culturally affiliated tribes. Eligible applicants include federally recognized tribal governments, public and state-controlled institutions of higher education, private higher education institutions, and county governments. Foreign entities and projects conducted outside the United States are not eligible. The program does not require cost sharing or matching, although voluntary cost contributions may be included in the budget. Submissions are due by January 20, 2026, at 5 PM Mountain Time. The anticipated award date is approximately 90 days following the deadline, with a project period expected to run from May 2026 through May 2027. Applicants must apply via Grants.gov and complete necessary registrations in both SAM.gov and Grants.gov. Required documents include the SF-424 series, a detailed budget, a project abstract, and a narrative that addresses personnel, past performance, and cost effectiveness. Proposals will be reviewed based on these merit criteria, as well as program policy and risk assessment. Substantial NPS involvement is expected, with federal staff providing technical assistance, orientation, and oversight during the course of the agreement. The cooperative agreement will be executed under statutory authority provided in 54 U.S.C. §§ 101702 and 100703. Questions regarding the opportunity should be directed to Katie Gaertner at [email protected]. Although currently a one-time award, the NOFO notes the possibility of future recurring opportunities of a similar nature, making this an important foundation for long-term cultural resource stewardship at the Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument.

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