Local Information and Statistics Grants

The proposed agreement outlines a strategic plan to support the timely implementation of the Willamette Valley System Environmental Impact Statement (WS EIS) and Adaptive Management (AM) Plan. This work is fundamentally aligned with the mission of improving environmental management and decision-making, particularly concerning the preservation and recovery of protected fish species. The core of the program involves developing and applying advanced simulation and modeling tools, which will then be transferred to managing agencies for sustained, informed implementation. This approach supports a theory of change rooted in enhancing technical capacity and leveraging scientific modeling to inform real-time management direction, thereby reducing uncertainty and improving ecological outcomes. The primary target beneficiaries and impact goals center on Upper Willamette River Spring Chinook and winter steelhead. The proposed work explicitly includes completing the analysis of effects of the preferred alternative on these species, supporting the completion of the final EIS. The ultimate impact goal is to facilitate a more informed management decision leading to the conservation and recovery of these fish populations. This is achieved by ensuring that management strategies are continually updated with the best available data and refined through robust analytical tools, maximizing the positive environmental return on investment. The priorities and focuses of this proposed work are three-fold: 1) the development and transfer of simulation tools (like lifecycle modeling and refined downstream passage modeling using the Corps Fish Benefit Workbook) to managing agencies; 2) the demonstrated application of these simulations to guide management under conditions of uncertainty; and 3) the continuous incorporation of new, best-available data to update and refine the simulation models. A major focus is the refinement of the Corps Fish Benefit Workbook (FBW), recently converted to R, to address previous structural limitations, and the development and delivery of lifecycle models for future use by the USACE and other parties. The expected outcomes include the successful completion of analysis to support the final EIS and the establishment of a rigorous adaptive management framework. Measurable results include the explicit quantification of objectives, performance, uncertainty, risk, and value of information within this framework. This structured approach is expected to lead to resource managers being able to efficiently update testable hypotheses, effectively use limited or disparate data, reduce analytical timelines, and efficiently prioritize monitoring data collection when faced with logistical or funding obstacles, ultimately ensuring efficient use of taxpayer dollars. Implementation and adaptive management are slated to begin during the remainder of 2025 and continue in future years, following the signing of a record of decision.

The Town of Flower Mound's Community Support program offers annual funding to non-profit organizations. This program aims to support activities, programs, and services that directly benefit Flower Mound residents. The Town's mission, though not explicitly detailed as a "foundation mission," aligns with fostering community well-being by empowering local organizations to address social services and cultural arts needs within its jurisdiction. This grant mechanism serves as a strategic priority to leverage community partnerships for local development and resident support, embodying a theory of change that by funding local initiatives, the overall quality of life for its citizens will improve. Target beneficiaries of this grant are the residents of Flower Mound, who will receive direct services through the funded organizations. The impact goals include enhancing social services and cultural arts offerings within the community. The program prioritizes organizations that can demonstrate a clear benefit to the Town, aiming to improve various aspects of community life. For example, social service programs could lead to improved access to essential resources, while cultural arts initiatives could enrich community engagement and appreciation for the arts. The program focuses on organizations that are 501(c)(3) tax-exempt entities, have been in operation for at least three years, and meet specific financial criteria, including not relying on the Town's funding for more than 25% of their operating budget and generally having no more than six months of operating expenses in reserve. These requirements ensure that funding goes to stable and well-managed organizations capable of delivering sustained impact. Exceptions for reserve requirements are considered with a clear explanation, demonstrating the Town's flexibility while maintaining fiscal responsibility. Expected outcomes and measurable results are tied to the information required in the application. Applicants must specify the funding amount requested, anticipated benefits to the Town, and statistics on service levels (both actual and as a percentage of total services). They also need to describe the intended use of funds, provide an organizational overview, detail goals from the most recent fiscal year, set goals and objectives for the proposed year, and explain any funding request increases. These requirements ensure accountability and allow the Town to assess the tangible benefits and reach of the funded programs, demonstrating a commitment to data-driven decision-making and measurable impact.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to community organizations in Worcester County, Maryland, for initiatives designed to prevent youth from starting to use cannabis products.