WATER RESOURCES RESEARCH ACT PROGRAM ANNUAL BASE GRANTS FISCAL YEAR 2025

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) has issued a Notice of Funding Opportunity for the Water Resources Research Act Program for Fiscal Year 2025, identified as G25AS00486. The program aims to allocate approximately $8.3 million for research projects related to water resources across the U.S. and its territories, with a closing date for applications set for September 16, 2025. Eligible applicants include Institutes or Centers established per the Water Resources Research Act, with funding ceilings ranging from $146,052 to $438,156 per institute. The program emphasizes improving water supply reliability and fostering research on water challenges. Proposals must include cost-sharing, where applicants need to match federal funds, especially for states not exempt (e.g., Guam and American Samoa). Critical submission requirements involve registrations with SAM.gov and Grants.gov, the completion of standard forms, a detailed project narrative, budget plans, and a data management plan. Applications will undergo eligibility and merit reviews, with selected projects aligned with USGS goals receiving funding. Notification of awards will be issued electronically, detailing terms and reporting obligations, including financial accountability and data sharing as required by federal regulations. The program reflects USGS's commitment to advancing water resource management and addressing regional and state-specific water issues.

The document outlines the special terms and conditions pertaining to the U.S. Geological Survey's (USGS) Water Resources Research Act Program, particularly for grant and cooperative agreement recipients. Key points include payment processing through the Department of the Treasury’s Automated Standard Application for Payments (ASAP), which requires recipients to set up an account for fund disbursement. Recipients are allowed to carry over unobligated funds to subsequent budget periods with prior approval. Reporting obligations include an Annual Program Report, summarizing research activities, publications, outreach efforts, student support, and collaboration with USGS, all submitted within specified timeframes. Financial reporting is mandated through the SF 425 form. Significantly, the document stipulates adherence to educational and ethical standards, including the obligation to acknowledge USGS support in publications and ensure scientific integrity. Requirements for data availability and conflict of interest management are emphasized, alongside conditions for inventorship rights and patent submissions. Recipients are also guided on geospatial data management under the Geospatial Data Act of 2018, ensuring efficient use and accessibility of government-funded research. Overall, the document delineates essential procedural guidelines facilitating transparency, accountability, and compliance for recipients involved in federally-funded water resources research projects.