Cooperative Agreement for affiliated Partner with the Desert Southwest Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Unit (CESU)

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) is funding research through a Cooperative Agreement to study the impact of aridification on the saguaro cactus in Saguaro National Park. This project, titled "Aridification and the long-term management of Saguaro Cactus," aims to assess the species' vulnerability to long-term drought conditions exacerbated by rising temperatures. With significant declines in saguaro seedling survival noted since the mid-1990s, the project seeks to identify ecological niches and areas within the park that are more resilient or vulnerable to these changing conditions. Researchers will develop predictive models to project future saguaro habitat under various climate scenarios and create maps to guide management efforts. The total funding for the two-year project is estimated at $150,000, with the application process requiring submission through Grants.gov. Eligible participants must be members of the Desert Southwest Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Unit. The emphasis on collaboration highlights the potential for knowledge gained to be relevant for other arid public lands at risk from climate change, supporting broader conservation efforts.

The Current and Pending (Other) Support Common Form outlines the requirements for individuals designated as senior/key personnel on federally funded research projects. It mandates the disclosure of current and pending support to assess potential conflicts of commitment and overlap with proposed projects. This information must be updated at the request of the funding agency and submitted separately for each proposal and active project. Key aspects include the disclosure of consulting activities that may impact research integrity and the requirement to report involvement in foreign government-sponsored programs, as stipulated by NSPM-33. Specific formats and fields are provided for detailing proposals, active projects, and in-kind contributions valued over $5,000. Required information includes titles, funding sources, performance locations, award amounts, and described overlaps with other projects. Individuals must certify the accuracy of the information submitted, ensuring compliance with legal requirements. Personal information is prohibited from being reported. The form serves as a critical tool in maintaining transparency and integrity within federally funded research, facilitating fair proposal review processes and regulatory adherence.

The Current and Pending (Other) Support Common Form outlines the requirements for individuals designated as senior/key personnel on federally funded research projects. It mandates the disclosure of current and pending support to assess potential conflicts of commitment and overlap with proposed projects. This information must be updated at the request of the funding agency and submitted separately for each proposal and active project. Key aspects include the disclosure of consulting activities that may impact research integrity and the requirement to report involvement in foreign government-sponsored programs, as stipulated by NSPM-33. Specific formats and fields are provided for detailing proposals, active projects, and in-kind contributions valued over $5,000. Required information includes titles, funding sources, performance locations, award amounts, and described overlaps with other projects. Individuals must certify the accuracy of the information submitted, ensuring compliance with legal requirements. Personal information is prohibited from being reported. The form serves as a critical tool in maintaining transparency and integrity within federally funded research, facilitating fair proposal review processes and regulatory adherence.