Kentucky NRCS Agricultural Conservation Easement Program – Reserve Easement (ACEP WRE) Acquisition Services Agreement
ID: 354474Type: Posted
Overview

Buyer

Natural Resources Conservation Service (USDA-NRCS)

Award Range

$100K - $5M

Eligible Applicants

Small Businesses

Funding Category

Natural Resources

Funding Instrument

Cooperative Agreement

Opportunity Category

Discretionary

Cost Sharing or Matching Requirement

Yes
Timeline
    Description

    The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) of the U.S. Department of Agriculture is seeking proposals for the Kentucky NRCS Agricultural Conservation Easement Program – Wetland Reserve Easement (ACEP WRE) Acquisition Services Agreement. The objective of this opportunity is to assist with due diligence in acquiring conservation easements, which includes services such as title exams, boundary surveys, appraisals, and cultural resource investigations to restore and protect wetlands on eligible lands. This program is crucial for enhancing natural resources and promoting sustainable agricultural practices. Interested small businesses can apply for funding ranging from $100,000 to $5 million, with a total estimated program funding of $5 million available for up to five awards. Applications must be submitted via Grants.gov by 11:59 PM Eastern Time on June 28, 2024, and inquiries can be directed to Terrina M. Hairston at terrina.m.hairston@usda.gov.

    Point(s) of Contact
    Files
    Title
    Posted
    This document provides detailed guidance for completing the SF-424 and SF-424A forms, essential for federal grant applications under the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Production and Conservation Business Center. It emphasizes the importance of accurate form submission to avoid delays in agreement execution. Key sections include applicant identification, project descriptions, budget details, and compliance with federal regulations. The document breaks down each field in the SF-424 form, providing specific instructions and clarifications on applicant type, agency identifiers, funding opportunities, project timelines, and budget categories. It also outlines budget preparation with categories like personnel, supplies, and contractual costs. Guidance is given on ensuring costs are reasonable, allowable, and allocable in compliance with federal standards (2 CFR 200). Moreover, the forms's structure highlights the necessity of both federal and non-federal funding estimates, along with detailing program income and forecasted cash needs for the project duration. This comprehensive instruction set aims to assist applicants in effectively navigating the grant application process, thus promoting transparency, precision, and adherence to federal funding guidelines.
    The document serves as a worksheet for the Farm Production and Conservation (FPAC) agencies and federal financial assistance applicants, aimed at documenting the allocation of key personnel's time across various awards and contracts, in accordance with 2 CFR 200.430. Key personnel are defined as individuals essential to project leadership, development, delivery, and management, including program contacts and directors. The worksheet requires detailed entries for each key personnel member, such as their names, funding agency, agreement or application numbers, total financial obligations, performance periods, and percentage of time committed to the project. This structure helps ensure transparency and proper accountability in the management of federal grants and agreements, crucial for compliance with federal regulations concerning the allocation of resources. The overall purpose is to facilitate clear reporting and oversight of federally funded projects within the agricultural sector.
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