ESA CANDIDATE SPECIES SURVEYS AT MARINE CORPS MOUNTAIN WARFARE TRAINING CENTER BRIDGEPORT, CALIFORNIA

The Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command Southwest (NAVFAC SW) announces a funding opportunity via a cooperative agreement (N62473-25-2-0003) to support the US Marine Corps Mountain Warfare Training Center (MWTC) in Bridgeport, CA. The project focuses on ensuring compliance with land-use agreements with the US Forest Service and monitoring specific threatened wildlife species, including Northern Goshawks, Great Gray Owls, and various bat species impacted by white-nose syndrome. The estimated funding is $155,167.33 for a 12-month base period, with four optional years totaling up to $809,113.28. Eligible applicants must belong to the Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Unit. Application packages are available via Grants.gov and must be submitted by August 4, 2025. The review will assess the credentials of key personnel, the scientific approach to the project, and the reasonableness of cost proposals. The announcement stresses the need for detailed monitoring and management recommendations to conserve affected species and emphasizes adherence to environmental statutes and regulations. All application details, requirements, and contact information are provided for potential applicants.

The document outlines a Statement of Objectives for candidate species surveys at the Marine Corps Mountain Warfare Training Center (MWTC) in Bridgeport, California, slated for fiscal year 2025. The project's primary aim is to document populations of specific federal candidate and state-tracked species to ensure compliance with various environmental regulations and agreements, primarily affecting military training operations on federal lands. Key tasks include documenting nesting locations for migratory raptors, assessing occurrences of endangered species, and monitoring bat populations for health concerns. The location spans 61,938 acres encompassing diverse ecosystems, requiring careful coordination with various governmental and environmental agencies. The Recipient will develop and implement research methodologies, ensuring adherence to necessary permits and safety protocols. Deliverables include periodic reports, data analyses, and compliance with safety regulations during studies. The document emphasizes the importance of rigorous scientific methodologies and collaboration between marine corps representatives and the selected contractor, ensuring a balance between military training needs and conservation efforts in natural habitats. This initiative underscores the government's commitment to preserving biodiversity while conducting military readiness operations.