The Southern Region and International Institute of Tropical Forestry has established a Landscape Scale Restoration Program Grant for Fiscal Year 2025, focusing on collaborative, science-based restoration efforts. All project proposals must meet specific screening criteria, including exclusion of research and development, meeting a 1:1 non-federal match, and not incorporating capital improvements or small business developments. Projects are prioritized based on criteria such as multistate involvement and alignment with state Forest Action Plans.
Evaluation criteria assess the project’s overview, context, objectives, proposed activities, deliverables, collaboration, integration with the Forest Action Plan, innovation, sustainability, cost-effectiveness, and equity impacts. Successful projects must show clear linkages to landscape objectives such as wildfire risk reduction and improved habitats, provide specific and realistic outcomes, and include strong collaboration among partners. Additionally, projects that engage disadvantaged communities and demonstrate cost-effective, replicable results may receive bonus points. This structured approach ensures a rigorous evaluation of proposals aimed at enhancing forest ecosystem health and resilience across various landscapes.
The document provides detailed instructions for completing the LSR Budget Spreadsheet, which is essential for federal grant applications. It emphasizes the need to align the project title, applicant, and financial partner details across various forms, including the SF-424A. Key areas covered include justifying costs for personnel, fringe benefits, travel, equipment, supplies, contractual obligations, indirect costs, and matching funds. Applicants must describe the purpose of expenses while adhering to established rates and governmental guidelines prohibiting construction expenses in certain RFPs. The budget spreadsheet is structured for organized reporting of both federal funds requested and non-federal matching contributions. Furthermore, it discusses the significance of program income generated during the grant period and encourages collaboration with other programs to leverage additional resources. Overall, this document serves as a fundamental guide for applicants to accurately fill out budgetary requirements in requests for federal assistance.