The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is offering funding for the "Fisher-Led Aquatic Trash Prevention and Abatement in Urban and Inland Disadvantaged Communities" initiative to combat aquatic trash in the Gulf of Mexico region. This funding opportunity, numbered EPA-R4-GM-2024-FISHER, aims to partner with fishers in disadvantaged communities across five Gulf states to develop community-driven strategies for trash removal and prevention in waterways. Approximately $3.25 million is allocated for this purpose, with individual project awards ranging from $500,000 to $650,000, and a project duration of up to three years. Eligible entities include governmental organizations, nonprofits, and academic institutions. The funding aims to engage local fishers in outreach and educational initiatives while also addressing the broader environmental impacts of land-based activities contributing to water pollution. Applicants must detail their project designs, emphasize measurable environmental results, include a comprehensive budget, and demonstrate effective partnerships with disadvantaged communities. All applications are to be submitted electronically by October 8, 2024, through Grants.gov, with detailed guidelines and evaluation criteria outlined for prospective applicants.
The document outlines budget guidelines for applicants and recipients of EPA financial assistance, particularly focusing on structuring and submitting detailed line item budgets. It emphasizes the importance of linking expenses to project tasks and deliverables, providing a clear budget narrative to explain costs that may not be immediately apparent from the budget table. Key components include detailing personnel roles, fringe benefits, travel expenses, equipment needs, and supplies. Applicants are encouraged to utilize a standardized budget table template to ensure clarity and full comprehension by reviewers. The document highlights the necessity for itemized descriptions to demonstrate cost-effectiveness and compliance with federal financial regulations. Overall, it serves as a comprehensive manual for ensuring an organized and justified budget submission in response to federal funding opportunities, enhancing the transparency and oversight of project financials.