F26AS00041 Yukon River Salmon Research and Management (R&M) Assistance

Foa_Content_of_F26AS00041 final.pdf

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Notice of Funding Opportunity
F26AS00041 Yukon River Salmon Research and Management (R&M) Assistance
Funding Opportunity Number
F26AS00041

---

Table of Contents
BASIC INFORMATION .................................................................................................................1
ELIGIBILITY ..................................................................................................................................3
Cost Sharing Requirement ...........................................................................................................3
GET READY TO APPLY ...............................................................................................................4
Required System Registrations ....................................................................................................4
PROGRAM OVERVIEW ...............................................................................................................4
Program Goals ..............................................................................................................................4
Program Description ....................................................................................................................5
Legislative Authority ...................................................................................................................7
Type of Award .............................................................................................................................7
PREPARE YOUR APPLICATION ................................................................................................7
Application Content and Format ..................................................................................................7
Application Documents ................................................................................................................7
SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS AND DEADLINES ..............................................................12
Address to Request Application Package ..................................................................................12
Submission Dates and Times .....................................................................................................12
Submission Instructions .............................................................................................................13
APPLICATION REVIEW INFORMATION ................................................................................14
Eligibility Review ......................................................................................................................15
Merit Review ..............................................................................................................................15
Review and Selection Process ....................................................................................................18
Risk Review ...............................................................................................................................18
AWARD NOTICES ......................................................................................................................18
POST AWARD REQUIREMENTS AND ADMINISTRATION ................................................19
Administration and National Policy Requirements ...................................................................19
Reporting ....................................................................................................................................19
BASIC INFORMATION
Announcement Type: Initial
Funding Opportunity Number: F26AS00041
Assistance Listing Number(s): 15.671
Page 1 of 20

---

Estimated Total Program Funding: $260,000
Expected Number of Awards: 5
Award Ceiling: $100,000
Award Floor: $0
Recipients of this award typically receive $30,000 to $80,000, with an average of $51,000 over
the last 2 fiscal years.
Cost Sharing Required?
No
Closing Date Explanation
All proposals and required information from the Application Checklist are to be submitted by
May 18, 2026, no later than 11:59 PM Eastern Standard Time. Completed applications should
be submitted electronically through GrantSolutions.gov. Applicants submitting proposals using
GrantSolutions.gov should note that they use Eastern Standard Time. Late applications are
neither reviewed nor considered. Failure to provide complete information may cause delays,
postponement, or rejection of the application.
APPLICANT CHECKLIST
All applicants except Federal Entities; Federal Entities see below.
• SF-424, Application for Federal Assistance or Application for Federal Assistance Individual
• SF-424A Budget form: A complete SF-424A Budget Information form
• SF-LLL form: If applicable, completed SF-LLL Disclosure of Lobbying Activities form
• Project Abstract
• Project Narrative/Investigation Plan (including Letters of Support from partnering
organizations)
• Budget Table and Budget Narrative
• Indirect Cost statement and related documentation (when applicable)
• A document with required statements including: Conflict of Interest Disclosure, Single Audit
Reporting Statement, and Overlap and Duplication of Effort Statement: The required
statements should be addressed on letterhead and signed by an authorized representative
of the organization receiving funding.
• Evidence of non-profit status: If a non-profit organization, a copy of their Section 501(c)(3) or
(4) status determination letter received from the Internal Revenue Service.
FEDERAL ENTITIES
Please contact Shane Ransbury at shane_ransbury@fws.gov or 907-334-5389.
OMB Control Number: 1018-0100
Have Questions?
Shane Ransbury (907-334-5389) shane_ransbury@fws.gov
Page 2 of 20

---

Executive Summary
The Yukon River Salmon Research and Management Assistance (R&M Fund) is administered
by the Fisheries Program of Region 7.
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) receives funds for implementation of the Yukon
River Salmon Agreement of 2000 (Agreement) with Canada. The Agreement authorizes funds
for the implementation of the Agreement including funds for cooperative research and
management projects on the Alaska Portion of the Yukon River. The Service administers these
funds through financial assistance on a competitive basis for projects, studies, and events that
advance the scientific and public community’s understanding of the biology and management of
salmon, with focus on Yukon River Chinook and Chum salmon stocks in Alaska. The following
is a request for Detailed Project Proposal of one year in length addressing the needs of the
priority general Categories and Factors and specific near-term needs listed below.
Funding will support work beginning in May 2026 with project activities completed in early
2028. Applicants are strongly encouraged to develop projects that incorporate local capacity
with members of Yukon River communities in which they may be working. Coordinating
projects with state and federal regulatory agencies is also recommended, but not mandatory.
ELIGIBILITY
Eligible Applicants
Unrestricted (i.e., open to any type of entity above), subject to any clarification in text field
entitled "Additional Information on Eligibility"
Additional Information on Eligibility
Individuals and organizations submitting proposals should have the necessary technical and
administrative abilities and resources to ensure successful completion of studies. Entities
submitting proposals may be of Commercial, Individuals, Institutions of Higher Education,
Hospitals, Other Non-Profit Organizations, State Government, Local Government, Federally
recognized Indian Tribal Governments, Native American tribal organizations, Cooperative
Ecosystem Studies Unit (CESU) Network and/or Federal Entities. United States non-profit, non-
governmental organizations must provide a copy of their Section 501(c)(3) or (4) status
determination letter received from the Internal Revenue Service. Eligible recipients must appear
in the SAM.gov Assistance Listing (CFDA) profile.
Restrictions and Requirements for Non-U.S. Entities or Projects
• We do not fund countries supporting terrorism subject to U.S. sanctions.
• We do not fund countries under U.S. Treasury sanctions without licenses.
• You must get all required approvals for work outside the U.S. We are not responsible for
your compliance with local rules.
• For projects over $500,000, you may need to comply with 2 CFR 175.105(b) before we
make an award.
Cost Sharing Requirement
Cost Sharing Required?
No
Page 3 of 20

---

GET READY TO APPLY
Required System Registrations
Unique Entity Identifier and SAM.gov Registration
Before applying, all applicants except individuals applying as a natural person must be
registered in SAM.gov. During the SAM.gov registration the entity will obtain their Unique
Entity Identifier (UEI).
The SAM.gov registration process can take several months. If your organization is not
already registered in SAM.gov, begin the registration process as soon as possible.
To register in SAM.gov, go to the SAM.gov website and use the available resources to
complete registration.
• Financial assistance registrants must review and certify compliance with the SAM.gov
“Financial Assistance General Representations and Certifications”.
• Already registered? You already have a Unique Entity ID. Before applying, check that
your “Financial Assistance General Representations and Certifications” on SAM.gov is
complete. Remember to renew your registration every year to keep it active while you
have an award or application in progress. You can update your registration whenever you
need, including during renewal.
• Need help? For additional information and contact information on the SAM.gov Help
page.
This program may allow an applicant to apply while their SAM.gov registration is in progress,
with prior approval. For more information, refer to the point of contact identified in the Basic
Information section above.
GRANTS.GOV
This program accepts applications through Grants.gov so once you receive your UEI return to
Grants.gov to register with Grants.gov. Please allow 30 days to register and set up a Workspace
in Grants.gov. See Submission Instructions section below for additional details.
GRANTSOLUTIONS
This program accepts applications through GrantSolutions.gov. You must register with
GrantSolutions. See Submission Instructions.
PROGRAM OVERVIEW
Program Goals
• The funds shall be used for salmon related projects, with focus on Chinook and Chum
salmon research and management located in the Alaska portion of the Yukon River
drainage as recommended by the Yukon River Panel after review for scientific and
technical merit. Up to $260,000 may be awarded in the federal fiscal year 2026.
Currently, the source of general funding is federally appropriated funds directed to the
Service. Due to the limited funds available, modest funding requests (< $60,000) are
encouraged; however, higher amounts may be requested with appropriate justification.
The period of performance for projects funded under this program is for one year, starting
Page 4 of 20

---

on the date the proponent indicates within the proposal. Proponent should keep in mind
that due to when proposals actually receive approval for funding by the U.S. Delegation
of the Yukon Panel (~early April) and the time needed to process the financial assistance
that the project may begin prior to award notification with a signed notification of risk
document. In general, past and present recipients of awards under this program are
eligible and all applicants must submit new proposals to compete for funding each year.
Applicants who had projects funded with these funds in previous years, and who have
applications that successfully compete for funding through this notification, will not
receive their 2026 funds until the Technical Review Committee reviews and accepts their
interim or final report for previously funded work. This program uses grant agreements as
the primary assistance instrument.
Program Description
The Yukon River Salmon Research and Management Assistance (R&M Fund) is administered
by the Fisheries Program of Region 7.
The U.S. Delegation of the Yukon River Panel (Panel) has laid out the following general
Categories and corresponding Factors for the Fiscal Year 2026 R&M Fund. The four
categories will be used as evaluation criteria for each proposal and are listed in descending
order of importance from highest (Priority 1) to lowest (Priority 4). The factors within each
category are not prioritized.
Category: Assess and achieve fishery management objectives (Priority 1).
1. Develop and/or improve in-season run size and stock specific estimates at the mouth of the
Yukon River.
2. Develop or incorporate new methodologies and/or approaches to improve management and
research capability.
3. Develop and expand the genetic baseline for Alaska Yukon River Basin salmon stocks.
4. Identify stock composition of salmon runs through genetic stock identification.
5. Monitor salmon escapements by Alaskan Genetic Groupings.
Category: Build and maintain public support of, and meaningful participation in, salmon
resource management (Priority 2).
1. Build and maintain community capacity.
2. Develop mutual understandings between agencies and the public, best demonstrated by a
third party.
3. Encourage conservation principles of the salmon resources.
4. Encourage stewardship of the resource.
5. Promote public values of the salmon resource.
Category: Improve understanding of salmon biology and ecology (Priority 3).
1. Assessment of the quality of escapements (e.g., age/size/sex; health).
Page 5 of 20

---

2. Develop population estimates for Alaskan Yukon River Basin salmon stocks.
3. Investigate relationships between salmon and their physical environment.
4. Investigate relationships between salmon and other organisms.
Category: Assess, conserve and restore salmon habitats (Priority 4).
1. Habitat monitoring.
2. Identify and characterize salmon spawning and rearing habitats.
3. Identify and evaluate potential impacts to habitat.
4. Identify and monitor key salmon spawning streams/areas (index streams).
5. Identify and implement restoration opportunities.
The Panel has also identified two near term priority needs. Proposals that fall within the
scope of the following priorities will receive additional points during the review process. Each
proposal should incorporate elements of the Factors listed above.
1. Yukon River fall Chum Salmon stock assessment and genetics.
Description of Focused Priority: Fall Chum Salmon are an important resource within the
Yukon, with the decline in the Chinook Salmon populations, there has been a trend towards a
greater utilization of fall Chum Salmon particularly in communities unable to harvest other
salmon species throughout the year. The Panel is seeking proposals that utilize genetics to
improve the mixed stock analysis of fall Chum Salmon in the harvest or the stock assessment of
fall Chum Salmon returning to the Teedriinjik (Chandalar) and Porcupine rivers.
2. Yukon River salmon management awareness and participation.
Description of Focused Priority: There are over 42 communities within the Alaska portion of
the Yukon River basin. These communities have diverse needs; however, they all significantly
rely on salmon for a food resource. An informed and involved public is critical to effectively
manage and conserve Yukon salmon stocks. The Panel seeks to build on past successes through
supporting projects that increase awareness and participation in management and conservation
of Yukon River salmon stocks. The Panel invites proposals that work towards public education
and multi stakeholder planning efforts necessary to develop and sustain locally-supported
approaches for management.
Recipients are encouraged to prioritize projects in support of the celebration of America’s
250th birthday (America250). This may include, but is not limited to, projects that recognize
and honor the nation’s founding, history, and cultural heritage.
Buy America Preferences for Infrastructure Projects
This program has Federal funding for infrastructure projects. Buy America preferences apply to
Federal awards for infrastructure projects in the United States. Reference 2 CFR Part 184 - Buy
America Preferences for Infrastructure Project for further guidance.
Per 2 CFR 184, none of the funds provided under a Federal award may be used for a project for
infrastructure unless: Page 25 of 34
Page 6 of 20

---

1. All iron and steel used in the project are produced in the United States. This means all
manufacturing processes, from the initial melting stage through the application of coatings,
occurred in the United States,
2. All manufactured products used in the project are produced in the United States. This means
the manufactured product was manufactured in the United States, and the cost of the components
of the manufactured product that are mined, produced, or manufactured in the United States is
greater than 55 percent of the total cost of all components of the manufactured product, unless
another standard for determining the minimum amount of domestic content of the manufactured
product has been established under applicable law or regulation, and
3. All construction materials are manufactured in the United States. This means that all
manufacturing processes for the construction material occurred in the United States. For
construction material standards see 2 CFR §184.6.
The Buy America preference only applies to articles, materials, and supplies consumed in,
incorporated into, or affixed to an infrastructure project. As such, it does not apply to tools,
equipment, and supplies, such as temporary scaffolding, brought to the construction site and
removed at or before the completion of the infrastructure project. Nor does a Buy America
preference apply to equipment and furnishings, such as movable chairs, desks, and portable
computer equipment, used at or within the finished infrastructure project but are not an integral
part of the structure or permanently affixed to the infrastructure project.
Legislative Authority
The Yukon River Salmon Act (16 U.S.C. §55701 et seq.)
Type of Award
Projects will be funded through G (Grant).
PREPARE YOUR APPLICATION
Application Content and Format
Pre-Application Requirements
Prior to applying, applicants should review presidential actions found at:
https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/ and DOI Secretary’s Orders found at:
https://www.doi.gov/document-library/secretary-order. By applying in response to this Notice of
Funding Opportunity, the applicant certifies awareness and compliance with all currently
effective and applicable executive orders and secretary’s orders, including but not limited to the
Executive Order titled Ending Radical and Wasteful Government DEI Programs and
Preferencing as well as the Executive Order and Secretary’s order titled Restoring Truth and
Sanity to American History. Applicants are responsible for ensuring their proposed activities are
consistent with the intent and requirements of these directives.
Application Documents
Applicants must submit the following forms with their application as specified below.
Instructions for accessing and submitting application forms are provided in the Submission
Instructions section of this document below. For instructions on completing form fields, see the
form instructions on the Grants.gov Forms Repository.
Page 7 of 20

---

Forms/Assurances/Certifications Submission Requirement
SF-424, Application for Federal Assistance
Note: For applicants requesting more than $100,000 in Federal
funds, the Authorized Representative’s signature (or electronic
Required from all applicants
equivalent) on the Application for Federal Assistance form also
represents their certification of the statements in Appendix A to
43 CFR 18-Certification Regarding Lobbying
Required for non-construction
SF-424A, Budget Information – Non-Construction Programs
projects
Required if requesting more
than $100,000 in Federal
funds and the applicant has
used or plans to use funds
SF-LLL, Disclosure of Lobbying Activities
other than Federal
appropriated funds for
lobbying related to the
proposed project.
Project Abstract Summary (OMB 4040-0019). Must include, in
plain language:
• Award purpose,
• Activities to be performed, Required from all applicants
• Expected deliverables or outcomes,
• Intended beneficiaries,
Subrecipient activities (if known or specified at time of award)
Project Narrative
A. Introduction:
Project Justification: Describe in detail why there is a need for your project and why it should
receive funding from the R&M fund. The specific issue being addressed must be related to one
or more of the following specific needs: developing or refining current management
techniques, improving public support/participation in management, filling gaps in knowledge
of biology and ecology; or improving aquatic habitat.
Project Relevance: Briefly explain the goal and value of the proposed project and describe how
the proposed project will address: specific management needs; improving aquatic habitat; gaps in
knowledge of biology and ecology; or improving public support/participation in management of
Yukon River salmon within the Alaskan portion of the Yukon River Basin. To earn a higher
ranking under this criteria, investigators should clearly describe how the information collected
would ultimately be applied to conservation and regulation of the Yukon River salmon fisheries
within the Alaskan portion of the Yukon River Basin.
B. Project Goals and Objectives: Provide a numbered, annotated listing of your project
objectives in the sequence they would be completed; this should not be a narrative in paragraph
form. Objectives are the specific outcomes to be accomplished in order to reach the stated
Page 8 of 20

---

goal(s). The project objectives must be specific, measurable, achievable, repeatable, and time
bound. If there are multiple investigators, clearly describe which investigator(s) would be
responsible for each objective.
This section must also provide a list of clear hypotheses that will be addressed through the
project if a research component exists.
i. Objective 1:
a. Hypothesis:
ii. Objective 2:
a. Hypothesis:
C. Project Activities, Methods and Timetable:
A. Methods and Technical Merit:
To improve clarity, please divide this section into the following subsections that represent
different components of the project:
i. Study Area: List the nearest communities, major watershed and land status (e.g. village or
native corporation, State, National Park/Preserve, National Wildlife Refuge, etc.) of project
area. Include map of project area (Refer to section J. of this call for specific instructions).
ii. Methods: Provide details (sampling procedures, etc.) on the methods you will use to address
each of the objectives listed above. Demonstrate that you have evaluated or established the
most appropriate methods to meet your objectives. That is, what have you already done to
prepare for this project (i.e. pilot studies, conducted project in previous years)? Descriptions of
the methods employed should be detailed enough to enable reviewers to fully assess the
technical components of the project. Provide justification and support for the methodology that
you will use.
iii. Project Design: Describe and justify the experimental design, assumptions, required sample
size, and/or the type of analyses that will be used for the proposed project. In projects that have
a sample size component, please articulate the reasoning for your selected size (i.e. results of
power analyses). If project does not contain a statistical design, explain your reasoning for
designing the project the way it is. Concisely state the analytical approach.
B. Project Operation Schedule: Provide a date (mm/dd/year) of when each project objective
will begin and end and who will be responsible for achieving the objective if multiple
proponents are involved.
i. Objective 1:
ii. Objective 2:
In addition, please complete the table below with timing of when specific portions of your
project will be completed. Include timelines for project start, sampling, data analyses, report
writing, draft final report, and final report.
Task May – Jun Jul – Aug Sep – Oct Nov – Dec Jan – Feb Mar – Apr
Page 9 of 20

---

Project Start xx
Sampling xx
Data Analysis xx
Report Writing xx
Draft Final Report xx
Final Report December, 2028
D. Stakeholder Coordination/Involvement: Describe the ways in which this project would
develop partnerships and build the capability and expertise of members of the communities this
project would be occurring in or near. Describe specific plans to hire and train local residents
and the type of skills that would be taught. Summarize how the project would promote
interaction among rural residents, agencies and other organizations in information gathering,
data analysis, reporting, and information sharing. If not applicable to your proposal, please
mark this is Not Applicable.
E. Project Monitoring and Evaluation: This section should include the vision of this project
beyond this current funding year. Describe how the results of your project will help manage
and conserve Yukon River salmon stocks. Describe the anticipated outcomes and/or benefits of
the project and identify how you will monitor and/or evaluate the short-term and long-term
success of your project. Identify what you will measure and how you will measure if you have
achieved your stated objectives. Reference the stated project timetable (i.e., process indicators)
and budget information (i.e., input indicators). Identify the products and/or services to be
delivered, how they will be delivered, and whom they will be delivered to (i.e., output
indictors). Detail the expected direct effect(s) of the project on beneficiaries (i.e., outcome
indicators). Include any available questionnaires, surveys, curricula, exams/tests or other
assessment tools to be used for project evaluation. Describe the resources and organizational
structure available for gathering, analyzing, and reporting monitoring and evaluation data. If
applicable, describe how project participants and beneficiaries will participate in monitoring
and evaluation activities. Describe how findings will be fed back into decision making and
project activities throughout the project period.
F. Description of Entities Undertaking the Project: Provide a brief description of the
applicant organization and all participating entities and/or individuals. Identify which of the
proposed activities each agency, organization, group, or individual is responsible for
conducting or managing. Provide complete contact information for the individual within the
organization that will oversee/manage the project activities on a day-to-day basis. To prevent
unnecessary transmission of Personally Identifiable Information, do not include Social
Security numbers, the names of family members, or any other personal or sensitive
information including marital status, religion or physical characteristics on the description
of key personnel qualifications
a. Provide the following information in each description:
i. Education and training
ii. Duties of current position
Page 10 of 20

---

iii. Experience in duties related to the proposal
iv. Past work on R&M Fund projects
G. Sustainability: As applicable, describe which project activities will continue beyond the
proposed project period, who will continue the work or act on the results achieved, and how
and at what level you expect these future activities will be funded. The proposal should also
provide an explanation of the short-term results provide and the potential lasting results of the
proposed project.
H. Required Licenses and Permits: Demonstrate that you have considered what permits or
licenses you may be required for this study.
I. Literature Cited: Provide complete citations for published literature referenced in the above
sections. If not applicable to your proposal please mark this is Not Applicable.
J. Map of Project Area: Map should clearly delineate the project area and be large enough to
be legible. Label any sites referenced in the project narrative or if not applicable to your
proposal please mark this is Not Applicable
Budget Narrative
Applicants must describe and justify items and costs listed in their budget. The budget narrative
must identify the following cost items: total estimated costs, non-Federal cost share, third-party
contributions, and any pre-award costs. Total project cost is the sum of all allowable costs,
including required and voluntary cost share and third-party contributions.
Budget items must be:
• Reasonable, allowable, allocable, and necessary
• Compliant with 2 CFR §200 Subpart E cost principles
Indirect Costs: Applicants must indicate in their budget narrative how they will charge indirect
costs, including the rate to be applied:
• De Minimis Rate: If eligible, state if your organization is opting to use the de minimis
rate of up to 15% of total modified direct costs. Entities that do not have a current Federal
negotiated indirect cost rate (including provisional rate) may propose to use the de
minimis rate. For more information, refer to 2 CFR 200.414(f).
• Negotiated Rate: State if you will negotiate with your cognizant agency. If your
organization has previously negotiated a rate, attach a copy of the most recently
negotiated rate agreement (active or expired).
Data costs include (but are not limited to) the expenditures needed to gather, store, track,
manage, analyze, disaggregate, secure, share, publish, or otherwise use data to administer or
improve the program, such as data systems, personnel, data dashboards, cybersecurity, and
related items. Data costs may also include direct or indirect costs associated with building
integrated data systems—data systems that link individual-level data from multiple State and
local government agencies for purposes of management, research, and evaluation. Evaluation
costs include (but are not limited to) evidence reviews, evaluation planning and feasibility
assessment, conducting evaluations, sharing evaluation results, and other personnel or materials
Page 11 of 20

---

costs related to the effective building and use of evidence and evaluation for program design,
administration, or improvement.
A budget narrative should be provided as a separate document. The budget template should be
used within your budget narrative to assist the proponent in outlining their budget from the SF-
424 Budget information for the budget narrative. This also assists reviewers in identifying the
components of proposals budget. It should entail costs for personnel, fringe benefits, travel,
equipment, supplies, contractual, construction, and indirect costs.
Conflict of Interest and Unresolved Matters Disclosures:
If any actual or potential conflict of interest exists related to this project at the time of
application, the applicant must provide sufficient information to support a program determination
of significance per 2 CFR 1402.112. Refer to 2 CFR 200.112 Conflict of Interest and 2 CFR
200.113.
Overlap or Duplication of Effort Statement:
Applicants must state in their application if the activities, costs, or time commitment of key
personnel proposed in this application overlap with those in any other Federal proposal or award
or not. If no overlap exists, include a statement to that effect. If any overlap exists, provide:
• Activities: Description any overlapping activities.
• Costs: Description of any overlapping costs.
• Time: Description of any overlapping key personnel time.
• A copy of any overlapping or duplicative proposal submitted to any other potential
funding entity.
• Details on when any overlapping proposal was submitted, to whom, and the expected
date of the funding decision.
Other Required Information
SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS AND DEADLINES
Address to Request Application Package
This announcement contains everything needed to apply. You can request application
materials from the Service point of contact by U.S. Postal Service, fax or by email by
contacting our administrator and they will direct you to the appropriate contact:
Northern Alaska Fish and Wildlife Field Office
101 12th Avenue, Room 110
Fairbanks, Alaska 99701
Phone: 907-334-5389, Fax: 907-456-0454
Program Website Link
https://www.fws.gov/office/northern-alaska-field-office/what-we-do/projects-research
Submission Dates and Times
Closing Date for Applications: 05/18/2026
Page 12 of 20

---

Closing Date Explanation
All proposals and required information from the Application Checklist are to be submitted by
May 18, 2026, no later than 11:59 PM Eastern Standard Time. Completed applications should
be submitted electronically through GrantSolutions.gov. Applicants submitting proposals using
GrantSolutions.gov should note that they use Eastern Standard Time. Late applications are
neither reviewed nor considered. Failure to provide complete information may cause delays,
postponement, or rejection of the application.
APPLICANT CHECKLIST
All applicants except Federal Entities; Federal Entities see below.
• SF-424, Application for Federal Assistance or Application for Federal Assistance Individual
• SF-424A Budget form: A complete SF-424A Budget Information form
• SF-LLL form: If applicable, completed SF-LLL Disclosure of Lobbying Activities form
• Project Abstract
• Project Narrative/Investigation Plan (including Letters of Support from partnering
organizations)
• Budget Table and Budget Narrative
• Indirect Cost statement and related documentation (when applicable)
• A document with required statements including: Conflict of Interest Disclosure, Single Audit
Reporting Statement, and Overlap and Duplication of Effort Statement: The required
statements should be addressed on letterhead and signed by an authorized representative
of the organization receiving funding.
• Evidence of non-profit status: If a non-profit organization, a copy of their Section 501(c)(3) or
(4) status determination letter received from the Internal Revenue Service.
FEDERAL ENTITIES
Please contact Shane Ransbury at shane_ransbury@fws.gov or 907-334-5389.
Submission Instructions
Apply Through Grants.gov
To apply through Grants.gov, please follow the instructions in the Quick Start Guide for
Applicants. Before applying, ensure that at least one person at your organization is registered and
has the Authorized Organization Representative (AOR). Only the AOR can submit the
application. If you need more users, they must create their own Grants.gov account. Follow these
steps below to apply:
• Create a Workspace: Creating a workspace allows you to complete it online and route it
through your organization for review before submitting.
• Complete a Workspace: Invite participants to the workspace so you can collaborate on
the application. Required applications forms are included in the Grants.gov Funding
Opportunity Package and can be completed in the Workspace, unless noted otherwise in
the Required Forms table above. Check for errors before submission.
Page 13 of 20

---

• Submit a Workspace: An application may be submitted through workspace by clicking
the Sign and Submit button on the Manage Workspace page, under the Forms tab
• Track a Workspace Submission: After successfully submitting a workspace application, a
Grants.gov Tracking Number (GRANTXXXXXXXX) is automatically assigned to the
application.
The system generates a date and time stamp and sends it to the applicant’s AOR via email as
proof of submission. Make sure your application passes the Grants.gov validation checks. Do not
encrypt, zip, or password-protect any files. Only registered individuals in SAM as both a user
and an AOR can submit applications. Please allow 30 days to register in Grants.gov.
Application System Technical Support: For Grants.gov technical registration and submission,
downloading forms, and application packages, contact Grants.gov Customer Support at 1-800-
518-4726 or by email at Support@grants.gov.
Apply Through GrantSolutions
To apply through GrantSolutions, follow these steps:
1. Register your organization. Send an e-mail to help@grantsolutions.gov with:
• Subject: New Organization Request
• Entity name (organization or individual applying as a natural person)
• Entity type
• SAM.gov Unique Entity Identifier (not required for individuals)
• Employer Identification Number (individuals, do not include your SSN)
• Address
• Contact details (First and last name, e-mail, phone)
This information should be the same as entered on the entity’s SAM.gov profile.
2. Assign system user roles. Follow the GrantSolutions “Recipient user” registration
instructions. Submit a separate Recipient User Account Request form for each official to
be assigned a system role. At minimum, the Authorizing Official (ADO) and Principal
Investigator/Program Director (PI/PD) must be assigned.
3. Log in. GrantSolutions requires users to log in through Login.gov. Each user must create
a Login.gov account. For instructions, see the GrantSolutions Training Resources web
page.
4. Find and apply to this Funding Opportunity. After logging in, click on either the
“Begin an application” link (first time applicants) or the “Funding Opportunity” link to
go to the “Competing Announcements-Application Kits” list screen. Search the list for
this Funding Opportunity’s title and number. Click on the associated “Apply” link.
Follow the prompts from there. Required applications forms are provided with the
Funding Opportunity in GrantSolutions unless otherwise indicated on the Required
Forms table above.
5. For detailed instructions, see the GrantSolutions Training Resources web page.
6. Need help? Find help topics and contact information on the GrantSolutions Contact Us
page.
APPLICATION REVIEW INFORMATION
Page 14 of 20

---

Eligibility Review
During the eligibility review, the application is checked for timely submission, completed
packages (see Application Documents above) and alignment with the requirements of this
announcement. The Federal agency may remove an application if it does not pass the eligibility
review.
Individuals and organizations submitting proposals should have the necessary technical and
administrative abilities and resources to ensure successful completion of studies. Entities
submitting proposals may be of Commercial, Individuals, Institutions of Higher Education,
Hospitals, Other Non-Profit Organizations, State Government, Local Government, Federally
recognized Indian Tribal Governments, Native American tribal organizations, Cooperative
Ecosystem Studies Unit (CESU) Network and/or Federal Entities. United States non-profit, non-
governmental organizations must provide a copy of their Section 501(c)(3) or (4) status
determination letter received from the Internal Revenue Service. Eligible recipients must appear
in the SAM.gov Assistance Listing (CFDA) profile.
If an applicant selected for funding hasn't finished their SAM.gov registration (see 2 CFR 25.200
and 2 CFR 25.110) when the federal agency is ready to make an award, we may decide that the
applicant is ineligible for the award and choose to grant it to someone else. Please refer 2 CFR
25.205 for more information.
Prior to making an award, the DOI checks the anticipated recipient and their key project
personnel against the current list of prohibited or restricted persons or entities in the System for
Award Management (SAM.gov) Exclusions database. We are prohibited from making an award
if a recipient or any key personnel are found ineligible, prohibited, restricted, or otherwise
excluded from receiving or participating in an award, as their ineligibility condition applies to
this program.
If removed from consideration for ineligibility, the Federal agency will notify the applicant in
writing.
Merit Review
Proposals will be evaluated by through a scoring system based on the point allocations listed
below. A total score of 35 points is possible.
OVERVIEW (4 points total)
Category Priority (0.5-2 points possible)
(2) Category: Assess and achieve fishery management objectives
(1.5) Category: Build and maintain public support of, and meaningful participation in,
salmon resource management (1) Category: Improve understanding of salmon biology
and ecology
(0.5) Category: Assess, conserve and restore salmon habitats
Near Term Priority (0-2 points possible)
(2) Results of the proposed project will directly address two of the near-term priorities
upon completion
Page 15 of 20

---

(1) Results of the proposed project will directly address one of the near term priorities
upon completion
(0) Proposal does not address either of the near-term priority needs
INTRODUCTION (8 points total)
Justification (0-2)
(2) Clearly describes how the information collected would ultimately be applied to
conservation and regulation of Alaskan Yukon River salmon
(0) Did not describe how the information collected would ultimately be applied to
conservation and regulation of Alaskan Yukon River salmon
Relevance (1-3 possible)
(3) Project contributes to addressing or improving knowledge towards crucial data gaps
and/or management needs of Yukon River salmon species
(1) Project is unlikely to improve knowledge towards the understanding and/or
management of Yukon River salmon species
Objectives (1-3 points possible)
(3) Objectives are well described, address the needs of the Panel, and are achievable as
presented
(1) Objectives are poorly described making it difficult to know if they address the needs
of the Panel
TECHNICAL IMPLEMENTATION DETAILS (13 points total)
Methods (0-3 points possible)
(3) Methods were adequately detailed with sound explanations and reasoning
(1.5) Methods were presented but lacked detail
(0) Nothing was provided regarding monitoring or evaluation methods or information
was not applicable to the project objectives
Monitoring and Evaluation (0-3 points possible)
(3) Descriptions were detailed and complete with sound reasoning and consistent with
project objectives
(1) Minimal explanation or information provided to understand how monitoring or
evaluation would be completed and reported
(0) Nothing was provided regarding montitoring or evaluation methods or information
was not applicable to the project objectives
Sustainability (0-2 points possible)
(2) The results of this project will aid in the conservation and management of Yukon
River salmon beyond this year of funding
Page 16 of 20

---

(1) The results of this project will only assist in the conservation and management of
Yukon River salmon during this year
Operation (0-2 points possible)
(2) Objectives and project milestones are well described and appear to be achievable
(1) Objectives and project milestones are poorly described making it difficult to know if
they are achievable as presented
Licenses and Permits, Literature Cited, and Map(s) (0-3 points possible)
(3) Provided a description of licenses and permits needed, literature citation, and at least
one map
(1) Provided one of the one of the required components such as a description of licenses
and permits needed, literature citations, or maps
(0) Did not describe if licenses and permits were needed, nor provide literature citations
or maps
CAPACITY TO DELIVER AND COST (10 points total)
Stakeholder Coordination / Involvement (0-2 points possible)
(2) Coordination with stakeholders and substantial involvement such as hiring and
training local residents. Could also involve outreach and education of local residents
(1) Some coordination with stakeholders but no substantial involvement
(0) Nothing was provided regarding stakeholder coordination or involvement
Description of Organizations (0-2 points possible)
(2) Clearly identifies the roles of the Project Leader and other participants
(0) Does not identify the Project Leader or the roles of the Principal Project Participants
Labor (1-2 points possible)
(2) Wages are appropriate for the level of work being conducted
(1) Wages are excessive for the level of work being conducted
Administration (0-2 points possible)
(2) Overhead costs are 0<15% of the total project costs
(1) Overhead costs are 15-30% of the total project costs
(0) Overhead costs >30% of the total project cost
Budget Justification (1-2 points possible)
(2) Project costs are consistent with other similar projects
(1) Project costs are excessive when compared to other similar projects.
Page 17 of 20

---

Review and Selection Process
This program reviews proposed budgets to ensure:
• figures are correct
• estimated costs are necessary and reasonable and clearly linked to project narratives
• avoid obviously unallowable costs
• identify costs requiring prior approval
• ensure indirect cost rates are applied correctly
• confirm cost sharing requirements are reflected in the budget.
This program reviews applications for potential overlap or duplication between the proposed
project and any other funded or proposed project. Depending on the circumstances, DOI may
choose to not make an award.
Prior to conducting the comprehensive merit review, an initial review will be performed to
determine whether: (1) the applicant is eligible for an award; (2) the information required by the
NOFO has been submitted; (3) all mandatory requirements of the NOFO are satisfied; (4) the
proposed project is responsive to the program objectives of the NOFO (program determination);
and (5) the proposed project is in compliance with all applicable executive and secretary orders,
including the President’s executive order on Ending Radical and Wasteful Government DEI
Programs and Preferencing as well as the executive order and Secretary order on Restoring Truth
and Sanity to American History. If an applicant fails to meet the requirements or objectives of
the NOFO, or does not provide sufficient information for review, the applicant will be considered
nonresponsive and eliminated from further review.
Risk Review
Prior to making an award, the applicant will be assessed for their level of risk per 2 CFR
200.206. This assessment includes the applicant's financial management capabilities, project
delivery experience, staffing resources, past award performance, administration and reporting
compliance records, and overall project complexity and potential for challenges. If an award will
be made, special conditions may be applied to the award corresponding to the assessed risk. For
awards over the simplified acquisition threshold (currently $350,000), a review of the applicant's
eligibility and financial integrity information in the applicant's SAM.gov records will also be
performed per 2 CFR 200.206.
AWARD NOTICES
Notices of Federal Award are sent electronically via GrantSolutions or e-mail. These notices
outline the terms, conditions, and payment instructions per 2 CFR 200.211. The Notice of
Federal Award signed by an authorized Grants Officer is the legal instrument obligating financial
assistance to a recipient. Any other prior notice is not an authorization to begin work. If the
program allows pre-award costs per 2 CFR 200.458, beginning performance before receiving a
Notice of Federal Award is at the applicant’s own risk.
Anticipated Project Start Date: 07/01/2026
Anticipated Project End Date: 12/31/2028
Page 18 of 20

---

All applicants will receive a notification letter by email within 30 days of the final review
decision as to whether or not the applicant’s proposal was successful in receiving funding. This
notification letter is not an authorization to begin project performance but to only inform
applicants of the decision that was reached by the Panel. Later, recipients will receive an email
notification from GrantSolutions when the Signed Notice of Award is completed.
Please be aware that receipt of funding was delayed by over 4 months for some recipients in
2025, and similar delays may occur in 2026. If receipt is delayed through no fault of your own,
you will be allowed to modify the project timeline.
POST AWARD REQUIREMENTS AND ADMINISTRATION
Administration and National Policy Requirements
For award administration and national policy requirements, see the DOI General Terms and
Conditions. Infrastructure projects require the use of American iron, steel, manufacture products,
and construction materials per 2 CFR 184.
See the FWS General Award Terms and Conditions for national policy requirements for FWS
awards. Special terms and conditions will be detailed in award notices.
Reporting
The recipient’s Notice of Award will detail all reporting requirements, including frequency, due
dates, and instructions for requesting extensions. In general, but not limited to, recipients must:
• Submit Federal Financial reports and Program Performance reports.
• Use the Federal Financial Report (SF-425) form for financial reporting,
• Monitor award activities and report on program performance per 2 CFR 200.329,
• Promptly notify the awarding program in writing of any issues, delays, or conditions
impairing award objectives per 2 CFR 200.329(e),
• Disclose any conflicts of interest related to their award that arise during the award period
per 2 CFR 1402.112,
• Report on the status of real property acquired under the award in which the Federal
government retains an interest per 2 CFR 200.330, and
• Report all violations of Federal criminal law involving fraud, bribery, or gratuity
violations potentially affecting the Federal award per 2 CFR 200.113.
• Report any matters related to recipient integrity and performance to SAM.gov per
Appendix XII to 2 CFR 200.
• If the Federal share of the award is more than $100,000 and the recipient makes or agrees
to make any payment using non-appropriated funds for lobbying in connection to the
award, disclose those activities using the Disclosure of Lobbying (SF-LLL) form per
43 CFR 18.100.
• Federal Funding Accountability and Transparency Act of 2006 (FFATA) requires certain
recipients to report information on executive compensation through SAM.gov and
information on all sub-awards, subcontracts, and consortiums over $30,000 to the
FFATA Subaward Reporting System (FSRS).
Page 19 of 20

---

Other Information
Page 20 of 20