Cooperative Agreement for affiliated Partner with the North Atlantic Coast Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Unit

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), an agency under the U.S. Department of the Interior, has issued a discretionary funding opportunity through a Cooperative Agreement for affiliated partners with the North Atlantic Coast Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Unit (CESU). CESUs are collaborative partnerships that support research, technical assistance, and education across a variety of federal agencies and academic institutions. This particular opportunity supports the Great Lakes Science Center’s ongoing research into environmentally sustainable strategies for controlling invasive plant species, specifically focusing on Phragmites australis, a widespread and problematic non-native plant. This initiative seeks proposals that will explore the role of microbial endophytes in promoting the stress tolerance and aggressive growth of invasive Phragmites australis. Through this investigation, the program aims to develop bioherbicides with low toxicity that can selectively impair the competitive capacity of these invasive species. The ultimate objective is to provide land managers and conservation professionals with a cost-effective, efficient, and scalable treatment option that not only addresses current infestations but also offers a template for managing other invasive species that threaten ecological and agricultural productivity. The funding supports research and development activities that build on promising existing technologies. Some of these technologies have already been the subject of patent applications and commercial licensing, indicating a strong foundation and commercial interest in the line of investigation. However, this grant seeks to fill gaps in field validation and advanced development, particularly in partnership with commercial entities. The goal is to bridge the divide between laboratory discoveries and practical application by generating robust data and furthering prototype development that can lead to widespread deployment. Eligibility for this opportunity is limited to institutions that are already formal partners in the North Atlantic Coast CESU network. This restriction ensures that applicants have a foundational understanding of CESU's cooperative model and are well-positioned to engage in the kind of interdisciplinary, interagency collaboration the project demands. The program does not require cost sharing or matching funds, further emphasizing accessibility for qualified research institutions. Applications must be submitted electronically via Grants.gov by February 22, 2026, at 11:59 PM Eastern Time. While the original application deadline was January 17, 2026, the deadline was subsequently extended. The funding opportunity number is G26AS00060, and the total funding available for this project is $498,392, which also represents both the maximum and only award amount. Only one award is expected to be granted under this opportunity. Interested applicants must ensure they are enrolled as CESU partners prior to submission. Questions or difficulties accessing the full announcement can be directed to Rachel Miller via email at rachelmiller@usgs.gov. This grant opportunity does not specify a recurrence cycle, suggesting it may be a one-time or infrequent funding opportunity tied to specific research and development milestones. Selected projects are expected to proceed promptly upon award, aligning with USGS’s priorities of deploying innovative and environmentally conscious management solutions for invasive species.

Ensure alignment with microbial endophyte goals; clearly define objectives; emphasize dissemination of results.