Mill Creek Natural Resource Training and Education

The Natural Resources Training and Education at Mill Creek funding opportunity is offered by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Walla Walla District, under the Youth Conservation Services program. This federal cooperative agreement is authorized under the Water Resources Development Act of 2000 and is designed to support the Corps’ broader mission of managing water resources, maintaining public lands, and promoting environmental stewardship. The Mill Creek Project specifically focuses on flood control infrastructure, recreation areas, and environmental conservation, while also serving as a training ground for future natural resource professionals. The primary purpose of this funding opportunity is to partner with an eligible organization to deliver outdoor education and workforce training programs for young adults aged 18 and older. The program emphasizes hands-on experience in environmental management, including activities such as vegetation management, invasive species removal, trail construction and maintenance, landscaping, and flood risk reduction efforts. Through these activities, participants gain technical skills, applied knowledge, and exposure to careers in natural resources, while supporting the operational and stewardship goals of the Corps. Funding for this opportunity totals $35,930, with one anticipated award issued as a cooperative agreement. The period of performance spans approximately six months, from early June through the end of November. During this time, the selected recipient will coordinate multiple one-week project sessions scheduled across the field season, including spring, summer, and fall work periods. The cooperative agreement structure ensures substantial involvement from the Corps, including provision of technical guidance, materials, and oversight throughout project implementation. Eligible applicants are limited to non-federal public entities and nonprofit organizations. The selected organization will be responsible for recruiting and managing participants, ensuring compliance with safety and labor regulations, and providing necessary supervision, tools, and logistical support. Participants must be at least 18 years old. The Corps will contribute by supplying project plans, specialized equipment, and technical assistance, and by ensuring alignment with program objectives. This collaborative structure ensures that both parties contribute meaningfully to program success. The application process requires submission of standard federal forms, including SF-424 and SF-424A, along with a program narrative detailing the applicant’s ability to meet program objectives. Additional required documents include lobbying disclosures and certifications. Applications may be submitted via email or Grants.gov, and applicants must maintain active registrations in SAM.gov and possess a Unique Entity Identifier. The submission deadline is May 28, 2026, with proposals due by 10:00 AM Pacific Time. Applications are evaluated through a multi-stage review process. Initial screening confirms eligibility and completeness, followed by a merit review assessing the applicant’s experience with youth training programs, conservation work, organizational capacity, and prior performance. Budget realism is also evaluated. Final award decisions are made by the Grants Officer based on technical review recommendations. The anticipated award date is June 4, 2026, aligning closely with the start of the performance period. Throughout the agreement, the recipient must provide regular reporting on progress and financial expenditures, with performance reports required during active work months. The program is structured as a single-cycle funding opportunity with no explicit indication of recurring annual availability. However, the structured seasonal work windows and alignment with Corps operational cycles suggest potential for similar future opportunities. For questions or application assistance, applicants may contact the designated Grants Specialist via email or phone as provided in the announcement.

Emphasize demonstrated experience with youth training and conservation programs highlight organizational capacity and prior government performance ensure budget realism and alignment with program goals