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

The U.S. Geological Survey’s Woods Hole Coastal and Marine Science Center is offering a cooperative agreement opportunity under the Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Units (CESU) Program, specifically with the North Atlantic Coast CESU. The project, titled "Collection and synthesis of nationwide salt marsh lateral flux data," aims to advance scientific understanding of the exchange of materials between tidal wetlands and coastal waters. The USGS has a long history of investigating these processes and maintains a collaborative network of scientists across the Atlantic, Gulf, and Pacific coasts who have been collecting high-frequency, multi-year flux data. The goal of the project is to standardize these datasets, analyze spatial and temporal variability, and identify predictive controls through innovative data analytical techniques. The scope of work involves synthesizing existing data collected by the USGS and academic partners using consistent, co-developed methodologies. This synthesis will include delivery of standardized data, accompanying metadata, analytical code, and dissemination of findings through a peer-reviewed journal article and a public dataset. The total estimated funding for the two-year project is $221,929, with funds fully obligated at the time of award. Only one award is anticipated, and proposals must cover the entire two-year period. Eligibility is limited to participating partners of the North Atlantic Coast CESU Program. Applications must be submitted via Grants.gov using Funding Opportunity Number G25AS00341. Required application components include a cover page listing recipient details, project title, proposed start date, and key personnel; a technical narrative outlining the research problem, objectives, methods, expected products, dissemination plans, and schedule; and a detailed budget narrative aligned with SF-424A requirements. A Data Management Plan is also mandatory, specifying how data will be shared and archived according to USGS policy. Proposals will be evaluated on four criteria, each weighted equally: purpose, objectives, and relevance; technical approach; budget justification and clarity; and qualifications, experience, and past performance. Strong proposals will clearly address the synthesis of tidal wetland flux data, outline realistic and measurable objectives, follow established data standards, and demonstrate substantial expertise in aquatic chemistry and related research. Award recipients will be responsible for managing day-to-day project operations, ensuring compliance with federal requirements, and submitting annual progress and financial reports through GrantSolutions. A final technical report and final financial report will be required within 120 days of the project end date. Publications resulting from the project must acknowledge USGS support and follow specified guidelines, including use of the USGS logo under authorized conditions. For programmatic inquiries, contact Meagan Eagle, Research Physical Scientist at USGS Northeast Region, via email at meagle@usgs.gov. For grants management questions, contact Rachel Miller, Grants Management Specialist, at rachelmiller@usgs.gov. The official announcement concludes by noting that all terms and conditions will be incorporated into the award, referencing the DOI General Terms and Conditions available on the Department’s website.

Disseminate results broadly, follow USGS Fundamental Science Practices, and adhere to CESU IDC rate requirements