Conservation Innovation Grants Fiscal Year 2008 Announcement of Program Funding; Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) Number: 10.912, 71345-71354 [E7-24411]

Agencies

• DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
• Natural Resources Conservation Service

[Federal Register Volume 72, Number 241 (Monday, December 17, 2007)]
[Notices]
[Pages 71345-71354]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: E7-24411]


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DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE

Natural Resources Conservation Service


Conservation Innovation Grants Fiscal Year 2008 Announcement of 
Program Funding; Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) Number: 
10.912

AGENCY: Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), Commodity Credit 
Corporation.

ACTION: Notice.

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SUMMARY: NRCS requests applications for Conservation Innovation Grants 
(CIG) to stimulate the development and adoption of innovative 
conservation approaches and technologies. Applications are accepted 
from all 50 States, the Caribbean Area (Puerto Rico and the Virgin 
Islands), and the Pacific Basin Area (Guam, American Samoa, and the 
Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands). NRCS anticipates that 
the amount available for support of this program in FY 2008 will be 
approximately $20 million. Funds will be awarded through a nationwide 
competitive grants process. There are three CIG categories available in 
FY 2008: Natural Resource Concerns Category, Technology Category, and 
the Chesapeake Bay Watershed Category. Applications are requested from 
eligible government or non-government organizations or individuals for 
competitive consideration of grant awards for projects between one and 
three years in duration. This notice identifies the objectives for CIG 
projects, the eligibility criteria for projects and associated 
instructions needed to apply to CIG.

DATES: Applications must be received in the NRCS National Headquarters 
by 5 p.m., Eastern Standard Time (EST), on Wednesday, February 20, 
2008.

ADDRESSES: The address for hand-delivered applications or applications 
submitted using express mail or overnight courier service is: USDA 
Natural Resources Conservation Service; Conservation Innovation Grants 
Program; Financial Assistance Programs Division, Room 5239-S; 1400 
Independence Ave, SW.; Washington, DC 20250. Contact phone numbers for 
hand-delivered applications are (202) 720-1845, (202) 720-2335, or 
(202) 205-1165.

[[Page 71346]]

    Applications sent via the U.S. Postal Service must be sent to the 
following address: USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service; 
Conservation Innovation Grants Program; Financial Assistance Programs 
Division; Room 5239-S, Post Office Box 2890, Washington, DC 20013-2890.
    To submit your application electronically, visit www.grants.gov/
apply and follow the instructions.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: 

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Tessa Chadwick, CIG National         Shani Harmon, CIG Program
 Program Manager, USDA NRCS, PO Box   Assistant, USDA NRCS, PO Box 2890,
 2890, Room 5239-S, Washington, DC    Room 5239-S, Washington, DC 20013-
 20013-2890.                          2890.
Phone: (202) 720-2335..............  Phone: (202) 205-1165.
Fax: (202) 720-4265................  Fax: (202) 720-4265.
e-mail:                              e-mail: shani.harmon@wdc.usda.gov.
 tessa.chadwick@wdc.usda.gov..
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SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

Table of Contents

PART I--Funding Opportunity Description
    A. Legislative Authority
    B. Overview
    C. Innovative Conservation Projects or Activities
    D. CIG Categories
    1. Natural Resource Concerns
    2. Chesapeake Bay Watershed
    3. Technology
PART II--Funding Availability
    A. National Component
    B. State Component
PART III--Eligibility Information
    A. Matching Funds
    B. Beginning and Limited Resource Farmers and Ranchers, and 
Indian Tribes
    C. EQIP Payment Limitation and Duplicate Payments
    D. Project Eligibility
PART IV--Application and Submission Information
    A. How To Obtain Application Materials
    B. Application Content and Format
    C. How To Submit a Written Application
    D. How To Submit an Application Electronically
    E. Application Due Date
    F. Acknowledgement of Submission
    G. Funding Restrictions
    H. Patents and Inventions
    I. Withdrawal of Applications
PART V--Application Review
    A. Application Review and Selection Process
    B. Criteria for Application Evaluation
    C. Anticipated Announcement and Award Dates
PART VI--Award Information and Administration
    A. Award Notification
    B. Grant Agreement
    C. Reporting Requirements
PART VII--Agency Contacts
PART VIII--Other Information
    A. FY 2008 Application Checklist
    B. NRCS State Conservationists

I. Funding Opportunity Description

A. Legislative Authority

    CIG was authorized as part of the Environmental Quality Incentives 
Program (EQIP) [16 U.S.C. 3839aa-8] under Section 1240H of the Food 
Security Act of 1985, as added by Section 2301 of the Farm Security and 
Rural Investment Act of 2002 (Pub. L. 107-171). The Secretary of 
Agriculture delegated the authority for the administration of EQIP and 
CIG to the Chief of the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), 
who is a Vice President of the Commodity Credit Corporation (CCC). EQIP 
is administered by NRCS under the authorities of the CCC.

B. Overview

    The purpose of CIG is to stimulate the development and adoption of 
innovative conservation approaches and technologies while leveraging 
the Federal investment in environmental enhancement and protection, in 
conjunction with agricultural production. CIG projects are expected to 
lead to the transfer of conservation technologies, management systems, 
and innovative approaches (such as market-based systems) into NRCS 
technical manuals, guides, and references, or to the private sector. 
CIG does not fund research projects. Instead, it is a vehicle to 
stimulate the development and adoption of conservation approaches or 
technologies that have been studied sufficiently to indicate a 
likelihood of success and to be candidates for eventual technology 
transfer or institutionalization. CIG funds projects targeting 
innovative on-the-ground conservation, including pilot projects and 
field demonstrations.
    NRCS will accept applications for single or multi-year projects, 
not to exceed three years, submitted to NRCS from eligible entities, 
including federally-recognized Indian Tribes, State and local 
governments, and non-governmental organizations and individuals. 
Applications are accepted from all 50 States, the Caribbean Area 
(Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands), and the Pacific Basin Area (Guam, 
American Samoa, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands).
    Complete applications will be evaluated by a technical peer review 
panel and scored based on the Criteria for Application Evaluation 
identified in this document. There are eight review groups for FY 2008 
applications: Water Quality-Livestock; Water Quality-Not Livestock; 
Water Quantity; Soils; Atmospheric; Grazing Land and Forest Health; 
Wildlife; and Energy. Applicants will indicate which of these review 
groups should review the application. Scored applications will be 
forwarded to a Grants Review Board. The Grants Review Board will make 
recommendations for project approval to the Chief. Final award 
selections will be made by the Chief of NRCS.

C. Innovative Conservation Projects or Activities

    For the purposes of CIG, the proposed innovative project or 
activity must encompass the development and field testing, evaluation, 
and implementation of:
     Conservation adoption incentive systems, including market-
based systems; or,
     Promising conservation technologies, practices, systems, 
procedures, or approaches.
    To be given priority consideration, the innovative project or 
activity:
     Will have been studied sufficiently to indicate a good 
probability for success;
     Demonstrates, tests, evaluates, and verifies environmental 
(soil, water, air, plants, and animal) effectiveness, utility, 
affordability, and usability in the field;
     Adapts conservation technologies, practices, systems, 
procedures, approaches, and incentive systems to improve performance, 
and encourage adoption;
     Introduces conservation systems, approaches, and 
procedures from another geographic area or agricultural sector; and
     Adapts conservation technology, management, or incentive 
systems to improve performance.

D. CIG Categories

    For Fiscal Year 2008, three categories of CIG will be offered. 
Applicants will need to identify which of the 3 categories applies to 
their proposed project.

[[Page 71347]]

1. National Natural Resource Concerns Category
    Applications must demonstrate the use of innovative technologies or 
approaches, or both, to address a natural resource concern or concerns. 
The five natural resource concerns for possible funding through 
Conservation Innovation Grants for fiscal year 2008 are: Water 
Resources; Soil Resources; Atmospheric Resources; Grazing Land and 
Forest Health; and Wildlife Habitat. This Category also includes 
applications that focus on Market Based Approaches to address any or 
all of these five resource concern areas.
A. Water Resources
    The objective of this natural resource concern is to implement new 
technologies and/or approaches to maintain, restore, or enhance water 
quality and/or quantity in watersheds with predominantly agricultural 
land uses while sustaining productivity. Subtopics include:
     Nutrient, pesticide, and/or pathogen transport to surface 
water and groundwater;
     Sediment transport to surface water;
     Aquifer recharge/maintenance of groundwater supplies;
     Increased water supplies/availability through alternative 
treatment; enhanced automation, monitoring or scheduling; reduced 
system losses; or reuse strategies; and
     Technologies scalable to small farms to maintain, restore, 
or enhance water quality and/or quantity.
B. Soil Resources
    The objective of this conservation concern is to implement new 
technologies and/or approaches to maintain, restore, or enhance soil 
resources associated with agricultural and forest land uses while 
sustaining productivity. Subtopics include:
     Erosion reduction;
     Accumulation of harmful levels of constituents in soils, 
including nutrients, metals, or salts; and
     Improvement to soil quality and productivity.
C. Atmospheric Resources
    The objective of this conservation concern is to implement new 
technologies and/or approaches to maintain, restore, or enhance air 
quality and atmospheric resources through agricultural and forestry 
practices while sustaining productivity. Subtopics include:
     Agricultural emissions of particulates, odors, volatile 
organic compounds, and greenhouse gases;
     Carbon sequestration in soil and through other mechanisms;
     Bio-based energy opportunities; and
     Identification and quantification of management practices 
for air quality and atmospheric change concerns at animal operations.
D. Grazing Land and Forest Health
    The objective of this conservation concern is to implement new 
technologies and/or approaches to maintain, restore, or enhance grazing 
land and forest health while sustaining productivity. Subtopics 
include:
     Invasive species management on grazing and forest land;
     Effects of pests, diseases, and fragmentation on forest 
and grazing land quality/health;
     Systems or practices to minimize overgrazing and restore 
lands suffering effects of overgrazing;
     Low-input approaches to increasing forage production;
     Alternative grasses or forages for livestock; and
     Systems or practices that integrate trees-forage-livestock 
(i.e., silvopasture).
E. Wildlife Habitat
    The objective of this conservation concern is to implement new 
technologies and/or approaches for environmentally sound wildlife 
habitat management while sustaining agricultural productivity. Possible 
subtopics include:
     Riparian area management and restoration;
     Invasive species management;
     Pollinator protection
     Biodiversity; and,
     Wetland function and health.
F. Market-Based Approaches
    The objective of this approach is to develop, implement, and or 
evaluate processes, technology tools, institutional arrangements, or 
systems that are `market-based' in nature and address one of the above 
priority resource concerns. Possible subtopics include:
     Development and application of technology tools that 
measure environmental services (i.e. benefits) in order to document 
credits for trading;
     Greenhouse gas accounting tools and registries;
     Water quality improvement accounting tools;
     Nutrient trading and/or accounting tools;
     Demonstration of ecosystem-based services that facilitate 
conservation implementation; and
     Processes and institutional arrangements that develop, 
demonstrate, evaluate, and clarify successful approaches to market-
based conservation involving private working lands.
2. Chesapeake Bay Watershed Category
    Applications for the Chesapeake Bay Watershed Category are being 
accepted and reviewed by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation. 
Information for submitting an application for this category of CIG 
funding can be accessed at the following link https://www.nfwf.org.
3. National Technology Category
    Applications must address one or more of the following specific 
technology needs areas identified by NRCS:
A. Improved On-Farm Energy Efficiency--Possible Subtopics Include
     Renewable energy sources such as wind or solar;
     Methane recovery;
     Other innovative farm management or production 
technologies;
     Automated self energy audit technology;
     Energy audit worksheets; and
     Compilation of on-farm energy audits and audit processes.
B. Water Management (Both Drainage Water and Irrigation Water) Drainage 
Water Management--Possible Subtopics Include
     Implementation of drainage water management systems in 
small watersheds and application of tools to assess multiple effects 
(e.g., economic, wildlife habitat, soil quality, air quality, wetlands 
and water quality) at watershed scale;
     Achieving downstream nutrient reduction benefits through 
management of surface or sub-surface drainage systems;
     Improving water/nutrient accounting/budgeting;
     Improving design and management of drainage water 
management systems to improve benefits to producers and to the 
environment;
     Improving the ability of buffers to reduce nutrient 
loadings in tile drained landscapes; and
     Improving wetland creation, restoration, and enhancement 
to reduce nutrient loadings.
Irrigation Water Management--Possible Subtopics Include
     New engineering software or modeling systems that would 
automate, demonstrate, and facilitate technically sound conservation 
decisions by the public pertaining to resource

[[Page 71348]]

assessment, conservation planning, and conservation system installation 
and evaluation;
     Irrigation management for water conservation;
     Achieving multiple benefits (e.g., economic, enhanced crop 
production, recreation, wildlife habitat, soil quality, wetlands and 
water quality) through area-wide or regional irrigation water 
management, scheduled application, and supply or application of new or 
innovative technology; and
     Achieving nutrient or pollutant reduction benefits in 
downstream receiving waters through area-wide or regional irrigation 
water management, scheduled application, and supply or application of 
new or innovative technology.

II. Funding Availability

A. National Component

    NRCS anticipates that the amount available for support of this 
program in FY 2008 will be approximately $20 million. The anticipated 
funding breakdown for each category is:
     National Natural Resource Concerns Category: Up to $10 
million;
     Chesapeake Bay Watershed Category: Up to $5 million;
     National Technology Category: Up to $5 million.

Funds will be awarded through a nationwide competitive grants process. 
Funds not used in one category may be shifted to another category by 
the Chief. The maximum award amount for any project will not exceed $1 
million. CIG will fund single- and multi-year projects, not to exceed 
three years.
    The available funding for the three national categories is 
anticipated to fund approximately 50 to 60 awards based on previous 
years' experience in administering CIG. The anticipated start date for 
awarded projects is September 1, 2008.

B. State Component

    The intent of the State Component is to provide flexibility to NRCS 
State Conservationists to target CIG funds to individual producers and 
smaller organizations that may possess promising innovations, but may 
not compete well on the larger scale of the national grants 
competition. For FY 2008, the State Component of CIG will be available 
in select states at the discretion of the State Conservationist. 
Project applications that request federal funds of $75,000 or less and 
are not multi-state in scope will be forwarded to the appropriate state 
program manager if that state is participating in the State Component. 
All applications that are forwarded will be notified in writing, and 
provided with a contact for State Component information. Funding 
availability and application and submission information for state 
competitions will be announced through public notices (and on State 
NRCS Web sites) separately from this national notice. State 
Conservationists will determine the funding level for state 
competitions, with individual grants not to exceed $75,000.

III. Eligibility Information

    CIG applicants must be a federally-recognized Indian Tribe; State 
or local unit of government; non-governmental organization; private 
business; or individual.

A. Matching Funds

    Selected applicants may receive grants of up to 50 percent of the 
total project cost. Applicants must provide non-Federal funding 
(matching funds) for at least 50 percent of the project cost. Up to 
half of the applicant's matching funds (up to 25 percent of the total 
project cost) may be from in-kind contributions.

B. Beginning and Limited Resource Farmers and Ranchers, and Indian 
Tribes

    Information regarding the definitions for Limited Resource or 
Beginning Farmers and Ranchers can be found in the EQIP Final Rule, 
Federal Register, Vol. 68, No.104, Section 1466.3, Definitions. For the 
FY 2008 grant award process, up to 10 percent of the total funds 
available for CIG may be set-aside for applications from Beginning and 
Limited Resource Farmers and Ranchers, Indian Tribes, or community-
based organizations comprised of or representing these entities. To 
compete for these set-aside funds, the applicant must make a 
declaration in the application as described in Part IV B.5. of this 
notice. Applications that are unsuccessful in the set-aside competition 
will be placed automatically in the general application pool for 
consideration. Funds not used in the set-aside pool will revert back 
into the general funding pool.
    In addition, an exception regarding matching funds is made for 
projects funded out of the set-aside. Up to three fourths of the 
required matching funds for such projects (up to 37.5 percent of the 
total project cost) may derive from in-kind contributions. This 
exception is intended to help Beginning and Limited Resource Farmers or 
Ranchers and Indian Tribes meet the statutory requirements for 
receiving a Conservation Innovation Grant.

C. EQIP Payment Limitation and Duplicate Payments

    Section 1240G of the Food Security Act of 1985 (as amended by the 
Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002), 16 U.S.C. 3839aa-7, 
imposes a $450,000 limitation for all cost-share or incentive payments 
disbursed to individuals or entities under an EQIP contract between 
2002 and 2008. The limitation applies to CIG in the following manner:
    a. CIG funds are awarded through grant agreements; these grant 
agreements are not EQIP contracts. Thus, CIG awards in and of 
themselves are not limited by the payment limitation.
    b. Direct or indirect payments made to an individual or entity 
using funds from a CIG award to carry out structural, vegetative, or 
management practices count toward each individual's or entity's EQIP 
payment limitation. Through project progress reports, CIG grantees are 
responsible for certifying that producers involved in CIG projects do 
not exceed the payment limitation. Further, all direct and indirect 
payments made to producers using CIG funds must be reported to the NRCS 
CIG program manager in the semi-annual report. Direct or indirect 
payments can not be made for a practice for which the producer has 
already received funds, or is contracted to receive funds, through any 
of the USDA Programs (EQIP, AMA, CSP, WHIP, etc.) since this would be 
considered a duplicate payment.
Payment Limitation Examples
    Following are two examples of how the $450,000 EQIP payment 
limitation applies to CIG projects:
    a. A $500,000 CIG grant is awarded to a State environmental agency 
to demonstrate an innovative, market-based, water quality trading 
program. The money is used to finance the development of a market 
infrastructure, and none of the funds are used to implement structural, 
vegetative, or management practices. Producers in the trading market 
demonstration area may indirectly benefit from their eventual 
participation in the market, but there is no direct or indirect 
transfer payment of CIG dollars. If, on the other hand, part of the CIG 
award were used to make payments to producers who implement 
conservation practices on their land as part of a trading program, 
those payments would count toward each producer's $450,000 EQIP payment 
limitation.
    b. A $1,000,000 CIG grant is awarded to a Conservation District to 
pilot a community-based animal waste

[[Page 71349]]

treatment technology innovation. EQIP-eligible producers in the area 
transport their animal waste to a central treatment location. Because 
producers are not directly or indirectly receiving CIG funds, the 
payment limitation does not apply. If, however, the producers were paid 
for their waste, or for transporting their waste to the central 
treatment location using CIG funds, the payments would be subject to 
each producer's EQIP payment limitation.

D. Project Eligibility

    All agricultural producers receiving direct or indirect payments 
through participation in a CIG project must meet the EQIP eligibility 
requirements as set forth in 16 U.S.C. 3839aa-1. Refer to https://
www.nrcs.usda.gov/programs/eqip/ for more information on EQIP 
eligibility requirements. Participating producers are not required to 
have an EQIP contract.
    A person or entity is not eligible if the three-year average 
adjusted gross income (AGI) exceeds $2.5 million with less than 75 
percent derived from farming, ranching, or forestry-related sources at 
the time of application.
    A person who is determined ineligible for USDA program benefits 
under the Highly Erodible Land Compliance (HELC) and Wetland Compliance 
(WC) provisions of the Food Security Act of 1985 will not be eligible 
to receive direct or indirect payments through CIG.
    Technologies and approaches that are eligible for funding in a 
project's geographic area through EQIP are ineligible for CIG funding 
except where the use of those technologies and approaches demonstrates 
clear innovation. The burden falls on the applicant to sufficiently 
describe the innovative features of the proposed technology or approach 
(applicants should reference the appropriate State's EQIP Eligible 
Practices List by contacting the NRCS State office, or by visiting the 
EQIP Web site: https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/programs/eqip/EQIP_signup/
2008_EQIP_Signup/.
    The grantee is responsible for providing the technical assistance 
required to successfully implement and complete the project. NRCS will 
designate a Program Contact, an Administrative Contact, and a Technical 
Contact to provide oversight for each project receiving an award.

IV. Application and Submission Information

A. How To Obtain Application Materials

    All OMB standard forms necessary for CIG submission are posted on 
the following Web site: https://www.grants.gov/agencies/aapproved_
standard_forms.jsp. An application checklist is available on the CIG 
Web site: https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/programs/cig.

B. Application Content and Format

    Applications must contain the information set forth below in order 
to receive consideration for a grant. Applicants should not assume 
prior knowledge on the part of NRCS or others as to the relative merits 
of the project described in the application. Submit applications in the 
following format:
    Applications should be typewritten or printed on 8\1/2\'' x 11'' 
white paper, double spaced. The text of the application should be in a 
font no smaller than 12-point, with one-inch margins. If submitting 
applications for more than one project, submit a separate, complete 
application package for each project.
    Applications must include all required forms and narrative sections 
described below. Incomplete applications will not be considered.
    1. Cover Sheet: Applicants must use Standard Form 424 as the cover 
sheet for each project application. Standard Form 424 can be downloaded 
from https://www.grants.gov/agencies/aapproved_standard_forms.jsp or 
obtained from a NRCS State Office. (A list of NRCS State Offices is 
provided at the end of this announcement.)
    2. Project Summary Sheet: Applicants must submit a Project Summary 
Sheet (no more than 2 pages in length) that includes the listed 
information. A template for the Project Summary Sheet is available on 
the NRCS CIG Web site: https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/programs/cig.
    a. Project Title.
    b. Project Director name and contact information (including e-
mail).
    c. Names and affiliations of project collaborators.
    d. Project Purpose.
    e. Project Deliverables/Products.
    f. Project Scope/Area.
    g. Project Start and End Dates (Projects should plan to begin no 
earlier than September 1, 2008 and no later than September 30, 2008).
    h. CIG National Component Category (Natural Resource or 
Technology).
    i. Application Review Category (water quality-livestock, water 
quality-non livestock, water quantity, soils, atmospheric, grazing land 
and forest health, wildlife habitat, or energy).
    j. Declaration of EQIP eligibility.
    k. Brief summary of project.
    3. Project Description: Each project must be completely and 
accurately described in no more than 10 double-spaced pages. The 
description must include the following information:
    a. Project background: Describe the history of, and need for, the 
proposed innovation. Provide evidence that the proposed innovation has 
been studied sufficiently to indicate a good probability for success of 
the project;
    b. Project objectives: Be specific, using qualitative and 
quantitative measures, if possible, to describe the project's purpose 
and goals. Describe how, based on the description of innovative 
conservation projects and activities provided in section I.C., the 
project is innovative;
    c. Project methods: Describe clearly the methodology of the project 
and the tools or processes that will be used to implement the project;
    d. Location and size of project or project area: Describe the 
location of the project and the relative size and scope (e.g., acres, 
farm types and demographics, etc.) of the project area. Provide a map, 
if possible;
    e. Producer participation: Estimate the number of producers 
involved in the project, and describe the extent of their involvement 
(all producers involved in the project must be eligible for EQIP);
    f. Project action plan and timeline: Provide a table listing 
project actions, timeframes, and associated milestones through project 
completion;
    g. Project management: Give a detailed description of how the 
project will be organized and managed. Include a list of key project 
personnel, their relevant education or experience, and their 
anticipated contributions to the project. Explain the level of 
participation required in the project by government and non-government 
entities. Identify who will participate in monitoring and evaluating 
the project;
    h. Benefits or results expected and transferability: Identify the 
results and benefits to be derived from the proposed project 
activities, and explain how the results will be measured. Identify 
project beneficiaries--for example, agricultural producers by type or 
region or sector; rural communities; municipalities. Explain how these 
entities will benefit. In addition, describe how results will be 
communicated to others via outreach activities;
    i. Project evaluation: Describe the methodology or procedures to be 
followed to evaluate the project, determine technical feasibility, and 
quantify the results of the project for the final report. (Grant 
recipients will be required to provide a semi-annual report of 
progress, quarterly financial reports, and a final project report to 
NRCS.

[[Page 71350]]

Instructions for submitting quarterly reports will be detailed in the 
grant agreement.); and
    j. Environmental impacts: Describe the anticipated environmental 
effects of the proposed project. This description will be used to 
determine whether an Environmental Assessment (EA) or Environmental 
Impact Statement (EIS) is needed for any given project, prior to the 
awarding of grant funds. The applicant is responsible for the cost of 
an EA or EIS, should one be required.
    4. Budget Information: Must use Standard Form (SF) 424 A Budget 
Information Non-Construction Programs to document budget needs. SF 424 
A is available at https://www.grants.gov/agencies/aapproved_standard_
forms.jsp or can be obtained from a NRCS State Office. In addition to 
the SF424 A, all applicants must provide a detailed narrative in 
support of the budget for the project, broken down by each project 
year. Itemize the costs necessary for successful completion of the 
proposed project. Indicate the total amount (both cash and in-kind) of 
non-Federal matching support that will be provided to the proposed 
project. Identify and provide documentation of the source(s), the 
amount, and the nature (cash or in-kind) of the matching funds. If 
claiming indirect costs, an applicant must provide justification for 
the rate of indirect costs being claimed. Indirect costs can not exceed 
15 percent. In-kind costs of equipment or project personnel cannot 
exceed 50 percent of the applicant's match (except in the case of 
projects carried out by either a Beginning or Limited Resource Farmer 
or Rancher, or Indian Tribe, or a community-based organization 
comprised of or representing these entities). The remainder of the 
match must be provided in cash.
    5. Declaration of Beginning Farmer or Rancher or Limited Resource 
Farmer or Rancher, or Indian Tribe: If an applicant wishes to compete 
in the 10 percent set-aside funding pool (see Part III B. that 
describes the provision of a set-aside pool of funding for Beginning 
and Limited Resource Farmers or Ranchers, and Indian Tribes) and avail 
themselves of the in-kind contribution exception, applicants must make 
a declaration in writing of their status as a Beginning Farmer or 
Rancher or Limited Resource Farmer or Rancher, or Indian Tribe, or a 
community-based organization comprised of or representing these 
entities.
    6. Declaration of EQIP Eligibility: Applicants must make a 
declaration in writing that they, or parties involved in the project, 
are eligible for EQIP.
    7. State Conservationist Letter of Review: Applicants must send a 
copy of cover letter showing that the application was sent to the 
appropriate State Conservationist(s) for review. If a project is multi-
state in scope, all states in the project area must be sent the 
application for review. The State Conservationist(s) will review the 
application for potential duplication of efforts, ethics concerns, 
consistency with overall EQIP objectives, and the expected benefits to 
EQIP implementation in their state(s). Applicants must send their 
application (at least the Project Description (Item 3) and the Budget 
Information (Item 4)) to the appropriate State Conservationist(s) 
postmarked, or dated if electronic, no later than February 15, 2008. 
State Conservationist(s) must submit letters to NRCS National 
Headquarters by March 7, 2008. A list of NRCS State Office addresses 
and phone numbers is included at the end of this notice. Applicants are 
encouraged to consult with the appropriate State Conservationist(s) 
during application development to discuss the letter of review.
    8. Certifications: All applications must include a signed Standard 
Form (SF) 424 B--Assurances, Non-construction Programs. SF 424 B may be 
found at: www.grants.gov/agencies/aapproved_standard_forms.jsp or 
contact a NRCS State Office. Applicants, by signing and submitting an 
application, assure and certify that they are in compliance with the 
following from 7 Code of Federal Register (CFR):
    a. Part 3017, Government wide Debarment and Suspension (Non-
procurement) https://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_04/7cfr3o17_
04.html
    b. Part 3018, New Restrictions on Lobbying https://
www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_04/7cfr3018_04.html; and
    c. Part 3021, Government wide Requirements for Drug-Free Workplace 
(Financial Assistance) https://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_04/
7cfr3021_04.html.
    9. DUNS Number: A Dun and Bradstreet (D&B) Data Universal Numbering 
System (DUNS) number is a unique nine-digit sequence recognized as the 
universal standard for identifying and keeping track of over 70 million 
businesses worldwide. A Federal Register notice of final policy 
issuance (68 FR 38402) requires a DUNS number in every application 
(i.e., hard copy and electronic) for a grant or cooperative agreement 
(except applications from individuals) submitted on or after October 1, 
2003. For information about how to obtain a DUNS number go to https://
www.grants.gov/RequestaDUNS or call 1-866-705-5711. Please note that 
the registration may take up to 14 business days to complete.
    10. Required CCR Registration: The Central Contractor Registry 
(CCR) is a database that serves as the primary Government repository 
for contractor information required for the conduct of business with 
the Government. This database will also be used as a central location 
for maintaining organizational information for organizations seeking 
and receiving grants from the Government. CIG applicants must register 
with the CCR. To register, visit https://www.ccr.gov. Allow a minimum of 
5 days to complete the CCR registration.

C. How To Submit a Written Application

    Applicants must submit one signed original copy of each project 
application. Hard copies must be accompanied by an electronic copy on a 
3\1/2\-inch diskette or compact disc (CD). Electronic files must be 
either Microsoft Word or Adobe Acrobat (pdf) files.
    Applications submitted via facsimile or e-mail will not be 
accepted.
    The address for hand-delivered applications or applications 
submitted using express mail or overnight courier service is: USDA 
Natural Resources Conservation Service, Conservation Innovation Grants 
Program, Financial Assistance Programs Division, Room 5239-S, 1400 
Independence Ave, SW., Washington, DC 20250.
    Contact phone numbers for hand-delivered applications (needed to 
enter the USDA South Building) are (202) 720-1845, (202) 720-2335, or 
(202) 205-1165.
    The address for applications sent regular mail is: USDA Natural 
Resources Conservation Service, Conservation Innovation Grants Program, 
Financial Assistance Programs Division, Room 5239-S, Post Office Box 
2890, Washington, DC 20013-2890.

D. How To Submit an Application Electronically

    Applicants may submit applications electronically through 
Grants.gov, the Federal government's e-grants portal. Applications 
submitted through Grants.gov must contain all of the elements of a 
complete application outlined above. Instructions for electronically 
submitting the required standard forms, abstract, narrative, and 
declarations are posted on Grants.gov. The cover letter requesting the 
State Conservationist letter of review may be scanned as an attachment 
to the

[[Page 71351]]

application. Instructions for adding attachments are available on 
Grants.gov. Applications submitted electronically are date and time 
stamped by Grants.gov and must be received by the identified closing 
date. Note that NRCS is not responsible for any technical malfunctions 
or Web site problems related to Grants.gov submissions. Applicants 
should begin the Grants.gov process well before the submission deadline 
to avoid problems.

E. Application Due Date

    Complete applications must be received in Room 5239-S at NRCS 
National Headquarters by 5 p.m. EST on February 20, 2008. A postmark 
date is NOT a factor in whether an application is received on time. The 
applicant assumes the risk of any delays in application delivery. 
Applicants are strongly encouraged to submit completed applications via 
overnight mail or delivery service to insure timely receipt by NRCS.

F. Acknowledgement of Submission

    Applications received by the due date will be acknowledged with an 
official letter. If an applicant has not received an acknowledgement 
within 30 days of the submission, they must contact the NRCS 
programmatic contact (See Part VII). Failure to do so may result in the 
application not being considered for funding by the peer review panel.

G. Funding Restrictions

    Awardees may not use un-recovered indirect costs as part of their 
matching funds.
    CIG funds may not be used to pay any of the following costs unless 
otherwise permitted by law, or approved in writing by the Authorized 
Departmental Officer in advance of incurring such costs:
    a. Costs above the amount of funds authorized for the project;
    b. Costs incurred prior to the effective date of the grant;
    c. Costs which lie outside the scope of the approved project and 
any amendments thereto;
    d. Entertainment costs, regardless of their apparent relationship 
to project objectives;
    e. Compensation for injuries to persons, or damage to property 
arising out of project activities;
    f. Consulting services performed by a Federal employee during 
official duty hours when such consulting services result in the payment 
of additional compensation to the employee; and,
    g. Renovation or refurbishment of research or related spaces; the 
purchase or installation of fixed equipment in such spaces; and the 
planning, repair, rehabilitation, acquisition, or construction of 
buildings or facilities.
    This list is not exhaustive. Questions regarding the allowances of 
particular items of cost should be directed to the administrative 
contact person listed below.

H. Patents and Inventions

    Allocation of rights to patents and inventions shall be in 
accordance with USDA regulation 7 CFR 3019.36. This regulation provides 
that small businesses normally may retain the principal worldwide 
patent rights to any invention developed with USDA support. In 
accordance with 7 CFR 3019.2, this provision will also apply to 
commercial organizations for the purposes of CIG. USDA receives a 
royalty-free license for Federal Government use, reserves the right to 
require the patentee to license others in certain circumstances, and 
requires that anyone exclusively licensed to sell the invention in the 
United States must normally manufacture it domestically.

I. Withdrawal of Applications

    Applications may be withdrawn by written notice at any time before 
an award is made. Applications may be withdrawn in person by the 
applicant, or by an authorized representative thereof, if the 
representative's identity is made known and the representative signs a 
receipt for the application.

V. Application Review

A. Application Review and Selection Process

    Prior to technical review, each application will be screened for 
completeness and compliance with the provisions of this notice. 
Incomplete applications and those that do not meet the provisions of 
this notice will be eliminated from competition, and notification of 
elimination will be mailed to the applicant.
    Applications meeting the provisions of this notice will be scored 
by a Peer Review Panel. The applications will be divided among the peer 
review groups, based on the area selected by the applicant. The eight 
review areas for FY 2008 applications are: Water Quality-Livestock; 
Water Quality-Not Livestock; Water Quantity; Soils; Atmospheric; 
Grazing Land and Forest Health; Wildlife Habitat; and Energy. 
Applications will be scored based on the Criteria for Application 
Evaluation below. Scored applications will be forwarded to a Grants 
Review Board, which will certify the rankings from the peer review 
panels, and ensure that the application evaluations are consistent with 
program objectives. The CIG Grants Review Board consists of five 
members of NRCS leadership, specifically the Deputy Chief for Soil 
Survey and Resource Assessment, the Deputy Chief for Science and 
Technology, the Deputy Chief for Programs, one Regional Assistant 
Chief, and one State Conservationist. The Grants Review Board will make 
recommendations to the Chief for final selection and funding decisions.

B. Criteria for Application Evaluation

    Peer review panels will use the following criteria to evaluate 
project applications. Each of the four criterions carries an equal 
weight of 25 percent.
    1. Purpose and goals:
    a. The purpose and goals of the project are clearly stated;
    b. The project adheres to the natural resource conservation 
concerns for FY 2008 stated in this notice; and,
    c. There is clear and significant potential for a positive and 
measurable outcome.
    2. Soundness of approach or design:
    a. The project adheres to the description of innovative projects or 
activities found in Part IC. of this notice;
    b. Technical design and implementation strategy is based on sound 
science;
    c. There is a good likelihood of project success;
    d. The project substantively involves EQIP eligible producers; and,
    e. The project promotes environmental enhancement and protection in 
conjunction with agricultural production.
    3. Project management:
    a. The application has clear milestones and timelines, designated 
staff, and demonstrates collaboration;
    b. The project staff has the technical expertise needed to do the 
work; and
    c. The budget is reasonable and adequately justified.
    4. Transferability:
    a. There is great potential to transfer the approach or technology 
to others and/or to other geographical areas; and,
    b. The project will result in the development of technical or 
related materials (e.g., technical standards, technical notes, manuals, 
handbooks, software) that will help foster adoption of the innovative 
technology or approach by other producers, and in other geographic 
areas.

C. Anticipated Announcement and Award Dates

    CIG Awards are anticipated to be announced by June 1, 2008. Funds 
are not awarded, and work may not start,

[[Page 71352]]

until an agreement is signed by both NRCS and the grantee. All 
agreements are expected to be awarded by August 15, 2008.

VI. Award Information and Administration

A. Award Notification

    Applicants who have been selected will receive a letter of official 
notification from NRCS National Headquarters. This notice will indicate 
the need to work with the administrative contact to develop an 
agreement prior to starting work on the project. Applicants who are not 
selected will be notified by official letter.

B. Grant Agreement

    The CCC, through NRCS, will use a grant agreement with selected 
applicants to document participation in the CIG component of EQIP. The 
grant agreement will include:
     Project purpose;
     Project objectives and deliverables;
     The final project plan listing cooperators in the project, 
and identifying the grant applicant and the project manager;
     The project timelines and expected project completion 
date;
     The project progress and budget reporting requirements;
     Award amount and budget information;
     Information regarding requests for advance of funds or 
reimbursement;
     The role of NRCS technical oversight in the project;
     Reporting requirements including attendance at CIG grantee 
biannual meeting;
     Changes in project plans; and
     Other requirements and terms deemed necessary by the CCC 
to protect the interests of the United States.

C. Reporting Requirements

    Grantees receiving an advance of Federal funds of more than $25,000 
are required to submit a SF-272 (Report of Federal Cash Transactions), 
and when necessary, the continuation sheet, SF-272-A, no later than 15 
days following the end of each quarter or 90 days after project 
completion. These reports are used to monitor cash advanced to 
recipients and to obtain disbursement and outlay information for each 
award.
    Grantees must submit a Financial Status Report (SF-269) no later 
than 30 days after the end of each quarter and 90 days after completion 
of project. The SF-272 and SF-269 are available at: https://
www.nrcs.usda.gov/programs/cig/InfoForGrantees.html.
    In addition, every six months the grantee must submit a written 
performance progress report to the NRCS program contact and the NRCS 
technical contact. This report is distinct from the quarterly financial 
report described above. Each progress report shall cover work performed 
during the previous 6-month period, including any funded or unfunded 
time extensions, a comparison of actual accomplishments to project 
goals, and a statement of work projected to be completed in the next 6-
month period.
    The grantee is responsible for providing the technical assistance 
required to successfully implement and complete the project. NRCS will 
designate a Program Contact, an Administrative Contact, and a Technical 
Contact to provide oversight for each project receiving an award.
    To satisfy the requirements of EQIP (7 CFR part 1466) compliance 
measures, the grantee is required to submit as a component of the semi-
annual progress report:
    1. A list of producers, identified by name and social security 
number, of all EQIP-eligible producers or entities involved in the 
project.
    2. The dollar amount of direct and indirect payment made to each 
individual producer or entity for any structural, vegetative, or 
management practices. Both quarterly and cumulative payment amounts 
must be submitted.
    3. A self-certification indicating that each individual or entity 
receiving a direct or indirect payment through this grant is in 
compliance with the EQIP Payment Limitation, AGI, HEL, and Wetlands 
Conservation Compliance Farm Bill provisions.
    A progress report template will be provided to grantees by the NRCS 
program contact. This template is also available on the NRCS CIG Web 
site at: https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/programs/cig/InfoForGrantees.html.
    NRCS will designate a Program Contact and a Technical Contact for 
the project. These individuals will have technical oversight 
responsibility for the project. The grantee must send copies of each 
semi-annual progress report to these NRCS contacts, and comply with any 
requests for information from these individuals. NRCS recommends that 
the grantee work closely with these subject matter experts throughout 
the course of the project.
    Upon passage of the completion date of the project, a final report 
must be submitted within 90 days detailing project activities, funding 
received, funding expended, results, and potential for transferability 
of results. The final report should address completion of the project 
deliverables listed in the grant agreement.
    NRCS will host an annual meeting for CIG grantees and NRCS 
technical contacts. Grantees will be required to attend at least one of 
these sessions at their own expense.

VII. Agency Contacts

    CIG Program Contact: Tessa Chadwick, CIG National Program Manager, 
1400 Independence Ave, SW., Room 5237-S, Washington, DC 20250. Phone: 
(202) 720-2335, Fax: (202) 720-4265, e-mail: 
tessa.chadwick@wdc.usda.gov.
    CIG Administrative Contact: Karen Minor, Grants and Agreements Team 
Leader, 1400 Independence Ave, SW., Room 5222-S, Washington, DC 20250. 
Phone: (202) 720-2604 or (202) 720-4102, Fax: (202) 720-2262, e-mail: 
karen.minor@wdc.usda.gov.
    Additional information about CIG, including fact sheets and 
frequently asked questions (FAQs), is available on the CIG Web page: 
https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/programs/cig.

    Signed in Washington, DC on December 10, 2007.
Arlen L. Lancaster,
Vice President, Commodity Credit Corporation, Chief, Natural Resources 
Conservation Service.

VIII. Other Information

APPLICATIONS MISSING ANY OF THESE REQUIRED ITEMS WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED

Fiscal Year 2008 Application Package Checklist

    [ballot] 1. Application Cover Sheet: Complete Standard Form 424 
(SF-424).
    [ballot] 2. Project Summary Sheet: (2 page maximum; template 
available))
    a. Project Title;
    b. Project Director name and contact information (including e-
mail);
    c. Names and affiliations of project collaborators;
    d. Project Purpose;
    e. Project Deliverables/Products;
    f. Project Scope/Area;
    g. Project Start and End Dates (Projects should plan to begin no 
earlier than September 1, 2008 and no later than September 30, 2008);
    h. CIG National Component Category (Natural Resource or 
Technology);
    i. Application Review Category (water quality-livestock, water 
quality-non livestock, water quantity, soils, atmospheric, grazing land 
and forest health, wildlife, or energy);
    j. EQIP Eligibility Declaration;
    k. Brief summary of project.
    [ballot] 3. Project Description: (10 pages maximum, double spaced, 
12 point font)

[[Page 71353]]

    a. Project background;
    b. Project objectives;
    c. Project methods;
    d. Location and size of project area (include a map if possible);
    e. Producer participation;
    f. Project action plan and timeline;
    g. Project management;
    h. Benefits or results expected and transferability;
    i. Project evaluation; and
    j. Environmental impacts.
    [ballot] 4. Budget Information: Submit a completed SF-424A, a 
DETAILED budget narrative, and DOCUMENTATION showing matching funds 
available.
    [ballot] 5. Declaration of Beginning Farmer or Rancher, Limited 
Resource Farmer or Rancher, or Indian Tribe (Special Provisions): If 
applicable, include a statement declaring your status as a Beginning 
Farmer or Rancher, Limited Resource Farmer or Rancher, Indian Tribe, or 
Community-based Organization representing these entities.
    [ballot] 6. Declaration of EQIP Eligibility: Include a statement 
indicating that all producers receiving direct or indirect payments 
will be eligible for EQIP participation.
    [ballot] 7. Documentation that application was sent to all 
appropriate State Conservationist(s) requesting a letter of review.
    [ballot] 8. Certifications: Complete Standard Form 424b (SF-424b).
    [ballot] 9. DUNS Number: For information about how to obtain a DUNS 
number go to https://www.grants.gov/RequestaDUNS or call 1-866-705-5711. 
Please note that the registration may take up to 14 business days to 
complete.
    [ballot] 10. Required CCR Registration: Visit www.ccr.gov to 
register.

Natural Resources Conservation Service State Conservationists and State 
Offices

Alabama: Gary Kobylski, 3381 Skyway Drive, Post Office Box 311, Auburn, 
AL 36830; phone: (334) 887-4500; fax: (334) 887-4552; 
gary.kobylski@al.usda.gov
Alaska: Robert Jones, Atrium Building, Suite 100, 800 West Evergreen, 
Palmer, AK 99645-6539; phone: (907) 761-7760; fax: (907) 761-7790; 
robert.jones@ak.usda.gov
Arizona: David McKay, Suite 800, 3003 North Central Avenue, Phoenix, AZ 
85012-2945; phone: (602) 280-8808; fax: (602) 280-8809 or 8805; 
david.mckay@az.usda.gov
Arkansas: Kalven L. Trice, Federal Building, Room 3416, 700 West 
Capitol Avenue, Little Rock, AR 72201-3228; phone: (501) 301-3100; fax: 
(501) 301-3194; kalven.trice@ar.usda.gov
California: Ed Burton, Suite 4164, 430 G Street, Davis, CA 95616-4164; 
phone: (530) 792-5600; fax: (530) 792-5790; ed.burton@ca.usda.gov
Caribbean Area: Juan A. Martinez, Director, IBM Building, Suite 604, 
654 Munoz Rivera Avenue, Hato Rey, PR 00918-4123; phone: (787) 766-
5206; fax: (787) 766-6563; juan.martinez@pr.usda.gov
Colorado: James Allen Green, Room E200C, 655 Parfet Street, Lakewood, 
CO 80215-5521; phone: (720) 544-2810; fax: (720) 544-2965; 
allen.green@co.usda.gov
Connecticut: Margo L. Wallace, 344 Merrow Road, Tolland, CT 06084; 
phone: (860) 871-4011; fax: (860) 871-4054; margo.wallace@ct.usda.gov
Delaware: Russell Morgan, Suite 101, 1203 College Park Drive, Dover, DE 
19904-8713; phone: (302) 678-4160; fax: (302) 678-0843; 
russell.morgan@de.usda.gov
Florida: T. Niles Glasgow, 2614 N.W. 43rd Street, Gainesville, FL 
32606-6611, or Post Office Box 141510, Gainesville, FL 32614; phone: 
(352) 338-9500; fax: (352) 338-9574; niles.glasgow@fl.usda.gov
Georgia: James Tillman, Federal Building, Stop 200, 355 East Hancock 
Avenue, Athens, GA 30601-2769; phone: (706) 546-2272; fax: (706) 546-
2120; james.tillman@ga.usda.gov
Hawaii: Lawrence T. Yamamoto, Room 4-118, 300 Ala Moana Boulevard, 
Honolulu, HI 96850-0002; phone: (808) 541-2600, ext. 100; fax: (808) 
541-1335; larry.yamamoto@hi.usda.gov
Idaho: Richard W. Sims, Suite C, 9173 West Barnes Drive, Boise, ID 
83709; phone: (208) 378-5700; fax: (208) 378-5735; 
richard.sims@id.usda.gov
Illinois: William J. Gradle, 2118 W. Park Court, Champaign, IL 61821; 
phone: (217) 353-6600; fax: (217) 353-6676; bill.gradle@il.usda.gov
Indiana: Jane E. Hardisty, 6013 Lakeside Boulevard, Indianapolis, IN 
46278-2933; phone: (317) 290-3200; fax: (317) 290-3225; 
jane.hardisty@in.usda.gov
Iowa: Richard Van Klaveren, 693 Federal Building, Suite 693, 210 Walnut 
Street, Des Moines, IA 50309-2180; phone: (515) 284-6655; fax: (515) 
284-4394; rick.vanklaveren@ia.usda.gov
Kansas: Harold Klaege, 760 South Broadway, Salina, KS 67401-4642; 
phone: (785) 823-4565; fax: (785) 823-4540; harold.klaege@ks.usda.gov
Kentucky: Michael Hubbs, Suite 110, 771 Corporate Drive, Lexington, KY 
40503-5479; phone: (859) 224-7350; fax: (859) 224-7399; 
mike.hubbs@ky.usda.gov
Louisiana: Kevin Norton, 3737 Government Street, Alexandria, LA 71302; 
phone: (318) 473-7751; fax: (318) 473-7626; kevin.norton@la.usda.gov
Maine: Joyce Swartzendruber, Suite 3, 967 Illinois Avenue, Bangor, ME 
04401; phone: (207) 990-9100, ext. 3; fax: (207) 990-9599; 
joyce.swartzendruber@me.usda.gov
Maryland: Jon Hall, John Hanson Business Center, Suite 301, 339 Busch's 
Frontage Road, Annapolis, MD 21401-5534; phone: (410) 757-0861 ext. 
315; fax: (410) 757-0687; jon.hall@md.usda.gov
Massachusetts: Christine Clarke, 451 West Street, Amherst, MA 01002-
2995; phone: (413) 253-4351; fax: (413) 253-4375; 
christine.clarke@ma.usda.gov.
Michigan: Garry Lee, Suite 250, 3001 Coolidge Road, East Lansing, MI 
48823-6350; phone: (517) 324-5270; fax: (517) 324-5171; 
garry.lee@mi.usda.gov.
Minnesota: William Hunt, Suite 600, 375 Jackson Street, St. Paul, MN 
55101-1854; phone: (651) 602-7900; fax: (651) 602-7913 or 7914; 
william.hunt@mn.usda.gov.
Mississippi: Homer L. Wilkes, Suite 1321, Federal Building, 100 West 
Capitol Street, Jackson, MS 39269-1399; phone: (601) 965-5205; fax: 
(601) 965-4940; homer.wilkes@ms.nrcs.usda.gov.
Missouri: Roger A. Hansen, Parkade Center, Suite 250, 601 Business Loop 
70, West Columbia, MO 65203-2546; phone: (573) 876-0901; fax: (573) 
876-0913; roger.hansen@mo.usda.gov.
Montana: Jeff Burwell, acting, Federal Building, Room 443, 10 East 
Babcock Street, Bozeman, MT 59715-4704; phone: (406) 587-6811; fax: 
(406) 587-6761, jeff.burwell@co.usda.gov.
Nebraska: Stephen K. Chick, Federal Building, Room 152, 100 Centennial 
Mall, North Lincoln, NE 68508-3866; phone: (402) 437-5300; fax: (402) 
437-5327; steve.chick@ne.usda.gov.
Nevada: Richard Vigil, 1365 Corporate Blvd. Building F, Suite 201, 5301 
Longley Lane, Reno, NV 89511-180589502; phone: (775) 784-5863857-8500; 
fax: (775) 784-5939857-8524; richard.vigil@nv.usda.gov.
New Hampshire: George W. Cleek, Federal Building, 2 Madbury Road, 
Durham, NH 03824-2043; phone: (603) 868-7581, ext. 125; fax: (603) 868-
5301; george.cleek@nh.usda.gov.
New Jersey: Thomas Drewes, 220 Davidson Avenue, 4th Floor, Somerset, NJ 
08873-3157; phone:

[[Page 71354]]

(732) 537-6040; fax: (732) 537-6095; thomas.drewes@nj.usda.gov.
New Mexico: Dennis Alexander, Suite 305, 6200 Jefferson Street, NE., 
Albuquerque, NM 87109-3734; phone: (505) 761-4400; fax: (505) 761-4481; 
dennis.alexander@nm.usda.gov.
New York: Ron Alvarado, Suite 354, 441 South Salina Street, Syracuse, 
NY 13202-2450; phone: (315) 477-6504; fax: (315) 477-6550; 
ron.alvarado@ny.usda.gov.
North Carolina: Mary K. Combs, Suite 205, 4405 Bland Road, Raleigh, NC 
27609-6293; phone: (919) 873-2102; fax: (919) 873-2156; 
mary.combs@nc.usda.gov.
North Dakota: J.R. Flores, Jr., Room 278, 220 E. Rosser Avenue, Post 
Office Box 1458, Bismarck, ND 58502-1458; phone: (701) 530-2000; fax: 
(701) 530-2110; jr.flores@nd.usda.gov.
Ohio: Terry Cosby, Room 522, 200 North High Street, Columbus, OH 43215-
2478; phone: (614) 255-2500; fax: (614) 255-2548; 
terry.cosby@oh.usda.gov.
Oklahoma: Ronald L. Hilliard, USDA Agri-Center Building, Suite 206, 100 
USDA, Stillwater, Oklahoma 74074-2655; phone: (405) 742-1204; fax: 
(405) 742-1126; ron.hilliard@ok.usda.gov.
Oregon: Robert Graham, 1201 NE Lloyd Blvd., Suite 900, Portland, OR 
97232; phone: (503) 414-3200; fax: (503) 414-3103; 
bob.graham@or.usda.gov.
Pacific Basin: Larry Yamamoto, Director, FHB Building, Suite 301, 400 
Route 8, Mongmong, GU 96910; phone: (671) 472-7490; fax: (671) 472-
7288; larry.yamamoto@pb.usda.gov.
Pennsylvania: Craig Derickson, Suite 340, 1 Credit Union Place, 
Harrisburg, PA 17110-2993; phone: (717) 237-2200; fax: (717) 237-2238; 
craig.derickson@pa.usda.gov.
Rhode Island: Roylene Rides at the Door, Suite 46, 60 Quaker Lane, 
Warwick, RI 02886-0111; phone: (401) 828-1300; fax: (401) 828-0433; 
roylene.rides-at-the-door@ri.usda.gov.
South Carolina: Walter W. Douglas, Strom Thurmond Federal Building, 
Room 950, 1835 Assembly Street, Columbia, SC 29201-2489; phone: (803) 
253-3935; fax: (803) 253-3670; walt.douglas@sc.usda.gov.
South Dakota: Janet L. Oertly, Federal Building, Room 203, 200 Fourth 
Street, SW., Huron, SD 57350-2475; phone: (605) 352-1200; fax: (605) 
352-1288; janet.oertly@sd.usda.gov.
Tennessee: J. Kevin Brown, 675 U.S. Courthouse, 801 Broadway, 
Nashville, TN 37203-3878; phone: (615) 277-2531; fax: (615) 277-2578; 
kevin.brown@tn.usda.gov.
Texas: Donald W. Gohmert, W.R. Poage Federal Building, 101 South Main 
Street, Temple, TX 76501-7602; phone: (254) 742-9800; fax: (254) 742-
9819; don.gohmert@tx.usda.gov.
Utah: Sylvia Gillen, W.F. Bennett Federal Building, Room 4402, 125 
South State Street, Salt Lake City, UT 84111 or Post Office Box 11350, 
Salt Lake City, UT 84147-0350, phone: (801) 524-4550, fax: (801) 524-
4403; sylvia.gillen@ut.usda.gov.
Vermont: Judith Doerner, Suite 105, 356 Mountain View Drive, 
Colchester, VT 05446; phone: (802) 951-6795; fax: (802) 951-6327; 
judy.doerner@vt.usda.gov.
Virginia: Jack Bricker, Culpeper Building, Suite 209, 1606 Santa Rosa 
Road, Richmond, VA 23229-5014; phone: (804) 287-1691; fax: (804) 287-
1737; jack.bricker@va.usda.gov.
Washington: Raymond L. ``Gus'' Hughbanks, Rock Pointe Tower II, Suite 
450, W. 316 Boone Avenue, Spokane, WA 99201-2348; phone: (509) 323-
2900; fax: (509) 323-2909; raymond.hughbanks@wa.usda.gov.
West Virginia: Kevin Wickey, Room 301, 75 High Street, Morgantown, WV 
26505; phone: (304) 284-7540; fax: (304) 284-4839; 
kevin.wickey@wv.usda.gov.
Wisconsin: Patricia S. Leavenworth, 8030 Excelsior Drive, Suite 200, 
Madison, WI 53717; phone: (608) 662-4422; fax: (608) 662-4430; 
pat.leavenworth@wi.usda.gov.
Wyoming: Xavier Montoya, Federal Building, Room 3124, 100 East B 
Street, Casper, WY 82601-1911; phone: (307) 261-6453; fax: (307) 261-
6490; xavier.montoya@wy.usda.gov<