Tribal Wildlife Grants; Implementation Guidelines, 72828-72832 [E8-28341]
Download as PDF
72828
Federal Register / Vol. 73, No. 231 / Monday, December 1, 2008 / Notices
you can ask us in your comments to
withhold your personal identifying
information from public review, we
cannot guarantee that we will be able to
do so.
We will make all comments part of
the official public record. We will
handle requests for such comments in
accordance with the Freedom of
Information Act, NEPA, and Service and
Departmental policies and procedures.
DATES:
Dated: November 24, 2008.
David J. Wesley,
Acting Regional Director, Region 1, Portland,
Oregon.
[FR Doc. E8–28416 Filed 11–28–08; 8:45 am]
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
BILLING CODE 4310–55–P
DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR
Fish and Wildlife Service
[FWS-R9-EA-2008-N0243; 97000-5612-0000
FY 2008]
Tribal Wildlife Grants; Implementation
Guidelines
Fish and Wildlife Service,
Interior.
ACTION: Notice to request public
comments on the current
implementation of Tribal Wildlife
Grants Program and proposed changes
to the program.
rwilkins on PROD1PC63 with NOTICES
AGENCY:
SUMMARY: We, the Fish and Wildlife
Service, propose to change our
implementation guidelines for the
Tribal Wildlife Grants (TWG) program.
The program helps tribal agencies
maintain and enhance sustainable,
healthy populations of fish and wildlife,
as well as the habitats that support
them. The TWG program also supports
the rich Native American cultural and
spiritual heritage associated with fish
and wildlife, as well as hunting, fishing,
trapping, wildlife observation,
conservation, and conservation
education. If finalized, these proposed
changes would help the TWG program
support tribal agencies address new
challenges such as global climate
change, urban sprawl, implementing
landscape-level conservation planning,
and a society that is increasingly
disconnected from the natural
environment, while ensuring sound
administration and oversight of TWG
funds and activities in accordance with
core values and applicable laws,
policies, and regulations. We seek
public comment on our proposed
changes. Current information about the
TWG program is located at https://
www.fws.gov/nativeamerican/
grants.html.
VerDate Aug<31>2005
16:47 Nov 28, 2008
Jkt 217001
To ensure consideration, we
must receive your written comments by
March 2, 2009 at the U.S. mail or e-mail
address under ADDRESSES.
ADDRESSES: Native American Liaison,
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, 4401 N.
Fairfax Drive, MS 330, Arlington, VA
22203; TWG_COMMENT@FWS.gov (email).
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Pat
Durham, (703) 358-1728.
I. Background
In 2003, we launched two competitive
grant programs for federally recognized
Indian Tribes: the Tribal Wildlife Grants
(TWG) program and the Tribal
Landowner Incentive Program (TLIP).
To date, we have provided more than
$51 million to 167 Indian Tribes for 288
projects through TWG. Although TLIP
has not been funded in the most recent
fiscal years, TWG has become an
important and highly successful
component of our continually
expanding effort to partner with tribal
governments.
II. Implementation Guidelines: Current
Administrative Guidelines and
Proposed Changes
As the administrator of the TWG
program, the Service’s Office of the
Native American Liaison (NAL) is
seeking comments from the public on
the current implementation of the TWG
program and proposed changes to the
program. The goals of this public
dialogue are to continue to improve the
program’s effectiveness and efficiency
in the following general areas:
• Efficient and consistent
administration. We will ensure sound
administration and oversight of TWG
funds and activities in accordance with
core values and applicable laws,
policies, and regulations.
• Management of fish, wildlife, and
their habitats. The TWG program helps
tribal agencies to maintain and enhance
sustainable, healthy populations of fish
and wildlife, as well as the habitats that
support them.
• Utilization of fish, wildlife, and their
habitats. The TWG program helps tribal
agencies to support the rich Native
American cultural and spiritual heritage
associated with fish and wildlife, as
well as hunting, fishing, trapping,
wildlife observation, conservation, and
conservation education.
• New challenges and opportunities.
To address global climate change, urban
sprawl and a society that is increasingly
disconnected from the natural
environment, and to implement
landscape-level conservation planning,
PO 00000
Frm 00068
Fmt 4703
Sfmt 4703
the TWG program will support tribal
agencies in efforts to connect people
with nature, address the impacts of
climate change, and strengthen and
expand partnerships.
We are seeking comments and input
on the following five sections:
1. Current administrative guidance.
2. Proposed changes to current
administrative guidance.
3. New challenges and opportunities.
4. Proposed performance measures.
5. Additional comments.
At the beginning of each comment
you submit, please tell us the section/
subsection number(s) to which your
comment pertains.
Section 1. Current Administrative
Guidance
1.1. Who Can Apply for TWG Funding?
Federally recognized tribal
governments listed in ‘‘Indian Entities
Recognized and Eligible To Receive
Services From the United States Bureau
of Indian Affairs,’’ which the Bureau of
Indian Affairs published in the Federal
Register on April 4, 2008 (73 FR 18553),
are eligible to apply for TWG funding.
Tribal organizations and other entities
may participate as sub-grantees or
contractors to federally recognized
Tribes.
1.2. What Types of Projects May Receive
Funding?
1.2.1. Eligible projects include those
to develop and implement programs for
the benefit of tribal wildlife and their
habitat, including species of Native
American cultural or traditional
importance and species that are not
hunted or fished. Activities may
include, but are not limited to, planning
for wildlife and habitat conservation,
fish and wildlife conservation and
management actions, fish and wildlife–
related laboratory and field research,
natural history studies, habitat mapping,
field surveys and population
monitoring, habitat preservation,
conservation easements, and public
education that is relevant to the project.
1.2.2. We are interested in tribal
priorities, concerns, and approaches to
the emerging science and potential
impacts of climate change and
implementing landscape-level
conservation planning. Should climate
change impacts be considered in the
ranking criteria for proposals? If so, we
welcome suggestions on how to
consider climate change in the context
of tribal priorities.
1.2.3. TWG funds can be used for
environmental review, habitat
evaluation, permit review (e.g., Section
404 under the Clean Water Act), and
E:\FR\FM\01DEN1.SGM
01DEN1
Federal Register / Vol. 73, No. 231 / Monday, December 1, 2008 / Notices
other environmental compliance
activities, provided they are directly
related to the TWG project and are
discussed in the budget narrative/table.
Although TWG funds cannot be used to
conduct activities to comply with a
federal Biological Opinion or with a
permit (e.g., mitigation responsibilities)
for another program or project, they can
be used to implement conservation
recommendations.
1.2.4. Projects may be proposed on
lands other than those lands that are
held in tribal trust status only if an
enforceable contract with the landowner
is submitted with the proposal. The
contract must authorize permission to
the grantee to conduct the proposed
activities.
1.3. When Are Proposals Due?
Generally, the request-for-proposals
period will open the first business day
in May and close on the first business
day in September of each year.
Proposals must be received by the
appropriate Regional Office with a
postmark no later than the first business
day in September. Addresses for your
submissions are provided in Section III
(List of Native American Liaisons) of
this notice.
1.4. How Can the Fish and Wildlife
Service Help Tribes Plan and Implement
a Project?
The Service may assist Tribes in
planning or implementing projects.
Through a number of Service programs,
we offer expertise to assist Tribes in
planning and implementing projects.
For information on how the Service may
be able to assist, contact the Native
American Liaison (NAL) in the
appropriate Regional Office. Information
is also available from the Service’s
Internet site at https://www.fws.gov/
nativeamerican/. In addition, many
other Federal, State, or tribal agencies,
as well as conservation organizations,
work closely with Tribes and may be
able to assist with planning and
implementing a project.
rwilkins on PROD1PC63 with NOTICES
1.5. How Will Proposals Be Selected?
The Regional NAL will screen
proposals for eligibility and will
coordinate the regional ranking process
according to nationally uniform ranking
criteria. Top regionally ranked
proposals will be recommended to the
Service Director for funding. A national
panel will review and rank remaining
proposals and provide its
recommendations to the Service
Director. The Director will make the
final determination for grant approval.
VerDate Aug<31>2005
16:47 Nov 28, 2008
Jkt 217001
1.6. When Do Grantees Address Federal
Environmental Compliance Issues?
Addressing the requirements of the
National Environmental Policy Act, the
National Historic Preservation Act,
Clean Water Act, the Endangered
Species Act, and other applicable
authorities can be quite involved, and is
therefore not part of the TWG
application. The Regional NAL will
coordinate the applicable process after
proposals have been selected. Although
these compliance requirements may
delay the availability of funds to
awardees, proposals that are not
selected are not subjected to such
additional administrative processes.
Section 2. Proposed Changes to Current
Administrative Guidance
Section 2 proposes several changes to
the current TWG program
administrative guidance.
2.1. Limitations on Project Proposals.
Projects funded under TWG have
historically not been held to a specific
operational time period. The practice of
allowing unrestricted carryover is
helpful to some of our partner Tribes in
completing multi-year projects, because,
once projects have been selected; they
are not subject to competing for funds
after the initial year of that project for
its agreed-upon duration.
An unintended result of this practice
is that TWG funds may remain unused
for several years. Also, there is currently
no restriction on how many open grants
a partner Tribe may have. Some partner
Tribes have continued to submit new
proposals even though these Tribes
already have TWG project(s) that have
been selected for funding but not yet
initiated. In the interest of fiscal
accountability and efficient use of
federally appropriated funds, we are
proposing the following changes:
2.1.1. Limit the Number of Concurrently
Open Grants.
Restrict proposal applications in any
given grant cycle to Tribes that have no
more than one open TWG. If a Tribe has
more than one open TWG during the
request for proposals for a given fiscal
year, that tribe would be ineligible to
submit a new proposal for that same
grant cycle. This change would prevent
the practice of holding project funds for
future use while continuing to apply for
additional funds.
2.1.2. Limit the Duration of Grant
Projects.
Institute a 1–year restriction on all
grant projects from the date that all
Federal compliance measures have been
satisfied and the formal letter of
PO 00000
Frm 00069
Fmt 4703
Sfmt 4703
72829
agreement has been signed for each
grant. Extensions may be granted by the
Service when necessary to
accommodate unforeseen or
unaccounted for delays in the execution
of a grant. This change would help to
focus projects on specific
accomplishments and establish a
pattern that more closely coincides with
the Federal appropriations process.
2.1.3. Lower the Funding Cap.
Reduce the current $200,000
maximum allowable proposal request.
Currently, we receive about 120
proposals each TWG cycle, of which we
are able to select between 30 and 35
percent for funding at current
appropriation levels. A lower maximum
grant proposal of $150,000 would
increase both the number of selected
proposals and the number of Tribes
receiving TWG, and would discourage
less-efficient multi-year proposals.
2.2. Small Grants.
The Service may institute a Small
Grants segment of TWG.
2.2.1. Small Grants.
Grant proposals for less than $25,000
could be limited to projects that require
little pre-agreement work, minimize
application requirements, and address a
set of targeted activities. We are seeking
comment on the pros and cons of
utilizing a portion of TWG funds as a
small grant program.
2.2.2. Matching Requirements for Small
Grants.
When grant applicants contribute
their resources to a project, commitment
to that project is demonstrated and its
cost/benefit ratio is enhanced. If a small
grants component of TWG were
instituted, should a non-Federal costshare commitment be a required part of
the application? If so, what minimum
percentage of the total requested federal
funds through TWG is appropriate: 25
percent; 50 percent; 100 percent; or
other?
2.3 TWG Proposals
2.3.1. Matching Requirements for TWG.
Matching (in-kind) funds are
currently not required in a TWG
proposal, although projects that choose
to include them may score higher in the
ranking process. When grant applicants
contribute their resources to a project,
commitment to that project is
demonstrated and its cost/benefit ratio
is enhanced. Should a non-Federal costshare commitment be a required part of
the TWG application? If so, what
minimum percentage of the total
requested federal funds through TWG is
E:\FR\FM\01DEN1.SGM
01DEN1
72830
Federal Register / Vol. 73, No. 231 / Monday, December 1, 2008 / Notices
appropriate: 25 percent; 50 percent; 100
percent; or other?
2.3.2. Capacity Building.
TWG defines Capacity Building as
those activities and actions that support
the long-term ability of tribal agencies to
manage fish and wildlife resources and
their habitats, including but not limited
to the enhancement of in-house
expertise; development of baseline
information such as species lists,
population dynamics, habitat mapping,
etc.; development of long-term
partnerships; development and
implementation of conservation and
restoration management plans;
establishment of permanent facilities for
fish and wildlife such as hatcheries,
laboratories, enclosures, etc.; acquisition
of necessary equipment; enhancement
of regulatory authority; and gaining
recognition as a participant in local,
regional, or national natural resources
management and conservation issues.
Designed to encourage and support
the development of new tribal fish and
wildlife management initiatives and
partnerships, capacity building is a
significant component of the TWG
proposal scoring criteria. From a
national perspective, capacity building
has been successful, but we want to gain
the insights of individual Tribes
regarding the importance of capacity
building in the proposal scoring criteria.
rwilkins on PROD1PC63 with NOTICES
Section 3. New Challenges and
Opportunities.
Despite the success of TWG, tribal
wildlife resources will continue to
confront new challenges. Tribal
agencies must address issues such as
limited financial resources, global
climate change, implementing
landscape-level conservation planning,
urban sprawl and encroachment, and a
society that is increasingly disconnected
from the natural environment.
The processes and partnerships that
have been established through the
successful implementation of TWG
provide the Service and our tribal
partners an effective mechanism for
helping to address these challenges. We
are seeking innovative ways to use TWG
to address these important issues in
Indian Country. Below is a list of FWS
challenges and opportunities. Please
comment on these challenges and
opportunities or provide alternative
ones.
3.1. Connecting People with Nature.
The TWG Program should take
positive steps to encourage and nurture
interest in the natural world.
Reconnecting people with nature
through hunting and fishing activities
VerDate Aug<31>2005
16:47 Nov 28, 2008
Jkt 217001
and educational opportunities is gaining
in importance, considering the
downward trends of participation in
hunting, fishing, and boating, and the
fact that those persons who participate
in these activities are the primary
financial contributors to wildlife and
habitat conservation in the United
States.
3.2. Address Climate Change.
Climate change has the potential to
alter native and managed habitats
significantly, to increase the likelihood
of species extinctions, to stress native
and non-native wildlife populations,
and to affect how people are able to use
fish and wildlife resources. Anticipating
and responding to the limitations and
opportunities resulting from projected
climate change in particular areas will
be a unique challenge for all fish and
wildlife agencies.
3.3. Strengthening and Expanding
Partnerships.
The success of the TWG Program has
been due in large part to the effective
partnerships between tribal agencies
and the Service. Continuing this success
and achieving the intended outcomes
will require that these partnerships are
maintained and strengthened. In
addition, trends in climate change and
the public’s connection to nature pose
challenges, but they also present
opportunities to build more and better
support for conservation through
existing and new partners.
Section 4. Proposed Performance
Measures.
We have a responsibility to the
American public and congress to be
accountable for the program’s activities
and actions, including our expenditure
of public funds through TWG. In order
to report TWG accomplishments in a
meaningful way, we must identify what
goals are intended (see 4.1, TWG goals)
and what measures contribute to those
goals (see 4.2, Proposed Measures).
Reporting is a critical component in
maintaining and strengthening the
established partnerships between the
Tribes and the Service. Section 4.2
contains a comprehensive list of
possible measures: We would like to
identify four or five of these measures
to use to begin quantifying the benefits
of TWG. Please let us know which
measures you think are most important
and would be most effective and
efficient for tribal governments and the
Service to use to determine the
program’s success.
PO 00000
Frm 00070
Fmt 4703
Sfmt 4703
4.1. TWG Goals
4.1.1. Efficient and Consistent
Administration.
This goal supports the Service’s
priority to maintain fiscal and
administrative integrity and
accountability to the public, and as
required by law, OMB circular A-87 and
the President’s Management Agenda.
The TWG program will ensure sound
administration and oversight of program
funds and activities in accordance with
core values and applicable laws,
regulations, and policies.
4.1.2. Acknowledge the Special Political
Status of Indian Tribes.
This goal supports the Service’s
priority of working with others towards
conservation at the landscape level.
The Service will ensure that Service
employees recognize and understand
the government-to-government
relationship due federally recognized
Indian tribal governments and will
implement TWG accordingly.
4.1.3. Management of Fish, Wildlife, and
their Habitats.
This goal supports migratory bird
conservation and management,
achieving recovery and preventing
extinction of threatened and endangered
species, and management of aquatic
species identified in the National Fish
Habitat Action Plan and other trust
species.
The TWG program will help tribal
agencies to maintain and enhance
sustainable, healthy populations of fish,
wildlife, and the habitats to support
them with a special emphasis on the
priorities that our tribal partners share
with the Service.
4.1.4. Utilization of Fish, Wildlife, and
their Habitats.
This goal supports the Service’s
priority of working with others towards
conservation at the landscape level,
conservation and management of
migratory birds, management of aquatic
species identified in the National Fish
Habitat Action Plan and other trust
species, and ensuring the future of
conservation by connecting people with
nature.
The TWG program will help tribal
agencies to support the rich cultural and
spiritual heritage of Native Americans
associated with fish and wildlife, as
well as traditional uses of fish and
wildlife and their habitats such as
hunting, fishing, trapping, wildlife
observation, conservation, and
conservation education.
E:\FR\FM\01DEN1.SGM
01DEN1
Federal Register / Vol. 73, No. 231 / Monday, December 1, 2008 / Notices
4.1.5. Address the Future Conservation
Challenges of Indian Tribes.
This goal supports the Service’s
priority of working with Indian tribal
governments.
The TWG program will support the
efforts of tribal governments to address
the challenges of limited financial
resources, global climate change, urban
sprawl and encroachment, and a society
that is increasingly disconnected from
the natural environment.
4.2. Proposed Measures
In establishing measures to report the
effectiveness of TWG, it is important to
consider the ease by which the
information is, and can be gathered and
compiled for reporting purposes. A bestcase scenario will enable the Service to
capture data that are generated
automatically in the established
activities and actions inherent to the
administration and implementation of
TWG projects.
4.2.1. Efficient and Consistent
Administration.
Annually report the percentage of
open grants in which all fiscal reporting
documents are submitted by required
due dates.
4.2.2. Acknowledge the Special Status of
Indian Tribes.
Annually report the number of
Service employees who have received
training on the special status of
federally recognized Indian tribal
governments.
4.2.3. Management of Fish, Wildlife, and
their Habitats.
A. Annually report the number of
riparian (stream/shoreline) miles
managed or protected to maintain
desired conditions, including miles
managed or protected through
partnerships, as specified in
management plans or agreements
through the TWG.
B. Annually report the number of
wetland, upland, and marine and
coastal acres restored, including acres
restored through partnerships, as
specified in management plans or
agreements through the TWG.
C. Annually report the number of
upland acres restored, including acres
restored through partnerships, as
specified in management plans or
agreements through the TWG.
D. Annually report the number of
upland acres enhanced/restored through
the TWG.
E. Annually report the number of
coastal and marine acres restored,
including acres restored through
partnerships, as specified in
management plans or agreements
through the TWG.
F. Annually report the number of
upland acres managed or protected to
maintain desired condition, including
acres managed or protected through
partnerships, as specified in
management plans or agreements
through the TWG.
G. Report an annual list of threatened
or endangered species stabilized or
improved through the TWG.
H. Annually report the number of
acres contaminated with invasive plant
species that are managed through the
TWG.
I. Report an annual list of invasive
animal species that are managed
through the TWG.
J. Annually report the percent of
planned tasks implemented for tribal
fish and wildlife conservation as
prescribed by management plans or
agreements through the TWG.
4.2.4. Utilization of Fish, Wildlife, and
their Habitats.
To measure how the TWG program
helps tribal agencies support the rich
cultural and spiritual heritage of Native
Americans associated with fish and
wildlife, as well as traditional uses of
fish and wildlife and their habitats, such
as hunting, fishing, trapping, wildlife
observation, conservation, and
conservation education.
A. Report an annual list of fish and
wildlife species and their habitats that
are protected under new tribal
ordinance or management plans as a
result of TWG projects and are of special
Native American cultural or religious
concern.
B. Report an annual list of fish and
wildlife species populations that are
enhanced or stabilized as a result of
TWG projects and are of special Native
American cultural or religious concern.
4.2.5. Address the Future Conservation
Challenges of Indian Tribes.
A. Annually report the number of
TWG project activities or products
implemented to address the long-term
effects of global climate change affecting
Indian Tribes.
B. Annually report personnel
development, partnerships, and
institutional consistency.
C. Annually report the number of
individuals participating in TWG
project activities that engage them in
outdoor education and related activities.
Section 5. Additional Comments.
In addition to the specific items
above, the Service encourages any
additional comments, criticisms, and
recommendations regarding TWG that
will improve its effectiveness and
efficiency.
III. List of Native American Liaisons
States where the project will occur
Regional Native American
Liaison & phone number
Region 1
Hawaii, Idaho, Oregon, and
Washington
Pat Gonzales-Rogers
(503) 231-6123
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Native American Liaison
Eastside Federal Complex
911 N.E. 11th Avenue
Portland, OR 97232-4181
Region 2
Arizona, New Mexico, Oklahoma,
and Texas
Joe Early
(505) 248-6602
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Native American Liaison
500 Gold Avenue, SW
P.O. Box 1306
Albuquerque, NM 87103-1306
Region 3
Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan,
Minnesota, Missouri, Ohio, and
Wisconsin
John Leonard
(612) 713-5108
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Native American Liaison
1 Federal Drive
Fort Snelling, MN 55111-4080
rwilkins on PROD1PC63 with NOTICES
Service Region
VerDate Aug<31>2005
16:47 Nov 28, 2008
Jkt 217001
PO 00000
Frm 00071
Fmt 4703
Sfmt 4703
72831
E:\FR\FM\01DEN1.SGM
Where to send your project proposal
01DEN1
72832
Federal Register / Vol. 73, No. 231 / Monday, December 1, 2008 / Notices
States where the project will occur
Regional Native American
Liaison & phone number
Region 4
Alabama, Arkansas, Florida,
Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana,
Mississippi, North Carolina,
South Carolina, and Tennessee
Jeffrey Fleming
(404) 679-7287
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
ARD External Affairs
1875 Century Blvd.
Atlanta, GA 30345
Region 5
Connecticut, Delaware, Maine,
Maryland, Massachusetts,
New Hampshire, New Jersey,
New York, Pennsylvania,
Rhode Island, Vermont,
Virginia, Washington D.C.,
and West Virginia
DJ Monette
(413) 253-8662
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Native American Liaison
300 Westgate Center Drive
Hadley, MA 01035-9589
Region 6
Colorado, Kansas, Montana,
Nebraska, North Dakota,
South Dakota, Utah,
and Wyoming
Kim Greenwood
(303) 236-4575
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Tribal Liaison
P.O. Box 25486
Denver CO 80225
Region 7
Alaska
Sue Detwiler
(907) 786-3868
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Native American Liaison
1011 East Tudor Road
Anchorage, AK 99503-6199
Region 8
California, Nevada and the
Klamath Basin
David Wooten
(916) 414-6576
Tribal Partnerships Specialist
Habitat Restoration Division
2800 Cottage Way, Rm W-2606
Sacramento, CA 95825
Service Region
Dated: November 14, 2008
Lyle Laverty
Assistant Secretary for Fish and Wildlife and
Parks
[FR Doc. E8–28341 Filed 11–28–08; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4310-55-S
DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR
National Park Service
White-Tailed Deer Management Plan,
Draft Environmental Impact Statement,
Valley Forge National Historical Park,
Pennsylvania
National Park Service,
Department of the Interior.
ACTION: Notice of Availability of the
Draft Environmental Impact Statement
for the White-tailed Deer Management
Plan, Valley Forge National Historical
Park.
rwilkins on PROD1PC63 with NOTICES
AGENCY:
SUMMARY: Pursuant to the National
Environmental Policy Act of 1969,
theNational Park Service (NPS)
announces the availability of the Draft
Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS)
for the White-tailed Deer Management
Plan for Valley Forge National Historical
Park, Pennsylvania. The purpose of the
DEIS is to evaluate a range of
alternatives for establishing a whitetailed deer management plan that
VerDate Aug<31>2005
16:47 Nov 28, 2008
Jkt 217001
supports forest regeneration and
provides for long-term protection,
preservation, and restoration of native
vegetation and other natural and
cultural resources. The DEIS evaluates
four alternatives for managing whitetailed deer in the park. Alternatives for
response to chronic wasting disease
(CWD) have been integrated into each
deer management alternative to address
the elevated risk of disease in proximity
to the park and because of the
efficiencies and cost savings associated
with incorporating CWD response into
the deer management plan. The DEIS
describes and analyzes the
environmental impacts of three action
alternatives and the no-action
alternative. When approved, the plan
will guide deer management actions
over the next 15 years.
DATES: The NPS invites comments
regarding the DEIS from the public.
Comments will be accepted for a period
of 60 days from the date the
Environmental Protection Agency
publishes the Notice of Availability in
the Federal Register. In addition, the
NPS intends to conduct public
meetings. Please check local
newspapers, the park’s Web site, https://
www.nps.gov/vafo, or contact the name
listed below to find out when and where
the meetings will be held.
ADDRESSES: Information will be
available for public review and
PO 00000
Frm 00072
Fmt 4703
Sfmt 4703
Where to send your project proposal
comment online through the Planning,
Environment, and Public Comment
(PEPC) Web site at https://
parkplanning.nps.gov, or available on
CD. Once on the PEPC Web site, select
‘‘Valley Forge National Historical Park’’
in order to access the DEIS. A limited
number of hard copies will be made
available at the Valley Forge National
Historical Park Visitor Center located at
the intersection of North Gulph Road
and Route 23 and at the Lower
Providence Community Library (50
Parkiane Drive, Eagleville, PA 19403–
1171), Tredyffrin Public Library (582
Upper Gulph Road, Strafford-Wayne,
PA 19087–2052), Phoenixville Public
Library (183 Second Avenue,
Phoenixville, PA 19460), and
Montgomery County-Norristown Public
Library (1001 Powell Street, Norristown,
PA 19401). You may request a hardcopy
by contacting Kristina M. Heister at the
phone or address provided below.
If you wish to comment, you may
submit your comments by any one of
several methods. You may mail
comments to: Superintendent, Valley
Forge National Historical Park, 1400
North Outer Line Drive, King of Prussia,
Pennsylvania 19406. You may also
comment via the Internet at https://
parkplanning.nps.gov. If you do not
receive confirmation from that system
that we have received your Internet
message, contact us directly at 610–783–
1008. During the public meetings, the
E:\FR\FM\01DEN1.SGM
01DEN1
Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 73, Number 231 (Monday, December 1, 2008)]
[Notices]
[Pages 72828-72832]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: E8-28341]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR
Fish and Wildlife Service
[FWS-R9-EA-2008-N0243; 97000-5612-0000 FY 2008]
Tribal Wildlife Grants; Implementation Guidelines
AGENCY: Fish and Wildlife Service, Interior.
ACTION: Notice to request public comments on the current implementation
of Tribal Wildlife Grants Program and proposed changes to the program.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: We, the Fish and Wildlife Service, propose to change our
implementation guidelines for the Tribal Wildlife Grants (TWG) program.
The program helps tribal agencies maintain and enhance sustainable,
healthy populations of fish and wildlife, as well as the habitats that
support them. The TWG program also supports the rich Native American
cultural and spiritual heritage associated with fish and wildlife, as
well as hunting, fishing, trapping, wildlife observation, conservation,
and conservation education. If finalized, these proposed changes would
help the TWG program support tribal agencies address new challenges
such as global climate change, urban sprawl, implementing landscape-
level conservation planning, and a society that is increasingly
disconnected from the natural environment, while ensuring sound
administration and oversight of TWG funds and activities in accordance
with core values and applicable laws, policies, and regulations. We
seek public comment on our proposed changes. Current information about
the TWG program is located at https://www.fws.gov/nativeamerican/grants.html.
DATES: To ensure consideration, we must receive your written comments
by March 2, 2009 at the U.S. mail or e-mail address under ADDRESSES.
ADDRESSES: Native American Liaison, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service,
4401 N. Fairfax Drive, MS 330, Arlington, VA 22203; TWG_COMMENT@FWS.gov (e-mail).
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Pat Durham, (703) 358-1728.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
I. Background
In 2003, we launched two competitive grant programs for federally
recognized Indian Tribes: the Tribal Wildlife Grants (TWG) program and
the Tribal Landowner Incentive Program (TLIP). To date, we have
provided more than $51 million to 167 Indian Tribes for 288 projects
through TWG. Although TLIP has not been funded in the most recent
fiscal years, TWG has become an important and highly successful
component of our continually expanding effort to partner with tribal
governments.
II. Implementation Guidelines: Current Administrative Guidelines and
Proposed Changes
As the administrator of the TWG program, the Service's Office of
the Native American Liaison (NAL) is seeking comments from the public
on the current implementation of the TWG program and proposed changes
to the program. The goals of this public dialogue are to continue to
improve the program's effectiveness and efficiency in the following
general areas:
Efficient and consistent administration. We will ensure
sound administration and oversight of TWG funds and activities in
accordance with core values and applicable laws, policies, and
regulations.
Management of fish, wildlife, and their habitats. The TWG
program helps tribal agencies to maintain and enhance sustainable,
healthy populations of fish and wildlife, as well as the habitats that
support them.
Utilization of fish, wildlife, and their habitats. The TWG
program helps tribal agencies to support the rich Native American
cultural and spiritual heritage associated with fish and wildlife, as
well as hunting, fishing, trapping, wildlife observation, conservation,
and conservation education.
New challenges and opportunities. To address global
climate change, urban sprawl and a society that is increasingly
disconnected from the natural environment, and to implement landscape-
level conservation planning, the TWG program will support tribal
agencies in efforts to connect people with nature, address the impacts
of climate change, and strengthen and expand partnerships.
We are seeking comments and input on the following five sections:
1. Current administrative guidance.
2. Proposed changes to current administrative guidance.
3. New challenges and opportunities.
4. Proposed performance measures.
5. Additional comments.
At the beginning of each comment you submit, please tell us the
section/subsection number(s) to which your comment pertains.
Section 1. Current Administrative Guidance
1.1. Who Can Apply for TWG Funding?
Federally recognized tribal governments listed in ``Indian Entities
Recognized and Eligible To Receive Services From the United States
Bureau of Indian Affairs,'' which the Bureau of Indian Affairs
published in the Federal Register on April 4, 2008 (73 FR 18553), are
eligible to apply for TWG funding. Tribal organizations and other
entities may participate as sub-grantees or contractors to federally
recognized Tribes.
1.2. What Types of Projects May Receive Funding?
1.2.1. Eligible projects include those to develop and implement
programs for the benefit of tribal wildlife and their habitat,
including species of Native American cultural or traditional importance
and species that are not hunted or fished. Activities may include, but
are not limited to, planning for wildlife and habitat conservation,
fish and wildlife conservation and management actions, fish and
wildlife-related laboratory and field research, natural history
studies, habitat mapping, field surveys and population monitoring,
habitat preservation, conservation easements, and public education that
is relevant to the project.
1.2.2. We are interested in tribal priorities, concerns, and
approaches to the emerging science and potential impacts of climate
change and implementing landscape-level conservation planning. Should
climate change impacts be considered in the ranking criteria for
proposals? If so, we welcome suggestions on how to consider climate
change in the context of tribal priorities.
1.2.3. TWG funds can be used for environmental review, habitat
evaluation, permit review (e.g., Section 404 under the Clean Water
Act), and
[[Page 72829]]
other environmental compliance activities, provided they are directly
related to the TWG project and are discussed in the budget narrative/
table. Although TWG funds cannot be used to conduct activities to
comply with a federal Biological Opinion or with a permit (e.g.,
mitigation responsibilities) for another program or project, they can
be used to implement conservation recommendations.
1.2.4. Projects may be proposed on lands other than those lands
that are held in tribal trust status only if an enforceable contract
with the landowner is submitted with the proposal. The contract must
authorize permission to the grantee to conduct the proposed activities.
1.3. When Are Proposals Due?
Generally, the request-for-proposals period will open the first
business day in May and close on the first business day in September of
each year. Proposals must be received by the appropriate Regional
Office with a postmark no later than the first business day in
September. Addresses for your submissions are provided in Section III
(List of Native American Liaisons) of this notice.
1.4. How Can the Fish and Wildlife Service Help Tribes Plan and
Implement a Project?
The Service may assist Tribes in planning or implementing projects.
Through a number of Service programs, we offer expertise to assist
Tribes in planning and implementing projects. For information on how
the Service may be able to assist, contact the Native American Liaison
(NAL) in the appropriate Regional Office. Information is also available
from the Service's Internet site at https://www.fws.gov/nativeamerican/.
In addition, many other Federal, State, or tribal agencies, as well as
conservation organizations, work closely with Tribes and may be able to
assist with planning and implementing a project.
1.5. How Will Proposals Be Selected?
The Regional NAL will screen proposals for eligibility and will
coordinate the regional ranking process according to nationally uniform
ranking criteria. Top regionally ranked proposals will be recommended
to the Service Director for funding. A national panel will review and
rank remaining proposals and provide its recommendations to the Service
Director. The Director will make the final determination for grant
approval.
1.6. When Do Grantees Address Federal Environmental Compliance Issues?
Addressing the requirements of the National Environmental Policy
Act, the National Historic Preservation Act, Clean Water Act, the
Endangered Species Act, and other applicable authorities can be quite
involved, and is therefore not part of the TWG application. The
Regional NAL will coordinate the applicable process after proposals
have been selected. Although these compliance requirements may delay
the availability of funds to awardees, proposals that are not selected
are not subjected to such additional administrative processes.
Section 2. Proposed Changes to Current Administrative Guidance
Section 2 proposes several changes to the current TWG program
administrative guidance.
2.1. Limitations on Project Proposals.
Projects funded under TWG have historically not been held to a
specific operational time period. The practice of allowing unrestricted
carryover is helpful to some of our partner Tribes in completing multi-
year projects, because, once projects have been selected; they are not
subject to competing for funds after the initial year of that project
for its agreed-upon duration.
An unintended result of this practice is that TWG funds may remain
unused for several years. Also, there is currently no restriction on
how many open grants a partner Tribe may have. Some partner Tribes have
continued to submit new proposals even though these Tribes already have
TWG project(s) that have been selected for funding but not yet
initiated. In the interest of fiscal accountability and efficient use
of federally appropriated funds, we are proposing the following
changes:
2.1.1. Limit the Number of Concurrently Open Grants.
Restrict proposal applications in any given grant cycle to Tribes
that have no more than one open TWG. If a Tribe has more than one open
TWG during the request for proposals for a given fiscal year, that
tribe would be ineligible to submit a new proposal for that same grant
cycle. This change would prevent the practice of holding project funds
for future use while continuing to apply for additional funds.
2.1.2. Limit the Duration of Grant Projects.
Institute a 1-year restriction on all grant projects from the date
that all Federal compliance measures have been satisfied and the formal
letter of agreement has been signed for each grant. Extensions may be
granted by the Service when necessary to accommodate unforeseen or
unaccounted for delays in the execution of a grant. This change would
help to focus projects on specific accomplishments and establish a
pattern that more closely coincides with the Federal appropriations
process.
2.1.3. Lower the Funding Cap.
Reduce the current $200,000 maximum allowable proposal request.
Currently, we receive about 120 proposals each TWG cycle, of which we
are able to select between 30 and 35 percent for funding at current
appropriation levels. A lower maximum grant proposal of $150,000 would
increase both the number of selected proposals and the number of Tribes
receiving TWG, and would discourage less-efficient multi-year
proposals.
2.2. Small Grants.
The Service may institute a Small Grants segment of TWG.
2.2.1. Small Grants.
Grant proposals for less than $25,000 could be limited to projects
that require little pre-agreement work, minimize application
requirements, and address a set of targeted activities. We are seeking
comment on the pros and cons of utilizing a portion of TWG funds as a
small grant program.
2.2.2. Matching Requirements for Small Grants.
When grant applicants contribute their resources to a project,
commitment to that project is demonstrated and its cost/benefit ratio
is enhanced. If a small grants component of TWG were instituted, should
a non-Federal cost-share commitment be a required part of the
application? If so, what minimum percentage of the total requested
federal funds through TWG is appropriate: 25 percent; 50 percent; 100
percent; or other?
2.3 TWG Proposals
2.3.1. Matching Requirements for TWG.
Matching (in-kind) funds are currently not required in a TWG
proposal, although projects that choose to include them may score
higher in the ranking process. When grant applicants contribute their
resources to a project, commitment to that project is demonstrated and
its cost/benefit ratio is enhanced. Should a non-Federal cost-share
commitment be a required part of the TWG application? If so, what
minimum percentage of the total requested federal funds through TWG is
[[Page 72830]]
appropriate: 25 percent; 50 percent; 100 percent; or other?
2.3.2. Capacity Building.
TWG defines Capacity Building as those activities and actions that
support the long-term ability of tribal agencies to manage fish and
wildlife resources and their habitats, including but not limited to the
enhancement of in-house expertise; development of baseline information
such as species lists, population dynamics, habitat mapping, etc.;
development of long-term partnerships; development and implementation
of conservation and restoration management plans; establishment of
permanent facilities for fish and wildlife such as hatcheries,
laboratories, enclosures, etc.; acquisition of necessary equipment;
enhancement of regulatory authority; and gaining recognition as a
participant in local, regional, or national natural resources
management and conservation issues.
Designed to encourage and support the development of new tribal
fish and wildlife management initiatives and partnerships, capacity
building is a significant component of the TWG proposal scoring
criteria. From a national perspective, capacity building has been
successful, but we want to gain the insights of individual Tribes
regarding the importance of capacity building in the proposal scoring
criteria.
Section 3. New Challenges and Opportunities.
Despite the success of TWG, tribal wildlife resources will continue
to confront new challenges. Tribal agencies must address issues such as
limited financial resources, global climate change, implementing
landscape-level conservation planning, urban sprawl and encroachment,
and a society that is increasingly disconnected from the natural
environment.
The processes and partnerships that have been established through
the successful implementation of TWG provide the Service and our tribal
partners an effective mechanism for helping to address these
challenges. We are seeking innovative ways to use TWG to address these
important issues in Indian Country. Below is a list of FWS challenges
and opportunities. Please comment on these challenges and opportunities
or provide alternative ones.
3.1. Connecting People with Nature.
The TWG Program should take positive steps to encourage and nurture
interest in the natural world. Reconnecting people with nature through
hunting and fishing activities and educational opportunities is gaining
in importance, considering the downward trends of participation in
hunting, fishing, and boating, and the fact that those persons who
participate in these activities are the primary financial contributors
to wildlife and habitat conservation in the United States.
3.2. Address Climate Change.
Climate change has the potential to alter native and managed
habitats significantly, to increase the likelihood of species
extinctions, to stress native and non-native wildlife populations, and
to affect how people are able to use fish and wildlife resources.
Anticipating and responding to the limitations and opportunities
resulting from projected climate change in particular areas will be a
unique challenge for all fish and wildlife agencies.
3.3. Strengthening and Expanding Partnerships.
The success of the TWG Program has been due in large part to the
effective partnerships between tribal agencies and the Service.
Continuing this success and achieving the intended outcomes will
require that these partnerships are maintained and strengthened. In
addition, trends in climate change and the public's connection to
nature pose challenges, but they also present opportunities to build
more and better support for conservation through existing and new
partners.
Section 4. Proposed Performance Measures.
We have a responsibility to the American public and congress to be
accountable for the program's activities and actions, including our
expenditure of public funds through TWG. In order to report TWG
accomplishments in a meaningful way, we must identify what goals are
intended (see 4.1, TWG goals) and what measures contribute to those
goals (see 4.2, Proposed Measures). Reporting is a critical component
in maintaining and strengthening the established partnerships between
the Tribes and the Service. Section 4.2 contains a comprehensive list
of possible measures: We would like to identify four or five of these
measures to use to begin quantifying the benefits of TWG. Please let us
know which measures you think are most important and would be most
effective and efficient for tribal governments and the Service to use
to determine the program's success.
4.1. TWG Goals
4.1.1. Efficient and Consistent Administration.
This goal supports the Service's priority to maintain fiscal and
administrative integrity and accountability to the public, and as
required by law, OMB circular A-87 and the President's Management
Agenda.
The TWG program will ensure sound administration and oversight of
program funds and activities in accordance with core values and
applicable laws, regulations, and policies.
4.1.2. Acknowledge the Special Political Status of Indian Tribes.
This goal supports the Service's priority of working with others
towards conservation at the landscape level.
The Service will ensure that Service employees recognize and
understand the government-to-government relationship due federally
recognized Indian tribal governments and will implement TWG
accordingly.
4.1.3. Management of Fish, Wildlife, and their Habitats.
This goal supports migratory bird conservation and management,
achieving recovery and preventing extinction of threatened and
endangered species, and management of aquatic species identified in the
National Fish Habitat Action Plan and other trust species.
The TWG program will help tribal agencies to maintain and enhance
sustainable, healthy populations of fish, wildlife, and the habitats to
support them with a special emphasis on the priorities that our tribal
partners share with the Service.
4.1.4. Utilization of Fish, Wildlife, and their Habitats.
This goal supports the Service's priority of working with others
towards conservation at the landscape level, conservation and
management of migratory birds, management of aquatic species identified
in the National Fish Habitat Action Plan and other trust species, and
ensuring the future of conservation by connecting people with nature.
The TWG program will help tribal agencies to support the rich
cultural and spiritual heritage of Native Americans associated with
fish and wildlife, as well as traditional uses of fish and wildlife and
their habitats such as hunting, fishing, trapping, wildlife
observation, conservation, and conservation education.
[[Page 72831]]
4.1.5. Address the Future Conservation Challenges of Indian Tribes.
This goal supports the Service's priority of working with Indian
tribal governments.
The TWG program will support the efforts of tribal governments to
address the challenges of limited financial resources, global climate
change, urban sprawl and encroachment, and a society that is
increasingly disconnected from the natural environment.
4.2. Proposed Measures
In establishing measures to report the effectiveness of TWG, it is
important to consider the ease by which the information is, and can be
gathered and compiled for reporting purposes. A best-case scenario will
enable the Service to capture data that are generated automatically in
the established activities and actions inherent to the administration
and implementation of TWG projects.
4.2.1. Efficient and Consistent Administration.
Annually report the percentage of open grants in which all fiscal
reporting documents are submitted by required due dates.
4.2.2. Acknowledge the Special Status of Indian Tribes.
Annually report the number of Service employees who have received
training on the special status of federally recognized Indian tribal
governments.
4.2.3. Management of Fish, Wildlife, and their Habitats.
A. Annually report the number of riparian (stream/shoreline) miles
managed or protected to maintain desired conditions, including miles
managed or protected through partnerships, as specified in management
plans or agreements through the TWG.
B. Annually report the number of wetland, upland, and marine and
coastal acres restored, including acres restored through partnerships,
as specified in management plans or agreements through the TWG.
C. Annually report the number of upland acres restored, including
acres restored through partnerships, as specified in management plans
or agreements through the TWG.
D. Annually report the number of upland acres enhanced/restored
through the TWG.
E. Annually report the number of coastal and marine acres restored,
including acres restored through partnerships, as specified in
management plans or agreements through the TWG.
F. Annually report the number of upland acres managed or protected
to maintain desired condition, including acres managed or protected
through partnerships, as specified in management plans or agreements
through the TWG.
G. Report an annual list of threatened or endangered species
stabilized or improved through the TWG.
H. Annually report the number of acres contaminated with invasive
plant species that are managed through the TWG.
I. Report an annual list of invasive animal species that are
managed through the TWG.
J. Annually report the percent of planned tasks implemented for
tribal fish and wildlife conservation as prescribed by management plans
or agreements through the TWG.
4.2.4. Utilization of Fish, Wildlife, and their Habitats.
To measure how the TWG program helps tribal agencies support the
rich cultural and spiritual heritage of Native Americans associated
with fish and wildlife, as well as traditional uses of fish and
wildlife and their habitats, such as hunting, fishing, trapping,
wildlife observation, conservation, and conservation education.
A. Report an annual list of fish and wildlife species and their
habitats that are protected under new tribal ordinance or management
plans as a result of TWG projects and are of special Native American
cultural or religious concern.
B. Report an annual list of fish and wildlife species populations
that are enhanced or stabilized as a result of TWG projects and are of
special Native American cultural or religious concern.
4.2.5. Address the Future Conservation Challenges of Indian Tribes.
A. Annually report the number of TWG project activities or products
implemented to address the long-term effects of global climate change
affecting Indian Tribes.
B. Annually report personnel development, partnerships, and
institutional consistency.
C. Annually report the number of individuals participating in TWG
project activities that engage them in outdoor education and related
activities.
Section 5. Additional Comments.
In addition to the specific items above, the Service encourages any
additional comments, criticisms, and recommendations regarding TWG that
will improve its effectiveness and efficiency.
III. List of Native American Liaisons
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regional Native
Service Region States where the American Liaison & Where to send your
project will occur phone number project proposal
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Region 1 Hawaii, Idaho, Oregon, Pat Gonzales-Rogers U.S. Fish and Wildlife
and (503) 231-6123........ Service
Washington............. Native American
Liaison
Eastside Federal
Complex
911 N.E. 11th Avenue
Portland, OR 97232-
4181
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Region 2 Arizona, New Mexico, Joe Early U.S. Fish and Wildlife
Oklahoma, (505) 248-6602........ Service
and Texas.............. Native American Liaison
500 Gold Avenue, SW
P.O. Box 1306
Albuquerque, NM 87103-
1306
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Region 3 Illinois, Indiana, John Leonard U.S. Fish and Wildlife
Iowa, Michigan, (612) 713-5108......... Service
Minnesota, Missouri, Native American Liaison
Ohio, and. 1 Federal Drive
Wisconsin.............. Fort Snelling, MN 55111-
4080
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[[Page 72832]]
Region 4 Alabama, Arkansas, Jeffrey Fleming U.S. Fish and Wildlife
Florida, (404) 679-7287......... Service
Georgia, Kentucky, ARD External Affairs
Louisiana,. 1875 Century Blvd.
Mississippi, North Atlanta, GA 30345
Carolina,.
South Carolina, and
Tennessee.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Region 5 Connecticut, Delaware, DJ Monette U.S. Fish and Wildlife
Maine, (413) 253-8662......... Service
Maryland, Native American Liaison
Massachusetts,. 300 Westgate Center
New Hampshire, New Drive
Jersey,. Hadley, MA 01035-9589
New York, Pennsylvania,
Rhode Island, Vermont,.
Virginia, Washington
D.C.,.
and West Virginia......
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Region 6 Colorado, Kansas, Kim Greenwood U.S. Fish and Wildlife
Montana, (303) 236-4575......... Service
Nebraska, North Dakota, Tribal Liaison
South Dakota, Utah,.... P.O. Box 25486
and Wyoming............ Denver CO 80225
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Region 7 Alaska Sue Detwiler U.S. Fish and Wildlife
(907) 786-3868......... Service
Native American Liaison
1011 East Tudor Road
Anchorage, AK 99503-
6199
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Region 8 California, Nevada and David Wooten Tribal Partnerships
the (916) 414-6576......... Specialist
Klamath Basin.......... Habitat Restoration
Division
2800 Cottage Way, Rm W-
2606
Sacramento, CA 95825
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dated: November 14, 2008
Lyle Laverty
Assistant Secretary for Fish and Wildlife and Parks
[FR Doc. E8-28341 Filed 11-28-08; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4310-55-S