Cooperative Agreement for CESU-affiliated Partner of the Piedmont/South Atlantic Coast Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Unit | G24AS00237

Opportunity Information: Apply for G24AS00237

This opportunity (Funding Opportunity Number G24AS00237) is a US Geological Survey (USGS) cooperative agreement offered through the USGS Water Mission Area (WMA) Next Generation Water Observing System (NGWOS). The project focus is a laboratory evaluation of a newly patented, multi-parameter standard solution designed to support water-quality sensor verification and calibration in the field. The USGS standard solution is covered by US Patent 11,768,160 and combines a xanthene dye, distyryl biphenyl (DSBP), and a pH buffer. The intent is to provide a quick, simple-to-use, and stable reference solution that can streamline routine checks on sensor performance.

A key feature of the standard solution is that it is meant to support calibration or verification of multiple sensor types at once, rather than requiring separate standards for each parameter. The notice specifically highlights its use with fluorescence-based sensors commonly deployed in water monitoring. Examples include sensors for fluorescent dissolved organic matter (fDOM), with representative wavelengths of excitation around 350 nm and emission around 450 nm, and sensors for chlorophyll-a fluorescence, with representative wavelengths of excitation around 465 nm and emission around 665 nm. In practical terms, the funded work is expected to assess how well this combined standard performs under controlled laboratory conditions for these kinds of instruments and measurements, with an emphasis on reliability and usability for field operations.

The award is issued as a discretionary funding opportunity using a cooperative agreement instrument, meaning USGS anticipates substantial involvement or collaboration during the project compared with a more hands-off grant. The activity category is Science and Technology and other Research and Development, and the CFDA listing is 15.808. The agency is the Geological Survey (USGS). The posted maximum funding amount (award ceiling) is $75,000. The opportunity was created on January 8, 2024, with an original closing date of February 8, 2024.

Eligibility is limited to organizations that are already partners in the Piedmont/South Atlantic Coast Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Unit (CESU). CESUs are regional partnership networks intended to facilitate collaborative research, technical assistance, and education supporting federal land and resource management and related science needs. Because the funding is issued under the CESU Program, applicants must be a participating CESU partner within that specific Piedmont/South Atlantic Coast unit to be considered.

• The Geological Survey in the science and technology and other research and development sector is offering a public funding opportunity titled "Cooperative Agreement for CESU-affiliated Partner of the Piedmont/South Atlantic Coast Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Unit" and is now available to receive applicants.
• Interested and eligible applicants and submit their applications by referencing the CFDA number(s): 15.808.
• This funding opportunity was created on 2024-01-08.
• Applicants must submit their applications by 2024-02-08. (Agency may still review applications by suitable applicants for the remaining/unused allocated funding in 2026.)
• Each selected applicant is eligible to receive up to $75,000.00 in funding.
• Eligible applicants include: Others.

Apply for G24AS00237

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