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HomeMy WebLinkAbout20213281.tiffRESOLUTION RE: APPROVE RESTORATION AND STEWARDSHIP OF OUTDOOR RESOURCES AND THE ENVIRONMENT (RESTORE) GRANT APPLICATION FOR NORTHERN GRASSLAND RESTORATION PROJECT IN WELD COUNTY WITH PAWNEE NATIONAL GRASSLAND AND AUTHORIZE ELECTRONIC SUBMITTAL WHEREAS, the Board of County Commissioners of Weld County, Colorado, pursuant to Colorado statute and the Weld County Home Rule Charter, is vested with the authority of administering the affairs of Weld County, Colorado, and WHEREAS, the Board has been presented with a Restoration and Stewardship of Outdoor Resources and the Environment (RESTORE) Grant Application for the Northern Grassland Restoration Project in Weld County with the Pawnee National Grassland for Eradicating Cheatgrass, Dalmatian toadflax, diffuse knapweed, Russian knapweed, Canada thistle, musk thistle, Scotch Thistle, and hoary cress, and for seeding degraded lands with native grassland species, from the County of Weld, State of Colorado, by and through the Board of County Commissioners of Weld County, on behalf of the Department of Public Works, to the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF), commencing May 2, 2022, and ending April 30, 2024, with further terms and conditions being as stated in said application, and WHEREAS, after review, the Board deems it advisable to approve said application, a copy of which is attached hereto and incorporated herein by reference. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Board of County Commissioners of Weld County, Colorado, that the Restoration and Stewardship of Outdoor Resources and the Environment (RESTORE) Grant Application for the Northern Grassland Restoration Project in Weld County with the Pawnee National Grassland for Eradicating Cheatgrass, Dalmatian toadflax, diffuse knapweed, Russian knapweed, Canada thistle, musk thistle, Scotch Thistle, and hoary cress, and for seeding degraded lands with native grassland species from the County of Weld, State of Colorado, by and through the Board of County Commissioners of Weld County, on behalf of the Department of Public Works, to the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF), be, and hereby is, approved. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED by the Board that Tina Booton, Department of Public Works, be, and hereby is, authorized to submit said application electronically. cc. Pw(SM/cH/T3),fv RcD), FI(c') 12/20121 2021-3281 EG0079 RESTORATION AND STEWARDSHIP OF OUTDOOR RESOURCES AND THE ENVIRONMENT (RESTORE) GRANT APPLICATION FOR NORTHERN GRASSLAND RESTORATION PROJECT IN WELD COUNTY WITH PAWNEE NATIONAL GRASSLAND PAGE 2 The above and foregoing Resolution was, on motion duly made and seconded, adopted by the following vote on the 29th day of November, A.D., 2021. BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS WELD COUNTY, COLORADO ATTEST: ds,,d,A,) �, •X,lto•� Weld County Clerk to the Board BY: Deputy Clerk to the Board APP v# D A • OR y Attorney Steve,, oreno, Chair S es, Pro-Te Perry L. Bu Date of signature: 2021-3281 EG0079 MEMORANDUM TO: Clerk to the Board DATE: November 17, 20 1 FROM: Tina Booton, Public Work Tl4'G . Jay McDonald, Director of Publ. • rks SUBJECT: Agenda Itecv m! CJ This request is to apply for a ReStORE Grant (Restoration and Stewardship of Outdoor Resources and the Environment). The Weld County Grassland Enhancement Program will enhance the norther grassland in Weld County through noxious weed treatments and seeding. The funds will be used on private, state and federal lands. Grant partners including the Pawnee National Grassland, Colorado State Land Board, West Greeley Conservation District and CDOT. We are asking for $174,750.00 Weld County's in -kind match is $68,450.00. The partners in -kind and cash match is $70,750.00. The total local match is $139,200.00. This grant application is for lands in Northern Weld County. The noxious weed species that will be addressed include Dalmatian toadflax, diffuse knapweed, Russian knapweed, Canada thistle, musk thistle, Scotch thistle, hoary cress and cheatgrass on 15,000 acres through a cost - share program with landowners and managers. This project will also incorporate seeding of grasses, and forbs on 200 acres of degraded lands. Please add this item to the agenda for Monday, November 29, 2021. 2021-3281 [I/2°i 6C -100Z5 BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS PASS -AROUND REVIEW PASS -AROUND TITLE: ReStORE Grant (Restoration and Stewardship of Outdoor Resources and the Environment) DEPARTMENT: Public Works, Weed Division DATE: October 5, 2021 PERSON REQUESTING: Tina Booton, Weed Division Supervisor Brief description of the problem/issue: The ReStORE grant opportunity will offer its third year of grants in Colorado in 2022. The partners (GOCO, DOW, DNR, Gates Foundation, OXY, Corteva and National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF)) have pulled $3 million dollars for grant projects. These largescale projects are to address restoration activities and wildlife habitat through working across boundaries. One of their key focus areas is on Eastern Colorado grasslands. Their goal is to fund 6-12 projects. The minimum request is $100,000; match is not required, but it is helpful. Grant implementation is 1-3 years. Deadline to apply is October 28, 2021 through the NFWF Easygrants website. The proposed project covers Northern Weld County, from Highway 85 on the west and Highway 14 on the south; north to each of the other three county borders. Targeted noxious weed species include cheatgrass, Dalmatian toadflax, diffuse knapweed, Canada thistle, musk thistle and Scotch thistle. Work will be carried out on private lands, State lands and USFS-PNG. These would also be our partners in addition to West Greeley Conservation District and CDOT. I'm proposing to ask for $150,000. The funds would be split in the following ways: $40,000 for aerial chemical treatments, $60,000 for ground chemical treatments and $50,000 for seeding degraded lands. These three areas would be the landowner's responsibility to contract out. There are several local contractors available to handle these needs over the proposed 2 -year project. Any match that is included would be from the normal work that the Weed Division does each year for roadside spraying, educational pieces, and working with our partners. A small amount of match (up to 20%) will come from landowners carrying out the chemical treatments along with CDOT funds for treating Hwy 85, Hwy 14 and Hwy 71 in the project area. The USFS-PNG and Colorado State Land Board will also have some staff time included in the in -kind match. What options exist for the Board? (include consequences, impacts, costs, etc. of options): 1. Allow a grant application for the ReStORE grant to be submitted. 2. Do not apply for the grant opportunity Recommendation: 1. Allow a grant application for the ReStORE grant to be submitted. Approve Schedule Recommendation Work Session Other/Comments: Perry L. Buck Mike Freeman Scott K. James, Pro-Tem Steve Moreno, Chair Lori Saine EasyGrantsiD: 74150 National Fish and Wildlife Foundation — RESTORE Colorado 2022, Full Proposal Title: Northern Grassland Restoration Project in Weld County with Pawnee National Grassland Organization: Weld County Weed Division Grant Information Title of Project Northern Grassland Restoration Project in Weld County with Pawnee National Grassland Total Amount Requested Matching Contributions Proposed Proposed Grant Period $ 174,750.00 $139,200.00 05/02/ 2022 - 04/30/ 2024 Project Description Restore 4,000 plus acres of private, state and federal native grasslands in Northern Weld County. This will be accomplished with timely herbicide applications to address cheatgrass, Dalmatian toadflax, diffuse and Russian knapweed, Canada, Scotch and musk thistle along with hoary cress. Additionally, 200 degraded acres will be seeded with native grassland species. A robust educational campaign will be implemented including one-on-one meetings, presentations, social media outreach and signage on the Pawnee National Grassland. Project Abstract Restoring native grassland habitat is important for songbirds, upland game birds and mule deer. This project will work to restore 4,000 plus acres of native grasslands in northern Weld County by eradicating cheatgrass, Dalmatian toadflax, diffuse and Russian knapweed, Canada, Scotch and musk thistle along with hoary cress with timely herbicide applications to enhance wildlife habitat. Additionally, 200 degraded acres will be seeded with native grassland species. In addition to the physical work to restore the grasslands and protect the existing ecosystem, an educational program wil be implemented. The educational program includes social media posts on Facebook and Twitter along with articles in local newspapers and newsletters. There will also be an extensive one on one educational program with private landowners. The educational focus will be on the value of native vegetation, how to create wildlife habitat along with noxious weed identification, impact, and how to control the species. The partners for this project include Weld County, United States Forest Service Pawnee National Grassland, West Greeley Conservation District, Colorado State Land Board and Colorado Department of Transportation. Most of these partnerships have been in existence for over ten years. Organization and Primary Contact Information Organization Weld County Weed Division Organization Type State or Local Government City, State, Country Greeley,Colorado,North America - United States Region (if international) Primary Contact Position/Title Phone and E-mail Additional Contacts Tina Booton Weed Division Supervisor 970-304-6496 x 3770; tbooton@co.weld.co.us Role .1 Name 1133 15th Street, NW Suite 1100 Washington, DC 20005 Page 1 of 18 Version 1.1 EasyGrantslD: 74150 National Fish and Wildlife Foundation — RESTORE Colorado 2022, Full Proposal Title: Northern Grassland Restoration Project in Weld County with Pawnee National Grassland Organization: Weld County Weed Division 1133 15th Street, NW Version 1.1 Suite 1100 Washington, DC 20005 Page 2 of 18 EasyGrants1D: 74150 National Fish and Wildlife Foundation — RESTORE Colorado 2022, Full Proposal Title: Northern Grassland Restoration Project in Weld County with Pawnee National Grassland Organization: Weld County Weed Division Project Location Information Project Location Description Project Country(ies) Project State(s) Project Congressional District(s) The project encompasses the northern half of Weld County, Colorado East of Highway 85. Ownership is private, Federal and State Land Board. North America - United States Colorado District 4 (CO) Permits and Approvals Permits/Approvals Description: Permits/Approvals Status: Permits/Approvals Agency -Contact Person: Permits/Approvals Submittal -Approval Date: 1133 15th Street, NW Version 1.1 Suite 1100 Washington, DC 20005 Page 3 of 18 EasyGrantslD: 74150 National Fish and Wildlife Foundation — RESTORE Colorado 2022, Full Proposal Title: Northern Grassland Restoration Project in Weld County with Pawnee National Grassland Organization: Weld County Weed Division Activities and Outcomes Funding Strategy: Habitat Restoration Metric: Restore CO - Grasslands - Land restoration - Acres restored on private land Required: Recommended Description: Enter the number of acres restored on private lands Starting Value Target value 4500.00 Acres restored on private land 8700.00 Acres restored on private land Note: The goal on private lands is to use herbicides in a timely manner to remove noxious weeds, seeding and grazing modification, as applicable, to enhance the existing native plant community. Funding Strategy: Habitat Restoration Metric: Restore CO - Grasslands - Land restoration - Acres restored on public land Required: Recommended Description: Enter the number of acres restored on public lands Starting Value Target value 190000.00 Acres restored on public land 193060.00 Acres restored on public land Note: The goal on public lands, both Federal and State, is to use herbicides in a timely manner to remove noxious weeds, seeding and grazing modification, as applicable, to address the overall ecosystem health improving the productiveness of these lands and the native plant communities. Funding Strategy: Planning, Research, Monitoring Metric: Restore CO - Monitoring - # sites being monitored Required: Recommended Description: Enter the # sites being monitored Starting Value Target value 200.00 # sites being monitored 425.00 # sites being monitored 1133 15th Street, NW Version 1.1 Suite 1100 Washington, DC 20005 Page 4 of 18 EasvGrantslD: 74150 National Fish and Wildlife Foundation — RESTORE Colorado 2022, Full Proposal Title: Northern Grassland Restoration Project in Weld County with Pawnee National Grassland Organization: Weld County Weed Division Note: A number of USFS-Pawnee National Grassland, State lands and private lands are already being monitored. Through this project we will increase this number and have a better tracking system to understand the changes that are taking place. This will be done using photo points collected aerially by sUAS's as well as from the ground. 1133 15th Street, NW Version 1.1 Suite 1100 Washington, DC 20005 Page 5 of 18 in Weld County with Pawnee National Grassland Organization: Weld County Ward Division FasyGnunslD 74' pp National Fish and Wildlife Foundation — RESTORE Colorado 2922, Fell Proposal Title Northern Grassland Restoration Project Staff Name Position Annual Salary Project Hours Hourly Rate LOE (%j Project Salary % Fringe $ Fringe Total Personnel Totals 50.00 S0.00 $0.00 Domestic Airfare — Per Flight Purpose/Destination Unit Cost Quantity Total Cost SubTotal International Airfare — Per Flight $0.00 Purpose/Destination Unit Cost Quantity Total Cost SubTotal Train — Per Ticket $0.00 Purpose/Destination Unit Cost Quantity Total Cost SubTotal 1 133 15th Street, NW Suite 1100 Washington, DC 20005 Page 6 of 18 Version 1 1 $0.00 in Wcid County with Pawnee National Grassland Organization, Weld County Weed Division Rental Car— Per Day Purpose/Destination SubTotal Ta>tis — Per Trlp EnsyGrantsi D: 74150 National Fish and Wildlife Foundation — RESTORE Colorado 202?, Full Proposal Tale: Northern Grassland Restoration Project Days/Duration Unit Cost Quantity Total Cost $0.00 Purpose/Destination Unit Cost Quantity Total Cost SubTotal Mileage — Per Mile Purpose/Destination Unit Cost Quantity $0.00 Total Cost SubTotal %AMP — Per Gallon $0.00 Purpose/Destination Unit Cost Quantity Total Cost SubTotal Per Diem IM&IEI — Per Day $0.00 Purpose/Destination Days/Duration Unit Cost Quantity Total Cost SubTotal 1133 15th Street, NW Suite 1100 Washington, DC 20005 Page 7 of 18 Version 1 $0.00 in Weld County with Pawnee National Grassland Organinat.on: Weld County Weed Division IiasyGrantslD. 74150 National Fish and Wildlife Foundation - RESTORE Colorado 2022, Full Proposal Title: Northern Grassland Restoration Project Lpdging — Per Night Purpose/Destination Days/Duration Unit Cost Quantity Total Cost SubTotal Meats (no Mb1E) — Per Meal $0.00 Purpose/Destination Days/Duration Unit Cost Quantity Total Cost SubTotal $0.00 Item Name Description Unit Cost Quantity Total Cost MATEiUAtS&RIPPLIES Type Purpose Unit of Measure Unit Cost Quantity Total Cost Herbicide and Commercial Labor Treat Noxious Weeds per landowner $850.00 75 $63,750.00 Aerial Herbicide Treatment Treat Noxious Weeds per landowner $2,800.00 20 $56,000.00 Seeding Restore Degraded Grasslands per acre $260.00 200 $52,000.00 Educational Signage Provide Educational Opportunities to PNG Visitors each $1,000.00 3 $3,000.00 1133 15th Street, NW Suite 1 100 Washington, DC 20005 Page S of 18 Version 1.1 in Weld County with Pawnee National Grassland Oiganiealion, Weld County Weed Division EasyGranlslD: 74150 National Fish and Wildlife Foundation - RESTORE Colorado 2022, Full Proposal Title Northern Grasslard Restoration Project Subcontract/Contract — Per Agreement Contractor Name Desction Total Cost SubTotal Subgrant— Per Agreement $0.00 Subrecipient Description Total Cost SubTotal $0.00 EfIDmEc3' $0.00 Type Purpose Unit of Measure Unit Cost Quantity Total Cost i. JND4RECTCOSTS $0±00 Explanation of Modified Total Direct Cost Base(MTDC) Rate Type NICRA Expiration $MTDC Rate(%) Total Cost 1133 15th Street, NW Salle l 100 Washington, DC 20005 Page 9 of 18 Version 1.1 EasyGrantslD: 74150 National Fish and Wildlife Foundation — RESTORE Coloredo 2022, Full Proposal Title Northam Grassland Restoration Project in Weld County with Pawnee National Grassland Organization: Weld County Weed Division 1133 15th Street, NW Version 1 1 Suite 1100 Washington, DC 20005 Page 10 of 18 in Weld County with Pawnee National Grassland Organization: Weld County Weed Division Budget Narrative: 1. Personnel Personnel - 2. Travel Domestic Airfare - Per Flight - International Airfare - Per Flight - Train - Per Ticket - Rental Car - Per Day - Taxis - Per Trip - Mileage - Per Mile - Gasoline - Per Gallon - Per Diem (M&IE) - Per Day - Lodging - Per Night - Meals (No M&IE) - Per Meal - Budget Narrative EasyGiantslO: 74O0 National Fish and Wildlife Foundation — RESTORE Colorado 2022, Full Proposal Title: Northern Grassland Restoration Project 3. Equipment 1133 15th Street, NW Suite 1100 Washington, DC 20005 Page 11 of IS Version 1 Equipment - 4. Materials and Supplies Materials and Supplies - 5. Contractual Services Subcontract/Contract - Per Agreement - Subgrant - Per Agreement • 6. Other Direct Costs Other Direct Costs - 7. Indirect Costs Indirect Costs - 1133 15th Street, NW Suite 1100 Washington, DC 20005 in Weld County with Pawnee National Grassland Organization, Weld County Weed Division Page 12 of 18 Version I.I PasyGranns[D: 74150 National Fish and Wildlife Foundation - RESTORE Colorado 2022, Full Proposal Title: Northern Grassland Restoration Project in Weld County with Pawnee National Grassland Organization: Weld County Weed Division liasyGrantelD: 74150 National Fish and Wildlife Foundation — RLSfORE Colorado 2022, Full Proposal Title. Northern Grassland Restoration Project t 133 15th Street, NW Version I 1 Suite 1100 Washington, DC 20005 Page 13 of IS Matching Contributions EasyGrantslD: 74150 National Fish and Wildlife Foundation — RESTORE Colorado 2022, Full Proposal Title: Northern Grassland Restoration Project in Weld County with Pawnee National Grassland Organization: Weld County Weed Division Matching Contribution Amount: $34,200.00 Type: In -kind Status: Pledged Source: Weld County Weed Division Source Type: Non -Federal Description: Staff time ($24/hr x 1000 hr) and equipment ($12/hr x 850 hr) to carry out the duties of this grant project. Matching Contribution Amount: $24,250.00 Type: In -kind Status: Pledged Source: Weld County Weed Division Source Type: Non -Federal Description: Staff and equipment ($45/hour x 450 hours) time to treat the Count roads within the project area along with the chemical ($25/acre x 160 acres) to carry out the treatments. Matching Contribution Amount: $10,000.00 Type: In -kind Status: Pledged Source: Weld County Weed Division Source Type: Non -Federal Description: Supervisors time to over see the entire grant project, training, implementation and reporting. 200 hours x $50/hour. Matching Contribution Amount: $3,000.00 Type: In -kind Status: Pledged Source: West Greeley Conservation District Source Type: Non -Federal 1133 15th Street, NW Suite 1100 Washington, DC 20005 Page 14 of 18 Version 1.1 Description: EasyGrantsID: 74150 National Fish and Wildlife Foundation —RESTORE Colorado 2022, Full Proposal Title: Northern Grassland Restoration Project in Weld County with Pawnee National Grassland Organization: Weld County Weed Division Staff time to coordinate seeding efforts, plans and seed ordering. 60 hours x $50/hr. Matching Contribution Amount: $3,750.00 Type: In -kind Status: Pledged Source: Colorado State Land Board Source Type: Non -Federal Description: Time to monitor their sites, work with their leases and provide direction to the grant project. 75 hours x $50/hr Matching Contribution Amount: $4,000.00 Type: Cash Status: Pledged Source: Colorado Department of Transportation Source Type: Non -Federal Description: Funding to treat Highway 85, Hwy 14 and Hwy 71 in the project area for noxious weeds. Matching Contribution Amount: $30,000.00 Type: Cash Status: Pledged Source: Private Landowners Source Type: Non -Federal Description: Cash matching portion of the cost -share funds provided for in the grant project. Matching Contribution Amount: $5,000.00 Type: In -kind Status: Pledged Source: USFS - Pawnee National Grassland Source Type: Federal 1133 15th Street, NW Suite 1100 Washington, DC 20005 Page 15 of 18 Version L 1 Description: EasyGrantslD: 74150 National Fish and Wildlife Foundation — RESTORE Colorado 2022, Full Proposal Title: Northern Grassland Restoration Project in Weld County with Pawnee National Grassland Organization: Weld County Weed Division Staff time to monitor and provide direction in the grant project and working with the two grazing associations. 100 hours x $50/hr Matching Contribution Amount: $25,000.00 Type: Cash Status: Pledged Source: USFS - Pawnee National Grassland Source Type: Federal Description: Funding for seasonal position to carry out noxious weed treatments on the Pawnee National Grassland. Total Amount of Matching Contributions: $139,200.00 1133 15th Street, NW Version 1.1 Suite 1100 Washington, DC 20O05 Page 16 of 18 EasyGrantslD: 74150 National Fish and Wildlife Foundation — RESTORE Colorado 2022, Full Proposal Title: Northern Grassland Restoration Project in Weld County with Pawnee National Grassland Organization: Weld County Weed Division *ss Gt.ndo Sark*. Bark Gamp '3 u* rn wly Oaring Chey nna Fort Collins sE;r Longmont Bould. Denver Casilef�ouk Fort M': i an D244 CT Nabanal POW Si Alliance Scorees- Esti, HERE, Garmin, Intermap, inoement P Cam" t9t"₹5CC, USGS, FAO, NPS. NRCAN, Ge,ea.ii e, ION, Ks aster Nl, Cidnanos Survey, Esri Japan, METi, Err Chins -if -long Knng), tG OpenStreetMap •o ntributsn, and the GIS User Community EasyGrantslD: 74150 National Fish and Wildlife Foundation —RESTORE Colorado 2022, Full Proposal Title: Northern Grassland Restoration Project in Weld County with Pawnee National Grassland Organization: Weld County Weed Division The following pages contain the uploaded documents, in the order shown below, as provided by the applicant: Upload Type File Name Uploaded By Uploaded Date RESTORE Full Proposal Narrative 2022 2022+Restore+Colorado+Full+Proposal+ Narrative+Template.doc Booton, Tina 11/17/2021 Statement of Litigation Statement+oft-Litigation (1).doc Booton, Tina 11/10/2021 Board of Trustees, Directors, or equivalent BOCC.doc Booton, Tina 11/10/2021 Applicant Controls Questionnaire Compliance certificate from Accounting.pdf Booton, Tina 11/17/2021 The following uploads do not have the same headers and footers as the previous sections of this document in order to preserve the integrity of the actual files uploaded. 1133 15th Street, NW Version E1 Suite 1100 Washington, DC 20005 Page 18 of 18 Full Proposal Project Narrative Instructions: Save this document on your computer and complete the narrative in the format provided. The final narrative should not exceed six (6) pages; do not delete the text provided below. Once complete, upload this document into the on-line application as instructed. Activities: Elaborate on the primary activities that will be employed through the grant. Explain how these activities are expected to lead to the outcome(s). Describe how these activities relate to established plans (management, conservation, recovery, etc.) and priority conservation needs in the specific project location. The grassland in Northern Weld County is a vital part of the shortgrass steppe prairie across the Great Plains of North America. Grasslands globally are considered the most threatened ecosystem in the world. Many sources also consider the shortgrass steppe the most threatened prairie ecosystem in North America. With the ever-increasing pressure of development, we must protect and enhance these landscapes. The importance of grasslands lies not only in the vast area (over 1,152,000 acres) they cover of northern Weld County Colorado, but also in the specific habitat they provide for wildlife such as grassland bird species. Grassland bird populations are part of the fastest declining species in North America. One of Colorado's largest categories of threatened and endangered species are birds; largely due to the declining populations of our native species and their habitat. These grassland birds that call the shortgrass steppe their home, wintering grounds, breeding grounds, and part of their critical migratory routes are losing their sustainable ecosystem because of the large quantities of landmass degradation. Noxious weeds are the largest driver of landmass degradation observed in northern Weld County. Furthermore, the degradation of this ecosystem by noxious weed invasions contributes to the regional and national declining rates of the bird species that call the grassland home. Specifically, meadowlark and burrowing owl populations are diminishing due to grassland degradation. Bird diversity and abundance are key indicators of the condition of their habitats. To help recover these species populations it is important to protect habitat loss from noxious plant species. The biggest threat to wildlife is the loss of habitat. Non-native, noxious species form monocultures over time. Currently the noxious weeds in Northern Weld County are not monocultures, they are isolated infestations. Non- native, noxious species impact the birds, as well as native pollinators, small mammals, and deer. According to the Mule Deer Foundation, noxious cheatgrass is the number one threat to mule deer habitat. This annual grass species changes an ecosystem once it becomes established by consuming the spring moisture, depleting critical soil nutrients, out competing native plant species, and impacting the abundance and diversity of soil micro-organisms. These newly formed establishments displace the native plant communities and lead to increased wildfire activity and lower forage value. Furthermore, it increases fire frequency intervals to every five to fifteen years versus the historical fire regime of every 30 to 100 years. The increased fire frequency negatively impacts the native grasses, forbs, and shrubs that struggle to succeed in an escalated fire occurrence ecosystem. This project essentially encompasses the northern half of Weld County. However, the noxious weed infestations are in specific isolated areas. By including the entire geographic region in the project, Weld County staff can monitor all areas verifying that the species in question are not moving, but in fact reducing in acres. It also provides a unique opportunity to treat infestations across multiple property boundaries and ownership. Addressing the issues that non-native species create in our local ecosystems, the Colorado State Noxious Weed Act C.R.S. 35-5.5-101 and Weld County Code Chapter 15 require specific non-native species to be managed immediately. Of those species, some have been designated by Colorado State for eradication in Weld County. These species include Dalmatian toadflax (extending a little west of Highway 85), diffuse knapweed (small pocket south of Stoneham and bordering Nebraska east of Grover), Russian knapweed (around the Grover area), Canada thistle, musk thistle, Scotch thistle (isolated patches scattered in the project area), and hoary cress (north of New Raymer). The devastation and degradation to the landscape are well documented as these species continue to displace native vegetation resulting in a direct impact to wildlife habitat and forage requirements for the future sustainability of their populations. This project will directly aid more than 50 Weld County landowners in reaching the eradication thresholds for these noxious weed species, while benefiting hundreds of recreationists that visit the grasslands. Although cheatgrass is on the C list for noxious weed species and has not been set for eradication by the State of Colorado, this project will address and reduce the distribution and density of cheatgrass infestations (scattered acres throughout the project area). These additional efforts to manage the spread of cheatgrass are due to the exponential growth of its populations throughout the northern grassland portions of Weld County over the last five years, and landowner demand for help in addressing this troublesome grass species. Consequently, we need to preserve the grassland biodiversity that we have; while also preventing further loss of native vegetation, birds, pollinators, and wildlife populations that call this grassland home. Therefore, this project will be implemented on private, state, and federal lands. The first two primary activities that will be implemented are herbicide applications utilizing ground and aerial techniques to address the targeted noxious weeds including cheatgrass. The implementation of herbicide treatments funded through this project will be applied to over 15,000 acres of privately owned land. These treatments will help promote native grasses, preferred forbs, and shrubs while also reducing the distribution and establishment of noxious weed infestations. As a result of the increased biodiversity with the reduction of non-native plant species across the grassland, the wildlife, bird, and pollinator habitats will improve and flourish once more. Current grassland wildlife species include mule deer, antelope, swift fox, grassland grouse, mountain plover, burrowing owls, songbirds, and a wide range of native pollinators. Ground applications using herbicides will allow participants to treat the targeted noxious weeds in more sensitive locations; specifically, sites that are in close proximity to sensitive trees, ephemeral streams, and on small acreage locations where nontargct species could be hindered by herbicide treatments. Aerial herbicide applications will be used on larger properties where acres of infestations are inhabited, as well as sites that are difficult to reach by ground equipment due to topography constraints and travel concerns. The herbicides that will be used to address these species include Rejuvra, Tordon 22K, Telar XP, Plateau and Milestone. These products have proven the most effective in addressing cheatgrass, Dalmatian toadflax, diffuse knapweed, Russian knapweed, Canada thistle, musk thistle, Scotch thistle, and hoary cress. Additionally, these products have been tested to show little to no effect on native perennial grasses, forbs, shrubs, and tree species. These herbicide products and their applications will allow for the greatest heterogeneity of plant and wildlife species to flourish and establish among the grassland ecosystems. Current research has indicated that once these noxious weed populations have been suppressed or eradicated, native plants can re-establish from existing plant remnants and seed banks. If a natural establishment is not observed, re -seeding applications with native species will be implemented. Tordon 22K and Milestone both provide over 90°u control of the thistle species. With the addition of Rejuvra to the effective toolbox, we can control at least two years' worth of seed germination with one treatment. This is effective on the annual cheatgrass, which has a three -to -five-year seed viability in the soil. Research has shown that in most cases, the perennial plant communities still exist and are just being suppressed by this aggressive grass species. Once the cheatgrass is suppressed, these plant communities come back and re-establish themselves to compete against the cheatgrass. This reduces the number of acres that need a follow-up treatment to a manageable infestation that landowners can afford to address on their own. The ground herbicide treatments will be covered on a cost -share basis of 80% up to $850 per private landowner per calendar year. This will allow for approximately 12,000 acres of noxious weeds to be treated during the project. A total of $63,750 is being dedicated to this part of the project that will be dispersed to over 75 landowners. The aerial treatments will be on a cost -share basis as well. These funds will be distributed at 80% up to $2,800 per private landowner. This will allow the project to treat upwards of 3,000 acres of noxious weeds, specifically cheatgrass, and a total of $56,000 is being dedicated to this portion of the project that will be dispersed to 20 landowners. In the first year, 50% of the herbicide treatments will be carried out, and the remaining funds being spent on the second year to continue making progress on the eradication of the noxious weed species. Both activities will greatly reduce the acres infested with noxious weeds. The dollars proposed for these activities will allow more landowners to participate than have been able to with past grant -funded projects. The United States Forest Service Pawnee National Grassland is planning to treat approximately 50 to 75 acres each year of noxious weeds, as indicated by past years records, in addition to a minimum of 100 acres of cheatgrass while inspecting over 7200 acres with one seasonal employee contracted through Weld County over the course of the project. Weld County will treat all roadsides within the project area with budget funds used as a portion of the match. As a condition of state grazing leases, lessees of the State Land Board will be treating infestations as needed. The third activity that will be implemented in this grant -funded project is the re -seeding of degraded lands. This will further the effort of enhancing the grasslands in Northern Weld County and provide increased wildlife habitat. Some of the lands in the project area have been over -utilized by large ungulates, have expired Conservation Reserve Program contracts, or have struggled over the years due to drought conditions. This project will provide the funding to seed 200 acres with native grasses, forbs and shrubs. The total expected cost for this activity, including seed and labor, is $52,000 or $260.00 per acre. The grant project will cover this cost at 100% to ensure the lands that need the assistance are addressed regardless of ownership; private, state or federal. Having a strong native vegetation that can withstand the extreme variability in this semi -arid climate will help reduce new noxious weed infestations, limit future herbicide treatment applications, improve soil health and stability, and maintain critical riparian ecosystems. The addition of forb and shrub populations will also help increase pollinator habitat and essential feed sources. From December 2021 through May 1 of 2022, the first year, at least 65% of the seeding will be completed. Any leftover seeding funds will be used during the second year of the project. The fourth activity will be providing landowners education on targeted grazing practices and grassland ecosystem management. Livestock grazing is an essential ecosystem service that many ranching communities depend on across the project area. Moreover, additional educational practices are critical to ensure these rangelands are meeting sustainability goals for future generations to thrive from these ecosystem services. Implementing applied science methodologies mixed with generational local ranching knowledge will allow for these outcomes to come to fruition. This task will be accomplished with educational newsletter articles, social media outreaches and posts, a virtual educational seminar, and one-on-one meetings and evaluations with private landowners. The information presented in these outlets will be compiled from Colorado State University Cooperative Extension sources, NRCS, West Greeley Conservation District, and other local experts. Weld County staff will lead this operation by organizing, distributing and coordinating all the educational programs. During on -site visits, a small Unmanned Aircraft System will be providing landowners with an aerial view of their property, which can aid in the decision -making process for proper rangeland ecosystem management. A fifth activity for this project will be installing three interpretive signs that explain the impacts that noxious weeds have on grassland ecosystems. Additionally, these signs will include a plant identification component to help educate the public of common plant characteristics for identification. These signs will be placed at Bakers Draw, Crow Valley Campground, and the Pawnee Buttes Trail Head. These signs will highlight the impacts that noxious weeds have on the local ecosystem, and the struggles that surviving native plants, pollinators, birds and wildlife endure in lieu of the noxious weed populations. The signs will also highlight common management practices that Weld County and their partners are implementing to combat these infestations. The intent of these signs is to help increase the understanding of these problematic plants for the public visitors and convey how interlaced all parts of the grassland ecosystem are to its overall health and functionality. There are approximately 15,000 to 22,000 visitors annually to these three locations. Ideally, after reading these signs, visitors will help report noxious weed sightings to allow staff to treat new infestations in a timely manner. Each sign including construction materials, boot cleaning brush system and printing costs will run $1000.00. This activity will total $3000.00. The signs have a five (5) year life expectancy. 2. Outcome(s): Elaborate on the outcome(s) summarized previously in the application; discuss what makes this outcome(s) achievable and important. All partners in the project area will be using a collaborative approach to address the entire landscape across jurisdictional boundaries in order to reach the desired outcome of reducing noxious weed infestations and creating a more resilient native ecosystem with enhanced wildlife habitat. Dating back to 2002, specific attempts have been made on individual noxious weed species to improve eradication efforts; however, this will be the first project that focuses on all priority species (Dalmatian toadflax, diffuse knapweed, Russian knapweed, Canada thistle, musk thistle, Scotch thistle, and cheatgrass) along with seeding operations and providing a holistic complete control project across all land ownerships to improve the grassland ecosystem. Since 2014, Weld County has been building momentum working with each landowner (private, state, and federal) in the project area to be able to quickly implement this project once funded. The primary goal of this project is to treat 15,000 acres that currently have noxious weed infestations. The eradication and reduction of these noxious weed species will fulfill federal, state and county requirements as well as improve the grassland environment. Dalmatian toadflax, diffuse knapweed, Russian knapweed, Canada thistle, musk thistle, Scotch thistle, and cheatgrass populations have not yet formed monocultures across the grasslands; hence the timing and implementation of this project is critical. With the use of newer, more effective, longer impacting herbicides eradication is achievable on this scale of a project with all landowners working together. Infestations are scattered throughout Northern Weld County making treatments more time-consuming due to increased travel and application treatment times. Having additional funds will allow the partners to continue the effort to improve the grassland health and resiliency that landowners and land managers have been consistently working to achieve over the past twenty years. Decreasing noxious weed infestations and increasing native vegetation will provide a healthier ecosystem for wildlife to flourish while also promoting sustainability for future generations to enjoy its wonders. The United States Forest Service has been conducting several wildlife surveys including swift fox night surveys, a variety of different bird surveys, and prairie dog surveys over the last few decades. This historical data will be cross- referenced with future survey results to help determine the impacts this project has on creating wildlife habitats and increasing population numbers. Utilizing a cross -analysis approach, we will be able to detect and implement further projects to help ensure our wildlife and key plant community numbers are reaching predetermined outlined goals. In areas where numbers are not exceeding expectations, future management decisions will be altered to enhance conditions. 3. Tracking Metrics: Indicate how the project will monitor/assess progress on the metrics selected previously in the application. Please note any challenges or limitations anticipated with tracking the metrics. Monitoring will be conducted by Weld County and Pawnee National Grassland staff employees. Staff will use iPads with the Collector software application to map and take GPS points of sites treated and seeded within the project area. GPS linked photo points will be taken for continued long-term monitoring and tracking to determine the effectiveness of the project outcomes. Additional long-term monitoring will be conducted using cover -frequency and rooted nested frequency transects. These monitoring methods will allow us to determine the changes in vegetation composition cover over a longer period. Short-term monitoring will be conducted by using forage clipping procedures to determine seasonal forage growth in pounds per acre. This practice will inform us of vegetation product metrics for the growing season after an herbicide treatment has taken place. In areas where "key sites" have been established, such as around a waterhole, high value native vegetation, or known wildlife habitat, additional short and long-term monitoring will be conducted. A common challenge that many weed control or eradication programs and projects face are the constantly evolving and ever -shifting infestations themselves. For example, one infestation can be reduced or even eradicated in a specific area, and then a new one will establish "down the road" due to anemochory (wind), zoochory (animal), hydrochory (water), abscission (gravity), ballochory (ballistic), and anthropogenic causes of seed dispersal. There is also the need to deplete seed reserve in the soil bank. This can take time depending on how long the seeds are viable in the soil. Therefore, there is a need for consistent effort to address these challenges. One of the uncontrollable challenges and limitations we face is the variable climate and moisture conditions across the grassland. The short grass steppe typically loses much of its moisture during the summer months. However, some areas may experience heavy downpours, while others experience hail and even tornado like conditions. Winter months tend to be characterized with moderate snow accumulations that are often drifted by heavier wind conditions, which could result in bare areas and landscapes. Therefore, balancing weather conditions across the northern grassland result in a complex situation when addressing noxious weeds management and native plant establishment. A minor challenge could be the unwillingness of private landowners to participate with this project. However, this challenge is addressed with the State Law and County Code that allows the Weld County Weed Division staff to carry out enforcements on private property after a legal notice has been issued. This is a process that the Weld County Weed Division has proceeded with in the past and is still willing to move forward with as needed on lands with non- compliant landowners. 4. Project Team: List key individuals and describe their qualifications relevant for project implementation. Tina Booton, Weld County Weed Division Supervisor: Tina Booton has been the Weed Division Supervisor in Weld County since 2005. She holds a bachelor's degree in animal science and a Master of Agriculture with an emphasis in education; both accolades coming from Colorado State University. Over the years, Tina has worked closely with landowners, state, and federal agencies to address noxious weed infestations, while also reducing their impacts on neighboring lands. Additionally, Tina has managed several grants over this time frame to help landowners. Grant management has included the application process, reporting throughout the grant project, and overseeing that the grant was implemented according to plan. Stephanie Magnuson, USFS- Pawnee National Grassland (PNG), Rangeland Management Specialist: Stephanie Magnuson has been workiig in rangeland and noxious weed management since 2008. She holds a bachelor's degree in Rangeland Ecosystem, with a concentration in Restoration Ecology. Additionally, she completed and a Masters in Rangeland Ecosystem Science; both accolades coming from Colorado State University. Stephanie's MS thesis focused on seeding methods and reclamation success rates specifically located on the shortgrass steppe of Colorado where the proposed project takes place. Stephanie currently works with over 80 local ranching families on grazing strategies and noxious weed management. She has established working collaborative partnerships throughout the community to implement sound grassland natural resource management. She continues to expand the partnerships in Weld County, the State Land Board, public grazing permit holders, and surrounding private landowners to address noxious weed infestations across jurisdictional boundaries. Liz Schneider, West Greeeley Conservation District, Conservation and Small Acreage Technician: Liz Schneider has been with West Greeley Conservation District since 2015. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Soil and Crop Sciences with a minor in Soil Conservation and Restoration from Colorado State University. Liz has a background of irrigated and dryland agriculture, which has driven her passion for conservation across the grassland. Liz has and continues to work with landowners that have properties of various sizes. She continues to have great working relationships with property owners in all walks of life. Liz has worked with Tina Booton on other projects within Weld County since her start with WGCD in 2015. Rachel Brooks — Colorado State Land Board, North Central District Manager: Rachel Brooks holds a bachelor's degree and a master's degree in Natural Resources with an emphasis in Rangeland Ecology, Management and Restoration from the University of Arizona, She has worked for the Colorado State Land Board for 2 years and serves as a District Manager overseeing approximately 400,000 acres of state trust land throughout 13 counties. As part of this work, she collaborates with agricultural lessees to ensure that a high standard of stewardship is maintained on state trust land. Part of this stewardship focuses on the control of noxious weeds and non-native plants along with proper grazing management across state leases. 5. Leverage: To better demonstrate the full scope and community involvement of this project, please describe any additional funding sources pledged or committed not previously described in the matching contributions section of this proposal. Private landowners are committed to this project to address Dalmatian toadflax, and diffuse knapweed on their properties. The number of landowners participating in the eradication of these species has increased as the knowledge of the problem has reached a larger audience. There has also been a number of properties divided into small acreages increasing the number of landowners west of Highway 85. Private dollars spent to address diffuse knapweed from 2007 through 2019 have accumulated upward of $129,667. Additionally, private funds to treat Dalmatian toadflax from 2002 through 2019 have reached up to $136,230. These landowners take Dalmatian toadflax and diffuse knapweed very seriously and are working towards the eradication efforts of these species on their own properties, whether these lands are CRP, pastures, or rangelands. This project creates a cost -share program for these private landowners. Landowners will be matching 20% or more of the funds that this project provides to address Dalmatian toadflax, diffuse knapweed, Russian knapweed, Canada thistle, musk thistle, Scotch thistle, and cheatgrass. Weld County is dedicated to the concepts within this project. Therefore, the county will continue with its annual treatment plan of treating the roadsides within the grassland of Northern Weld County. Moreover, these treatments will be targeting Dalmatian toadflax, diffuse knapweed, Russian knapweed, Canada thistle, musk thistle, Scotch thistle, hoary cress and field bindweed. These applications are one way that the county works to limit the spread of noxious weeds around Weld County. Configuring the average dollar amount allocated to previous roadside applications within Northern Weld County grassland ecosystem, our estimates for chemical, equipment, and core time equate to approximately $24,250 annually. This work is part of the local match. State and federal land managers have put in similar efforts over this same timeline to address Dalmatian toadflax, diffuse knapweed, Russian knapweed, Canada thistle, musk thistle, Scotch thistle and cheatgrass on government managed rangelands. This project allows all the partners to work across boundaries and not worry about a fence line stopping proactive efforts. In 2021 the USFS Pawnee National Grassland has committed an additional $15,000 of their noxious weed control budget to address Dalmatian toadflax, diffuse knapweed, Russian knapweed, Canada thistle, musk thistle, Scotch thistle and cheatgrass. These dollars are in the form of equipment usage, herbicide chemicals and contracted staff time. 6. Other (Optional): Provide any further information important for the review of this proposal. Statement of Litigation Instructions: Save this document on your computer and complete. The final narrative should not exceed two (2) pages; do not delete the text provided below. Once complete, upload this document into the on-line application as instructed. Litigation: In the space provided below, state any litigation (including bankruptcies) involving your organization and either a federal, state, or local government agency as parties. This includes anticipated litigation, pending litigation, or litigation completed within the past twelve months. Federal, state, and local government applicants are not required to complete this section. If your organization is not involved in any litigation, please state below. Weld County government is not involved in any litigation. PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT 1111 H STREET PO BOX 758 GREELEY, CO 80632 PHONE (970)304-6496, Ext. 3750 FAX: (970)304-6497 WEBSITE: www.co,we1d.co.us District I: Mike Freeman District 2: Scott James, Pro -Tern District 3: Lori Saine At -Large: Perry Buck At -Large: Steve Moreno, Chair APPLICANT CONTROLS AND CAPABILITIES QUESTIONNAIRE 9 ��o NFWFA0 INSTRUCTIONS: THIS QUESTIONNAIRE IS REQUIRED WITH THE SUBMISSION OF A NFWF FULL PROPOSAL, FOR THE FOLLOWING ORGANIZATION TYPES: NONPROFIT ORGANIZATIONS, S FATE, LOCAL & MUNICIPAL GOVERNMENTS, INDIAN TRIBAL GOVERNMENTS, FOR-PROFIT ENTITIES, AND INCORPORATED INDIVIDUALS. PLEASE COMPLETE AND SIGN THE QUESTIONNAIRE IF YOUR ORGANIZATION DOES NOT HAVE A RECENT (WITHIN TWO YEARS) SINGLE AUDIT UPLOADED TO THE FEDERAL AUDIT CLEARINGHOUSE. DO NOT INCLUDE COPIES OF POLICIES OR PROCEDURES WITH THE SUBMISSION OF THIS FORM. NFWF UTILIZES THIS QUESTIONNAIRE ALONG WITH A RISK ASSESSMENT TO DETERMINE ELIGIBILITY AND COMPLIANCE REQUIREMENTS, WHICH MAY INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING: ADDITIONAL REPORTING, RESTRICTION OF ADVANCE FUNDING, AND/OR SUBMISSION OF SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION. ORGANIZATION LEGAL NAME: cooly? e )d Weld County ORGANIZATION EIN 1'/_ v0cv8i 3 1. Does your organization have a Single Audit (within the last 2 years) on file with the Federal Audit Clearinghouse? If yes, sign and upload form. ❑ If no, complete form in its entirety. 2. Has your organization been suspended or debarred from any government contracting process? If yes, please explain. Enter response here. 3. Has your organization managed a federal award before? If yes, provide a summary of your most recent award, including period of performance, awarding agency, federal program, and size of award. Enter response here. 4. Does your organization maintain written accounting policies and procedures applicable to headquarters and, if applicable, field offices? If no, please explain. Enter response here. 5. Does your accounting system (or other management system) allow organizational expenses to be tracked: (a) to a specific project on which your organization is working; (b) to specific tasks within that project; and, (c) to specific cost -type categories within each task (e.g., materials, supplies, travel, etc.)? If no, please explain. Enter response here. 6. Does your organization have a timekeeping system or documented process that allows staff time to be tracked: (a) to a particular project on which staff spends time; and, (b) to specific tasks within each project? If no, please explain. Enter response here. Applicant Controls Questionnaire APPLICANT CONTROLS AND CAPABILITIES QUESTIONNAIRE 7. Does your organization maintain employment agreements or other formal evidence of employment between it and its employees? If no, please explain. Enter response here. 8. Does your organization maintain basic property and casualty insurance? If no, please explain. Enter response here. 9. Is your organization able to perform the project on a cost -reimbursable basis? If no, please explain by providing the following information: (a) current cash on hand amount, (b) advance funding required, and (c) purpose of advance funding. Enter response here. 10. Does your organization maintain a written policy on conflict of interest? Would your organization's policy on conflict of interest operate to notify NFWF if your organization finds that it is unable to satisfactorily manage a conflict of interest pertinent to a NFWF-funded project? If no, please explain. Enter response here. 11. Does your organization maintain a written procurement policy? If no, please explain. Enter response here. 12. If your proposed project includes contracts and/or sub -recipients, has an appropriate legal/contracting officer at your organization reviewed such elements and confirmed that your organization indeed has the ability to implement the arrangements as envisioned? Enter response here. 13. Does your organization maintain written policies for property management and do you perform inventory audits/verifications on a regular basis? [APPLICABLE TO PROJECTS WITH EQUIPMENT OR SUPPLIES BUDGETED] Enter response here. 14. In the past three (3) years has your organization, or any unit or office thereof, been audited by an external donor/funder or agent thereof? (This would include, but not be limited to, audits of your organization by governmental entities.) If yes, please list all such audits. Enter response here. I certify to the best of my knowledge and belief that the above information is true, complete, and accurate and that I am authorized to submit on behalf of the organization represented above. SIGNATURE NAME AND TITLE cui a t X 51 , phe v D'Ov1 /J/o - 6.44lE'✓"' Applicant Controls Questionnaire Hello