Aquatic Fauna and Primary Production in the Florida Everglades

This solicitation seeks Statements of Interest (SOI) from qualified research organizations that are members of designated Cooperative Ecosystem Study Units (CESU) to conduct a multi‑year (up to five years) cooperative agreement focused on monitoring aquatic fauna and primary production (periphyton) in the Florida Everglades. The work supports the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan (CERP) by establishing baseline conditions, tracking trends, and modeling ecosystem responses to restoration actions. The base period is 12 months with up to four optional 12‑month follow‑on periods, funded at roughly $1 M for the base year (mandatory tasks) and up to $5 M total ceiling for optional/follow‑on work. Applicants must provide qualifications, PI biographical sketch, permit status, and a brief technical narrative (2‑3 pages). Selection will be based on technical merit and alignment with USACE missions. Key tasks include: • Project initiation, planning, and permitting • Aquatic fauna sampling using GRTS design • Periphyton primary production sampling • Data analysis, annual and final reporting • Participation in RECOVER regional team meetings • Optional modeling, expanded surveys, marsh‑improvement monitoring, and system‑status reporting.