[U.S. Geological Survey (USGS)](https://www.usgs.gov)

September 8, 2025 (11:59 PM ET)

$50,000 total | Single award | 15-month project period

Supports a CESU partner for research on groundwater nitrate modeling and water availability assessments in the Illinois River Basin.

Applicants must be a participating partner of the Great Rivers CESU Program.

--- ## Description The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) Central Midwest Water Science Center invites proposals from Great Rivers Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Unit (CESU) partners to conduct research on local- and regional-scale groundwater nitrate modeling for the Illinois River Basin (ILRB). This project is part of the USGS Integrated Water Availability Assessments (IWAAs) and aims to advance understanding of water availability for human and ecological needs, with a focus on nutrient issues and harmful algal blooms. The research will utilize and extend the MODFLOW 6 groundwater flow model for the ILRB, with objectives including finalizing, publishing, and expanding its application for nitrate simulation. The project is intended to develop scientific products that will inform regional and national water resource management, in close collaboration with USGS scientists. --- ## Due Dates - Application Deadline: **September 8, 2025 (11:59 PM ET)** All applications must be submitted electronically via Grants.gov by the deadline. --- ## Funding Amount - **Total funding available:** $50,000 - **Award ceiling:** $50,000 - **Award floor:** $1 - **Number of awards:** 1 anticipated - **Project duration:** 15 months Funds will be fully obligated at the time of award. --- ## Eligibility - **Eligible applicants:** Only organizations that are current participating partners of the [Great Rivers Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Unit (CESU) Program](https://www.cesu.psu.edu/unit_portals/unit_greatrivers.asp). - This opportunity is not open to individuals or non-partner organizations. - CESUs are collaborative partnerships among federal agencies, universities, and other organizations that provide research, technical assistance, and education. --- ## Application Process - **Submission:** Applications must be submitted through [Grants.gov](https://www.grants.gov/search-results-detail/360272), referencing Funding Opportunity Number G25AS00340. - **Required documents:** - Technical narrative (including cover page, objectives, methods, schedule, and references) - Budget narrative and SF-424A form - Biographical Sketch (see [instructions](https://api.atomgrants.com/storage/v1/object/public/grants3-sources/ATTACHMENT%20A%20-Biographical-sketch-common-form-doi-omb-3145-0279%203.pdf)) - Current and Pending (Other) Support (see [instructions](https://api.atomgrants.com/storage/v1/object/public/grants3-sources/ATTACHMENT%20B%20-%20Common-form-current-and-pending-support-doi-omb-3145-0279%203.pdf)) - Data Management Plan - Project Abstract Summary (see [requirements](https://api.atomgrants.com/storage/v1/object/public/grants3-sources/ATTACHMENT%20C%20-%20Project%20Abstract%20Summary%20Requirement..docx)) - **Budget:** Indirect costs are capped at 17.5% (CESU negotiated rate). - **Geospatial data:** If applicable, must comply with [Federal Geospatial Data Committee (FGDC) standards](https://www.fgdc.gov) and [DOI geospatial requirements](https://api.atomgrants.com/storage/v1/object/public/grants3-sources/ATTACHMENT%20D%20-%20Geospatial%20Data%20instructions..docx). - **Reporting:** Annual and final technical and financial reports are required. --- ## Additional Information - **Project goals:** Finalize and publish the MODFLOW groundwater flow model for the ILRB, provide regular updates, and develop a proof-of-concept nitrate groundwater model. - **Evaluation criteria:** Proposals evaluated on purpose/relevance, technical approach, budget clarity, and qualifications/experience. - **Collaboration:** Close coordination with USGS scientists is expected. - **Products:** Scientific reports, data/model releases, and presentations. --- ## External Links - [Full Grants.gov Opportunity Announcement](https://www.grants.gov/search-results-detail/360272) - [Great Rivers CESU Program Overview](https://www.cesu.psu.edu/unit_portals/unit_greatrivers.asp) - [USGS Data Management Plan Guidance](https://www.usgs.gov/data-management/data-management-plans) - [FGDC Geospatial Standards](https://www.fgdc.gov) --- ## Contact Information | Name | Role | Email | Phone | |----------------|-----------------------------|------------------------------|------------------| | Rachel Miller | Grants Management Specialist | [rachelmiller@usgs.gov](mailto:rachelmiller@usgs.gov) | — | | Jenny Murphy | Technical Contact (Hydrologist) | [jmurphy@usgs.gov](mailto:jmurphy@usgs.gov) | 217-328-9727 | | Grants.gov Help Desk | Application Support | [support@grants.gov](mailto:support@grants.gov) | 1-800-518-4726 | ---

Cooperative Agreement for affiliated Partner with the Great Rivers Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Unit (CESU)

Sign in to see full grant listing