The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) Western Fisheries Research Center, in partnership with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 10, is offering a funding opportunity through a cooperative agreement under the Pacific Northwest Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Unit (CESU) Program. This grant seeks to support research focused on understanding the bioavailability and tissue distribution of organic chemicals in salmon affected by stormwater runoff, particularly N-(1,3-dimethylbutyl)-N'-phenyl-p-phenylenediamine (6PPD-quinone). The goal of this research is to evaluate the toxicological mechanisms and potential bioaccumulation of pollutants in salmon tissues to better assess species-specific sensitivities.

The research objectives include developing analytical techniques using high-resolution mass spectroscopy to quantify the bioaccumulation of organic pollutants in salmon tissues. Specifically, the study will assess the uptake of tire-derived contaminants and their stability in aquatic environments. The project also aims to refine analytical methods for measuring 6PPD-quinone and other structurally similar contaminants while evaluating their transformation products' fate and toxicity in salmon.

A single award is anticipated under this opportunity, with an initial base year of funding and the potential for a renewal year. The available funding for the fiscal year 2025 is $228,000, with the possibility of additional funding contingent on satisfactory progress and continued funding availability. The recipient must be a CESU partner affiliated with the Pacific Northwest CESU to be eligible for consideration.

Applications must be submitted electronically via Grants.gov. The application package should include the recipient’s name, principal investigator details, technical contacts, available laboratory resources, and the research team’s relevant experience. The proposal must also contain a detailed research plan, including an introduction and statement of the problem, objectives, methodology, anticipated products, dissemination strategy, references cited, and a budget breakdown. A data management plan, a biographical sketch of key personnel, and documentation of current and pending support are also required.

Evaluation of applications will be based on four primary criteria, each weighted at 25%: the proposal’s purpose, objectives, and relevance; the technical approach and feasibility; budget justification and clarity; and the qualifications and past performance of the applicant. The selection process will involve technical review by USGS personnel, followed by final approval by the contracting officer.

Faith D. Graves serves as the primary point of contact for this funding opportunity. She can be reached at fgraves@usgs.gov or by phone at (703) 648-7356. The application process follows federal grant compliance requirements, including financial reporting and adherence to USGS data-sharing policies. The final technical report is due 120 days after the agreement's completion, and award recipients are expected to manage day-to-day project operations to ensure compliance with federal guidelines.