RECOVERY ACT(ARRA) National Park Service, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Trail Rehabilitation Activities Along Portions of Sweat Heifer and Grassy Branch Trails | Apply Online

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is this funding opportunity?

This is a National Park Service (NPS) Recovery Act (ARRA) cooperative agreement focused on hands-on trail rehabilitation work in Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Which park and which trails are included in the project?

The work is located in Great Smoky Mountains National Park and targets specific segments of the Sweat Heifer Trail and the Grassy Branch Trail.

What is the main purpose of the project?

The project is designed to restore and improve trail conditions by addressing issues such as erosion, drainage failures, overgrowth, and structural wear that can reduce visitor safety and increase environmental damage.

What types of trail problems is the project intended to address?

The announcement highlights erosion, drainage failures, vegetation encroachment/overgrowth, and structural deterioration (including failing or outdated trail features) as key problems the work will address.

What work activities are included in the scope of work?

The scope includes re-grading the trail corridor to restore proper tread shape and durability; installing soil erosion control structures; replacing ineffective water bars; heavy brushing to clear encroaching vegetation; installing new rock retaining walls and steps where needed; and repairing existing rock retaining walls that currently support the trail.

What does "re-grading the trail corridor" mean in this project?

Based on the announcement, re-grading involves reshaping the trail tread and corridor to reestablish proper trail form so the surface holds up better over time and performs more reliably under use and weather.

Why does the project include erosion control and drainage improvements?

Erosion and drainage failures can damage trails, accelerate resource impacts, and create unsafe or difficult conditions for visitors. The project includes erosion control structures and replacement of water bars to stabilize problem areas and improve water management.

What are water bars and why are they being replaced?

Water bars are drainage features used to divert water off a trail. The project calls for replacing water bars that are no longer effective due to age, poor placement, or deterioration.

What is meant by "heavy brushing" in the scope of work?

Heavy brushing refers to clearing encroaching vegetation to improve the usability and visibility of the trail corridor, helping keep the trail passable and easier to follow.

What kind of stonework is included?

The project includes installing new rock retaining walls and steps where needed, and repairing existing rock retaining walls that support the trail.

Why are rock retaining walls important to trail rehabilitation?

As described, retaining walls help keep the trail bench stable on slopes and reduce the risk of slumps or washouts, which supports long-term trail durability and safer travel.

Is this opportunity connected to workforce development or youth training?

Yes. A major emphasis is a youth conservation and workforce training component. The work is intended to support and stimulate employment, education, and training opportunities for young adults through collaborative participation in trail rehabilitation activities with Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Which federal program is this associated with?

The opportunity is associated with CFDA number 15.931, titled "Conservation Activities by Youth Service Organizations."

How much funding is available?

The estimated total funding amount is $65,120. The award ceiling is also $65,120, and the stated award floor is $0.

How many awards did NPS expect to make?

NPS expected to make one award.

What type of funding instrument is being used?

The funding instrument type is a cooperative agreement.

What does a cooperative agreement imply for this project?

The posting indicates a cooperative agreement, which generally means the federal agency (here, NPS) has substantial involvement in project coordination or oversight compared with a standard grant.

Is cost sharing or matching required?

Yes. Cost sharing or matching is required, meaning the recipient is expected to contribute resources (cash and/or in-kind) toward the overall project.

Who is eligible to apply?

Eligibility is presented in a limited, targeted way because the posting functions as a Notice of Intent to Award. The notice states an intent to award to American Conservation Experience, and notes the agreement was competed under internal NPS procedures.

Is this an open, competitive grant opportunity?

Based on the information provided, this specific posting is a Notice of Intent to Award with an identified intended recipient (American Conservation Experience), rather than an open call for applications.

What is the funding opportunity number?

The funding opportunity number is NPS ARRANOIGRSM100102.

When was the opportunity posted and when did it close?

The announcement was posted on February 10, 2010, and the application/closing date listed is February 20, 2010.

When was the opportunity archived?

The record was archived on March 22, 2010.

Who is the point of contact for administrative or access issues?

The listed point of contact is Judith Couch, Financial Agreements Specialist. The phone number provided is 865-436-1224. An email is indicated but not included in the provided excerpt.

What is the broader context for this project under the Recovery Act?

The project is framed as a natural resources effort that also advances workforce development goals tied to the Recovery Act, pairing trail rehabilitation outcomes with employment, education, and training opportunities for young adults.