STATEMAP The State Component of the National Cooperative Geologic Mapping Program | Apply Online

STATEMAP (NCGMP) Grant Opportunity FAQs

1) What is STATEMAP?

STATEMAP is the state-focused component of the National Cooperative Geologic Mapping Program (NCGMP) administered by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). It supports state-driven geologic mapping and related products that strengthen the geologic framework in parts of each state where current, accurate mapping is especially important for public benefit.

2) What is the main purpose of this funding opportunity?

The core purpose is to help build and refine a state’s geologic framework in high-need areas so the resulting maps and products can be used for public-benefit priorities such as economic development, public safety, land and water management, environmental planning, and other earth-science needs.

3) What kinds of projects does STATEMAP support?

The program supports the creation of geologic maps and related products. The emphasis is on mapping that directly serves areas vital to a state’s economic, social, or scientific welfare, rather than mapping conducted purely for its own sake.

4) What does the program mean by “public benefit” mapping?

It means mapping that is clearly connected to real-world uses and decisions. Examples of the types of needs highlighted include economic development, public safety, land-use and land-management decisions, water management, and environmental planning.

5) Who sets mapping priorities under STATEMAP?

The State Geologist leads the selection of mapping priorities, in consultation with a State Mapping Advisory Committee that is described as “multi-representational,” meaning it includes multiple perspectives and reflects on-the-ground demand for geologic information.

6) What is a State Mapping Advisory Committee, and why does it matter?

It is an advisory body that provides multi-perspective input into a state’s mapping priorities. Having a State Mapping Advisory Committee (or equivalent) that meets annually is a condition of eligibility for STATEMAP funding.

7) What are the main drivers for choosing where and what to map?

The announcement describes two main drivers: (1) areas where there are multiple overlapping needs (for example, where groundwater, hazards, aggregate resources, and land-use pressures intersect) or a single compelling issue requiring focused attention; and (2) areas where new or improved mapping is needed to address critical earth-science problems.

8) What should a strong proposal be able to explain about the mapping area?

Applicants should be able to explain not only what area will be mapped, but why the work matters now, who needs it, and what specific problems the mapping will help solve, consistent with the program’s emphasis on practical public benefit.

9) What is the funding instrument for this opportunity?

The funding instrument is a cooperative agreement. This typically indicates substantial involvement by the federal agency during the period of performance compared to a simpler grant structure.

10) Which federal agency administers STATEMAP?

STATEMAP is administered by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS).

11) What is the program category for this opportunity?

The opportunity is categorized under Science and Technology and other Research and Development.

12) Who is eligible to apply?

Eligibility is limited by statute. Only State Geological Surveys are eligible to apply under STATEMAP pursuant to the National Geologic Mapping Act (Public Law 111-11).

13) Can a state university submit the application?

Yes. Because many State Geological Surveys sit within state university systems, a state university may submit an application on behalf of the State Geological Survey, as long as the proposal is clearly tied to the official state survey.

14) Is there a specific eligibility condition related to advisory committee meetings?

Yes. A key qualification requirement is that the State Geological Survey must have a State Mapping Advisory Committee (or equivalent) that meets annually. Maintaining that annual meeting is a condition for being eligible for funding through this program.

15) Does this opportunity require cost sharing or matching?

Yes. A cost-sharing or matching requirement applies, so proposals should plan for non-federal contributions consistent with STATEMAP program expectations and the specific terms described in the full announcement.

16) How many awards were expected to be made under this solicitation?

The program was expected to make about 45 awards under this solicitation.

17) What was the estimated total funding amount?

The estimated total funding amount was $5,610,602.

18) What was the maximum award size (ceiling)?

Individual awards were anticipated to have a ceiling of $300,000.

19) Was there a minimum award size (floor)?

The published floor was $0, which generally indicates there was no set minimum award size.

20) What is the Funding Opportunity Number (FON) for this listing?

The listing is identified by Funding Opportunity Number G15AS00006.

21) What is the CFDA number associated with this opportunity?

The CFDA number is 15.810 (National Cooperative Geologic Mapping Program).

22) When was the opportunity posted and when did it close?

It was posted on Sep 2, 2014. The original and current closing date was Oct 29, 2014.

23) Is this specific funding opportunity still open?

No. The listing was archived on Nov 29, 2014, which means the specific competition described is no longer open.

24) Where is the official portal reference for this opportunity?

The official portal reference is Grants.gov (AdditionalInformationLink: http://www.grants.gov).

25) Who is the contact for help accessing the full announcement or resolving technical issues?

The contact listed is Kimberly Dove, Grant Specialist. Phone: 703-648-7487. Email: kdove@usgs.gov.