Aquatic Fauna Response to Ecosystem Restoration in Southwest Florida

The USACE Fort Worth District is seeking a cooperative agreement for a project titled Aquatic Fauna Response to Ecosystem Restoration in Southwest Florida. The primary objective is to examine how aquatic fauna respond to the implementation of the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan within the RECOVER Southwest Florida Module, specifically testing hypotheses that restored hydrology increases trophic support for higher vertebrates like alligators and wading birds. The scope includes establishing pre-restoration reference conditions, assessing fauna responses to implementation, and tracking unexpected ecosystem changes. The project will be performed within the Everglades ecosystem of Southwest Florida, potentially involving lands managed by the National Park Service, US Fish and Wildlife Service, the State of Florida, and federally recognized tribes. The agreement consists of a 12-month base period with an estimated funding of 300,000 dollars, and the potential for four additional 12-month follow-on periods subject to funding availability. Additional optional tasks may extend the performance period up to 24 months. This is currently a merit-based competitive process requesting a three-page Statement of Interest by October 12, 2026, rather than a full proposal. Evaluation will be based on technical merit, capability to meet program objectives, and alignment with the USACE mission. A critical requirement for all recipients and subrecipients is a current NIST SP 800-171 DoD assessment score uploaded via the Supplier Performance Risk System. Post-award deliverables include a project initiation meeting within 15 business days, annual project plans, and annual reports accompanied by quality assured data files.