Simpler Grants.gov #W81EWF-26-SOI-0005

Comprehensive Evaluation of Muskellunge Stocking and Management in Iowa Lakes and Reservoirs

The US Army Corps of Engineers' Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC) is seeking a partner to conduct a comprehensive evaluation of Muskellunge management and stocking strategies in Iowa's lakes and reservoirs. - Government Buyer: - US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC) - Project Scope: - Comprehensive study of Muskellunge stocking effectiveness and management strategies - Tagging and monitoring of Muskellunge populations using passive integrated transponder (PIT) tags, acoustic, and radio transmitters - Habitat sampling and fisheries surveys across Iowa lakes and reservoirs, including USACE-managed sites - Evaluation of Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS) versus traditional pond rearing for hatchery production - Development of optimized stocking and management plans to inform Iowa's Muskellunge Management Plan - Project management and annual reporting under the Planning Assistance to States Program - Notable Requirements: - Compliance with environmental regulations and permitting - Restrictions on animal research without explicit approval - Open only to non-federal partners of the Great Rivers Cooperative Ecosystems Studies Unit (CESU) - Locations: - Spirit Lake Fish Hatchery, Spirit Lake, IA - Rathbun Fish Hatchery, Moravia, IA - Iowa lakes and reservoirs, including USACE-managed sites - Estimated Funding: - Up to $446,000 over three years (base year and two option years) - No specific OEMs or commercial vendors are named in the solicitation.

Description

This funding opportunity seeks applications for a comprehensive evaluation of Muskellunge stocking effectiveness and efficiency in Iowa's lakes and reservoirs, including those managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE). The study aims to optimize Muskellunge culture methods and stocking policies to enhance survival, movement, and habitat use, thereby improving recreational fishing success and economic benefits. Tasks include tagging and monitoring Muskellunge populations, habitat sampling, fisheries surveys, and project management under the Planning Assistance to States Program. The research will also explore the use of Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS) to improve hatchery production and sustainability.

View original listing