U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Grant: Community Supported Native Plant Propagation and Habitat Restoration

Work with refuge biology staff to develop plans for improvement of refuge habitat for the benefit of a variety of wildlife species. This includes determination of plant species that will accomplish management goals and are an appropriate part of the existing natural ecosystem. Gather native plant seeds and cuttings, propagate the plants, and then provide them for transfer to refuge property, and transplanting. Provide technical support and advice to refuge staff to prepare for planting. It is at the discretion of the recipient to train and manage volunteers to do as much of the hands-on work as appropriate.
Any deviations from the procedures or objectives specified in this Agreement must be presented and approved by the Service¿s Project Officer and the Regional Chief of Refuges, for specific approval before implementing any such deviations.

Description of Work:
Task 1: Purchase supplies to prepare a greenhouse for seed propagation.
A. The Recipient will:
1. Research and order supplies for irrigation, shade cloth material, benches for plants, and other materials needed to make the greenhouse ready for the project.
2. Prepare the greenhouse facility for use.
3. Maintain the area in the greenhouse designated for this project for the duration of the agreement.
B. The Service will:
1. Provide funding to purchase the supplies.

Task 2: Maintain planting beds and purchase supplies necessary for the propagation efforts.
A. The Recipient will:
1. Determine what supplies are needed for the 2 years of work
2. Order supplies
3. Research and choose any contractors needed to complete the project.
B. The Service will:
1. Provide funding for supplies.
2. Be available for consultation

Task 3: Propagate plants
The Recipient will:
A. Provide all technical expertise needed to plan and implement seed and cutting collection of at least 26 species of plants during the right times of year, including what and where to collect.
1. Coordinate and oversee volunteer efforts in collection, propagation and maintenance of native plants.
2. Provide advice on where and when to transplant seedlings or plugs.
3. Advise and provide feedback on educational programs and materials produced by the Refuge.
4. Provide a minimum of 1000 native propagated plants of at least 26 different species to the Rhode Island NWR Complex.
5. Provide guidance for the Refuge as to appropriate planting practices.

This single source award is being made in accordance with Department of the Interior Policy 505 DM 2.14B(4), which allows for award without competition to an applicant who is uniquely qualified to perform the activity. The RINHS coordinates the Rhody Native initiative in which RINHS collects seed from local native plants and propagates plants from the seed for use in local restoration projects. The RINHS botanist has the technical knowledge and expertise needed to carry out this project. This includes extensive plant identification skills, knowledge of the plants that are/are not native to RI, familiarity with the location of certain populations of uncommon plants, relationships with local public and private landowners to obtain access to seed collection sites and knowledge of proper seed cleaning, storage and propagation techniques. Additionally, the RINHS has a substantial volunteer base and connections to the RI Master Gardener Association volunteers who will provide valuable assistance and labor necessary to carry out the project.