From a Grants & Agreements Perspective July 20, 2011

1. The sooner you have all interests involved, the better. 2. It takes time to develop relationships. 3. When issues arise, bring people with varied interests together. 4. There’s nothing in NEPA that prevents collaboration. 5. Use partnerships to implement actions.

 The more interests involved ◦ The more potential partners ◦ The greater likelihood that projects will be implemented ◦ The more resources to draw upon

 A relationship where people work together to achieve goals ◦ Voluntary ◦ Mutually beneficial ◦ Mutual objectives

 Mutual benefit vs Solicitation ◦ Can do:  Discuss proposals and possible contributions  Apply for grants  Accept donations as authorized ◦ Can’t do:  Ask for money ◦ Let’s talk about DONATIONS & CONTRIBUTIONS

 Leverage resources  Meet objectives  Solve problems  Get people involved in mgmt of national forests  Share support

1. If funds or resources are exchanged, an agreement is probably required. 2. Volunteer agreement or multiparty agreements. 3. Contact your G&A Specialist!

 What’s the general SEQUENCE OF EVENTS when entering into discussions about a partnership?  Common G&A QUESTIONS for You to Consider

G&A May Make RECOMMENDATIONS on an Easier and/or More Effective Way to Work  Work directly with a partner?  Work through another agency?  Multiple agreements vs One agreement

 What AUTHORITIES do we need to follow?  By the way, what’s an “authority”?  Most Common – Incoming $$$$  Most Common – Outgoing $$$$  Most Misunderstood - MOU

Rule of Thumb OR Things to Remember Forest Service Laws What does “grant” mean? Applying for grants

 Helpful Resources:  Your local G&A Specialist    Grants & Agreements Quick Guide for NFS Program Managers  G&A Training Modules for Program Managers  FSH