Common use of BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Clause in Contracts

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES. A. This Cooperative and Joint Venture Agreement (hereinafter called agreement) between the Bureau of Land Management, U.S. Geological Survey – Biological Resources Division, National Park Service, and U.S. Forest Service, (hereinafter called Federal Agencies), and the University of Montana – Missoula and its partner institutions in to establish and maintain the Rocky Mountains Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Unit. The Rocky Mountains CESU is associated with a national network of CESUs. B. The objectives of the Rocky Mountains Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Unit (CESU) are to: • Provide research, technical assistance, and education to federal land management, environmental and research agencies and their potential partners; • Develop a program of research, technical assistance, and education that involves the biological, physical, social, and cultural sciences needed to address resources issues and interdisciplinary problem-solving at multiple scales and in an ecosystem context; and • Place special emphasis on the working collaboration among federal agencies and universities and their related partner institutions. C. The Bureau of Land Management (hereinafter called BLM) administers public lands within a framework of numerous laws. The most comprehensive of these is the Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976 (FLPMA). All Bureau policies, procedures and management actions must be consistent with FLPMA and the other laws that govern the use of the public lands. It is the mission of the Bureau of Land Management to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of the public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations (43 U.S.C. 1701 et seq.). In accordance with 43 U.S.C. 1737(b), the BLM is authorized to enter into a cooperative agreement to establish the Rocky Mountains CESU to assist in providing research, technical assistance, and education. D. The U.S. Geological Survey- Biological Resources Division (hereinafter called BRD) works with others to provide scientific understanding and technologies needed to support the sound management and conservation of our Nation’s biological resources (Secretarial Order No. 3202). In accordance with 16 U.S.C. 1a-2j, 16 U.S.C. 5933 and Secretarial Order No. 3202, the BRD is authorized to enter into a cooperative agreement to establish the Rocky Mountains CESU to assist in providing research, technical assistance and education. E. The National Park Service (hereinafter called NPS) is responsible for the management of areas in the National Park System to conserve the scenery, the natural and historic objects, and the wildlife therein and to provide for the enjoyment of the same in such a manner and by such a means as will leave them unimpaired for the enjoyment of future generations (16 U.S.C. 1 et seq.). In accordance with 16 U.S.C. 1a-2j and 16 U.S.C. 5933, the NPS is authorized to enter into a cooperative agreement to establish the Rocky Mountains CESU to assist in providing research, technical assistance and education. F. The U.S. Forest Service (hereinafter called USFS) mission is to achieve quality land management under the sustainable multiple-use management concept to meet diverse needs of the people (16 U.S.C. 1641-1646). In accordance with 7 USC 3318(b) the USFS is authorized to enter into a joint venture agreement to establish the Rocky Mountains CESU to assist in providing research, technical; assistance, and education. G. The University of Montana – Missoula (hereinafter called Host University) is a comprehensive university emphasizing the liberal arts and professional education in business, education, fine arts, forestry (natural resources), journalism, law, pharmacy and related health sciences, and vocational technical education. Programs in natural resources focus on conservation, forestry, range, recreation, wilderness, and wildlife. BS, MS, and PhD degrees are offered. The university has a growing research program, significantly in cooperation with several federal partners, and it houses a very active continuing education program. Other campuses of the university are Montana Tech at Butte, Western Montana College at ▇▇▇▇▇▇, and VoTech at Helena. Governance of the University of Montana is provided by the Montana University System Board of Regents. H. The partner institutions to the Host University include Montana State University, University of Idaho, Salish Kootenai College, Utah State University, Washington State University (hereinafter called Partner Institutions).

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES. A. This Cooperative and Joint Venture Agreement (hereinafter called agreementAgreement) between the Bureau of Land Management, U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, U.S. Geological Survey – Biological Resources DivisionSurvey, National Park Service, and U.S. USDA Forest Service, Natural Resources Conservation Service, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers – Civil Works, and Department of Defense, Office of the Deputy Under Secretary of Defense (Installations and Environment) (hereinafter called Federal Agencies), and the The University of Montana – Missoula and its partner institutions in Partner Institutions is a continuation for a five (5) year term to establish provide for the operation and maintain maintenance of the Rocky Mountains Cooperative Ecosystem Studies UnitUnit (CESU). This continuation of the Rocky Mountains CESU is implemented by mutual consent of the parties and is consistent with the prior Agreement and the express intent of the request for proposals for that Agreement. The Rocky Mountains CESU is associated with a national network of CESUs. B. The objectives of the Rocky Mountains Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Unit (CESU) are to: • Provide research, technical assistance, assistance and education to federal land management, environmental and research agencies and their potential partners; • Develop a program of research, technical assistance, assistance and education that involves the biological, physical, social, and cultural sciences needed to address resources resource issues and interdisciplinary problem-solving at multiple scales and in an ecosystem contextcontext at the local, regional, and national level; and • Place special emphasis on the working collaboration among federal agencies and universities and their related partner institutions. C. The Bureau of Land Management (hereinafter called BLM) administers public lands within a framework of numerous laws. The most comprehensive of these is the Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976 (FLPMA). All Bureau policies, procedures and management actions must be consistent with FLPMA and the other laws that govern the use of the public lands. It is the mission of the Bureau of Land Management to sustain the health, diversity, diversity and productivity of the public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations (43 U.S.C. USC 1701 et seq.). In accordance with 43 U.S.C. USC 1737(b), the BLM is authorized to enter into a cooperative agreement to establish continue the Rocky Mountains CESU to assist in providing research, technical assistance, assistance and education. D. The U.S. Geological Survey- Biological Resources Division Bureau of Reclamation (hereinafter called BRDUSBR) works manages, develops, and protects water and related resources in an environmentally and economically sound manner in the interest of the American public (43 USC Chapter 12). USBR is authorized to enter into certain cooperative agreements in accordance with others the authority delegated in 255 DM 14.1, which states that the Commissioner is delegated so much of the authority of the Secretary under the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act, 16 USC 661 et seq., as is necessary to provide scientific understanding assistance, through grants or cooperative agreements, to public or private organizations for the improvement of fish and technologies needed to support the sound management and conservation of our Nation’s biological resources (Secretarial Order No. 3202)wildlife habitat associated with water systems or water supplies affected by Reclamation projects. In accordance with 16 U.S.C. 1a-2jthis authority, 16 U.S.C. 5933 and Secretarial Order No. 3202also in accordance with the Omnibus Public Land Management Act of 2009 (P.L. 111-11), Subtitle F-Secure Water, Sec 9502, 9504, and 9509, the BRD USBR is authorized to enter into a cooperative agreement to establish continue the Rocky Mountains CESU to assist in providing research, technical assistance and education. E. The U.S. Geological Survey (hereinafter called USGS) serves the Nation by providing reliable scientific information to describe and understand the Earth, minimize the loss of life and property from natural disasters, manage water, biological, energy, and mineral resources, and enhance and protect our quality of life. In accordance with 31 USC 6302 et seq., 16 USC 1a-2j, 16 USC 5933 and Secretarial Order No. 3202, the USGS is authorized to enter into a cooperative agreement to continue the Rocky Mountains CESU to assist in providing research, technical assistance and education. F. The National Park Service (hereinafter called NPS) is responsible for the management of areas in the National Park System to conserve the scenery, the natural and historic objects, and the wildlife wild life therein and to provide for the enjoyment of the same in such a manner and by such a means as will leave them unimpaired for the enjoyment of future generations (16 U.S.C. USC 1 et seq.). In accordance with 16 U.S.C. USC 1a-2j and 16 U.S.C. USC 5933, the NPS is authorized to enter into a cooperative agreement to establish continue the Rocky Mountains CESU to assist in providing research, technical assistance and education. F. G. The U.S. USDA Forest Service (hereinafter called USFSUSDA FS) mission is to achieve quality land management under the sustainable multiple-use management concept to meet the diverse needs of the people (16 U.S.C. USC 1641-1646). In accordance with 7 USC 3318(b3318 (b) the USFS is authorized to enter into a joint venture agreement to establish continue the Rocky Mountains CESU to assist in providing research, technical; assistance, technical assistance and education. G. H. The Natural Resources Conservation Service (hereinafter called NRCS) provides technical assistance to farmers, ranchers, and other private landowners in managing soil, water, animal, plant, air and human resources. NRCS scientists and technical specialists identify appropriate technologies in research and development and transfer them to field staff for implementation. Under 16 USC 590a-f, NRCS is authorized to enter into this cooperative agreement continuing the Rocky Mountains CESU to assist in providing research, technical assistance and education. I. The US Army Corp of Engineers – Civil Works (hereinafter called USACE-CW) provides assistance in the development and management in the nation’s water resources. The main missions of USACE-CW, i.e., the Corps, are 1) to facilitate commercial navigation, 2) to protect citizens and their property from flood and storm damages, and 3) to protect and restore environmental resources. The Corps carries out most of its work in partnership with Tribal, state and local governments and other non-federal entities. The Corps must rely upon using the best available science in the evaluation of water resources needs and in the development of recommendations for water resource management. The university and scientific advances will assist the Corps in reaching sound, scientifically based decisions. In accordance with 10 USC 2358, USACE-CW is authorized to enter into the cooperative agreement with the Rocky Mountains CESU enabling the USACE-CW to receive direct scientific support from regional CESU members under agreement number # W912HZ-08-2-0006 for a cumulative amount not-to-exceed $25,000,000.00. USACE-CW is authorized to cooperate with other agencies in accordance with Title 33 USC 2323a and 10 USC 3036(d). ▇. The Department of Defense (hereinafter called DoD) manages nearly 30 million acres of land, and the natural and cultural resources found there, and for this agreement includes the Office of the Secretary of Defense, the Military Services, the Defense Logistics Agency, the National Guard Bureaus, and the Military Reserve Components. DoD's primary mission is national defense. DoD's conservation program supports this mission by ensuring realistic training areas, and managing its resources in ways that maximize available land, air, and water training opportunities. DoD environmental stewardship activities are authorized under the ▇▇▇▇▇ Act, as amended. In accordance with one or more of the following: 16 USC 670c-1, 10 USC 2358, 10 USC 2694, 10 USC 2684, and P.L. 103-139 (FY 94 NDAA, page 107 Stat. 1422) DoD is authorized to enter into this cooperative agreement continuing the Rocky Mountains CESU to assist in providing research, technical assistance and education under agreement number # W912DY-09-2-0001. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers through the Office of the Deputy Under Secretary of Defense (Installations and Environment) may only use this agreement for cooperative projects that are for the benefit of the Military Services and their installations and within the objectives of the CESU. K. The University of Montana – -- Missoula (hereinafter called Host University) is a comprehensive university emphasizing the liberal arts and professional education in business, education, fine arts, forestry (natural resources), journalism, law, pharmacy and related health sciences, and vocational technical education. Programs in natural resources focus on conservation, forestry, range, recreation, wilderness, and wildlife. BS, MS, and PhD degrees are offered. The university has a growing research program, significantly in cooperation with several federal partners, and it houses a very active continuing education program. Other campuses of the university are Montana Tech at Butte, Western Montana College at ▇▇▇▇▇▇, and VoTech at Helena. Governance of the The University of Montana is provided by the Montana University System Board of Regents. H. L. The partner institutions to the Host University include Colorado State University, Montana State University, Salish Kootenai College, University of Colorado at Boulder, University of Colorado Denver, University of Idaho, Salish Kootenai CollegeUniversity of Wyoming, Utah State University, Washington State University, University of Northern Colorado, and University of Calgary (hereinafter called Partner Institutions).

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES. A. This Cooperative and Joint Venture Agreement (hereinafter called agreement) between the Bureau of Land Management, U.S. Geological Survey – Survey–Biological Resources Division, and National Park Service, and U.S. Forest Service, (hereinafter called Federal Agencies), and the University of Montana – Missoula Miami and its partner institutions in is to establish and maintain the Rocky Mountains South Florida/Caribbean Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Unit. The Rocky Mountains South Florida/Caribbean CESU is associated with a national network of CESUs. B. The objectives of the Rocky Mountains South Florida/Caribbean Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Unit (CESU) are to: • Provide research, technical assistance, assistance and education to federal land management, environmental and research agencies and their potential partners; • Develop a program of research, technical assistance, assistance and education that involves the biological, physical, social, and cultural sciences needed to address resources issues and interdisciplinary problem-solving at multiple scales and in an ecosystem contextcontext at the local, regional, and national level; and • Place special emphasis on the working collaboration among federal agencies and universities and their related partner institutions. C. The Bureau of Land Management (hereinafter called BLM) administers public lands within a framework of numerous laws. The most comprehensive of these is the Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976 (FLPMA). All Bureau policies, procedures and management actions must be consistent with FLPMA and the other laws that govern the use of the public lands. It is the mission of the Bureau of Land Management to sustain the health, diversity, diversity and productivity of the public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations (43 U.S.C. 1701 et seq.). In accordance with 43 U.S.C. 1737(b), the BLM is authorized to enter into a cooperative agreement to establish the Rocky Mountains South Florida/Caribbean CESU to assist in providing research, technical assistance, assistance and education. D. The U.S. Geological Survey- Survey–Biological Resources Division (hereinafter called BRD) works with others to provide scientific understanding and technologies needed to support the sound management and conservation of our Nation’s 's biological resources (Secretarial Order No. 3202). In accordance with 16 U.S.C. 1a-2jU.S.C.1a-2j, 16 U.S.C. 5933 and Secretarial Order No. 3202, the BRD is authorized to enter into a cooperative agreement to establish the Rocky Mountains South Florida/Caribbean CESU to assist in providing research, technical assistance and education. E. The National Park Service (hereinafter called NPS) is responsible for the management of areas in the National Park System to conserve the scenery, the natural and historic objects, and the wildlife therein and to provide for the enjoyment of the same in such a manner and by such a means as will leave them unimpaired for the enjoyment of future generations (16 U.S.C. 1 et seq.). In accordance with 16 U.S.C. 1a-2j U.S.C.1a-2j and 16 U.S.C. 5933, the NPS is authorized to enter into a cooperative agreement to establish the Rocky Mountains South Florida/Caribbean CESU to assist in providing research, technical assistance and education. F. The U.S. Forest Service (hereinafter called USFS) mission is to achieve quality land management under the sustainable multiple-use management concept to meet diverse needs of the people (16 U.S.C. 1641-1646). In accordance with 7 USC 3318(b) the USFS is authorized to enter into a joint venture agreement to establish the Rocky Mountains CESU to assist in providing research, technical; assistance, and education. G. The University of Montana – Missoula Miami (hereinafter called Host University) is a comprehensive the largest private research university emphasizing in the liberal arts Southeast. The University comprises 14 schools and colleges located on four campuses, including the Coral Gables Campus, the School of Medicine Complex, the Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science Campus, and research facilities on South Campus. The University of Miami currently enrolls over 13,600 students in approximately 100 undergraduate, 85 master's, and 55 doctoral and professional areas of study. The Rosenstiel School is the campus with the mission to conduct high quality and policy relevant basic and applied research in the marine, atmospheric, and environmental sciences and disseminate the results of this research; provide graduate education and research training, and undergraduate education in businessthe marine atmospheric and environmental sciences; and inform the public via pre-college, continuing education, fine arts, forestry (natural resources), journalism, law, pharmacy and related health sciences, and vocational technical education. Programs in natural resources focus on conservation, forestry, range, recreation, wilderness, and wildlife. BS, MS, and PhD degrees are offered. The university has a growing research program, significantly in cooperation with several federal partners, and it houses a very active continuing education program. Other campuses of the university are Montana Tech at Butte, Western Montana College at ▇▇▇▇▇▇, and VoTech at Helena. Governance of the University of Montana is provided by the Montana University System Board of Regentsother outreach programs. H. G. The partner institutions to the Host University include Montana State ▇▇▇▇▇ University, Florida A&M University, Nova Southeastern University, University of IdahoFlorida, Salish Kootenai CollegeUniversity of North Carolina – Wilmington, Utah State UniversityUniversity of Puerto Rico, Washington State University of the Virgin Islands, and Audubon of Florida (hereinafter called Partner Institutions).

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES. A. This Cooperative and Joint Venture Agreement (hereinafter called agreementAgreement) between the Bureau of Land Management, U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, U.S. Geological Survey – Biological Resources DivisionSurvey, National Park Service, and U.S. USDA Forest Service, Natural Resources Conservation Service, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers – Civil Works, and Department of Defense, Office of the Deputy Under Secretary of Defense (Installations and Environment) (hereinafter called Federal Agencies), and the The University of Montana – Missoula and its partner institutions in Partner Institutions is a continuation for a five (5) year term to establish provide for the operation and maintain maintenance of the Rocky Mountains Cooperative Ecosystem Studies UnitUnit (CESU). This continuation of the Rocky Mountains CESU is implemented by mutual consent of the parties and is consistent with the prior Agreement and the express intent of the request for proposals for that Agreement. The Rocky Mountains CESU is associated with a national network of CESUs. B. The objectives of the Rocky Mountains Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Unit (CESU) are to: •  Provide research, technical assistance, assistance and education to federal land management, environmental and research agencies and their potential partners; •  Develop a program of research, technical assistance, assistance and education that involves the biological, physical, social, and cultural sciences needed to address resources resource issues and interdisciplinary problem-solving at multiple scales and in an ecosystem contextcontext at the local, regional, and national level; and •  Place special emphasis on the working collaboration among federal agencies and universities and their related partner institutions. C. The Bureau of Land Management (hereinafter called BLM) administers public lands within a framework of numerous laws. The most comprehensive of these is the Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976 (FLPMA). All Bureau policies, procedures and management actions must be consistent with FLPMA and the other laws that govern the use of the public lands. It is the mission of the Bureau of Land Management to sustain the health, diversity, diversity and productivity of the public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations (43 U.S.C. USC 1701 et seq.). In accordance with 43 U.S.C. USC 1737(b), the BLM is authorized to enter into a cooperative agreement to establish continue the Rocky Mountains CESU to assist in providing research, technical assistance, assistance and education. D. The U.S. Geological Survey- Biological Resources Division Bureau of Reclamation (hereinafter called BRDUSBR) works manages, develops, and protects water and related resources in an environmentally and economically sound manner in the interest of the American public (43 USC Chapter 12). USBR is authorized to enter into certain cooperative agreements in accordance with others the authority delegated in 255 DM 14.1, which states that the Commissioner is delegated so much of the authority of the Secretary under the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act, 16 USC 661 et seq., as is necessary to provide scientific understanding assistance, through grants or cooperative agreements, to public or private organizations for the improvement of fish and technologies needed to support the sound management and conservation of our Nation’s biological resources (Secretarial Order No. 3202)wildlife habitat associated with water systems or water supplies affected by Reclamation projects. In accordance with 16 U.S.C. 1a-2jthis authority, 16 U.S.C. 5933 and Secretarial Order No. 3202also in accordance with the Omnibus Public Land Management Act of 2009 (P.L. 111-11), Subtitle F-Secure Water, Sec 9502, 9504, and 9509, the BRD USBR is authorized to enter into a cooperative agreement to establish continue the Rocky Mountains CESU to assist in providing research, technical assistance and education. E. The U.S. Geological Survey (hereinafter called USGS) serves the Nation by providing reliable scientific information to describe and understand the Earth, minimize the loss of life and property from natural disasters, manage water, biological, energy, and mineral resources, and enhance and protect our quality of life. In accordance with 31 USC 6302 et seq., 16 USC 1a-2j, 16 USC 5933 and Secretarial Order No. 3202, the USGS is authorized to enter into a cooperative agreement to continue the Rocky Mountains CESU to assist in providing research, technical assistance and education. F. The National Park Service (hereinafter called NPS) is responsible for the management of areas in the National Park System to conserve the scenery, the natural and historic objects, and the wildlife wild life therein and to provide for the enjoyment of the same in such a manner and by such a means as will leave them unimpaired for the enjoyment of future generations (16 U.S.C. USC 1 et seq.). In accordance with 16 U.S.C. USC 1a-2j and 16 U.S.C. USC 5933, the NPS is authorized to enter into a cooperative agreement to establish continue the Rocky Mountains CESU to assist in providing research, technical assistance and education. F. G. The U.S. USDA Forest Service (hereinafter called USFSUSDA FS) mission is to achieve quality land management under the sustainable multiple-use management concept to meet the diverse needs of the people (16 U.S.C. USC 1641-1646). In accordance with 7 USC 3318(b3318 (b) the USFS is authorized to enter into a joint venture agreement to establish continue the Rocky Mountains CESU to assist in providing research, technical; assistance, technical assistance and education. G. H. The Natural Resources Conservation Service (hereinafter called NRCS) provides technical assistance to farmers, ranchers, and other private landowners in managing soil, water, animal, plant, air and human resources. NRCS scientists and technical specialists identify appropriate technologies in research and development and transfer them to field staff for implementation. Under 16 USC 590a-f, NRCS is authorized to enter into this cooperative agreement continuing the Rocky Mountains CESU to assist in providing research, technical assistance and education. I. The US Army Corp of Engineers – Civil Works (hereinafter called USACE-CW) provides assistance in the development and management in the nation’s water resources. The main missions of USACE-CW, i.e., the Corps, are 1) to facilitate commercial navigation, 2) to protect citizens and their property from flood and storm damages, and 3) to protect and restore environmental resources. The Corps carries out most of its work in partnership with Tribal, state and local governments and other non-federal entities. The Corps must rely upon using the best available science in the evaluation of water resources needs and in the development of recommendations for water resource management. The university and scientific advances will assist the Corps in reaching sound, scientifically based decisions. In accordance with 10 USC 2358, USACE-CW is authorized to enter into the cooperative agreement with the Rocky Mountains CESU enabling the USACE-CW to receive direct scientific support from regional CESU members under agreement number # W912HZ-08-2-0006 for a cumulative amount not-to-exceed $25,000,000.00. USACE-CW is authorized to cooperate with other agencies in accordance with Title 33 USC 2323a and 10 USC 3036(d). ▇. The Department of Defense (hereinafter called DoD) manages nearly 30 million acres of land, and the natural and cultural resources found there, and for this agreement includes the Office of the Secretary of Defense, the Military Services, the Defense Logistics Agency, the National Guard Bureaus, and the Military Reserve Components. DoD's primary mission is national defense. DoD's conservation program supports this mission by ensuring realistic training areas, and managing its resources in ways that maximize available land, air, and water training opportunities. DoD environmental stewardship activities are authorized under the ▇▇▇▇▇ Act, as amended. In accordance with one or more of the following: 16 USC 670c-1, 10 USC 2358, 10 USC 2694, 10 USC 2684, and P.L. 103-139 (FY 94 NDAA, page 107 Stat. 1422) DoD is authorized to enter into this cooperative agreement continuing the Rocky Mountains CESU to assist in providing research, technical assistance and education under agreement number # W912DY-09-2-0001. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers through the Office of the Deputy Under Secretary of Defense (Installations and Environment) may only use this agreement for cooperative projects that are for the benefit of the Military Services and their installations and within the objectives of the CESU. K. The University of Montana – -- Missoula (hereinafter called Host University) is a comprehensive university emphasizing the liberal arts and professional education in business, education, fine arts, forestry (natural resources), journalism, law, pharmacy and related health sciences, and vocational technical education. Programs in natural resources focus on conservation, forestry, range, recreation, wilderness, and wildlife. BS, MS, and PhD degrees are offered. The university has a growing research program, significantly in cooperation with several federal partners, and it houses a very active continuing education program. Other campuses of the university are Montana Tech at Butte, Western Montana College at ▇▇▇▇▇▇, and VoTech at Helena. Governance of the The University of Montana is provided by the Montana University System Board of Regents. H. L. The partner institutions to the Host University include Colorado State University, Montana State University, Salish Kootenai College, University of Colorado at Boulder, University of Colorado Denver, University of Idaho, Salish Kootenai CollegeUniversity of Wyoming, Utah State University, Washington State University, University of Northern Colorado, and University of Calgary (hereinafter called Partner Institutions).

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES. A. This Cooperative and Joint Venture Agreement (hereinafter called agreementAgreement) between the Bureau of Land Management, U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, U.S. Geological Survey – Biological Resources DivisionSurvey, National Park Service, and U.S. USDA Forest Service, Natural Resources Conservation Service, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers – Civil Works, and Department of Defense, Office of the Deputy Under Secretary of Defense (Installations and Environment) (hereinafter called Federal Agencies), and the The University of Montana – Missoula and its partner institutions in Partner Institutions is a continuation for a five (5) year term to establish provide for the operation and maintain maintenance of the Rocky Mountains Cooperative Ecosystem Studies UnitUnit (CESU). This continuation of the Rocky Mountains CESU is implemented by mutual consent of the parties and is consistent with the prior Agreement and the express intent of the request for proposals for that Agreement. The Rocky Mountains CESU is associated with a national network of CESUs. B. The objectives of the Rocky Mountains Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Unit (CESU) are to: • Provide research, technical assistance, assistance and education to federal land management, environmental and research agencies and their potential partners; • Develop a program of research, technical assistance, assistance and education that involves the biological, physical, social, and cultural sciences needed to address resources resource issues and interdisciplinary problem-solving at multiple scales and in an ecosystem contextcontext at the local, regional, and national level; and • Place special emphasis on the working collaboration among federal agencies and universities and their related partner institutions. C. The Bureau of Land Management (hereinafter called BLM) administers public lands within a framework of numerous laws. The most comprehensive of these is the Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976 (FLPMA). All Bureau policies, procedures and management actions must be consistent with FLPMA and the other laws that govern the use of the public lands. It is the mission of the Bureau of Land Management to sustain the health, diversity, diversity and productivity of the public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations (43 U.S.C. USC 1701 et seq.). In accordance with 43 U.S.C. USC 1737(b), the BLM is authorized to enter into a cooperative agreement to establish continue the Rocky Mountains CESU to assist in providing research, technical assistance, assistance and education. D. The U.S. Geological Survey- Biological Resources Division Bureau of Reclamation (hereinafter called BRDUSBR) works manages, develops, and protects water and related resources in an environmentally and economically sound manner in the interest of the American public (43 USC Chapter 12). USBR is authorized to enter into certain cooperative agreements in accordance with others the authority delegated in 255 DM 14.1, which states that the Commissioner is delegated so much of the authority of the Secretary under the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act, 16 USC 661 et seq., as is necessary to provide scientific understanding assistance, through grants or cooperative agreements, to public or private organizations for the improvement of fish and technologies needed to support the sound management and conservation of our Nation’s biological resources (Secretarial Order No. 3202)wildlife habitat associated with water systems or water supplies affected by Reclamation projects. In accordance with 16 U.S.C. 1a-2jthis authority, 16 U.S.C. 5933 and Secretarial Order No. 3202also in accordance with the Omnibus Public Land Management Act of 2009 (P.L. 111-11), Subtitle F-Secure Water, Sec 9502, 9504, and 9509, the BRD USBR is authorized to enter into a cooperative agreement to establish continue the Rocky Mountains CESU to assist in providing research, technical assistance and education. E. The U.S. Geological Survey (hereinafter called USGS) serves the Nation by providing reliable scientific information to describe and understand the Earth, minimize the loss of life and property from natural disasters, manage water, biological, energy, and mineral resources, and enhance and protect our quality of life. In accordance with 31 USC 6302 et seq., 16 USC 1a-2j, 16 USC 5933 and Secretarial Order No. 3202, the USGS is authorized to enter into a cooperative agreement to continue the Rocky Mountains CESU to assist in providing research, technical assistance and education. F. The National Park Service (hereinafter called NPS) is responsible for the management of areas in the National Park System to conserve the scenery, the natural and historic objects, and the wildlife wild life therein and to provide for the enjoyment of the same in such a manner and by such a means as will leave them unimpaired for the enjoyment of future generations (16 U.S.C. USC 1 et seq.). In accordance with 16 U.S.C. USC 1a-2j and 16 U.S.C. USC 5933, the NPS is authorized to enter into a cooperative agreement to establish continue the Rocky Mountains CESU to assist in providing research, technical assistance and education. F. G. The U.S. USDA Forest Service (hereinafter called USFSUSDA FS) mission is to achieve quality land management under the sustainable multiple-use management concept to meet the diverse needs of the people (16 U.S.C. USC 1641-1646). In accordance with 7 USC 3318(b3318 (b) the USFS is authorized to enter into a joint venture agreement to establish continue the Rocky Mountains CESU to assist in providing research, technical; assistance, technical assistance and education. G. H. The Natural Resources Conservation Service (hereinafter called NRCS) provides technical assistance to farmers, ranchers, and other private landowners in managing soil, water, animal, plant, air and human resources. NRCS scientists and technical specialists identify appropriate technologies in research and development and transfer them to field staff for implementation. Under 16 USC 590a-f, NRCS is authorized to enter into this cooperative agreement continuing the Rocky Mountains CESU to assist in providing research, technical assistance and education. I. The US Army Corp of Engineers – Civil Works (hereinafter called USACE-CW) provides assistance in the development and management in the nation’s water resources. The main missions of USACE-CW, i.e., the Corps, are 1) to facilitate commercial navigation, 2) to protect citizens and their property from flood and storm damages, and 3) to protect and restore environmental resources. The Corps carries out most of its work in partnership with Tribal, state and local governments and other non-federal entities. The Corps must rely upon using the best available science in the evaluation of water resources needs and in the development of recommendations for water resource management. The university and scientific advances will assist the Corps in reaching sound, scientifically based decisions. In accordance with 10 USC 2358, USACE-CW is authorized to enter into the cooperative agreement with the Rocky Mountains CESU enabling the USACE-CW to receive direct scientific support from regional CESU members under agreement number # W912HZ-08-2-0006 for a cumulative amount not-to-exceed $25,000,000.00. USACE-CW is authorized to cooperate with other agencies in accordance with Title 33 USC 2323a and 10 USC 3036(d). J. The Department of Defense (hereinafter called DoD) manages nearly 30 million acres of land, and the natural and cultural resources found there, and for this agreement includes the Office of the Secretary of Defense, the Military Services, the Defense Logistics Agency, the National Guard Bureaus, and the Military Reserve Components. DoD's primary mission is national defense. DoD's conservation program supports this mission by ensuring realistic training areas, and managing its resources in ways that maximize available land, air, and water training opportunities. DoD environmental stewardship activities are authorized under the ▇▇▇▇▇ Act, as amended. In accordance with one or more of the following: 16 USC 670c-1, 10 USC 2358, 10 USC 2694, 10 USC 2684, and P.L. 103-139 (FY 94 NDAA, page 107 Stat. 1422) DoD is authorized to enter into this cooperative agreement continuing the Rocky Mountains CESU to assist in providing research, technical assistance and education under agreement number # W912DY-09-2-0001. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers through the Office of the Deputy Under Secretary of Defense (Installations and Environment) may only use this agreement for cooperative projects that are for the benefit of the Military Services and their installations and within the objectives of the CESU. K. The University of Montana – -- Missoula (hereinafter called Host University) is a comprehensive university emphasizing the liberal arts and professional education in business, education, fine arts, forestry (natural resources), journalism, law, pharmacy and related health sciences, and vocational technical education. Programs in natural resources focus on conservation, forestry, range, recreation, wilderness, and wildlife. BS, MS, and PhD degrees are offered. The university has a growing research program, significantly in cooperation with several federal partners, and it houses a very active continuing education program. Other campuses of the university are Montana Tech at Butte, Western Montana College at ▇▇▇▇▇▇, and VoTech at Helena. Governance of the The University of Montana is provided by the Montana University System Board of Regents. H. L. The partner institutions to the Host University include Colorado State University, Montana State University, Salish Kootenai College, University of Colorado at Boulder, University of Colorado Denver, University of Idaho, Salish Kootenai CollegeUniversity of Wyoming, Utah State University, Washington State University, University of Northern Colorado, and University of Calgary (hereinafter called Partner Institutions).

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES. A. This Cooperative and Joint Venture Agreement (hereinafter called agreement) between the Bureau of Land Management, U.S. Geological Survey – Survey–Biological Resources Division, National Park Service, and U.S. Forest Service, Service (hereinafter called Federal Agencies), and the University of Montana – Missoula Nebraska - Lincoln and its partner institutions in is to establish and maintain the Rocky Mountains Great Plains Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Unit. The Rocky Mountains Great Plains CESU is associated with a national network of CESUs. B. The objectives of the Rocky Mountains Great Plains Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Unit (CESU) are to: • Provide research, technical assistance, assistance and education to federal land management, environmental and research agencies and their potential partners; • Develop a program of research, technical assistance, assistance and education that involves the biological, physical, social, and cultural sciences needed to address resources issues and interdisciplinary problem-solving at multiple scales and in an ecosystem contextcontext at the local, regional, and national level; and • Place special emphasis on the working collaboration among federal agencies and universities and their related partner institutions. C. The Bureau of Land Management (hereinafter called BLM) administers public lands within a framework of numerous laws. The most comprehensive of these is the Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976 (FLPMA). All Bureau policies, procedures and management actions must be consistent with FLPMA and the other laws that govern the use of the public lands. It is the mission of the Bureau of Land Management to sustain the health, diversity, diversity and productivity of the public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations (43 U.S.C. 1701 et seq.). In accordance with 43 U.S.C. 1737(b), the BLM is authorized to enter into a cooperative agreement to establish the Rocky Mountains Great Plains CESU to assist in providing research, technical assistance, assistance and education. D. The U.S. Geological Survey- Survey–Biological Resources Division (hereinafter called BRD) works with others to provide scientific understanding and technologies needed to support the sound management and conservation of our Nation’s 's biological resources (Secretarial Order No. 3202). In accordance with 16 U.S.C. 1a-2jU.S.C.1a-2j, 16 U.S.C. 5933 and Secretarial Order No. 3202, the BRD is authorized to enter into a cooperative agreement to establish the Rocky Mountains Great Plains CESU to assist in providing research, technical assistance and education. E. The National Park Service (hereinafter called NPS) is responsible for the management of areas in the National Park System to conserve the scenery, the natural and historic objects, and the wildlife therein and to provide for the enjoyment of the same in such a manner and by such a means as will leave them unimpaired for the enjoyment of future generations (16 U.S.C. 1 et seq.). In accordance with 16 U.S.C. 1a-2j U.S.C.1a-2j and 16 U.S.C. 5933, the NPS is authorized to enter into a cooperative agreement to establish the Rocky Mountains Great Plains CESU to assist in providing research, technical assistance and education. F. The U.S. Forest Service (hereinafter called USFS) mission is to achieve quality land management under the sustainable multiple-use management concept to meet the diverse needs of the people (16 U.S.C. 1641-1646). In accordance with 7 USC 3318(bU.S.C. 3318 (b) the USFS is authorized to enter into a joint venture agreement to establish the Rocky Mountains Great Plains CESU to assist in providing research, technical; assistance, technical assistance and education. G. The University of Montana – Missoula (hereinafter called Host University) is a comprehensive university emphasizing the liberal arts and professional education in business, education, fine arts, forestry (natural resources), journalism, law, pharmacy and related health sciences, and vocational technical education. Programs in natural resources focus on conservation, forestry, range, recreation, wilderness, and wildlife. BS, MS, and PhD degrees are offered. The university has a growing research program, significantly in cooperation with several federal partners, and it houses a very active continuing education program. Other campuses of the university are Montana Tech at Butte, Western Montana College at ▇▇▇▇▇▇, and VoTech at Helena. Governance role of the University of Montana Nebraska-Lincoln as the primary intellectual and cultural resource for the State is provided by fulfilled through the Montana University System Board missions of Regentsthe University: teaching, research, and service. UNL pursues its missions through its nine colleges on its West Campus, the university-wide Graduate College, the College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, Agricultural Research Division, Cooperative Extension, International studies, and its museums, press, and telecommunication services. Teaching research, and service take on a distinctive character at UNL because of its land-grant university status, which ensures a commitment to the people of the State, the region, and the nation. UNL is dedicated to the pursuit of an active research agenda which benefits the agricultural environment and natural resources, the highest quality of post-secondary education, and exceptional service through its partnership with federal, state, and local agencies. The UN-system also includes campuses in Omaha, (UNO and UN-Medical Center) and Kearney (UNK), as well as a network of experiment stations state-wide. H. The partner institutions to the Host University include Montana Colorado State University, ▇▇▇▇▇▇▇▇ University, Little Priest Tribal College, Texas A&M University, University of IdahoMinnesota, Salish Kootenai CollegeUniversity of North Dakota, Utah State University, Washington State and University of Oklahoma (hereinafter called Partner Institutions).