Cooperative Agreement for affiliated Partner with the Pacific Northwest Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Units (CESU)

Background
The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) is offering a funding opportunity to a partner affiliated with the Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Units (CESU) for advanced research on gas and fluid composition analysis from deep-sea environments in the Aleutian Island Arc, located within the U.S. Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). This region is largely understudied, and there is a significant lack of characterization regarding seafloor habitats, environmental resources, and volcanic hazards. The primary goal of this grant is to enhance understanding of active submarine volcanism by characterizing the fluid and gas environment.

Grant Details
The USGS seeks research and technical assistance focused on characterizing fluid and gas composition in deep-sea environments within the Aleutian Island Arc. Key tasks include:

1) Collecting samples of gas bubbles at methane seeps and from focused hydrothermal fluids using titanium gas-tight fluid samplers mounted on HOV Alvin;

2) Determining the chemical composition of the gaseous fraction using gas chromatography and noble gas mass spectrometry;

3) Analyzing the liquid phase's major and minor element composition using ion chromatography and inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy;

4) Supporting water column characterization through ship-based conductivity, temperature, and depth operations, complemented by sensors to detect anomalies indicating hydrothermal activity;

5) Coordinating closely with federal partners such as USGS, BOEM, and NOAA to ensure that analyses inform resource management.

Eligibility Requirements
Eligible recipients must be participating partners of the Pacific Northwest CESU Program. This opportunity is specifically aimed at CESU-affiliated partners capable of conducting the required research.

Period of Performance
The project will have one base year with two additional budget years anticipated for completion. The total performance period is expected to span three years.

Grant Value
The total estimated funding for this project is $71,400, with $57,900 allocated for Budget Year 1. Additional funding for Budget Years 2 and 3 will depend on satisfactory progress and availability of funds.

Place of Performance
The research will be conducted in deep-sea environments within the Aleutian Island Arc, located in the U.S. Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).