Cooperative Agreement for Affiliated Partner with the Colorado Plateau Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Unit (CESU)

Summary

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) is seeking an affiliated partner to enter into a Cooperative Agreement with the Colorado Plateau Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Unit (CESU). The CESU network is a partnership program that connects federal agencies with universities, nonprofits, and other organizations to conduct research, technical assistance, and education related to natural and cultural resource management. This opportunity facilitates collaborative science and applied research on the Colorado Plateau ecosystem. The posting is currently in synopsis/pre-solicitation stage with a short open window in May 2026.

How they evaluate

Risks & flags

• Extremely short response window of only 29 days (May 1 – May 30, 2026)
• CESU network structure typically favors pre-existing member institutions, potentially limiting open competition
• Synopsis-only posting with minimal scope detail may disadvantage non-incumbent applicants
• No dollar value disclosed, reducing ability for new entrants to assess bid/no-bid