ERDC BAA - ARMY

Below is a brief summary. Please check the full solicitation before applying (link in resources section).

Executive Summary:

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC) is issuing a continuously open Broad Agency Announcement to fund basic, applied, and advanced research across a wide range of engineering, environmental, and defense-relevant technology areas. Awards are made on a rolling basis through cooperative agreements, subject to the availability of funds so interested companies should submit as soon as possible.

How much funding would I receive?

ERDC does not specify a standard award size. Individual awards may range from small research efforts to very large, multi-year programs, with an overall program ceiling of $1 billion. Funding levels are determined based on technical scope, relevance, and available funding within the sponsoring ERDC laboratory.

What could I use the funding for?

To be eligible for consideration and possible contract award, the technology or methodology shall be either basic research, applied research, advanced technology development not for a specific system/hardware, or demonstration and validation.

If your technology is novel and fits into one of the following Areas of Interest, you could potentially be funded:

Coastal and Hydraulics Laboratory (CHL)

• Overview

  Research is performed in the areas of hydraulic structures such as locks, dams, outlet works, control gates, stilling basins, spillways, channels, fish handling systems, and pumping stations, flood control channels, navigation channels, riverine and estuarine hydrodynamics and transport processes, groundwater, hydrology; dredgingrelated equipment, and on coastal problems related to coastal storm hazards and risk management, beach erosion, navigation, sedimentation, Regional Sediment Management, inlet stabilization, and construction, operation and maintenance of coastal structures (breakwater, jetties, groins, seawalls, etc.). Major areas of interest include coastal hydrodynamics (wind waves, tides, currents, wind related water levels); coastal sedimentation (longshore transport, inlet sedimentation); coastal geology and geomorphology; design and stability of coastal structures; erosion and storm reduction potential and life-cycle performance of natural and nature-based features; system optimization methods and performance metrics for coastal operations; coastal resiliency; and interaction of structures and coastal processes. Other activities include descriptions of coastal processes; theoretical studies; watershed and regional sediment and water systems studies; numerical and physical model techniques; data collection and analysis techniques; and development of laboratory and prototype instrumentation and equipment. The following sections contain information on these research areas and specific research thrusts.

• A. Physical Processes in Estuaries (CHL-1)

  Research in estuarine physical processes deals with the hydrodynamic and transport characteristics of water bodies located between the sea and the upland limit of tidal effects. Research is directed toward knowledge that will improve field measurements and predictions of these processes. Specific areas of required research include the following physical processes in estuaries and other tidal waters. Specific areas of required research include the following physical processes in estuaries and other tidal waters. a. The propagation of tides. b. Transport of salinity, mixing processes, stratified flows. c. Transport, erosion, and deposition of sediments, including settling velocity, aggregation of sediment, consolidation of sediment. d. Behavior and characteristics of sediment beds, including movement, consolidation, armoring, bonding, physical chemical characteristics, density, erodibility. e. Flow between aquifers and surface waters.

  Specific areas of required research include the following activities with respect to the physical processes listed. a. The effect of human activities, including dredging construction, vessel traffic, flow diversion, training, structures, and protective structures. b. Measurements of parameters that are indicative or descriptive of the processes listed in the 2nd paragraph by in-situ and remote methods in the lab and field. c. Prediction of processes listed in the 2nd paragraph by analytical methods, physical models, numerical models, and other techniques. d. Conceptual and mathematical descriptions of the processes listed in the 2nd paragraph. e. Development of materials, equipment, and methods that potentially lead to applied research that would make human activities listed safer, more economical, or more effective. f. Development of methods, techniques, and procedures that enable the treatment of an estuary as a system.

• B. Inland Hydraulic Structures (CHL-2)

  Research in hydraulic structures is related to the hydraulic performance of locks, dams, outlet works, control gates, stilling basins, spillways, channels, bank protection, riprap stability, pumping plants and other hydraulic structures, and with physical and/or numerical model studies to predict and analyze the physical water quality aspects of water resources projects. Specific areas of required research include the following: a. Conduct physical and numerical hydraulic model investigations of a wide variety of hydraulic structures to verify proposed designs and develop more effective and economical designs. b. Analyze model and prototype data and inspection of field installations to develop design criteria for hydraulic structures. c. Develop methods of correlating theoretical and experimental information with design methods used by the Corps of Engineers to improve existing procedures and provide material for inclusion in appropriate manuals. d. Develop physical and/or numerical models to predict and analyze the water quality aspects of water resources projects and design appropriate hydraulic structures to control water as well as water quantity while satisfying the desired objectives. e. Conduct research and/or develop numerical codes to advance techniques for analyzing physical aspects of water quality in lakes and rivers through a better understanding of the hydrodynamics in density-stratified environments and for improving water quality within and downstream of density-stratified reservoirs and to investigate the ability of existing and proposed water resources projects to satisfy established water quality standards. f. Conduct basic studies for development of hydraulic design and operation guidance for hydraulic structures used in inland waterways for navigation and flood control purposes, including wave forces/loads on gates (tainter, miter, etc.). g. Conduct/analyze tests, both model and prototype, of the performance of hydraulic appurtenances to flood control and navigation dams such as spillways, outlet works, energy dissipaters, and approach and exit channels, to develop design guidance that will provide structures of maximum efficiency and reliability with minimum maintenance. h. Develop innovative methods to prepare and revise engineering manuals for hydraulic design of various hydraulic structures. i. Develop innovative methods to conduct training courses on design of various hydraulic structures. j. Develop innovative methods to prepare technical reports of all work conducted.

• C. Open Channel Flow and Sedimentation (CHL-3)

  Research in open channel flow and sedimentation includes basic studies related to development of hydraulic design guidance for designing modifications to natural stream channels to provide for local flood risk reduction. Emphasis is placed on channel stability as well as channel flow capacity. Specific areas of required research include the following: a. Studies related to the development of effective methods to analyze a natural stream's response to modifications made for flood control purposes. b. Studies applicable to development of stream bank and streambed protection methods where channel instability exists. c. Studies applicable to development of sediment transport, local scour, and stream form relationships for a broad range of stream types, bed and bank materials, and meteorological and hydrological conditions. d. Collection and analysis of data that aid in evaluating existing methods and/or developing new methods to analyze channel stability for the variety of channel flow conditions and stream types existing in natural stream systems.

• D. Dredging Research (CHL-4)

  Protection and enhancement of the environment associated with operation and maintenance of navigable U.S. waterway infrastructure through dredging activities is a national priority. Dredging operations and environmental requirements of navigation projects are inseparable. Research is required to predict the time-dependent movement of non- contaminated sand and sand/silt mixtures of dredged materials placed in the nearshore zone, and all materials placed in the offshore region. The cost of dredging operations attributable to compliance with environmental windows that are determined to be over-restrictive, inconsistent, or technically unjustified can be reduced. More effective contaminated sediment characterization and management will reduce costs and enhance the reliability of methods associated with the assessment, dredging, placement, and control of sediments from navigation projects. Better instrumentation for dredge and site monitoring is required to implement automated dredge inspection and payment methods and accurately monitor placement of contaminated materials. Emerging technologies regarding innovative equipment and processes should be expeditiously introduced into the dredging arena. Enhanced ecological risk management for dredging and disposal projects through technically sound approaches for characterizing, managing, and conducting risk-based evaluations are required for expanding options regarding both contaminated and non-contaminated dredged materials.

• E. Navigation Channel Design (CHL-5)

  Research in navigation channel design involves basic research to develop design guidance for the design of new channels and modifications of existing waterways. It involves identifying maneuvering requirements in restricted waterways that affect the channel dimensions, alignment, and location of appurtenances in the navigation channel under various environmental and vessel traffic conditions. It also involves identifying the stability of the channel, maintenance requirements and designing structures that reduce or eliminate the maintenance requirements. Finally, it involves quantifying the flow and pressure fields generated by a tow or ship passing through a waterway and the related impacts on the sediment resuspension in the channel, channel border, and side channel/backwater areas. Studies involve deep and shallow draft navigation channels and physical and mathematical models. Human factors are included in research and project studies using a ship and tow simulator.

  Specific areas of required research include the following: a. Physical model investigations of a wide variety of navigation channel configurations in many environments with different type vessels to verify proposed designs and to develop more efficient and safe designs and to lower environmental impacts. b. Development and enhancement of mathematical models of vessels, both ships and push-tows, for use on the simulator to add vessel types not available or to increase the accuracy with which the model reproduces the vessels response. c. Development of methods and modeling techniques to predict the currents and sediment transport characteristics of various channel designs and integrate this with the navigation model studies, including those generated by the vessel movement. d. Development of methods and modeling techniques to predict the currents and sediment transport characteristics of various channel designs and integrate this with the navigation model studies. e. Development of methods and techniques to prepare and display visual information for the pilot on the simulator projection system. f. Development of methods and measurement equipment, techniques for measuring scale model performance in physical model navigation studies. g. Development of methods and techniques to improve the ship simulator and increase reliability of design estimates, including data and tools for ship motions, draw down, squat, ship-generated waves, and ship maneuvering. h. Development of methods and techniques for the analysis and evaluation of model results to optimize the channel design and to determine the level of safety, or conversely, risk involved with the various designs and ship transits.

• F. Computer-Aided Hydraulic Engineering (CHL-6)

  Research in this topic area develops computer-aided design tools that can be used by hydraulic engineers in planning, design, construction, operation, and maintenance of navigation and flood control projects. The scope includes open channel and closed conduit flows, equipment, structures, and sediment transport analysis and modeling.

• G. Groundwater (CHL-7)

  Research in groundwater is structured to enhance understanding and prediction of the flow of water and various transported constituents through the environment, including groundwater issues from contaminant remediation to levee erosion as well as surface water problems from flash flooding to nearshore coastal flows. Primary tools are computer models that solve (approximately) conservation equations for mass, momentum, and energy in various physical systems. Work includes developing the numerical methods for solving these equations, writing the computer code to implement the approximations in desktop and high-performance computing environments, and applying the models as part of engineering studies to investigate processes like levee erosion and overtopping, seawater intrusion, and flow through vegetation.

• H. Hydrology (CHL-8)

  Research in this area primarily addresses military applications related to mobility, counter mobility, and water supply. Specific research involves the following areas: a. Large-scale hydrologic modeling. b. Rapid procedures for flood forecasting. c. Groundwater-surface water interaction processes. d. Multi-scale, multi-physics hydrologic modeling. e. Remote sensing and quantification of precipitation. f. Development of spatially varying precipitation hydrology models. g. Visualization of results for hydrology and dam break models. h. Interfacing with existing and new hydrology models. i. Interfacing watershed models with water quality and other environmental models.

• I. H&H GIS/Database Development (CHL-9)

  Research involves the following areas: a. Electronic Navigation Charting. b. Integration of GIS/Database and H&H models. c. Watershed management for erosion control. d. Larger River System management for flood control navigation. e. Visualization Techniques

• J. Coastal Hydrodynamics, Coastal Processes (CHL-10)

  Research in this area includes: shallow water wave estimation; forecasting and hindcasting of wind generated waves for oceanic to local regions; wave theory; statistical distribution of wave parameters; simulation of spectral and phase resolved conditions in wave basins; infragravity (free and bound) waves; nearshore currents; wave breaking; wave/current and wave structure interactions; wave and sediment interactions with natural and nature-based features; long and short waves in ports and harbors; tsunami modeling; wind generated currents; storm surge; tidal circulation; twoand three dimensional numerical simulation models (including finite difference, finite element, finite volume and curvilinear coordinate techniques); coastal meteorology; explosion generated waves; ship response to winds, currents and waves; moored ship response; mooring design and analysis, ribbon bridge hydrodynamics and turbulence.

• K. Coastal Inlets, Navigation Channels (CHL-11)

  Research includes sediment shoaling in coastal inlet channels; stability and performance of inlet channels; scour at structures; sediment transport modeling; influence of structures such as jetties and breakwaters on wave, current, and sedimentation processes. Numerical modeling of inlet hydrodynamics and sedimenttransport processes, including long-term geomorphologic evolution of inlet channels, shoals, and adjacent beaches, and the interaction with navigation structures. Nearshore placement of dredged sediment to foster wave reduction and sediment supply to adjacent beaches. Short- and long-term dune evolution in vicinity of coastal inlets. Shoreline evolution modeling and storm erosion of beaches, particularly concerning over wash and breaching near inlets; wind and wave generated sediment transport; sediment budget analysis; coastal and inlet geomorphology; and PC-, workstation-, and mainframe-based automated coastal engineering software (including relational and GIS data bases)

• L. Coastal Structure and Facility Design (CHL-12)

  Research includes development of functional and stability design criteria for coastal structures and facilities (breakwaters, seawalls, jetties, groins, harbors, marinas, etc.); wave run-up, over-topping, refraction, diffraction, transmission, reflection, etc.; design of floating breakwaters; breakwater stability; application of spectral wave conditions to coastal engineering; stability of riprap to irregular wave attack; stability and functional design of overtopped rubble mound breakwaters; scale modeling of armor unit strength; analysis of structural data for floating breakwaters; investigation of numerical structural models for floating breakwaters; development of wave run-up gage for rough and porous slopes; investigation of attenuation/mooring force models of floating breakwaters; development of materials and techniques to produce high quality breakwater model armor units; analysis of wave run-up overtopping, refraction, diffraction, transmission and/or reflection data on coastal structures and beaches and design of structures for Logistics-Over-The-Shore (LOTS) operations.

• M. Field and Laboratory Measurements, Data Collection, and Analysis (CHL13)

  This topic area includes research in technologies, instrumentation, and monitoring systems in coastal and riverine settings for collecting, analyzing, and disseminating data related to measurements of coastal waves, surface currents, water levels, water quality, sediment, and wind, primarily in the field, but also in a sediment laboratory; advanced data analysis (spectral and non-spectral) techniques; remote sensing techniques; bedload and suspended sediment transport; monitoring and evaluating technical and structural stability of coastal projects; advanced hydrographic survey techniques, field measurement of coastal processes; bathymetric survey systems.

• N. Experimental Coastal Model Equipment, Operation and Analysis (CHL-14)

  Research includes development of equipment and techniques for specialized model construction, experimental wave generation equipment, specialized data acquisition and analysis systems, advanced model operations techniques, and laboratory and scale effects in movable bed model studies.

• O. General Coastal Engineering, Coastal Geology, Dredging Investigations CHL-15)

  This topic area includes topics such as sand bypassing systems and equipment; beach fill design; coastal geology and geomorphology; functional design and evaluation of coastal works and coastal structures; methodologies to assess and track coastal resilience performance; littoral transport; coastal and offshore dredging studies; agitation dredging systems and equipment; physical monitoring of dredged material; physical processes in coastal wetlands; application of Geographic Information Systems; design of nearshore and offshore dredged material placement; evaluation of dredged material disposal sites; analysis of dredging operations management.

• P. Regional and Watershed Sediment Management (CHL-16)

  Regional Sediment Management (RSM) research is intended to provide knowledge and tools that the Corps and the Nation need for effective water resource projects. RSM implies the holistic management of sediment within systems or regions to produce environmentally and economically sustainable projects. Goals include improved project design, operation, and maintenance methods, minimized disruption of natural sediment pathways and processes, and mediation of natural processes that have adverse environmental or economic impact. The approach of the Corps research is to produce targeted R&D serving multiple Corps business areas; to employ ongoing projects’ experience (including Demonstration Projects) to provide data and lessons learned; to use enabling technologies of localscale products and tools, including those generated by other R&D programs within and outside the Corps; to generate technologies that integrate the best available knowledge on sediment behavior and regional morphology into management decision support tools for a) regional and basin scale analyses and b) evaluation of the impacts of projects and management decisions on and by long-term, large-scale sedimentation processes. A key element in ERDC research is full coordination with other organizations with sediment management or monitoring expertise.

• Q. Marine Transportation Technologies (CHL-17)

  Research in this topic area serves one of the USACE’s primary missions, to provide safe, reliable, efficient, effective, and environmentally sustainable waterborne transportation systems for movement of commerce, national security needs, and recreation. To accomplish this mission, the USACE requires R&D to facilitate tracking of vessels on inland waterways (shallow draft) and coastal ports (deep draft). Knowing what vessels are arriving, when, the commodities being carried, etc., will provide lock operators and operations project managers valuable tools to improve safety, efficiency, asset management, and help to make decisions on performance-based funding for navigation project maintenance and improvements. Work in this area focuses on software that uses the United States Coast Guard’s (USCG) Automated Identification Systems (AIS) vessel mounted transmitters which broadcasts a radio signal with the vessels name, position, heading, velocity, and a wide range of other information. Proposals are sought for developing the following: a. Capability that will take the full suite of standard CG AIS messages and provide them in near real time to the Corps facilities in the immediate area of the vessel. b. Capability to allow collection of the full suite of standard AIS messages simultaneously at all pertinent Corps Inland and Deep Draft facilities. c. Capability to customize user interface to allow the Corps operations staff to view vessels in the vicinity of the Corps facilities to make decisions on the order in which to allow commercial tows to pass through lock. d. Provide the capability for Corps facilities to transmit pertinent information to the vessels in the immediate vicinity of the Corps facilities via AIS. e. System optimization methods and performance metrics for vessel operations. Special Considerations: The level of understanding of AIS technology and signal processing, the number of successful installations of similar AIS software processing capabilities; experience with USCG staff, facilities, regulations, and procedures.

• R. Post-Wildfire Hydrologic, Sediment, and Geomorphologic Management (CHL-18)

  Post-Wildfire research is focused on improving understanding of post-fire impacts through exploitation of affordable data acquisition methods and enhancement of numerical modeling capabilities to assist with planning, management, and mitigation in post-wildfire environments. Immediately following a wildfire, vegetation is removed, organic soil horizons are reduced to ash, and hydrophobic soils combine to result in increased water and sediment discharge and debris, mud, and hyper concentrated flows. In the years following a wildfire, ecotone shifts, gully formation, and channel incision alter the hydrologic system response, resulting in dramatic changes in hydraulic and sediment impacts down system. Wildfires represent a significant perturbation to natural systems that dramatically alter the morphologic, hydrologic, and sediment regimes of impacted watersheds. The overall purpose of this area of research and development is to investigate post-wildfire impacts on hydrologic and hydraulic response, geomorphic evolution, and sedimentation, with specific research needed in the following areas: a. Studies related to cost-effective (in situ and remotely sensed) data acquisition and processing methods. b. Studies related to better understanding the longer-term geomorphic impacts and subsequent recovery processes in post-fire environments. c. Studies related to hydrological physical processes, empirical approaches, and numerical modeling. d. Studies related to hydraulics and sediment transport physical processes and numerical modeling.

• S. Nearshore Coastal Research in Support of the U.S. Coastal Research Program (CHL- 19)

  Proposals are invited to address nearshore coastal research needs within three broad research themes as identified by the U.S. Coastal Research Program (USCRP) (see Nearshore Process Community, 2015 for more details). Nearshore systems include the complex interactions of physical, biological, chemical, and human influences within the transition region across the land and the continental shelf, spanning (from onshore to offshore) coastal plains, wetlands, estuaries, coastal cliffs, dunes, beaches, surf zones, and the inner shelf. Worldwide, nearly 1 billion people live at elevations within 10 m of present sea level, an elevation zone in need of engineering solutions that reduce risks to life and property produced by various extreme events. The nearshore is a societally relevant region that requires and improved understanding of the feedbacks and couplings that shape, sustain, and alter coastal landscapes. The three broad research themes include a need to understand, better predict, and respond to (1) Long-term coastal evolution due to natural and anthropogenic processes; (2) Extreme Events including: flooding, erosion, and the subsequent recovery; and (3) The physical biological and chemical processes impacting human and ecosystem health. Each is detailed below a. Long-term coastal evolution due to natural and anthropogenic processes: As storms impact increasingly urbanized coastal communities, an understanding of long-term coastal evolution is critical. Improved knowledge of long-term morphological, ecological, and societal processes and their interactions will result in an improved ability to simulate coastal change and develop proactive solutions for resilient coasts and better guidance for reducing coastal vulnerability. b. Extreme Events including flooding, erosion, and the subsequent recovery: U.S. coastal extreme event related economic losses have increased substantially over the past decades. Addressing this research theme will result in an improved understanding of the physical processes during extreme events, leading to improved models of flooding, erosion, and recovery. Utilization and application of the improved models will produce societal benefit in the form of more resilient coastal communities. c. The physical, biological, and chemical processes impacting human and ecosystem health: Nearshore regions are used for recreation, tourism, human habitation, and provide habitat and valuable ecosystem services. These areas must be sustained for future generations, however overall coastal water quality is declining due to microbial pathogens, fertilizers, pesticides, and heavy metal contamination, threatening ecosystem and human health. To ensure sustainable nearshore regions, predictive real-time water- and sediment-based pollutant modeling capabilities must be developed, which requires expanding our knowledge of the physics, chemistry, and biology of the nearshore. The resulting societal benefits will include better beach safety, healthier ecosystems, and improved mitigation and regulatory policies.

• T. Comprehensive Water Risk Management (CWRM) (CHL- 20)

  Proposals are invited to develop and explore the application of next generation technologies, methods and approaches that lead to the creation of a seamless national hydro-terrestrial capability within the USACE and partner agencies. CWRM includes advanced data collection, prediction and management technologies that can provide water managers the tools required to minimize, mitigate, and better manage water hazards under present and future design requirements. Proposals for research in the following specific areas are needed: a. Inland and Coastal Compound Flooding: Research to support the inclusion of inland and coastal compound flooding in the reduction of comprehensive flood risk from riverine flows, precipitation, coastal storms, groundwater emergence, sea level change, snowmelt, wildfires, subsidence, and other natural as well as anthropogenic events. b. Data Collection: Research to support the collection and analysis of water data through in-situ and standoff measurements including satellite, and various uncrewed systems (UxS). For UxS this includes sensing, perception, control, and data process techniques. Needs include data collection techniques for snowpack analysis, soil-moisture determination, wave environment, estimation of under-water bathymetry, reservoir capacity, etc. c. Probabilistic Modeling – Uncertainty quantification and Data Assimilation: Research to support development of methodology for quantifying numerical uncertainty and forward propagation of that uncertainty into numerical prediction. Additionally, research to develop methods for assimilating observations into probabilistic numerical methods to refine predictions for wave, circulation, and morphologic models. d. Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML) Technologies: Research to support the use AI/ML technologies to increase the accuracy and efficiency of hydrologic and hydraulic numerical models. Capabilities include advanced data assimilation technologies for error reduction and longer forecasts. e. Flash Flooding: Research to improve the technologies to predict and mitigate water hazards due to flash flooding. Research requirements include downscaling of weather forecasts including precipitation, wind speeds, atmospheric pressure, etc. f. Cold Weather Water Hazards: Research to improve the performance of predictive techniques in cold regions including the arctic. Research requirements include the effects of ice cover on wave and storm mitigation, the effects of the permafrost on hydrologic processes, the effects of flood risk mitigation features on freshwater sources, etc. g. Arid Region Water Hazards: Research to improve the performance of predictive techniques in arid regions. Research requirements include infiltration processes, groundwater and surface water interaction, aquifer recharge, wildfire hydrology, etc. h. Numerical Model Coupling Techniques: Research to improve the performance of numerical model coupling methods. Research requirements include inter and intra-model communication for inter-agency model collaboration.

• U. Innovations in Sediment Management (CHL- 21)

  Proposals are invited to develop leap-ahead innovative and sustainable dredging and sediment management solutions to dramatically reduce costs, increase channel/infrastructure reliability, and add significant economic, environmental, and social value to the Nation. Proposals for research in the following specific areas are requested: a. Coastal/ Hydrodynamic Engineering Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) and Hybrid Solutions: Research to inform the development of tools, techniques and guidance behind designing and engineering nature-based solutions (NBS) and hybrid solutions. This R&D will help in the development of methods and standards which support effective planning, designing, construction, and O&M of NBS/hybrid solutions to support the reduction of coastal and inland flooding risks. This research should focus on exploring the potential for integrating NBS/hybrid solutions within existing hydrodynamic engineering and land use planning practices. b. Innovative Dredging Technologies/ Autonomous Methods: Research to develop technologies and techniques for improved dredging operations. R&D can address evaluating next-generation technologies and dredging operations (e.g., hydrodynamic dredging), real-time dredge position and bottom mapping techniques, autonomous dredging to reduce costs, increase beneficial use of dredged material, sediment transfer and placement equipment to facilitate more beneficial uses (e.g., thin layer placement, strategic placement), reduce channel and reservoir infilling to reduce dredging need, or renewing reservoir capacity through application of technologies developed for navigation channel maintenance. Proposals are invited to develop leap-ahead innovative and sustainable dredging and sediment management solutions to dramatically reduce costs, increase channel/infrastructure reliability, and add significant economic, environmental, and social value to the Nation. Proposals for research in the following specific areas are requested: a. Coastal/ Hydrodynamic Engineering Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) and Hybrid Solutions: Research to inform the development of tools, techniques and guidance behind designing and engineering nature-based solutions (NBS) and hybrid solutions. This R&D will help in the development of methods and standards which support effective planning, designing, construction, and O&M of NBS/hybrid solutions to support the reduction of coastal and inland flooding risks. This research should focus on exploring the potential for integrating NBS/hybrid solutions within existing hydrodynamic engineering and land use planning practices. b. Innovative Dredging Technologies/ Autonomous Methods: Research to develop technologies and techniques for improved dredging operations. R&D can address evaluating next-generation technologies and dredging operations (e.g., hydrodynamic dredging), real-time dredge position and bottom mapping techniques, autonomous dredging to reduce costs, increase beneficial use of dredged material, sediment transfer and placement equipment to facilitate more beneficial uses (e.g., thin layer placement, strategic placement), reduce channel and reservoir infilling to reduce dredging need, or renewing reservoir capacity through application of technologies developed for navigation channel maintenance. c. Hydrodynamic and Geomorphologic Response of Biomaterials: Research into the use of bio-based materials, such as biopolymers, to enhance and increase the resiliency of NBS, including earthen levees, coastal dunes, and dam embankments. This research should focus on the hydrodynamic and geomorphologic response of biomaterials to the impacts of hydrological and meteorological extremes. Considering the performance and sustainability of biobased materials, we seek to understand the potential of bio-based materials to reduce the risk and cost of rehabilitating and maintaining these structures and increase their resiliency against potential threats. We invite research that furthers our understanding and application of bio-based materials for this purpose, as a component of comprehensive water risk management and abilities to adapt to dynamic environmental forcing requirements. The research should be designed to provide evidence and support decision making. It should be based on research available at existing open-source platforms, or data that is proposed to be collected for the research. d. Monitoring of NBS and Beneficial Use of Dredged Sediment Projects: Research to improve the understanding of the performance of NBS and beneficial use of dredged sediment projects through monitoring. Monitoring could include the project’s response to storm events and the post-storm recovery. Monitoring techniques will vary based on the project but may be comprised of satellite data, remote sensing measurements, in-situ measurements, or engaging the public to crowdsource data collection. The monitoring research may also include the development or testing of innovative sensors or monitoring techniques.

• V. Next Generation Water Management (CHL-22)

  Proposals are invited to explore the application of next generation technologies, methods and approaches that are aimed at improving water management practice within the USACE and partner agencies, including efforts that support research, development and implementation of capabilities to support Forecast Informed Reservoir Operations (FIRO). FIRO is a management approach that seeks to improve water supply, enhance flood risk reduction and achieve additional ecosystem benefits through application of advanced weather and watershed forecast capabilities in water management practice.

  FIRO envisions advanced observation and prediction technology that can provide water managers more lead time to selectively retain or release water from reservoirs based on longer- term forecasts. When storms cause moderate-to-high reservoir levels, normal operation is to release water to re-establish flood control space. FIRO pilot studies have demonstrated that some of that water can be retained for future supply as long as no major precipitation is expected and it can be shown that the retained water can be released past downstream flood prone areas prior to the arrival of the next storm. This strategy permits earlier supply capture in some years, improving supply reliability for downstream water users and improving the timing and volume of releases to protect water quality and provide flows needed for ecosystem benefits. Proposals for research in the following specific areas are needed: a. Improvement of forecast skill to support advanced water management, including meteorological phenomena that are major drivers for floods in various regions across the country including atmospheric rivers, tropical storms/hurricanes, clusters of long-lived thunderstorms and Nor’Easters. This can also include improvements in weather observations and numerical weather forecasting models that result in improved forecasting lead times for water management decision-making.

  b. Improvements in data synthesis, decision support systems and data visualization capabilities to enhance water management decision-making.

  c. Hydrologic and reservoir model development and application, including improvements in watershed monitoring to enhance hydrologic and reservoir models.

  d. Application of FIRO screening process tools to regions of the United States where FIRO has not previously been applied or tested.

  e. Application of FIRO viability assessment processes to systems of dams where multiple dams are operated within a watershed to achieve overall system water management objectives.

  f. Research to support updates to USACE Water Control Manuals (WCMs) using FIRO approaches, scenarios and principles. Updates to WCMs require numerous studies in areas of meteorology, hydrology, hydraulics, ecology and economics. Incorporation of next generation approaches such as FIRO require research efforts to identify best management practices on how to safely and effectively incorporate these new approaches into water management practice as defined in WCMs.

Geotechnical & Structures Laboratory (CHL)

• Overview

  Research performed by the Geotechnical and Structures Laboratory’s (GSL) eight branches consists of investigations in the areas of soil mechanics, engineering geology, geophysics and seismology, earthquake engineering, pavements (both expedient and permanent), mobility and traffic ability of military vehicles, structural design and performance of structures under both static and dynamic loadings, earth dynamics, and the uses and performance of concrete, cement, and other construction materials. Research areas also include measurement and analysis of seismic and acoustic signals to locate airborne and ground military targets and buried objects (including unexploded ordnance) and to characterize earth media. Research on concrete and cement is predominantly related to current recognized needs, both civil and military. Military expediency focuses additional attention on ease and speed of concrete placement, development of very high-strength materials, and use of non-traditional, indigenous, and other special materials in concrete construction. Civil works research focuses primarily on the need to improve the performance of both new and old concrete structures. Structures research involves development, testing, and evaluation of a broad class of structures to resist the effects of static and dynamic loads induced by earthquakes and other sources. The Geotechnical and Structures Laboratory also conducts research involving all aspects for improving the survivability of fixed installations.

• A. Earthquake Engineering (GSL-1)

  Research areas of interest include the dynamic behavior of soil and rock; liquefaction of soils, including coarse-grained and fine-grained soils; in-situ testing to evaluate properties related to dynamic behavior; centrifuge scale-model testing using a multi-waveform shake table; in-situ testing to evaluate susceptibility to liquefaction; methods of analysis of dynamic behavior of earth materials; methods of analysis of dynamic soil- structure interaction; risk-based and probability-based methods of analysis; seismic wave propagation in earth materials; seismically induced settlements in soils and remedial treatment of soils potentially susceptible to earthquake-induced instability or strength loss; computer visualization and dynamic simulation; site response analysis; and strong motion instrumentation.

• B. Geophysics (GSL-2)

  ERDC supports research in the development of land, air, or waterborne geophysical methods to be used for characterization of hazardous waste sites, detection and monitoring of seepage, nondestructive investigation of archeological sites, location of groundwater, and detection of buried objects; analytical and data-processing techniques, borehole surveys, cross hole seismic imaging, electromagnetic detection of anomalies, seismic surveys, sub bottom profiling, and acoustic impedance surveys; and uses of microgravity.

• C. Mobility of Vehicles (GSL-3)

  The Mobility Systems Branch addresses engineering research on the performance of vehicles operating cross country and on-road, and/or in negotiating dry and wet obstacles in worldwide terrains. This is a highly specialized technical area involving engineering mechanics, vehicle dynamics, mathematics, statistics, computer specialties, geology, and soil mechanics. Research in this area includes developing fundamental relations between soil and vehicle running gear; improving criteria concerning the effects of vehicle vibration and ride shock on sensors and data streams from rapidly moving sensors over rough terrain; developing algorithms describing weather effects on terrain, multi-vehicle movements along road nets, stochastic processes describing influence of uncertainties of data elements, and developing modeling and simulation capabilities for near real-time assessments of mobility and counter mobility for battlefield operations and operations other than war.

• D. Pavement Technology (GSL-4)

  Research in this area is conducted in support of the Corps mission to design and construct roads and airfields worldwide and other related engineering functions. This research includes the development of engineering criteria for the design, construction, evaluation, maintenance, and rehabilitation of permanent and expedient airfields, pavements, and ports. Research areas of interest include improved design procedures, structural performance modeling, material characterization and evaluation, nondestructive testing, rapid repair of structures, expedient surfacing (to include novel, composite, and metallic systems), aircraft and vehicular ground flotation, access/egress systems, gravel surfaced and non-surfaced areas, the use of geotextiles and geomembranes, grid-confining systems, soil stabilization, dust-control materials and techniques, advanced binder systems, remote assessment, earth anchoring, pavement evaluation, and advanced testing, monitoring, and evaluation equipment, software, and methods to support pavement and pavement related functions.

• E. Soil and Rock Mechanics (GSL-5)

  Research is needed to: (a) improve methods for prediction and control of erosion of unlined spillway channels during uncontrolled releases; (b) develop innovative methods for flood protection and flood fighting, including field evaluations of promising technologies; (c) develop guidance for applications of trenchless technology (e.g., micro tunneling, horizontal directional drilling, pipe ramming, pipe jacking, auger boring, etc.) on Corps structures, including measures to ensure safety and stability of Corps structures when trenchless technology is used to install pipelines, cables, or conduits through or beneath levees and other structures;(d) develop improved methods, including risk-based methods for analyzing earth and rock fill dams and other water control structures for both static- and earthquake-induced stresses; (e) improve the state of knowledge of physical and engineering properties of soil, rock, and clay shales; earth-rock mixtures, granular filters, cohesive and non-cohesive fine- grained soils susceptible to liquefaction; and soils susceptible to drastic volume changes (collapse, consolidation, swell); (f) develop rational analytical procedures and more reliable prediction of behavior of partially saturated soils; (g) determine the response of soils in situ to static and dynamic loading and unloading; (h) determine the susceptibility of earth dams to cracking, hydraulic fracturing, and internal erosion; (i) evaluate improved defensive design measures in use of materials, particularly in filter and transition zones and impervious barriers; (j) improve procedures for monitoring and analysis of the performance of new and existing structures, particularly the use and interpretation of observations and data from specialized instrumentation, and expedient systems for rapid inspection and evaluation of the integrity of dams; (k) improve the understanding of the aging processes in dams and the influence of aging (particularly deterioration of safety-related features) on long-term maintenance and/or rehabilitation requirements for dams; (l) develop a better understanding of failure mechanisms to improve design of defensive measures, to provide information for remedial repairs, to assess potential damages resulting from failure, and to provide a basis for emergency actions; (m) develop expedient remedial measures when hazardous conditions are identified and, thus, reduce the damages and catastrophic potential of dam failures; (n) develop methodology to evaluate forces exerted on structural elements by adjacent soil masses that result from long- term variation in soil properties; (o) develop improved methodology for design and construction procedures for shallow and deep foundations, including mats, footings, piers, and piles for buildings, hydraulic structures and waterfront structures; (p) large-scale physical and numerical modeling of deep underground structures (tunnels, shafts, chambers, and intersections); (q) predictions of rock mass dredgability; (r) acoustic emission (micro-seismic) applications in geotechnical engineering; (s) geotechnical aspects of hazardous and low-level radioactive waste disposal; (t) evaluation of rock for use as riprap; (u) grouting of soil and rock masses; (v) sliding stability of gravity structures, and (w) centrifuge modeling of structures founded on or in rock.

• F. Dam Research (GSL-6)

  Research is conducted in support of the Army’s Dams and Transportation Infrastructure Program, specifically the Dam Safety subcomponents. Research covers design, construction, maintenance, repair, and inspection procedures of Army dams as well as other engineering functions as they relate to transportation structures. This involves the formulation of engineering criteria for the design, construction, evaluation, maintenance, and rehabilitation of dams. Research areas of interest include improved inspection procedures, material characterization and evaluation, nondestructive testing, rapid repair, scour, unknown material properties, unknown foundations, and underwater inspection.

• G. Engineering Geology (GSL-7)

  The GSL conducts a broad range of research in the field of engineering geology in support of federal or other Government technical missions. Specific areas of interest within this field include application of remote sensing to geologic and geomorphic assessments; geo-archeological investigations; applied and numerical geomorphic analysis; computer applications in geotechnical engineering; 3-D visualization systems; uses of geographic information systems; geo hydrology in military and civil applications; including water quality and supply issues; geologic mapping; geologic applications of mathematical techniques and geo statistics; groundwater monitoring, including well installation and design; geologic application of groundwater models; integration of geological and geophysical subsurface exploration techniques; land-loss studies; remedial measures at groundwater contamination sites; seismic hazard characterization and evaluation; subsurface exploration methods (drilling and sampling techniques); test site selection; conceptual and geologic and hydro geologic models.

• H. Excavation, Structural Demolition, and Obstacle Creation (GSL-8)

  Current criteria for improved demolitions call for significantly reduced manning levels and preparation times to accomplish assigned missions. Cost effectiveness, versatility, and safety are also of great importance. Current efforts involve technologies for the standoff creation and reduction of all types of battlefield obstacles, and the excavation of fighting positions. A prime consideration is the development of more efficient means for the application of various types of energetic materials to targets of interest. In addition, modern materials and design principles used in typical target structures must be incorporated into future plans and guidelines for demolitions. Typical missions of interest are road cratering, anti-tank ditching, bridge and tunnel demolition, and the breaching of walls, bunkers, levees, and dams.

• I. Ammunition Storage Safety (GSL-9)

  The military services must store large amounts of munitions, both for war reserves and for training purposes. New conceptual designs for components or systems for storage are needed to reduce the likelihood of an accidental detonation of stored munitions, limit the propagation of air blast and fragments, or mitigate the safety hazards produced by an accidental detonation. In addition, test data and simulation techniques are needed to aid in the definition of the safety hazards from such detonations, and the mechanics of blast propagation among munition stores. Obsolete munitions are often disposed of by deliberate, controlled detonation. Research is needed on new methods for safe, efficient, and environmentally acceptable methods for deactivation of a wide variety of munition types.

• J. Physical Simulation of Munition Phenomenology (GSL-10)

  The mechanical effects induced by munition detonations are physically simulated using a variety of energy sources. Simulations are performed at full- and small (1/2 to 1/10) scale. The mechanical effects from conventional energetic materials are normally performed at small scale. These studies could benefit from improved (better fidelity, less expensive) simulators and simulation techniques. They could also enhance the development of test methodology for micro-scale (1/100 to 1/10) testing including centrifuge testing. Micro-scale test methodology includes the miniature high- fidelity energy sources, miniature sensors, advanced optical techniques, high-fidelity construction techniques for miniature structures, and theoretical developments in the scaling of material behavior.

• K. Geophysical Phenomenology - Multi-Modal Geophysical Phenomenology, Modeling, Data Processing, and Data Management (GSL-11)

  The objectives include detecting, classifying, and locating airborne and ground military targets and buried objects using geophysical methods for homeland defense and homeland security applications. Also included are invasive and non-invasive approaches for measuring and quantifying the geophysical/geologic signatures of diverse geo-environments. This can include the development of new and/or improved analytical and numerical models, rapid data- processing techniques, and new subsurface imaging techniques that include active and passive sensor modalities in a variety of rural and urban terrains.

  Of particular interest is the broadband propagation of energy including, but not limited to seismic/acoustic/infrasonic/electromagnetic/ thermal/chemical, under variable conditions using a variety of sensing platforms (fixed, mobile, airborne, space). The development of new tactics, techniques, and procedures for the employment of novel sensing methods as well as the development and/or verification of empirical testing and evaluation techniques is also desirable. Data management and multi-mode integration techniques and platforms are also of interest.

• L. Laboratory Tests and Constitutive Model Development for Geologic Materials (GSL-12)

  This research requires the formulation of mathematical constitutive models to simulate the mechanical behavior of geological and structural materials and incorporation of models into application-oriented prediction/analysis techniques. Also of interest are the development of dynamic test equipment and techniques and the experimental evaluation of geological and structural material response to high-pressure transient loadings.

• M. Projectile Penetration (GSL-13)

  Theoretical and experimental studies of projectile stresses and trajectories due to impact and penetration into geologic and man-made targets and development of design criteria for shield systems include development of equipment and diagnostic techniques to examine the response of targets to low- and high-velocity impact of penetrators, rods, etc.

• N. Computational Structural Mechanics for DOD Applications (GSL-14)

  The efficient use of scalable computers will require fundamentally new concepts in computational mechanics algorithms. Research includes mathematical formulations and development of scalable computational mechanics algorithms in the areas of structural response, penetration, contact impact, structure-medium interaction, multi-scale, multi-physics, and interdisciplinary flow-thermal-structural interactions. This research area also includes development of computational models for new materials and composite construction (consisting of concrete, composite, and/or geologic materials), as well as the behavior and control of structures composed of such composite construction for military applications.

• O. Concrete Materials (GSL-15)

  Research in this area includes improving the performance of concrete materials and systems. Performance could include very high tensile or compressive strength, high ductility, high fracture toughness, low shrinkage, rapid hardening, very low permeability, resistance to abrasion and erosion durability, chemical resistance, shock-attenuating properties, ultra-low density, thermal insulation properties, workability, and other unique attributes. This includes improvements in the materials typically used in a concrete mixture such as aggregate, cement, supplementary cementitious materials, and chemical admixtures. Aggregates could include waste and/or manmade materials such as fly ash (traditional, blended, or reclaimed), silica fume, ground granulated blast-furnace slag, recycled concrete, lightweight aggregates other potentially low cost and/or green materials. Micro- and Nanoscale aggregates, inclusions, pozzolans, cements and reinforcements such as microspheres, nanosilicates, microfibers and low-cost nanotubes or nanofibers would also be included in this research area. Chemical admixtures such as water reducers, set retarders, set accelerators, air-entraining admixtures, and foaming and defoaming agents that lend unique properties would also be considered in this research area. Since reinforcement is a critical element to the ductility and durability of concrete materials, advanced reinforcement materials that enhance these properties fall under this research area. Additionally, this topic area would include research involving nontraditional cement binders including polymer- impregnated concrete, polymer or resin concrete, polymer Portland-cement concrete and geopolymer concretes.

• P. Concrete Properties and Analysis (GSL-16)

  Research in this area if focused on the development of new nondestructive and destructive test methods and analysis techniques to better characterize the properties and performance of concretes and the constituents that they are composed of at scales ranging from the nano-level to the macro-level. There are a vast number of topics in testing and analysis that could be included in this area as related to the physical and chemical properties of aggregates, cements, pozzolans, admixtures, fibers, and their interaction during the mixing, placing, curing, and service phases of a concrete. This could include but is not limited to: 1. Developing test methods and analysis techniques to better quantify material properties at aggregate-paste and fiber-paste transition zones.

  2. Developing tools, test methods and analysis techniques to non-destructively define the spatial distribution of components in a concrete specimen.

  3. Developing better assessment tools and criteria for predicting durability and longevity of concrete and grout.

  4. Developing better methods to define and classify chemical admixtures by chemical composition and mechanism of performance.

  5. Developing innovative systems to construct concrete materials and structures more economically.

  6. Developing theoretical, computational, and experimental methods for effectively characterizing stress, strain, progressive damage, and fracture of engineering materials subjected to static and dynamic loads.

• Q. Maintenance, Repair, and Rehabilitation of Concrete (GSL-17)

  Forensic analyses such as assessment of remaining life, maintenance and minor remedial measures, repair and rehabilitation, and surveillance and monitoring are topics of interest. Structures of interest include concrete locks and dams and appurtenant concrete and steel structures (outlet works, retaining walls, gates, piles, bulkheads, tunnels, intakes, etc.), other horizontal and vertical concrete infrastructure, and metals and polymer systems related to those concrete components.

• R. Other Areas of Materials Research (GSL-18)

  Research is needed in the development, properties, and performance of a range of materials for military and civil applications. Needed materials research for concrete applications includes such materials as: curing compounds, coatings, and overlays; polymers or other agents for improving bond between old and new concrete; water stop materials for use in hydraulic structures, and methods for characterizing and testing such materials; grouts for injection underground in very fine fracture systems or porous media; organic and inorganic composites that are used in construction; and grout materials and technologies for waste-disposal and containment such as for both commercial and defense-related low-level and high-level radioactive wastes.

  Other materials research needs include the development, testing, and prototyping of metals, composites, or other novel materials exhibiting advanced mechanical, thermal, rheological, chemical, electrical, and multi-functional properties, and performances. Research is performed on energy absorbing materials for impact, ballistic and blast resistance; hierarchical, multi- layered, and functionally graded material systems; multi-scale reinforcement for macro performance; self-sensing and self-healing materials; and materials demonstrating advancements in durability, high strength-to-weight, fatigue resistance, and ease of application.

• S. Bridge Research (GSL-19)

  Research is conducted in support of the Army’s Dams and Transportation Infrastructure Program, specifically the Bridge Safety and Waterfront Facilities subcomponents. Research covers design, construction, maintenance, repair and inspection procedures of Army bridges and waterfront facilities worldwide as well as other engineering functions as they relate to transportation structures. This involves the formulation of engineering criteria for the design, construction, evaluation, maintenance, and rehabilitation of permanent and expedient bridge and port facilities. Research areas of interest include improved inspection procedures, material characterization and evaluation, nondestructive testing, rapid repair, scour, unknown material properties, unknown foundations, traffic safety, underwater inspection, fracture critical and fatigue evaluations, load capacity, load testing, and load ratings.

• T. Structures Research (Civil Works) (GSL-20)

  Research is conducted in assessing the performance of critical structures to extreme loads, such as those resulting from seismic, terrorist attack, and storm events, as well as the effects of flow-induced vibrations. Efforts include assessing sensitivity of structural design and analysis procedures, vulnerability of structures, and critical design parameters to develop appropriate load-resistance factors. Techniques for retrofit, including use of new and innovative materials, of structures to resist extreme loads is of interest. Also, a better understanding of long-term behavior and deterioration of civil structures is needed, including factors such as material interactions, thermal stresses, and any issues affecting design of new structures and operation and maintenance of existing structures.

  Nonlinear and linear system identification research includes vibration testing, data acquisition, data processing, and analysis techniques for determining linear and nonlinear dynamic and static response properties of structures and structural systems subjected to earthquakes, blast effects from mining (or other) operations, other transient random, harmonic dynamic loads, and static or pseudo static loads.

• U. Structures Research (Military) (GSL-21)

  1. Research is needed on the response of aboveground and shallow-buried structures subjected to military dynamic loads; specifically, the prediction of the load and response to failure of aboveground and shallow-buried structures. This effort will involve the following research:

  a. Development of techniques to simulate military dynamic loads on aboveground and mounded structures.

  b. Development of design procedures for components in semihardened and protected facilities.

  c. Analysis of structural loading and damage resulting from internal or external detonations.

  d. Development of fast-running models for PC based applications to predict the response of structures, both hardened and unhardened, to single and multiple explosive detonations.

  2. Research on deeply based structures and hardened existing systems involving the following:

  a. Development of comprehensive structural design for deeply buried and surface-buried structures subjected to air blast-induced and direct-induced ground shock from surface and shallow earth-penetrating high-energy sources.

  b. Formulation of computer models for SSI and pre- and post-test analysis of structural response to include correlation and comparison with experimental data.

  3. Research on surveillance and intrusion detection sensors involves the constraints of the environment on sensor systems used to detect intruders and placed along the perimeter of high-value military installations. Improved methods for rapid and accurate measurement of predetermined influential environmental parameters must be developed. Analytical techniques relating to specific sensing phenomenology’s and target/nontarget-generated signatures and signature wave interactions to variations in environmental characteristics are required. Of particular interest is the integration of multiple sensor systems (both detection-type and environmental/background monitoring transducers) that use various sensing phenomena for enhanced target detection and classification and increase nuisance and background signature rejection. Research studies are required in the determination of automated techniques for monitoring sensor system response and sensitivity to provide optimum and consistent performance as a function of time varying changes of influential environmental characteristics.

  4. The Corps of Engineers is involved with research on the design of military facilities for protection from high-energy sources. These efforts include the following research:

  a. Prediction of the response of structural elements common to conventional or expedient construction to military loads.

  b. Methods of retrofitting conventional buildings to harden them against nearby military high-energy sources.

  c. Development of innovative design of structural components, such as windows and doors, subject to high-energy sources.

  d. Development of analytical methods for predicting the effects of forced entry devices on structural components.

  e. Development of innovative designs using low-density materials for expedient protection of troops and equipment from the effects of military high- energy sources.

  f. Development of microprocessor-based software/hardware and supporting documentation to aid in the assessment of structural survivability to the effects of conventional and advanced weapons systems. The software will address the integration of databases, weapons effects calculations, and operational factors associated with engineer survivability missions.

  g. Development of a procedure to ensure robust codes, user-friendly interfaces, and supporting documentation for use in the testing and development of microprocessor-based survivability and structural assessment software/hardware.

  5. Composite Materials for Force Protection-Research in this area includes developing, characterizing, modeling, and testing of layered composite materials for protection against air blast and penetration/fragmentation. These materials are intended for use in lightweight expedient protective systems to protect against improvised explosive devices and conventional weapons such as small arms, standoff weapons, fragmenting weapons, and shape charges. It is envisioned that panels of these materials could be incorporated into protective structure designs to increase survivability of personnel or to protect mission-critical assets. Performance measures include such attributes as build time, low mass, cost, penetration resistance, ductility, and environmental durability. Additionally, this topic area includes methods to develop appropriate material anisotropic and or non-homogeneous material models for incorporation into advanced computational models such as Abaqus, LS-DYNA, and EPIC. Protocols for evaluation and performance testing of composite materials subjected to energetic, high-strain rate events are desired.

  6. Worldwide Construction Practices- This research includes capturing typical construction practices and construction material properties worldwide. Information of interest is material properties of structural components, building types and construction techniques, building footprints, construction timeframe/era of buildings, and location of the building (country, world region, urban terrain zone).

• V. Multispectral Camouflage Research (GSL-22)

  This research area involves all aspects of fixed-facility survivability incorporating signature management and other technical effects. Fixed facilities include stationary and relocatable high-value targets. The general goal is to directly and indirectly increase the survivability of U.S. and Allied facilities and improve the U.S. and allied counterintelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (counter-ISR) capability against adversaries. Multispectral refers to those areas of the electromagnetic spectrum used by the United States and potential adversaries in reconnaissance and surveillance and in attack platform target acquisition and detection. Major objectives include: quantifying or otherwise evaluating counter-ISR technology effectiveness; investigating materials and techniques for signature modification; developing technical effects and physical countermeasures, procedures, and applications; developing computer-based analytical procedures for simulating scenes; developing instrumentation for and conducting target/background signature measurements; assessing the United States and threat operations and sensor capabilities with both currently fielded and new design reconnaissance and surveillance and attack platform sensors and systems; developing applications for intelligence information for military missions; providing guidance to field commanders and information for the RDT&E community; and studies of the interaction of camouflage technology with other operational factors, particularly in determining operational supportability, costs and manpower, interoperability, and joint interoperability requirements.

• W. Advanced Maneuver Technologies (GSL-23)

  This research addresses ground vehicle maneuver in urban environments which poses many new operational and tactical challenges for the Army and Joint Forces. While many improvements have been made in protecting ground vehicles in the last decade, these improvements come with a cost, namely limited situational awareness due to reduced visibility and limited maneuverability in tight spaces because of larger vehicle size. Both of these constraints seriously reduce the mobility of ground vehicles in urban environments. To address these constraints, research is needed to develop technologies to identify nearby dynamic hazards for ground vehicles in urban environments and provide early warning to ground vehicle operators or autonomous driving systems. Specifically, this research will address methods and procedures to develop advanced technologies that will be used for detecting dynamic hazards in urban environments such as traffic flow rates and congestion, pedestrians, buried threats, constricted roads, and other obstacles or anomalous objects in real-time. In addition, further research is needed to develop technologies that will deliver the information in a consolidated or data excerpt manner and report the locations of interest and concern to the driver and or operator. The performance of emerging technologies in sensors and data processing to provide better situational awareness in near real-time to ground vehicle operators maneuvering in dynamic urban terrain is also of interest.

• X. Railroad Technology (GSL-24)

  Research in this area is conducted in support of the Corps mission to design, construct, and operate railroad systems worldwide. This research includes railroad design, construction, inspection, evaluation, maintenance, and rehabilitation. Research areas of interest include advanced and composite materials, rapid repair, non-destructive evaluation, geotextile use in construction, in-situ additive manufacturing of components, soil stabilization, GIS, and remote assessment.

Environmental Sensing

• Overview

  Current research is in the acquisition of information by remote sensor systems, the impact of the environment on imaging and other sensor systems, and advanced signal processing. Sensors using electromagnetic, seismic, and acoustic energy forms are of interest. In addition, work is conducted to determine terrain and other environmental effects on high- technology sensor systems. Sensor systems include optical and infrared millimeter wave (active and passive). Briefly described below are specific research areas.

• A. Sensing (EL-1)

  The EL has an ongoing program to develop and demonstrate advanced technologies that support the Army’s requirements for improved detection and discrimination of unexploded ordnance (UXO), depleted uranium (DU) munitions, radiological threats, and deployment platforms. Additional research work is needed for subsurface (land-based) and underwater (proud and buried) UXO sensing, data analysis, display, and platform navigation/positioning. Special areas of interest include novel sensing concepts for the detection and relocation of buried objects (DU, metallic, and nonmetallic targets) using magnetic, electromagnetic induction, ground penetrating radar, seismic/acoustic, chemical, and/or radiological methods or a combination thereof. Fundamental measurements and models that define/predict the performance of these sensing methodologies in varying environmental conditions for UXO, DU and radiological targets are also of interest. Research is also needed to develop advanced data analysis techniques that can significantly reduce the number of false positives arising from natural anomalies and man-made sources.

• B. Environmental and Military Sensing (EL-2)

  1. Research in this area includes basic and applied research to develop environmental sensing, characterization, and monitoring capabilities necessary to quantify environmental site conditions and trends at local and regional scales. In the military area, research is conducted on basic signature research, to better understand target and environmental background signature characteristics.

  2. Specific areas of required research include:

  a. Development, integration, and application of remote sensing technologies and the use of these data in geospatial models to characterize site conditions over large areas.

  b. Development of innovative data fusion approaches, particularly the combined use of hyper spectral and bathymetric and/or topographic LIDAR data for the extraction of environmental information.

  c. Research to identify, model, and mitigate the effects of the environment on novel sensing techniques that address environmental and military requirements.

  d. Development of ground-based and airborne remote sensing approaches, and associated modeling, for unexploded ordnance detection, minefield detection, military targets and vehicles, and smart weapons development.

  e. Rapid collection, analysis, and visualization of sensor data for environmental quality and military applications.

• C. Environmental, Sensing, Characterization, and Modeling (EL-3)

  There is growing need to utilize and develop artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) technologies for enhanced characterization of forested environments. Novel technologies should leverage remotely sensed and high fidelity in-situ data to improve understanding of complex forest conditions. Numerous benefits for military defense, environmental stewardship, forest resource monitoring and evaluation, and military readiness exist from identifying, quantifying, visualizing, and understanding forest data. Research is needed to capitalize on recent developments in AI-based big data analytics to characterize forests and forest-dwelling species and habitats data to better understand vegetated ecosystems that is traditionally obtained through in situ sampling. Research is needed to capitalize on recent developments in AI based big data analytics to characterize forests and other ecosystems.

  Specific areas of required research include:

  a. Developing novel forest modeling frameworks that utilize remote-sensing and in-situ field data to inform and validate forest characterization—to include vertical stratification.

  b. Quantifying forest characteristics and associated forest-dwelling fauna—to include threatened and endangered species. Provide specialized expertise in the application and deployment of advanced environmental sensors to detect and monitor rare and sensitive species—particularly focused in tropical forested habitats.

  c. Demonstrated experience deploying, managing, and analyzing data from remotely deployed autonomous environmental sensor platforms, including paired acoustic/visual monitoring systems such as Autonomous Recording Units (ARUs), omnidirectional microphones, trail cameras, and related technologies to document rare and sensitive species presence, behavior, and responses to anthropogenic noise disturbances and military training activities.

  d. Tailoring sensor arrays to rapidly detect, evaluate, and quantify both acoustic and visual data in Pacific Island forested ecosystems.

• D. Environmental Instrumentation (EL-4)

  1. Research and development in this area includes basic and applied research and technology demonstrations that support rapid measurement of biological and chemical hazards of the environment.

  2. Specific areas of required research include:

  a. The integration and interoperability of environmental instrumentation with future and existing military robotic systems: this includes unmanned aerial systems, ground robotics, autonomous submersibles, and robotic surface watercraft.

  b. Provide new applications that support faster processing on small low-power hardware to triage environmental measurements to immediately identify biological and chemical hazards.

  c. Techniques that support biomimicry in robotic systems and the differentiation of biotic from abiotic systems. Instruments that are low-power, small, and compact to assess the biological and chemical characteristics of water, soil, and air, in surface and subterranean environments.

  d. Research into sensing of aerosols and/or plumes from either ground or airborne platforms.

  e. Research into novel uses of unmanned aerial systems for environmental characterization and change detection - including fusion of active and passive modalities.

Contaminated Site Characterization, Assessment & Remediation

• Overview

  An extensive research and development program is being conducted by the Department of Defense to assist in the cleanup of contamination at military installations. The EL is developing technologies for characterizing, monitoring, and applying physical, chemical, and biological treatment of toxic and hazardous waste in contaminated surface and ground waters and soils. The EL is also developing, evaluating, and verifying numerical models and guidance for solid waste disposal systems.

• A. Innovative Technology for Environmental Sensors and Tools. (EL-5)

  The EL has an ongoing research program to develop advanced technologies for environmental sensing, characterization, and monitoring in order to quantify environmental conditions at sites of interest. The program is actively developing field-based tools and sensors to conduct rapid site characterization/screening for environmental contaminants. Additional research is needed in the areas of novel sensing technologies for detection of chemical and biological contaminants allowing for rapid field-based data acquisition. Also, research is needed to develop technologies and platforms allowing for rapid data analysis/interpretation/reporting. Fundamental measurements and models that define/predict the performance of new sensing methods in soil, water and air are also of interest.

• B. Innovative Technologies for Treating Contaminated, Sediment, Soil, Surface Water, Ground Water, and Hazardous Waste (EL-6)

  Presently, EL is continuing to conduct research, develop technologies and apply strategies to treat complex organic- and metal-contaminated hazardous liquids, off-gases, soils, sludges, sediments, and residuals from past disposal practices. Research is divided into two major categories: technologies for treating contaminated soils and sediments, and innovative technologies for treating contaminated surface and ground waters. Areas of R&D include: (1) physical and chemical technologies to destroy/detoxify or reduce the quantity and/or toxicity of the contaminated materials, (2) biological processes and methods to detoxify/destroy hazardous waste constituents, (3) techniques for in situ treatment of groundwater aquifers, (4) laboratory design criteria for and field implementation of piloting equipment for promising technologies, (5) computer-based techniques to assess operational performance of various treatment processes/systems and (6) improved analytical chemistry techniques and methodology to assess treatment technologies.

• C. Design, Evaluation, Verification and Modeling of Solid and Hazardous Wastes and Contaminated Sediments (EL-7)

  Efforts are continuing to develop water balance and leachate models for solid waste disposal systems and dredged material disposal facilities. Additional work is needed to model innovative designs, nonsoil surface materials, cobbled surfaces, preferential flow through heterogeneous waste materials and other layers, and effects of complex mixtures of vegetation including trees. Similarly, additional work is needed to verify the existing models.

Sediment Geochemistry and Biological Effects

• Overview

  Potential adverse environmental impacts of disposal of contaminated sediments must be assessed prior to permitting operations. This includes the determination of the impacts that contaminated dredged materials exert on the environment prior to dredging.

• A. Environmental Risk Assessment (EL-8)

  Current research on the fate and effects of environmental contaminants occurs under the general paradigm of Environmental Risk Assessment. Specific studies fall into one or more of the following areas:

  1. Hazard Identification. This is the process of showing causality (i.e., a chemical or complex mixture can cause some adverse effect). If this causality can be demonstrated, the chemical is referred to as a "hazard." If there is no causal link, risk need not be quantified. Important target receptors are also identified by this stage (for example, humans, endangered species, and ecologically or economically important species). Research is conducted to develop the technology for hazard identification and the establishment of causality.

  2. Effects Assessment. While Hazard Identification decides if a chemical or complex mixture is toxic; Effects Assessment establishes the relationship of the toxicant dose and associated biological response. This is accomplished via experimental research in which surrogate species are exposed to gradients (spatial, concentration, etc.) of the hazard in question, and biological effects are monitored. Biologically important endpoints measured include survival, growth, reproduction, and population-level parameters. These endpoints must be accompanied by technically sound interpretive guidance. Results are expressed in dose- response or exposure-response relationships. Research is conducted to develop the necessary experimental/statistical designs, technically sound tests (for example, chronic sub lethal sediment bioassays) and appropriate extrapolations (for example, high dose to low environmentally realistic exposures, and surrogate test species to receptor of interest). Analysis of the uncertainty associated with these effects assessments is also conducted.

  3. Exposure Assessment. In Exposure Assessment, the magnitude, frequency, and duration of contaminant exposure relative to the target receptor(s) are determined. This research is model-intensive, with both descriptive and quantitative models being used to evaluate pathways and routes. A pathway exists if the hazard travels between the initial source of contamination and the ultimate biological receptor. An exposure route is pathway that the chemical contacts the receptor (for example, ingestion, inhalation, dermal absorption, bioaccumulation, trophic transfer). Analysis of the uncertainty associated with these exposure assessments is also conducted.

  4. Risk Characterization, Management, Communication, and Analysis. Outputs from the Effects Assessment and Exposure Assessments are joined in Risk Characterization to yield an estimate of risk. Research is conducted to determine the best ways to characterize risk both numerically and descriptively. Also, uncertainty analysis is undertaken to identify the qualitative and quantitative important sources of uncertainty. Techniques employed include error propagation, probability distributions, sensitivity analysis, Monte Carlo simulation and others. Once environmental risk has been quantified, management action may be required.

  5. Research is conducted to develop management alternatives, which range from no action to extensive (and expensive) remediation. Results of the Environmental Risk Assessment are weighed and balanced with other factors such as applicable laws and regulations, engineering feasibility, potential benefits, costs, economic impacts, and the socio-political decision environment.

  Risk Communication is a dialogue that occurs at two levels: between the risk assessor and the risk manager, and between the risk manager and the public. Research is conducted to identify optimal procedures for communicating environmental risks, including an appreciation for the limits and uncertainties of the numerical results. Risk Analysis is a broad, inclusive term encompassing the processes of Risk Assessment, Risk Management, and Risk Communication as well as any field verification or monitoring activities. Field verification is a study or studies carried out to determine the accuracy of laboratory observations and predictions. Field monitoring (in the context of Risk Assessment) is undertaken to ensure that steps taken to manage the chemical risks were successful. Field research studies are carried out for both verification and monitoring purposes.

  6. Engineering With Nature® (EWN®) Research Supporting Innovative Field Sampling Practices, Natural Infrastructure (NI) Construction/Deployment and Related Technologies. Conduct a broad array of EWN research and development that may include, but is not limited to: research pertaining to placement of scientific instruments and/or pursuit of novel experiments that advance field-based sampling and laboratory practices for the purpose of measuring and archiving the performance of natural infrastructure (NI); conduct research and/or test innovative instrumentation that records/monitors natural and engineering processes resulting from the placement of NI and/or hybrid infrastructure; conduct research and test new technologies that result in accelerated construction/placement of natural and nature based features and/or improved placement strategies for dredged sediment used to construct EWN projects.

  7. Technology Transfer Development for Engineering With Nature® (EWN®) Research Areas. Research, develop and analyze technology transfer concepts; analyze target audiences for technical information; test innovative methods of transferring EWN research results and technology to supplement conventional technology transfer. Included may be such items as interactive internet and PC technology applied to training and general information transfer; technology applications of electronic media using the Internet; and innovative public information systems/products. Audiences include Corps of Engineers and the Department of Defense; Congress and other Federal, State, and local agencies; port and transportation authorities; universities; environmentalists and other public interest groups; and the general public.

• B. Sediment Water Interactions (EL-9)

  Sediment/Soil Water Properties. Current research encompasses a wide range of investigations designed to increase understanding of sediment-water interactions. Emphasis is on conduct of investigations for determining the impacts that sediment/soil properties have on sorption and transformation of explosives and release of semi-volatile contaminants to the atmosphere. Factors responsible for sorption and transformation of explosives include redox potential, pH, and the geochemical characteristics of the soil or sediment. Factors affecting the release of semi volatile contaminants from soil or sediment to the atmosphere include relative humidity, wind speed, contaminant concentration, moisture content, porosity, and organic carbon content. Research is also conducted on colloidal system contaminant transport, accelerated sediment oxidation, and the role of solution chemistry in contaminant partitioning between sediment and water.

  Diverse research activities focused on characterizing microorganisms and microbial communities in natural and engineered environments relevant to contaminant transformations, biogeochemical cycling, host-microbiome-contaminant interactions, bio- enabled materials, synthetic biology, and environmental biological threats are currently underway.

  1. Biodegradation of Contaminants. Studies in the biodegradation area emphasize destruction of organic contaminants for remediation purposes. Emphasis is on (1) bioinformatics of microbial community diversity and activities in various ecosystems; (2) delineating biodegradation pathways, enzymes, and genes; (3) determining intermediate and final end- products; (4) assessing the role of environmental and genetic factors regulating the pathways utilized and the rate and extent of destruction of the parent compound; (5) determining the survival and activity of microorganisms added to ecosystems, and biotreatment systems; and (6) enhancing biodegradation to obtain the maximum destruction of organic contaminants within a soil, sediment, or treatment system.

  2. Microbial Sensing. Novel microbial, cellular, molecular and/or genomic approaches are sought and developed for the rapid functional and DNA-based identification, detection, and monitoring of microorganisms in various environmental matrices including soils, sediments, and surface waters. Novel ecological approaches to detect, monitor and predict prokaryotic/eukaryotic microbes are sought that combine physiology, molecular tools, biochemistry, modeling, and remote sensing for the management of high biomass events and environmental toxins.

  3. Biomaterials and Composite Structures. Novel biological materials and/or techniques are sought to manipulate bioprocesses and biomineralization pathways as additives to aggregate and composite products. These products will support advancements in material structural properties that support civil works and military operations.

  4. Insect and plant field collections, insect husbandry, plant maintenance with greenhouse access is sought for various microbiome projects. Needs will be seasonal and very specific to limited insect or plant systems as dictated by internal projects.

  5. Soil, Sediment and Environmental Chemistry. Research interests broadly center on deciphering environmental processes that shape the emergent chemical, physical and biological properties of soils and sediments in natural and built environments. Studies aim to bridge the gap between fundamental science and practical engineering solutions to enhance understanding of environmental processes, improve infrastructure resilience, and promote sustainable practices in soil and sediment management.

  a. Geochemistry of Soils and Sediments. Topics of interest include understanding i) the cycling of nutrients, metal(loid)s, and radionuclides in soils and sediments, ii) the impact of dynamic chemical conditions on soil physical properties, and iii) complex interactions between chemical reactions and dynamic fluid flow (reactive transport). Of particular interest are soil systems impacted by seawater inundation, wildfire, and other natural and anthropogenic disturbances, which alter the productivity, erodibility and trafficability of soils, and soil characteristics that influence military operations and natural disasters. Studies employ the use of novel field measurements, laboratory experiments, and advanced methods of soil analysis, such as synchrotron-based X-ray absorption spectroscopy, -X-ray diffraction, and X-ray fluorescence microprobe analysis. Molecular to field-scale processes occurring in soils and sediments are modeled using computational tools such as geochemical and reactive transport modeling.

  b. Soils and Sediments in the Built Environment. Research broadly focuses on the function and characteristics of soil and sediment within built environments, including dynamic urban coastal zones. In the built environment, soils and sediments are altered by human activities and/or derived from human-transported materials. Anthropogenic impacts on soil may be intentional (e.g., engineered for a specific purpose) or unintentional (e.g., accidental release of waste). Our research aims to decipher both intentional and unintentional consequences of anthropogenic activities on the health and function of soils and sediments. Focus area includes (1) standardizing approaches to soil health assessment (2) methods to enhance soil functions in nature-based features such as carbon sequestration and water retention, and (3) fate of legacy contaminants such as lead.

• C. Techniques for Contaminated Dredged Material Disposal and Treatment (EL-10)

  1. Development/implementation of innovative technologies to reduce or eliminate contamination present in surface sediment and/or dredged materials. Research to include 1) technologies for cost effective in situ treatment of surface sediments to reduce bioavailability/toxicity; 2) ex situ treatment technologies to reduce contamination and facilitate expanded opportunities for beneficial use of treated material.

  2. Development or enhancement of computer models to be included in the Automated Dredging and Disposal Alternatives Modeling System (ADDAMS) to evaluate the environmental impacts of dredged material disposal. Evaluations include water quality impacts of initial release in open water, effluent discharge, runoff and leachate, benthic impacts, plant and animal uptake, and volatilization.

  3. Development and/or application of new or improved environmental chemistry methodologies to assess contaminant concentrations of dredged material and other complex matrices (e.g., elutriates, bioaccumulation tissues, etc.) focusing on specific compounds or classes, cost effectiveness, quality assurance, lower detection limits, and removal/reduction of challenging matrix interferences.

• D. EMERGING CONTAMINANTS IN THE ENVIRONMENT (EL-11)

  1. Presently, EL is continuing to conduct research, develop technologies and apply strategies to address emerging contaminants (ECs) in the environment. Research falls into for 5 broad categories:

  a. Detection and Measurement:

  b. Development and application of technologies for the detection and measurement of ECs in environmental media at environmentally relevant concentrations.

  c. Application of innovative technologies to discern source of EC contamination.

  d. Screening level methodologies to facilitate near real time detection and measurement of ECs in the field.

  e. Development of forensic methodologies and computational approaches for detection, measurement, prediction of EC precursors and/or degradation products in environmental media.

  2. Exposure Assessment:

  Development and application of technologies for measuring/predicting the movement and fate of ECs in the environment.

  3. Effects Assessment:

  Development and/or application of technologies for establishing the effects of ECs on important ecological and human health receptors/endpoints.

  4. Risk Characterization/Management:

  a. Development and/or application of innovative technologies for characterizing risk of ECs in environmental media. Development and/or application of decision-making tools to support EC related risk management decision-making.

  b. Development and/or application of innovative technologies to remove, concentrate, and/or destroy ECs in environmental media.

  c. Development and/or application of innovative technologies to assist in identification of safer alternatives.

Environmental and Water Quality Modeling

• Overview

  The Corps of Engineers is involved in research and development related to water quality and contaminant fate/transport modeling for surface water, watersheds, and the subsurface, or groundwater. This encompasses a wide range of environmental issues, such as water quality and ecosystem linkages, contaminant transport and fate, eutrophication, effects of land use/management on watershed runoff quality, total maximum daily loads (TMDLs), and ecological and human health risk assessment as related to contaminants in the environment. Research may include model development and field and laboratory investigations to improve model descriptions and to provide required data for model validation.

• A. Numerical Water Quality and Contaminant Modeling (EL-12)

  This area of work is oriented toward development and application of water quality and contaminant fate/transport models for surface water and the subsurface, or groundwater. Surface water modeling includes watersheds and receiving waters, e.g., riverine, reservoir, wetland, estuarine, and coastal water bodies. Groundwater modeling includes modeling both the unsaturated and saturated zones, as well as multi-component flow and transport. Models are utilized for conventional water quality (e.g., nitrogen, phosphorus, carbon, dissolved oxygen, etc.) and contaminants, i.e., toxic substances, such as organic chemicals, trace metals, radionuclides, explosives, and other military unique compounds. Emphasis includes the following: formulation of appropriated physical, chemical, and biological algorithms; improvement of mathematical and numerical methods; collection and assemblage of data for model evaluation; conduct of field and laboratory process investigations designed to develop/improve model descriptions, dynamic linkage of water quality and biological models, including biomass-based, individual-based, and population- based biological models; integration of contaminant exposure models with biological effects data or models to quantify risk; incorporation of uncertainty analysis into modeling; linkage of physical/chemical models with biological population models; linkage of cross- domain models for system wide modeling; development of routines/linkages to include the effects on water quality of watershed landscape features (e.g., buffer zones) and vegetation management; development of a risk assessment modeling system; and development of software to provide graphical user interfaces and modeling environments to enhance model utility and ease of application.

• B. Complex Adaptive Systems (EL-13)

  The central goal of this effort is to identify the rules and feedback processes that govern how interactions between modular components in natural system shape important holistic properties, like the global resiliency to disturbances, and, invariably, the fate of the individual components themselves. These tasks are central to basic research efforts in Complex Adaptive Systems (CAS); an area that impacts a wide range of critical needs in both military and civil works (e.g., immune system responses, decision-making, social feedbacks, and ecosystem management). Current research focuses on ecological systems in which the use of different species and study systems is encouraged to provide diverse and novel solutions to understanding, predicting, or improving the resiliency of complex systems. Recent case studies range from a contaminant’s (e.g., altered water quality, noise, chemical) impacts on individual development and performance, the social roots of information cascades in social vertebrates (spanning from fish and humans), to overall ecosystem functioning based on infrastructure design, overharvesting, or mismanagement. This topic area is inherently interdisciplinary and emphasizes team efforts in the combination of analytical, numerical, and laboratory experiments to test competing hypotheses.

• C. Water Quality and Behavior Modeling (EL-14)

  This research topic focuses on developing early warning indicators to demonstrate how changes in water quality can affect critical ecological processes, thereby raising the subsequent risks imposed on animal populations. We focus on demonstrating when environmental quality is not merely a potential hazard, but how it elicits a functional (e.g., physiological) change during early exposure stages that can impact future performance and, invariably, population survival. Anthropogenic disturbances would include sediment plumes, temperature spikes, or contaminants. Animals typically display stable and, generally, predictable physiological and behavioral patterns in non-stressful conditions.

  However, sub- lethal (including chronic) or acute environmental changes can drastically alter behavior and activity, remain undetected, and invariably introduce unacceptable levels of error in model predictions. Current methodologies range from simple bioassays to more complex physiological consequences at the individual level, to long-term costs/benefits at higher ecological levels (i.e., habitat use, populations, and communities). Hypothesis testing based on a combination of laboratory and modeling is encouraged, along with field data when possible. Findings from these efforts play an important role in both civil works and military activities.

Environmental Impact Prediction, Assessment and Management

• Overview

  This research program addresses environmental impact prediction, assessment, and remediation and is intended to provide Corps, Army, and other field operating elements with techniques and methodologies for environmental assessments and EIS preparation, guidance on selecting appropriate planning, design, construction, and operation alternatives, and implementation of the planning function pursuant to NEPA and other legislation and guidance. Specific objectives include:

  A. Developing, verifying, and demonstrating practical prediction and assessment techniques including applying and refining habitat-based evaluation methods, evaluating mitigation measures, developing streamlined frameworks for environmental monitoring, applying ecosystem simulation principles to environmental analysis, and estimating future habitat quality.

  B. Documenting and quantifying environmental effects associated with various types of Corps, Army, and other activities. Research has included the effects of aquatic habitat modification on anadromous fishes, the effects of selective clearing and snagging on in stream habitat, and t h e benefits of channel modification for aquatic habitat in reservoir tail waters and local flood control channels.

  C. Developing and demonstrating design, construction, and management alternatives that will minimize adverse effects and protect natural and cultural resources. Research has included techniques for managing wildlife habitats, preserving archeological sites, and stabilizing eroding shorelines.

  D. Developing, validating, and demonstrating novel systems biology-, computational biology- or bioinformatics-based approaches to understanding and quantifying toxicological impacts of environmental contaminants in environmentally relevant organisms.

• A. Biotechnical Shore Stabilization (EL-15)

  Biotechnical (sometimes called bioengineering) shore stabilization is the use of a combination of live vegetation and structural materials (for example, breakwaters, geotextiles, erosion control fabrics/mats, building materials) for erosion control of shores. Shores of particular interest are those of streams, lakes, or dredged material deposits and subject to erosion from waves, surface runoff, and wind. Research is needed to determine the causes and amounts of erosion and to identify and assess cost-effective biotechnical erosion control methods. Studies may include, but are not limited to, identifying, developing, and cultivating appropriate flood- tolerant plants and varieties or cultivars and cost-effective installation procedures of biotechnical techniques.

• B. Freshwater Fishery Investigations (EL-16)

  Primary areas of research are predicting environmental impacts of navigation and flood control projects on fishes, freshwater mussels, and other aquatic fauna; benefits of restoring aquatic habitat including environmental flows; conservation of endangered fish and mussel species; evaluating freshwater and coastal wetland fish communities; management of invasive species movement and colonization including Asian Carp; and fishery management in vegetated waterbodies. New and innovative approaches to determine physiological, behavioral, population and community level responses of fishes to habitat variables are of interest, along with technological advancements in sampling and multivariate data analysis capabilities. Demographic and landscape habitat models are anticipated products of this research.

• C. Freshwater Macro invertebrate Investigations (EL-17)

  Research focuses on assessment of aquatic and terrestrial invertebrate communities, with emphasis on insects and mussels. Studies include stream and river biotic assessments, terrestrial and aquatic insect surveys, assessment of threatened and endangered invertebrate populations, feeding ecology of fishes, and evaluation of stream and river food webs and energetics. Assessments of environmental effects of USACE activities, including stream and river impoundments and structural changes, are also performed using naturally occurring macroinvertebrate and mussel communities as indicators of current and past ecological shifts. Restoration and management recommendations are also made through the analysis of these invertebrate communities in both freshwater and terrestrial ecosystems. Technical and analytical advancements, including sampling and data analysis are of interest.

• D. Mitigation (EL-18)

  An avoidance, minimization, and/or compensation process is required for impacts from water resources projects on ecological resources (fish, wildlife, habitat, or installation activities). Planning and implementing mitigation are a complex process, and new ideas that contribute to success of mitigation are invited. Subjects such as Best Management Practices for avoiding or minimizing impacts, planning for mitigation based on impact analysis, incremental analysis to justify mitigation, mitigation banking, future predictions, and mitigation for indirect or cumulative impacts are included.

• E. In Stream Flow Requirements for Aquatic Biota (EL-19)

  Research focuses on development and application of fish habitat assessment methods. Currently, the most widely used system, the Physical Habitat Simulation System (PHABSIM), is used to assess the effects of reservoir operations on downstream fish habitat. Research is needed to better quantify the relationships for fish preference and flow conditions, as well as habitat requirements for aquatic invertebrates. When appropriate, laboratory-based studies can support field-based modelling efforts. Verification studies of these models will be required as development continues. Assessment methods must be able to evaluate the impacts of a variety of reservoir operations such as base load or peaking hydropower releases and at multiple scales from single project to basin – wide studies.

• F. Behavioral and Structural Fish Barriers (EL-20)

  Entrainment of fish at Corps hydropower projects may result in passage of fish through turbines with attendant death or injury from impact with runner blades, pressure changes, or shear forces. Evaluations of a number of behaviorally based technologies and structural barrier designs conducted under laboratory and field conditions have yielded results that are generally inconsistent. Consequently, there currently exist no consistent guidelines for selection of appropriate technology for site-specific applications at Corps dams. Research is required to relate effectiveness of different technologies to size and species of fish, dam design, operations, season, and other site-specific conditions. The information produced by this research will be used to develop specifications and guidelines for fish protection technologies at Corps dams to reduce entrainment and mortality. This effort may involve literature synthesis, laboratory research, design and fabrication of prototype systems, or field studies as well as simulation analysis of fish movement/passage patterns.

• G. Fish Guidance and Bypass Systems (EL-21)

  CE water resource activities may result in blockage of historical fish migration routes through waterways. These blockages, with associated fragmentation of habitats, may have severe impacts on anadromous and catadromous fish populations. A variety of bypass system technologies are available to guide fish around dams. However, many of these systems operate at reduced efficiencies because they damage fish, fish are unable to locate entrances to the systems, or because fish become disoriented and "fall back" after an initial successful passage. Research is required to better understand the hydraulic and behavioral characteristics of fish bypass systems, including the use of behavioral technologies to guide fishes towards these systems and to successfully orient them within the system.

• H. Coastal Ecology (EL-22)

  Research topics in coastal ecology include multidisciplinary investigations of the environmental impacts of engineering activities in the coastal zone, such as dredging, dredged material disposal, and construction of coastal structures (e.g., jetties, breakwaters, groins, seawalls, marinas). Emphasis is placed on improved technologies for assessment, protection, and management of fish and shellfish resources and their habitats. Of particular relevance are proposals dealing with endangered species (e.g., sea turtles, marine mammals), beneficial uses of dredged material and habitat restoration in the coastal zone (e.g., marsh, oyster reef or mudflat creation), and application of population dynamics and ecological models for impact prediction and assessment at population/community/ecosystem/watershed levels. Other areas of interest include effects of beach nourishment and use of offshore borrows areas, seasonal restrictions on dredging and disposal operations, artificial reef technologies, and cumulative impact determination and mitigation techniques.

  Other focus areas include:

  a. Effects of beach nourishment on benthic communities and surf-zone (near- shore) fishes,

  b. Active and passive fisheries acoustics to assess fish migratory patterns, spawning habitat, fish density and spatial distribution patterns near dredging operations and placement sites.

  c. Essential Fish Habitat (EFH) protection from increases in turbidities and suspended sediments.

  d. Fish entrainment

  e. Behavioral changes to marine organisms (e.g., migratory blockage of migratory fishes due to the presence of the dredge, particularly in narrow or constricted waterways).

  f. Underwater noise impacts to aquatic species due to dredging and disposal operations.

  g. Ecosystem restoration (e.g., filling offshore/near-shore borrow areas to natural bathymetry).

  h. Artificial reef creation using dredged rock and other suitable material to enhance fisheries and shell fisheries resources.

  i. Thin-layer placement, re-contouring natural bathymetries. Increased costs associated due to compliance with environmental windows/seasonal restrictions imposed on dredging and disposal operations, and cumulative impact determination and mitigation techniques.

• I. Techniques for Designing, Operating and Managing Dredged Material Disposal Facilities and Beneficial Use Projects (EL-23)

  1. Refinement and verification of techniques for designing, operating, and managing dredged material disposal areas.

  2. Development of a computerized economic database for costs associated with dredging sediments; disposing of dredged material; and constructing, rehabilitating, and operating and managing dredged material disposal areas.

  3. Development and refinement of computer models for dredged material management and beneficial use to be included in the ADDAMS.

• J. Systems Biology, Computational Biology, and Bioinformatics for Environmental Impact Assessment (EL-24)

  A wide spectrum of research in systems toxicology, biological networks, synthetic biology, predictive toxicology, genomics, bioinformatic data mining of next-generation sequencing data, adverse outcome pathway development, toxicological modes of action discovery, herbicide resistance mechanisms, structural biology, chemoinformatics, and molecular modeling is currently underway. Proposed research in mechanistic/predictive toxicology, structural biology, bioinformatics, or computational biology would complement current research areas.

  1. Novel genomics, epigenetics and synthetic biology approaches are sought and developed to assess biochemical, physiological, or other toxicological (adverse) effects on the biota at molecular, cellular, tissue/organ, individual, population, community, or ecosystems levels.

  2. Novel in silico modeling and data mining approaches that are based on computational biology, biophysical or bioinformatics principles and techniques are sought and developed to systematically analyze and interpret big data generated using cutting-edge and high- dimensional biotechnologies such as next-generation DNA sequencing, hybridization-based microarray, proteomics, and metabolomics technologies. Novel mathematical approaches and analysis methodologies are also sought to interpret or describe data generated using novel experimental protocols, and which may account for internal forces, energy and information flows that regulate biological, biophysical, or bioenvironmental processes.

  3. Tools for assessing environmental impacts of synthetic biology. This work involves identifying synthetic biology technologies and understand their current state of use, development, technology readiness, as well as their potential environmental impact. This includes hazard identification, effects assessment, fate, transport, and transferability of various technologies. Moreover, the work entails quantifying environmental impacts of synthetic biological technologies through experimental and modeling approaches. This includes establishing screening mechanisms for genetic and physiological traits for synthetically derived systems, microcosm experiments with tractable organisms to assess potential for spread/transfer of synthetic constructs.

Environmental Criteria for Stream Channel Alteration Projects

• Overview

  The Corps of Engineers is involved in the alteration of stream channels for flood damage reduction, navigation, channel stabilization, and ecosystem restoration, as well as alterations performed by others as part of the Clean Water Act. Modifications to channels include removal of snags and vegetation, channel alignment (straightening), channel enlargement, construction of levees, stream bank protection, and grade control. The Corps is also involved in regulating and furnishing technical assistance to States in regard to other types of channel alterations such as gravel mining. Work at the US Army Engineer Research and Development Center’s Environmental Laboratory (EL) and elsewhere has generated environmental design criteria for stream channel alterations to improve the net effect of these projects. Examples of environmental design features include low-flow channels, combinations of structure and vegetation, management of cutoff bend ways and other backwater areas, and recreational trails.

• A. Riparian and In Stream Habitat Restoration (EL-25)

  Current research includes formulating guidelines for stream restoration and environmental enhancement of flood control and aquatic ecosystem restoration projects. Among the general issues addressed are, in-stream and riparian habitat assessment; benefits of habitat improvement, structures, and techniques; impacts of vegetation on flow conveyance and/or sustainability, channel stability, and sediment transport; construction practices; and monitoring and maintenance. Proposals are invited in these general areas and related efforts. In addition, specific needs include the following: (1) Techniques to quantify habitat and other environmental benefits of restoration efforts, as well as quantification of adverse impacts to the aquatic environment, (2) Algorithms that account for momentum losses at vegetated floodplain/channel interfaces, (3) Data supporting evaluations of the hydraulic impacts of in-stream structures, (4) Development and refinement of related computerized databases and models, and (5) Calculating impacts to and identifying vulnerabilities of riparian systems.

• B. Assessing Benefits of Channel Modifications (EL-26)

  Dams and local flood control structures may degrade aquatic habitat conditions in tail waters and streams. In some cases, habitat degradation can be eliminated, stabilized, or reversed through channel modification for aquatic habitat (i.e., construction of low-cost, low head weirs to create pools) with minimal changes in dam operation or flood channel design. However, there are no widely accepted methods available to incrementally relate in stream aquatic habitat value, channel modifications, and in stream flows to allow trade-off analyses among cost, design, and habitat benefits. It is desirable to modify existing in stream flow methods or develop new methods that will allow incremental assessment of habitat values, alternative flows, and different channel designs. This work may involve data collection, analysis, interpretation, and software development.

More topics in progress (see solicitation for all topics).

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

Beyond the direct funding, ERDC awards provide meaningful strategic advantages:

Government Validation and Technical Credibility:
Selection by ERDC signals strong alignment with U.S. Army and national infrastructure priorities, which can materially strengthen your credibility with customers, primes, and investors.

Non-Dilutive Technology Maturation:
Companies can advance core technology without equity dilution, preserving ownership while increasing enterprise value.

Long-Term Government Relationship Building:
ERDC BAAs are often a gateway into follow-on DoD contracts, reimbursable work, and sole-source opportunities.

Increased Visibility Across DoD and Civil Works:
Successful projects frequently expand beyond a single lab, creating exposure across USACE, DoD, and federal infrastructure stakeholders.

What is the timeline to apply and when would I receive funding?

This BAA is continuously open until January 1, 2027, and all submissions initially enter the process as pre-proposals. Pre-proposals may be submitted at any time through the ERDCWERX portal and are limited to five pages, plus a one-page executive summary.

ERDC conducts a preliminary technical review of pre-proposals as they are received. Offerors can expect a response within 60 days of submission, either encouraging submission of a full proposal or advising that the pre-proposal was not favorably reviewed.

If a pre-proposal receives a favorable review, ERDC will issue a formal invitation from the Contracting Office to submit a full proposal. Full proposals then undergo scientific peer review, cost evaluation, and funding availability assessment.

There is no fixed award cycle or batch deadline. Awards may be made at any time following successful evaluation and are subject to availability of funds.

Where does this funding come from?

Funding is provided by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) through its Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC) and supported DoD research programs.

Who is eligible to apply?

Eligibility is unrestricted, meaning any qualified U.S. or international entity may apply, subject to statutory and regulatory requirements. This includes:

• For-profit companies

• Startups and small businesses

• Universities and nonprofit research organizations

What companies and projects are likely to win?

ERDC evaluates proposals based on:

• Clear alignment with ERDC mission and stated research areas

• Strong scientific or technical merit

• Demonstrated capability of the proposing team

• Practical relevance to military or civil works challenges

• Realistic scope and cost relative to expected outcomes

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

• ERDC may limit awards based on funding availability in specific technical areas

• Some projects may be subject to export control, security, or publication restrictions

• Proposals must clearly identify whether research is considered “fundamental”

• Full proposals must be submitted only through designated laboratory channels, not directly to technical staff

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

For a first-time applicant, preparing a competitive pre-proposal under this BAA will likely take 20–40 hours in total.

How can BW&CO help?

Our team specializes in complex federal R&D proposals and can:

• Triple your likelihood of success through proven strategy and insider-aligned proposal development

• Reduce your time spent on the proposal by 50–80%, letting your team focus on technology and operations

• Ensure you are targeting the best opportunity for your project and positioning your company for long-term growth under Federal & State R&D Initiatives.

How much would BW&CO Charge?

Our full service support is available for a flat fee of $4,000 for the Pre-Proposal Submission.

Fractional support is $300 per hour.

For startups, we offer a discounted rate of $250 per hour to make top-tier grant consulting more accessible while maintaining the same level of strategic guidance and proposal quality.

Additional Resources

See solicitation on sam.gov