OPERATION STONEGARDEN (OPSG)

What is the purpose of the FY 2008 OPSG?

As an element of the FY 2008 State Homeland Security Grant Program (SHSP), the Operation Stonegarden (OPSG) grant is intended to strengthen coordination efforts between law enforcement agencies along the land borders of the United States.

OPSG funds provide a flexible framework of funding to support operational efforts along our Nation’s land borders.  This funding supports land border jurisdictions in achieving a greater capability to prevent, protect against, and respond to border security issues, encouraging local operational objectives and capabilities to enhance federal and State Homeland Security Strategies, and continuing the distinct capability enhancements required for border security and protection.

OPSG funds will enhance Federal, State, Tribal and local law enforcement cooperation efforts by supporting the prevention of and operational response to illegal activities along our Nation’s land borders.

Who is eligible to apply for and receive funds from the FY 2008 OPSG?

Applications must be provided through the SAA from eligible applicants who are defined as counties or the equivalent level of local government within States which maintain land borders of the United States.  Land borders are defined as those border counties, towns, and cities of southwestern States that border with Mexico and those northern States that border Canada; including Alaska (counties with only water borders are not eligible).

Eligible land border states without a county or similar level of government are authorized to accept applications on behalf of the alternative unit of local government. SAAs in this situation must advise DHS in writing as to their intent.

Not all applicants are guaranteed to receive funding under the FY 2008 OPSG.  Each application will be reviewed by a panel of Federal representatives. OPSG applications and awards will be made on a competitive basis using an assessment of risk and the applicant’s Budget Narrative Worksheet and Operations Order addressing the criteria outlined in the FY 2008 OPSG guidance and application kit.  

How does an eligible applicant apply for the FY 2008 OPSG?

Applications will be completed in a two phase process.  Budget Narrative Worksheets and draft Operations Orders will initially be created by eligible local border counties to leverage local knowledge and understanding of border risk. Each application must then be reviewed by the State Administrative Agency (SAA) for completeness and adherence to programmatic guidelines prior to submitting to DHS.

What is the deadline for submission of the FY 2008 OPSG grant applications?

Local border counties must submit the Budget Narrative Worksheets and draft Operations Orders to the SAA by April 1, 2008.  SAAs must submit final applications for the FY 2008 Operation Stonegarden grant online at www.grants.gov by 11:59 p.m. EDT on May 1, 2008.

Are there other FEMA funding opportunities for law enforcement and public safety agencies?

Law enforcement and public safety agencies are encouraged to work with their State Administrative Agency to leverage all HSGP resources to accomplish law enforcement terrorism prevention activities.  Other HSGP programs, including the State Homeland Security Program (SHSP) and the Urban Areas Security Initiative (UASI), may be leveraged to support these activities.

Are Tribal law enforcement entities located on border reservations considered an equivalent unit of government and eligible to apply directly for OPSG funds thought the SAA?

Yes, if they are not located in a land border county and have a law enforcement agency which can support the logistical requirements for managing a Federal grant and are able to follow the coordination and cooperation requirements outlined in the OPSG guidance application kit to include coordination with Federal law enforcement agencies, primarily U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP).

Can a local border town, city or Tribal law enforcement agency, (not a county or equivalent) enter into an agreement like an MOU or other recognized funding instrument to receive OPSG funds from a county or equivalent to participate in OPSG?

Yes, law enforcement agencies that have land border security responsibilities, as defined in the OPSG guidance, and have been included as a participant in the Operations Order approved by CBP may participate in OPSG activities, but are not eligible to apply directly through the SAA.

FEDERAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AGENCY
GRANT PROGRAMS DIRECTORATE
FY 2008 GRANT PROGRAMS - FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
UPDATED FEBRUARY 28, 2008