The Bureau of Reclamation (Reclamation) intends to issue a grant agreement to University of California, Davis under the authority of catalog for domestic assistance (CFDA) 15.512, Central Valley Project Improvement Act, Public Law 102-575, Section 3406(b)(1) and 3407(e). Estimated total amount of agreement is $338,717.00 with Reclamation providing $338,717.00. The purpose of this project is to conduct a study to understand the summer growth and condition of delta smelt and how key habitat factors influence survival within the rearing regions of Cache Slough Complex, the Suisun Bay and the Confluence region. The principal objectives of this experiment are to: (1) Examine and compare the following among the regions; nutritional status, biomarkers of contaminant exposure and the incidence of pathogens (2) Study the effects of these parameters on overall fish health (3) Evaluate the association of water quality habitat features with the growth and condition of the delta smelt. (Refer to the Notice of Intent to Award Announcement No. R13AS20027 for additional information) A Determination by the Government not to compete this proposed financial assistance based upon Departmental Manual 505 DM 2, paragraph 2.14(B)(2) & (4) is solely within the discretion of the Government. This notice of intent is NOT a request for competitive proposals. Questions concerning this announcement should be directed to Megan Bryant/Grants Management Specialist, by e-mail at mbryant@usbr.gov.