Audit 303685

FY End
2021-12-31
Total Expended
$845,117
Findings
92
Programs
25
Organization: Tucson Audubon Society (AZ)
Year: 2021 Accepted: 2024-04-16

Organization Exclusion Status:

Checking exclusion status...

Findings

ID Ref Severity Repeat Requirement
393497 2021-004 Significant Deficiency - AB
393498 2021-004 Significant Deficiency - AB
393499 2021-004 Significant Deficiency - AB
393500 2021-004 Significant Deficiency - AB
393501 2021-004 Significant Deficiency - AB
393502 2021-004 Significant Deficiency - AB
393503 2021-004 Significant Deficiency - AB
393504 2021-004 Significant Deficiency - AB
393505 2021-004 Significant Deficiency - AB
393506 2021-004 Significant Deficiency - AB
393507 2021-004 Significant Deficiency - AB
393508 2021-004 Significant Deficiency - AB
393509 2021-004 Significant Deficiency - AB
393510 2021-004 Significant Deficiency - AB
393511 2021-004 Significant Deficiency - AB
393512 2021-004 Significant Deficiency - AB
393513 2021-004 Significant Deficiency - AB
393514 2021-004 Significant Deficiency - AB
393515 2021-004 Significant Deficiency - AB
393516 2021-004 Significant Deficiency - AB
393517 2021-005 Significant Deficiency - H
393518 2021-005 Significant Deficiency - H
393519 2021-005 Significant Deficiency - H
393520 2021-005 Significant Deficiency - H
393521 2021-005 Significant Deficiency - H
393522 2021-005 Significant Deficiency - H
393523 2021-005 Significant Deficiency - H
393524 2021-005 Significant Deficiency - H
393525 2021-005 Significant Deficiency - H
393526 2021-005 Significant Deficiency - H
393527 2021-005 Significant Deficiency - H
393528 2021-005 Significant Deficiency - H
393529 2021-005 Significant Deficiency - H
393530 2021-005 Significant Deficiency - H
393531 2021-005 Significant Deficiency - H
393532 2021-005 Significant Deficiency - H
393533 2021-005 Significant Deficiency - H
393534 2021-005 Significant Deficiency - H
393535 2021-005 Significant Deficiency - H
393536 2021-005 Significant Deficiency - H
393537 2021-003 Material Weakness - LN
393538 2021-003 Material Weakness - LN
393539 2021-003 Material Weakness - LN
393540 2021-003 Material Weakness - LN
393541 2021-003 Material Weakness - LN
393542 2021-003 Material Weakness - LN
969939 2021-004 Significant Deficiency - AB
969940 2021-004 Significant Deficiency - AB
969941 2021-004 Significant Deficiency - AB
969942 2021-004 Significant Deficiency - AB
969943 2021-004 Significant Deficiency - AB
969944 2021-004 Significant Deficiency - AB
969945 2021-004 Significant Deficiency - AB
969946 2021-004 Significant Deficiency - AB
969947 2021-004 Significant Deficiency - AB
969948 2021-004 Significant Deficiency - AB
969949 2021-004 Significant Deficiency - AB
969950 2021-004 Significant Deficiency - AB
969951 2021-004 Significant Deficiency - AB
969952 2021-004 Significant Deficiency - AB
969953 2021-004 Significant Deficiency - AB
969954 2021-004 Significant Deficiency - AB
969955 2021-004 Significant Deficiency - AB
969956 2021-004 Significant Deficiency - AB
969957 2021-004 Significant Deficiency - AB
969958 2021-004 Significant Deficiency - AB
969959 2021-005 Significant Deficiency - H
969960 2021-005 Significant Deficiency - H
969961 2021-005 Significant Deficiency - H
969962 2021-005 Significant Deficiency - H
969963 2021-005 Significant Deficiency - H
969964 2021-005 Significant Deficiency - H
969965 2021-005 Significant Deficiency - H
969966 2021-005 Significant Deficiency - H
969967 2021-005 Significant Deficiency - H
969968 2021-005 Significant Deficiency - H
969969 2021-005 Significant Deficiency - H
969970 2021-005 Significant Deficiency - H
969971 2021-005 Significant Deficiency - H
969972 2021-005 Significant Deficiency - H
969973 2021-005 Significant Deficiency - H
969974 2021-005 Significant Deficiency - H
969975 2021-005 Significant Deficiency - H
969976 2021-005 Significant Deficiency - H
969977 2021-005 Significant Deficiency - H
969978 2021-005 Significant Deficiency - H
969979 2021-003 Material Weakness - LN
969980 2021-003 Material Weakness - LN
969981 2021-003 Material Weakness - LN
969982 2021-003 Material Weakness - LN
969983 2021-003 Material Weakness - LN
969984 2021-003 Material Weakness - LN

Programs

ALN Program Spent Major Findings
15.954 National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education, P20ac00896 $141,167 Yes 3
15.954 National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education, P21ac11178 $114,089 Yes 3
15.944 Natural Resource Stewardship, P20ac00975 $83,809 - 0
15.944 Natural Resource Stewardship, P21ac10083 $60,493 - 0
15.608 Fish and Wildlife Management Assistance $48,359 Yes 2
15.945 Cooperative Research and Training Programs Ð Resources of the National Park System - McA#p16ac0027 -Tan#p21ac11164 $46,450 Yes 2
15.945 Cooperative Research and Training Programs Ð Resources of the National Park System - McA#p16ac0027 -Tan#p20ac00920 $42,373 Yes 2
15.945 Cooperative Research and Training Programs Ð Resources of the National Park System - McA#p16ac0027 -Tan#p20ac01078 $41,938 Yes 2
15.944 Natural Resource Stewardship, P20ac01009 $40,705 - 0
15.954 National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education, P21ac10039 $34,371 Yes 3
15.945 Cooperative Research and Training Programs Ð Resources of the National Park System - McA#p16ac0027 -Tan#p20ac00904 $33,623 Yes 2
15.954 National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education, P21ac11349 $32,561 Yes 3
15.954 National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education, P21ac11180 $25,161 Yes 3
15.944 Natural Resource Stewardship, P20ac01008 $19,918 - 0
15.664 Fish and Wildlife Coordination Assistance, F20ac00283 $17,252 - 0
15.954 National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education, P20ac00515 $15,640 Yes 3
15.945 Cooperative Research and Training Programs Ð Resources of the National Park System - McA#p16ac0027 -Tan#p20ac00900 $12,937 Yes 2
15.945 Cooperative Research and Training Programs Ð Resources of the National Park System - McA#p16ac0027 -Tan#p19ac00794 $6,940 Yes 2
15.945 Cooperative Research and Training Programs Ð Resources of the National Park System - McA#p16ac0027 -Tan#p20ac00936 $6,333 Yes 2
15.945 Cooperative Research and Training Programs Ð Resources of the National Park System - McA#p16ac0027 -Tan#p19ac00704 $5,418 Yes 2
15.945 Cooperative Research and Training Programs Ð Resources of the National Park System - McA#p16ac0027 -Tan#p20ac00990 $4,486 Yes 2
15.945 Cooperative Research and Training Programs Ð Resources of the National Park System - McA#p16ac0027 -Tan#p18ac00793 $3,383 Yes 2
15.945 Cooperative Research and Training Programs Ð Resources of the National Park System - McA#p16ac0027 -Tan#p20ac00907 $2,862 Yes 2
15.945 Cooperative Research and Training Programs Ð Resources of the National Park System - McA#p16ac0027 -Tan#p21ac11197 $2,508 Yes 2
15.945 Cooperative Research and Training Programs Ð Resources of the National Park System - McA#p16ac0027 -Tan#p20ac00804 $2,341 Yes 2

Contacts

Name Title Type
GPPHU6GU2L58 Melissa Fratello Auditee
7163900903 Lori Fenstemaker, CPA Auditor
No contacts on file

Notes to SEFA

Title: Basis of Presentation Accounting Policies: Expenditures reported on the Schedule are reported on accrual basis of accounting. Such expenditures are recognized following the cost principles contained in the Uniform Guidance, wherein certain type of expenditures are not allowable or are limited as to reimbursements. De Minimis Rate Used: Y Rate Explanation: Tucson Audubon Society elected to use the 10 percent de minims indirect cost rate as covered in 2 CFR 200.414. The accompanying schedule of expenditures of federal awards (the Schedule) includes the federal award activity of Tucson Audubon Society under programs of the federal government for the year ended December 31, 2021. The information in this Schedule is presented in accordance with the requirements of 2 CFR Part 200, Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards (Uniform Guidance). Because the Schedule presents only a selected portion of the operations of Tucson Audubon Society, it is not intended to and does not present the financial position, changes in net assets, or cash flows of Tucson Audubon Society.

Finding Details

Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education (POE) Research and Development Cluster (RDC) Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 (POE) 15.608 and 15.945 (RDC) Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 (POE) September 2019 through January 2024 (RDC) Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: In accordance with 2 CFR 200.414 Indirect Costs, any nonfederal entity that does not have current negotiated rate and elects the 10% de minimis rate must be applied to modified total direct costs (MTDC) indefinitely and in accordance with 2 CFR 200 UG, costs of compensation are allowable to the extent that they satisfy the specific requirements of the UG, and that the total compensation for individual employees: (1) Is reasonable for the services rendered and conforms to the established written policy of the nonfederal entity consistently applied to both federal and nonfederal activities; (2) Follows an appointment made in accordance with a nonfederal entity's laws and/or rules or written policies and meets the requirements of federal statute, where applicable; and (3) Is determined and supported as provided in accordance with the UG, Standards for Documentation of Personnel Expenses, when applicable. Charges to federal awards for salaries and wages must be based on records that accurately reflect the work performed. These records must: (i) Be supported by a system of internal control which provides reasonable assurance that the charges are accurate, allowable, and properly allocated; (ii) Be incorporated into the official records of the non-Federal entity; (iii) Reasonably reflect the total activity for which the employee is compensated by the nonfederal entity, (iv) Encompass both federally assisted and all other activities compensated by the nonfederal entity on an integrated basis, but may include the use of subsidiary records as defined in the nonfederal entity's written policy; (v) Comply with the established accounting policies and practices of the nonfederal entity; and (vii) Support the distribution of the employee's salary or wages among specific activities or cost objectives if the employee works on more than one Federal award; a federal award and nonfederal award; an indirect cost activity and a direct cost activity; two or more indirect activities which are allocated using different allocation bases; or an unallowable activity and a direct or indirect cost activity. Condition/Context: We noted instances where an indirect rate of 17.5 percent was charged to federal awards instead of the 10 percent de minimis rate approved in the budgets. Additionally, we were unable to obtain evidence of federal approval of a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages as follows: • POE & RDC - For 4 of the 4 months tested, 17.5 percent of indirect rate was charged to various awards instead of the 10 percent de minimis rate. • POE - For 12 of the 36 items tested, we noted a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages. • RDC - For 22 of the 22 items tested, we noted a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages. Questioned Costs: None greater than $25,000 per major program. Cause: Not aware of the requirements. Effect: Failure to comply with 2 CFR 200 can lead to improper payments charged to programs. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management incorporate review control procedures to ensure the 10 percent de minimis rate is properly applied in accordance with UG and ensure appropriate costs are charged to the awards consistent with their federally approved budgets. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education (POE) Research and Development Cluster (RDC) Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 (POE) 15.608 and 15.945 (RDC) Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 (POE) September 2019 through January 2024 (RDC) Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: In accordance with 2 CFR 200.414 Indirect Costs, any nonfederal entity that does not have current negotiated rate and elects the 10% de minimis rate must be applied to modified total direct costs (MTDC) indefinitely and in accordance with 2 CFR 200 UG, costs of compensation are allowable to the extent that they satisfy the specific requirements of the UG, and that the total compensation for individual employees: (1) Is reasonable for the services rendered and conforms to the established written policy of the nonfederal entity consistently applied to both federal and nonfederal activities; (2) Follows an appointment made in accordance with a nonfederal entity's laws and/or rules or written policies and meets the requirements of federal statute, where applicable; and (3) Is determined and supported as provided in accordance with the UG, Standards for Documentation of Personnel Expenses, when applicable. Charges to federal awards for salaries and wages must be based on records that accurately reflect the work performed. These records must: (i) Be supported by a system of internal control which provides reasonable assurance that the charges are accurate, allowable, and properly allocated; (ii) Be incorporated into the official records of the non-Federal entity; (iii) Reasonably reflect the total activity for which the employee is compensated by the nonfederal entity, (iv) Encompass both federally assisted and all other activities compensated by the nonfederal entity on an integrated basis, but may include the use of subsidiary records as defined in the nonfederal entity's written policy; (v) Comply with the established accounting policies and practices of the nonfederal entity; and (vii) Support the distribution of the employee's salary or wages among specific activities or cost objectives if the employee works on more than one Federal award; a federal award and nonfederal award; an indirect cost activity and a direct cost activity; two or more indirect activities which are allocated using different allocation bases; or an unallowable activity and a direct or indirect cost activity. Condition/Context: We noted instances where an indirect rate of 17.5 percent was charged to federal awards instead of the 10 percent de minimis rate approved in the budgets. Additionally, we were unable to obtain evidence of federal approval of a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages as follows: • POE & RDC - For 4 of the 4 months tested, 17.5 percent of indirect rate was charged to various awards instead of the 10 percent de minimis rate. • POE - For 12 of the 36 items tested, we noted a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages. • RDC - For 22 of the 22 items tested, we noted a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages. Questioned Costs: None greater than $25,000 per major program. Cause: Not aware of the requirements. Effect: Failure to comply with 2 CFR 200 can lead to improper payments charged to programs. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management incorporate review control procedures to ensure the 10 percent de minimis rate is properly applied in accordance with UG and ensure appropriate costs are charged to the awards consistent with their federally approved budgets. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education (POE) Research and Development Cluster (RDC) Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 (POE) 15.608 and 15.945 (RDC) Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 (POE) September 2019 through January 2024 (RDC) Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: In accordance with 2 CFR 200.414 Indirect Costs, any nonfederal entity that does not have current negotiated rate and elects the 10% de minimis rate must be applied to modified total direct costs (MTDC) indefinitely and in accordance with 2 CFR 200 UG, costs of compensation are allowable to the extent that they satisfy the specific requirements of the UG, and that the total compensation for individual employees: (1) Is reasonable for the services rendered and conforms to the established written policy of the nonfederal entity consistently applied to both federal and nonfederal activities; (2) Follows an appointment made in accordance with a nonfederal entity's laws and/or rules or written policies and meets the requirements of federal statute, where applicable; and (3) Is determined and supported as provided in accordance with the UG, Standards for Documentation of Personnel Expenses, when applicable. Charges to federal awards for salaries and wages must be based on records that accurately reflect the work performed. These records must: (i) Be supported by a system of internal control which provides reasonable assurance that the charges are accurate, allowable, and properly allocated; (ii) Be incorporated into the official records of the non-Federal entity; (iii) Reasonably reflect the total activity for which the employee is compensated by the nonfederal entity, (iv) Encompass both federally assisted and all other activities compensated by the nonfederal entity on an integrated basis, but may include the use of subsidiary records as defined in the nonfederal entity's written policy; (v) Comply with the established accounting policies and practices of the nonfederal entity; and (vii) Support the distribution of the employee's salary or wages among specific activities or cost objectives if the employee works on more than one Federal award; a federal award and nonfederal award; an indirect cost activity and a direct cost activity; two or more indirect activities which are allocated using different allocation bases; or an unallowable activity and a direct or indirect cost activity. Condition/Context: We noted instances where an indirect rate of 17.5 percent was charged to federal awards instead of the 10 percent de minimis rate approved in the budgets. Additionally, we were unable to obtain evidence of federal approval of a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages as follows: • POE & RDC - For 4 of the 4 months tested, 17.5 percent of indirect rate was charged to various awards instead of the 10 percent de minimis rate. • POE - For 12 of the 36 items tested, we noted a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages. • RDC - For 22 of the 22 items tested, we noted a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages. Questioned Costs: None greater than $25,000 per major program. Cause: Not aware of the requirements. Effect: Failure to comply with 2 CFR 200 can lead to improper payments charged to programs. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management incorporate review control procedures to ensure the 10 percent de minimis rate is properly applied in accordance with UG and ensure appropriate costs are charged to the awards consistent with their federally approved budgets. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education (POE) Research and Development Cluster (RDC) Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 (POE) 15.608 and 15.945 (RDC) Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 (POE) September 2019 through January 2024 (RDC) Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: In accordance with 2 CFR 200.414 Indirect Costs, any nonfederal entity that does not have current negotiated rate and elects the 10% de minimis rate must be applied to modified total direct costs (MTDC) indefinitely and in accordance with 2 CFR 200 UG, costs of compensation are allowable to the extent that they satisfy the specific requirements of the UG, and that the total compensation for individual employees: (1) Is reasonable for the services rendered and conforms to the established written policy of the nonfederal entity consistently applied to both federal and nonfederal activities; (2) Follows an appointment made in accordance with a nonfederal entity's laws and/or rules or written policies and meets the requirements of federal statute, where applicable; and (3) Is determined and supported as provided in accordance with the UG, Standards for Documentation of Personnel Expenses, when applicable. Charges to federal awards for salaries and wages must be based on records that accurately reflect the work performed. These records must: (i) Be supported by a system of internal control which provides reasonable assurance that the charges are accurate, allowable, and properly allocated; (ii) Be incorporated into the official records of the non-Federal entity; (iii) Reasonably reflect the total activity for which the employee is compensated by the nonfederal entity, (iv) Encompass both federally assisted and all other activities compensated by the nonfederal entity on an integrated basis, but may include the use of subsidiary records as defined in the nonfederal entity's written policy; (v) Comply with the established accounting policies and practices of the nonfederal entity; and (vii) Support the distribution of the employee's salary or wages among specific activities or cost objectives if the employee works on more than one Federal award; a federal award and nonfederal award; an indirect cost activity and a direct cost activity; two or more indirect activities which are allocated using different allocation bases; or an unallowable activity and a direct or indirect cost activity. Condition/Context: We noted instances where an indirect rate of 17.5 percent was charged to federal awards instead of the 10 percent de minimis rate approved in the budgets. Additionally, we were unable to obtain evidence of federal approval of a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages as follows: • POE & RDC - For 4 of the 4 months tested, 17.5 percent of indirect rate was charged to various awards instead of the 10 percent de minimis rate. • POE - For 12 of the 36 items tested, we noted a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages. • RDC - For 22 of the 22 items tested, we noted a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages. Questioned Costs: None greater than $25,000 per major program. Cause: Not aware of the requirements. Effect: Failure to comply with 2 CFR 200 can lead to improper payments charged to programs. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management incorporate review control procedures to ensure the 10 percent de minimis rate is properly applied in accordance with UG and ensure appropriate costs are charged to the awards consistent with their federally approved budgets. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education (POE) Research and Development Cluster (RDC) Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 (POE) 15.608 and 15.945 (RDC) Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 (POE) September 2019 through January 2024 (RDC) Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: In accordance with 2 CFR 200.414 Indirect Costs, any nonfederal entity that does not have current negotiated rate and elects the 10% de minimis rate must be applied to modified total direct costs (MTDC) indefinitely and in accordance with 2 CFR 200 UG, costs of compensation are allowable to the extent that they satisfy the specific requirements of the UG, and that the total compensation for individual employees: (1) Is reasonable for the services rendered and conforms to the established written policy of the nonfederal entity consistently applied to both federal and nonfederal activities; (2) Follows an appointment made in accordance with a nonfederal entity's laws and/or rules or written policies and meets the requirements of federal statute, where applicable; and (3) Is determined and supported as provided in accordance with the UG, Standards for Documentation of Personnel Expenses, when applicable. Charges to federal awards for salaries and wages must be based on records that accurately reflect the work performed. These records must: (i) Be supported by a system of internal control which provides reasonable assurance that the charges are accurate, allowable, and properly allocated; (ii) Be incorporated into the official records of the non-Federal entity; (iii) Reasonably reflect the total activity for which the employee is compensated by the nonfederal entity, (iv) Encompass both federally assisted and all other activities compensated by the nonfederal entity on an integrated basis, but may include the use of subsidiary records as defined in the nonfederal entity's written policy; (v) Comply with the established accounting policies and practices of the nonfederal entity; and (vii) Support the distribution of the employee's salary or wages among specific activities or cost objectives if the employee works on more than one Federal award; a federal award and nonfederal award; an indirect cost activity and a direct cost activity; two or more indirect activities which are allocated using different allocation bases; or an unallowable activity and a direct or indirect cost activity. Condition/Context: We noted instances where an indirect rate of 17.5 percent was charged to federal awards instead of the 10 percent de minimis rate approved in the budgets. Additionally, we were unable to obtain evidence of federal approval of a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages as follows: • POE & RDC - For 4 of the 4 months tested, 17.5 percent of indirect rate was charged to various awards instead of the 10 percent de minimis rate. • POE - For 12 of the 36 items tested, we noted a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages. • RDC - For 22 of the 22 items tested, we noted a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages. Questioned Costs: None greater than $25,000 per major program. Cause: Not aware of the requirements. Effect: Failure to comply with 2 CFR 200 can lead to improper payments charged to programs. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management incorporate review control procedures to ensure the 10 percent de minimis rate is properly applied in accordance with UG and ensure appropriate costs are charged to the awards consistent with their federally approved budgets. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education (POE) Research and Development Cluster (RDC) Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 (POE) 15.608 and 15.945 (RDC) Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 (POE) September 2019 through January 2024 (RDC) Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: In accordance with 2 CFR 200.414 Indirect Costs, any nonfederal entity that does not have current negotiated rate and elects the 10% de minimis rate must be applied to modified total direct costs (MTDC) indefinitely and in accordance with 2 CFR 200 UG, costs of compensation are allowable to the extent that they satisfy the specific requirements of the UG, and that the total compensation for individual employees: (1) Is reasonable for the services rendered and conforms to the established written policy of the nonfederal entity consistently applied to both federal and nonfederal activities; (2) Follows an appointment made in accordance with a nonfederal entity's laws and/or rules or written policies and meets the requirements of federal statute, where applicable; and (3) Is determined and supported as provided in accordance with the UG, Standards for Documentation of Personnel Expenses, when applicable. Charges to federal awards for salaries and wages must be based on records that accurately reflect the work performed. These records must: (i) Be supported by a system of internal control which provides reasonable assurance that the charges are accurate, allowable, and properly allocated; (ii) Be incorporated into the official records of the non-Federal entity; (iii) Reasonably reflect the total activity for which the employee is compensated by the nonfederal entity, (iv) Encompass both federally assisted and all other activities compensated by the nonfederal entity on an integrated basis, but may include the use of subsidiary records as defined in the nonfederal entity's written policy; (v) Comply with the established accounting policies and practices of the nonfederal entity; and (vii) Support the distribution of the employee's salary or wages among specific activities or cost objectives if the employee works on more than one Federal award; a federal award and nonfederal award; an indirect cost activity and a direct cost activity; two or more indirect activities which are allocated using different allocation bases; or an unallowable activity and a direct or indirect cost activity. Condition/Context: We noted instances where an indirect rate of 17.5 percent was charged to federal awards instead of the 10 percent de minimis rate approved in the budgets. Additionally, we were unable to obtain evidence of federal approval of a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages as follows: • POE & RDC - For 4 of the 4 months tested, 17.5 percent of indirect rate was charged to various awards instead of the 10 percent de minimis rate. • POE - For 12 of the 36 items tested, we noted a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages. • RDC - For 22 of the 22 items tested, we noted a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages. Questioned Costs: None greater than $25,000 per major program. Cause: Not aware of the requirements. Effect: Failure to comply with 2 CFR 200 can lead to improper payments charged to programs. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management incorporate review control procedures to ensure the 10 percent de minimis rate is properly applied in accordance with UG and ensure appropriate costs are charged to the awards consistent with their federally approved budgets. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education (POE) Research and Development Cluster (RDC) Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 (POE) 15.608 and 15.945 (RDC) Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 (POE) September 2019 through January 2024 (RDC) Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: In accordance with 2 CFR 200.414 Indirect Costs, any nonfederal entity that does not have current negotiated rate and elects the 10% de minimis rate must be applied to modified total direct costs (MTDC) indefinitely and in accordance with 2 CFR 200 UG, costs of compensation are allowable to the extent that they satisfy the specific requirements of the UG, and that the total compensation for individual employees: (1) Is reasonable for the services rendered and conforms to the established written policy of the nonfederal entity consistently applied to both federal and nonfederal activities; (2) Follows an appointment made in accordance with a nonfederal entity's laws and/or rules or written policies and meets the requirements of federal statute, where applicable; and (3) Is determined and supported as provided in accordance with the UG, Standards for Documentation of Personnel Expenses, when applicable. Charges to federal awards for salaries and wages must be based on records that accurately reflect the work performed. These records must: (i) Be supported by a system of internal control which provides reasonable assurance that the charges are accurate, allowable, and properly allocated; (ii) Be incorporated into the official records of the non-Federal entity; (iii) Reasonably reflect the total activity for which the employee is compensated by the nonfederal entity, (iv) Encompass both federally assisted and all other activities compensated by the nonfederal entity on an integrated basis, but may include the use of subsidiary records as defined in the nonfederal entity's written policy; (v) Comply with the established accounting policies and practices of the nonfederal entity; and (vii) Support the distribution of the employee's salary or wages among specific activities or cost objectives if the employee works on more than one Federal award; a federal award and nonfederal award; an indirect cost activity and a direct cost activity; two or more indirect activities which are allocated using different allocation bases; or an unallowable activity and a direct or indirect cost activity. Condition/Context: We noted instances where an indirect rate of 17.5 percent was charged to federal awards instead of the 10 percent de minimis rate approved in the budgets. Additionally, we were unable to obtain evidence of federal approval of a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages as follows: • POE & RDC - For 4 of the 4 months tested, 17.5 percent of indirect rate was charged to various awards instead of the 10 percent de minimis rate. • POE - For 12 of the 36 items tested, we noted a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages. • RDC - For 22 of the 22 items tested, we noted a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages. Questioned Costs: None greater than $25,000 per major program. Cause: Not aware of the requirements. Effect: Failure to comply with 2 CFR 200 can lead to improper payments charged to programs. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management incorporate review control procedures to ensure the 10 percent de minimis rate is properly applied in accordance with UG and ensure appropriate costs are charged to the awards consistent with their federally approved budgets. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education (POE) Research and Development Cluster (RDC) Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 (POE) 15.608 and 15.945 (RDC) Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 (POE) September 2019 through January 2024 (RDC) Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: In accordance with 2 CFR 200.414 Indirect Costs, any nonfederal entity that does not have current negotiated rate and elects the 10% de minimis rate must be applied to modified total direct costs (MTDC) indefinitely and in accordance with 2 CFR 200 UG, costs of compensation are allowable to the extent that they satisfy the specific requirements of the UG, and that the total compensation for individual employees: (1) Is reasonable for the services rendered and conforms to the established written policy of the nonfederal entity consistently applied to both federal and nonfederal activities; (2) Follows an appointment made in accordance with a nonfederal entity's laws and/or rules or written policies and meets the requirements of federal statute, where applicable; and (3) Is determined and supported as provided in accordance with the UG, Standards for Documentation of Personnel Expenses, when applicable. Charges to federal awards for salaries and wages must be based on records that accurately reflect the work performed. These records must: (i) Be supported by a system of internal control which provides reasonable assurance that the charges are accurate, allowable, and properly allocated; (ii) Be incorporated into the official records of the non-Federal entity; (iii) Reasonably reflect the total activity for which the employee is compensated by the nonfederal entity, (iv) Encompass both federally assisted and all other activities compensated by the nonfederal entity on an integrated basis, but may include the use of subsidiary records as defined in the nonfederal entity's written policy; (v) Comply with the established accounting policies and practices of the nonfederal entity; and (vii) Support the distribution of the employee's salary or wages among specific activities or cost objectives if the employee works on more than one Federal award; a federal award and nonfederal award; an indirect cost activity and a direct cost activity; two or more indirect activities which are allocated using different allocation bases; or an unallowable activity and a direct or indirect cost activity. Condition/Context: We noted instances where an indirect rate of 17.5 percent was charged to federal awards instead of the 10 percent de minimis rate approved in the budgets. Additionally, we were unable to obtain evidence of federal approval of a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages as follows: • POE & RDC - For 4 of the 4 months tested, 17.5 percent of indirect rate was charged to various awards instead of the 10 percent de minimis rate. • POE - For 12 of the 36 items tested, we noted a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages. • RDC - For 22 of the 22 items tested, we noted a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages. Questioned Costs: None greater than $25,000 per major program. Cause: Not aware of the requirements. Effect: Failure to comply with 2 CFR 200 can lead to improper payments charged to programs. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management incorporate review control procedures to ensure the 10 percent de minimis rate is properly applied in accordance with UG and ensure appropriate costs are charged to the awards consistent with their federally approved budgets. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education (POE) Research and Development Cluster (RDC) Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 (POE) 15.608 and 15.945 (RDC) Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 (POE) September 2019 through January 2024 (RDC) Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: In accordance with 2 CFR 200.414 Indirect Costs, any nonfederal entity that does not have current negotiated rate and elects the 10% de minimis rate must be applied to modified total direct costs (MTDC) indefinitely and in accordance with 2 CFR 200 UG, costs of compensation are allowable to the extent that they satisfy the specific requirements of the UG, and that the total compensation for individual employees: (1) Is reasonable for the services rendered and conforms to the established written policy of the nonfederal entity consistently applied to both federal and nonfederal activities; (2) Follows an appointment made in accordance with a nonfederal entity's laws and/or rules or written policies and meets the requirements of federal statute, where applicable; and (3) Is determined and supported as provided in accordance with the UG, Standards for Documentation of Personnel Expenses, when applicable. Charges to federal awards for salaries and wages must be based on records that accurately reflect the work performed. These records must: (i) Be supported by a system of internal control which provides reasonable assurance that the charges are accurate, allowable, and properly allocated; (ii) Be incorporated into the official records of the non-Federal entity; (iii) Reasonably reflect the total activity for which the employee is compensated by the nonfederal entity, (iv) Encompass both federally assisted and all other activities compensated by the nonfederal entity on an integrated basis, but may include the use of subsidiary records as defined in the nonfederal entity's written policy; (v) Comply with the established accounting policies and practices of the nonfederal entity; and (vii) Support the distribution of the employee's salary or wages among specific activities or cost objectives if the employee works on more than one Federal award; a federal award and nonfederal award; an indirect cost activity and a direct cost activity; two or more indirect activities which are allocated using different allocation bases; or an unallowable activity and a direct or indirect cost activity. Condition/Context: We noted instances where an indirect rate of 17.5 percent was charged to federal awards instead of the 10 percent de minimis rate approved in the budgets. Additionally, we were unable to obtain evidence of federal approval of a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages as follows: • POE & RDC - For 4 of the 4 months tested, 17.5 percent of indirect rate was charged to various awards instead of the 10 percent de minimis rate. • POE - For 12 of the 36 items tested, we noted a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages. • RDC - For 22 of the 22 items tested, we noted a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages. Questioned Costs: None greater than $25,000 per major program. Cause: Not aware of the requirements. Effect: Failure to comply with 2 CFR 200 can lead to improper payments charged to programs. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management incorporate review control procedures to ensure the 10 percent de minimis rate is properly applied in accordance with UG and ensure appropriate costs are charged to the awards consistent with their federally approved budgets. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education (POE) Research and Development Cluster (RDC) Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 (POE) 15.608 and 15.945 (RDC) Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 (POE) September 2019 through January 2024 (RDC) Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: In accordance with 2 CFR 200.414 Indirect Costs, any nonfederal entity that does not have current negotiated rate and elects the 10% de minimis rate must be applied to modified total direct costs (MTDC) indefinitely and in accordance with 2 CFR 200 UG, costs of compensation are allowable to the extent that they satisfy the specific requirements of the UG, and that the total compensation for individual employees: (1) Is reasonable for the services rendered and conforms to the established written policy of the nonfederal entity consistently applied to both federal and nonfederal activities; (2) Follows an appointment made in accordance with a nonfederal entity's laws and/or rules or written policies and meets the requirements of federal statute, where applicable; and (3) Is determined and supported as provided in accordance with the UG, Standards for Documentation of Personnel Expenses, when applicable. Charges to federal awards for salaries and wages must be based on records that accurately reflect the work performed. These records must: (i) Be supported by a system of internal control which provides reasonable assurance that the charges are accurate, allowable, and properly allocated; (ii) Be incorporated into the official records of the non-Federal entity; (iii) Reasonably reflect the total activity for which the employee is compensated by the nonfederal entity, (iv) Encompass both federally assisted and all other activities compensated by the nonfederal entity on an integrated basis, but may include the use of subsidiary records as defined in the nonfederal entity's written policy; (v) Comply with the established accounting policies and practices of the nonfederal entity; and (vii) Support the distribution of the employee's salary or wages among specific activities or cost objectives if the employee works on more than one Federal award; a federal award and nonfederal award; an indirect cost activity and a direct cost activity; two or more indirect activities which are allocated using different allocation bases; or an unallowable activity and a direct or indirect cost activity. Condition/Context: We noted instances where an indirect rate of 17.5 percent was charged to federal awards instead of the 10 percent de minimis rate approved in the budgets. Additionally, we were unable to obtain evidence of federal approval of a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages as follows: • POE & RDC - For 4 of the 4 months tested, 17.5 percent of indirect rate was charged to various awards instead of the 10 percent de minimis rate. • POE - For 12 of the 36 items tested, we noted a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages. • RDC - For 22 of the 22 items tested, we noted a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages. Questioned Costs: None greater than $25,000 per major program. Cause: Not aware of the requirements. Effect: Failure to comply with 2 CFR 200 can lead to improper payments charged to programs. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management incorporate review control procedures to ensure the 10 percent de minimis rate is properly applied in accordance with UG and ensure appropriate costs are charged to the awards consistent with their federally approved budgets. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education (POE) Research and Development Cluster (RDC) Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 (POE) 15.608 and 15.945 (RDC) Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 (POE) September 2019 through January 2024 (RDC) Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: In accordance with 2 CFR 200.414 Indirect Costs, any nonfederal entity that does not have current negotiated rate and elects the 10% de minimis rate must be applied to modified total direct costs (MTDC) indefinitely and in accordance with 2 CFR 200 UG, costs of compensation are allowable to the extent that they satisfy the specific requirements of the UG, and that the total compensation for individual employees: (1) Is reasonable for the services rendered and conforms to the established written policy of the nonfederal entity consistently applied to both federal and nonfederal activities; (2) Follows an appointment made in accordance with a nonfederal entity's laws and/or rules or written policies and meets the requirements of federal statute, where applicable; and (3) Is determined and supported as provided in accordance with the UG, Standards for Documentation of Personnel Expenses, when applicable. Charges to federal awards for salaries and wages must be based on records that accurately reflect the work performed. These records must: (i) Be supported by a system of internal control which provides reasonable assurance that the charges are accurate, allowable, and properly allocated; (ii) Be incorporated into the official records of the non-Federal entity; (iii) Reasonably reflect the total activity for which the employee is compensated by the nonfederal entity, (iv) Encompass both federally assisted and all other activities compensated by the nonfederal entity on an integrated basis, but may include the use of subsidiary records as defined in the nonfederal entity's written policy; (v) Comply with the established accounting policies and practices of the nonfederal entity; and (vii) Support the distribution of the employee's salary or wages among specific activities or cost objectives if the employee works on more than one Federal award; a federal award and nonfederal award; an indirect cost activity and a direct cost activity; two or more indirect activities which are allocated using different allocation bases; or an unallowable activity and a direct or indirect cost activity. Condition/Context: We noted instances where an indirect rate of 17.5 percent was charged to federal awards instead of the 10 percent de minimis rate approved in the budgets. Additionally, we were unable to obtain evidence of federal approval of a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages as follows: • POE & RDC - For 4 of the 4 months tested, 17.5 percent of indirect rate was charged to various awards instead of the 10 percent de minimis rate. • POE - For 12 of the 36 items tested, we noted a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages. • RDC - For 22 of the 22 items tested, we noted a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages. Questioned Costs: None greater than $25,000 per major program. Cause: Not aware of the requirements. Effect: Failure to comply with 2 CFR 200 can lead to improper payments charged to programs. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management incorporate review control procedures to ensure the 10 percent de minimis rate is properly applied in accordance with UG and ensure appropriate costs are charged to the awards consistent with their federally approved budgets. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education (POE) Research and Development Cluster (RDC) Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 (POE) 15.608 and 15.945 (RDC) Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 (POE) September 2019 through January 2024 (RDC) Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: In accordance with 2 CFR 200.414 Indirect Costs, any nonfederal entity that does not have current negotiated rate and elects the 10% de minimis rate must be applied to modified total direct costs (MTDC) indefinitely and in accordance with 2 CFR 200 UG, costs of compensation are allowable to the extent that they satisfy the specific requirements of the UG, and that the total compensation for individual employees: (1) Is reasonable for the services rendered and conforms to the established written policy of the nonfederal entity consistently applied to both federal and nonfederal activities; (2) Follows an appointment made in accordance with a nonfederal entity's laws and/or rules or written policies and meets the requirements of federal statute, where applicable; and (3) Is determined and supported as provided in accordance with the UG, Standards for Documentation of Personnel Expenses, when applicable. Charges to federal awards for salaries and wages must be based on records that accurately reflect the work performed. These records must: (i) Be supported by a system of internal control which provides reasonable assurance that the charges are accurate, allowable, and properly allocated; (ii) Be incorporated into the official records of the non-Federal entity; (iii) Reasonably reflect the total activity for which the employee is compensated by the nonfederal entity, (iv) Encompass both federally assisted and all other activities compensated by the nonfederal entity on an integrated basis, but may include the use of subsidiary records as defined in the nonfederal entity's written policy; (v) Comply with the established accounting policies and practices of the nonfederal entity; and (vii) Support the distribution of the employee's salary or wages among specific activities or cost objectives if the employee works on more than one Federal award; a federal award and nonfederal award; an indirect cost activity and a direct cost activity; two or more indirect activities which are allocated using different allocation bases; or an unallowable activity and a direct or indirect cost activity. Condition/Context: We noted instances where an indirect rate of 17.5 percent was charged to federal awards instead of the 10 percent de minimis rate approved in the budgets. Additionally, we were unable to obtain evidence of federal approval of a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages as follows: • POE & RDC - For 4 of the 4 months tested, 17.5 percent of indirect rate was charged to various awards instead of the 10 percent de minimis rate. • POE - For 12 of the 36 items tested, we noted a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages. • RDC - For 22 of the 22 items tested, we noted a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages. Questioned Costs: None greater than $25,000 per major program. Cause: Not aware of the requirements. Effect: Failure to comply with 2 CFR 200 can lead to improper payments charged to programs. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management incorporate review control procedures to ensure the 10 percent de minimis rate is properly applied in accordance with UG and ensure appropriate costs are charged to the awards consistent with their federally approved budgets. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education (POE) Research and Development Cluster (RDC) Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 (POE) 15.608 and 15.945 (RDC) Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 (POE) September 2019 through January 2024 (RDC) Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: In accordance with 2 CFR 200.414 Indirect Costs, any nonfederal entity that does not have current negotiated rate and elects the 10% de minimis rate must be applied to modified total direct costs (MTDC) indefinitely and in accordance with 2 CFR 200 UG, costs of compensation are allowable to the extent that they satisfy the specific requirements of the UG, and that the total compensation for individual employees: (1) Is reasonable for the services rendered and conforms to the established written policy of the nonfederal entity consistently applied to both federal and nonfederal activities; (2) Follows an appointment made in accordance with a nonfederal entity's laws and/or rules or written policies and meets the requirements of federal statute, where applicable; and (3) Is determined and supported as provided in accordance with the UG, Standards for Documentation of Personnel Expenses, when applicable. Charges to federal awards for salaries and wages must be based on records that accurately reflect the work performed. These records must: (i) Be supported by a system of internal control which provides reasonable assurance that the charges are accurate, allowable, and properly allocated; (ii) Be incorporated into the official records of the non-Federal entity; (iii) Reasonably reflect the total activity for which the employee is compensated by the nonfederal entity, (iv) Encompass both federally assisted and all other activities compensated by the nonfederal entity on an integrated basis, but may include the use of subsidiary records as defined in the nonfederal entity's written policy; (v) Comply with the established accounting policies and practices of the nonfederal entity; and (vii) Support the distribution of the employee's salary or wages among specific activities or cost objectives if the employee works on more than one Federal award; a federal award and nonfederal award; an indirect cost activity and a direct cost activity; two or more indirect activities which are allocated using different allocation bases; or an unallowable activity and a direct or indirect cost activity. Condition/Context: We noted instances where an indirect rate of 17.5 percent was charged to federal awards instead of the 10 percent de minimis rate approved in the budgets. Additionally, we were unable to obtain evidence of federal approval of a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages as follows: • POE & RDC - For 4 of the 4 months tested, 17.5 percent of indirect rate was charged to various awards instead of the 10 percent de minimis rate. • POE - For 12 of the 36 items tested, we noted a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages. • RDC - For 22 of the 22 items tested, we noted a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages. Questioned Costs: None greater than $25,000 per major program. Cause: Not aware of the requirements. Effect: Failure to comply with 2 CFR 200 can lead to improper payments charged to programs. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management incorporate review control procedures to ensure the 10 percent de minimis rate is properly applied in accordance with UG and ensure appropriate costs are charged to the awards consistent with their federally approved budgets. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education (POE) Research and Development Cluster (RDC) Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 (POE) 15.608 and 15.945 (RDC) Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 (POE) September 2019 through January 2024 (RDC) Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: In accordance with 2 CFR 200.414 Indirect Costs, any nonfederal entity that does not have current negotiated rate and elects the 10% de minimis rate must be applied to modified total direct costs (MTDC) indefinitely and in accordance with 2 CFR 200 UG, costs of compensation are allowable to the extent that they satisfy the specific requirements of the UG, and that the total compensation for individual employees: (1) Is reasonable for the services rendered and conforms to the established written policy of the nonfederal entity consistently applied to both federal and nonfederal activities; (2) Follows an appointment made in accordance with a nonfederal entity's laws and/or rules or written policies and meets the requirements of federal statute, where applicable; and (3) Is determined and supported as provided in accordance with the UG, Standards for Documentation of Personnel Expenses, when applicable. Charges to federal awards for salaries and wages must be based on records that accurately reflect the work performed. These records must: (i) Be supported by a system of internal control which provides reasonable assurance that the charges are accurate, allowable, and properly allocated; (ii) Be incorporated into the official records of the non-Federal entity; (iii) Reasonably reflect the total activity for which the employee is compensated by the nonfederal entity, (iv) Encompass both federally assisted and all other activities compensated by the nonfederal entity on an integrated basis, but may include the use of subsidiary records as defined in the nonfederal entity's written policy; (v) Comply with the established accounting policies and practices of the nonfederal entity; and (vii) Support the distribution of the employee's salary or wages among specific activities or cost objectives if the employee works on more than one Federal award; a federal award and nonfederal award; an indirect cost activity and a direct cost activity; two or more indirect activities which are allocated using different allocation bases; or an unallowable activity and a direct or indirect cost activity. Condition/Context: We noted instances where an indirect rate of 17.5 percent was charged to federal awards instead of the 10 percent de minimis rate approved in the budgets. Additionally, we were unable to obtain evidence of federal approval of a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages as follows: • POE & RDC - For 4 of the 4 months tested, 17.5 percent of indirect rate was charged to various awards instead of the 10 percent de minimis rate. • POE - For 12 of the 36 items tested, we noted a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages. • RDC - For 22 of the 22 items tested, we noted a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages. Questioned Costs: None greater than $25,000 per major program. Cause: Not aware of the requirements. Effect: Failure to comply with 2 CFR 200 can lead to improper payments charged to programs. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management incorporate review control procedures to ensure the 10 percent de minimis rate is properly applied in accordance with UG and ensure appropriate costs are charged to the awards consistent with their federally approved budgets. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education (POE) Research and Development Cluster (RDC) Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 (POE) 15.608 and 15.945 (RDC) Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 (POE) September 2019 through January 2024 (RDC) Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: In accordance with 2 CFR 200.414 Indirect Costs, any nonfederal entity that does not have current negotiated rate and elects the 10% de minimis rate must be applied to modified total direct costs (MTDC) indefinitely and in accordance with 2 CFR 200 UG, costs of compensation are allowable to the extent that they satisfy the specific requirements of the UG, and that the total compensation for individual employees: (1) Is reasonable for the services rendered and conforms to the established written policy of the nonfederal entity consistently applied to both federal and nonfederal activities; (2) Follows an appointment made in accordance with a nonfederal entity's laws and/or rules or written policies and meets the requirements of federal statute, where applicable; and (3) Is determined and supported as provided in accordance with the UG, Standards for Documentation of Personnel Expenses, when applicable. Charges to federal awards for salaries and wages must be based on records that accurately reflect the work performed. These records must: (i) Be supported by a system of internal control which provides reasonable assurance that the charges are accurate, allowable, and properly allocated; (ii) Be incorporated into the official records of the non-Federal entity; (iii) Reasonably reflect the total activity for which the employee is compensated by the nonfederal entity, (iv) Encompass both federally assisted and all other activities compensated by the nonfederal entity on an integrated basis, but may include the use of subsidiary records as defined in the nonfederal entity's written policy; (v) Comply with the established accounting policies and practices of the nonfederal entity; and (vii) Support the distribution of the employee's salary or wages among specific activities or cost objectives if the employee works on more than one Federal award; a federal award and nonfederal award; an indirect cost activity and a direct cost activity; two or more indirect activities which are allocated using different allocation bases; or an unallowable activity and a direct or indirect cost activity. Condition/Context: We noted instances where an indirect rate of 17.5 percent was charged to federal awards instead of the 10 percent de minimis rate approved in the budgets. Additionally, we were unable to obtain evidence of federal approval of a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages as follows: • POE & RDC - For 4 of the 4 months tested, 17.5 percent of indirect rate was charged to various awards instead of the 10 percent de minimis rate. • POE - For 12 of the 36 items tested, we noted a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages. • RDC - For 22 of the 22 items tested, we noted a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages. Questioned Costs: None greater than $25,000 per major program. Cause: Not aware of the requirements. Effect: Failure to comply with 2 CFR 200 can lead to improper payments charged to programs. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management incorporate review control procedures to ensure the 10 percent de minimis rate is properly applied in accordance with UG and ensure appropriate costs are charged to the awards consistent with their federally approved budgets. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education (POE) Research and Development Cluster (RDC) Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 (POE) 15.608 and 15.945 (RDC) Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 (POE) September 2019 through January 2024 (RDC) Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: In accordance with 2 CFR 200.414 Indirect Costs, any nonfederal entity that does not have current negotiated rate and elects the 10% de minimis rate must be applied to modified total direct costs (MTDC) indefinitely and in accordance with 2 CFR 200 UG, costs of compensation are allowable to the extent that they satisfy the specific requirements of the UG, and that the total compensation for individual employees: (1) Is reasonable for the services rendered and conforms to the established written policy of the nonfederal entity consistently applied to both federal and nonfederal activities; (2) Follows an appointment made in accordance with a nonfederal entity's laws and/or rules or written policies and meets the requirements of federal statute, where applicable; and (3) Is determined and supported as provided in accordance with the UG, Standards for Documentation of Personnel Expenses, when applicable. Charges to federal awards for salaries and wages must be based on records that accurately reflect the work performed. These records must: (i) Be supported by a system of internal control which provides reasonable assurance that the charges are accurate, allowable, and properly allocated; (ii) Be incorporated into the official records of the non-Federal entity; (iii) Reasonably reflect the total activity for which the employee is compensated by the nonfederal entity, (iv) Encompass both federally assisted and all other activities compensated by the nonfederal entity on an integrated basis, but may include the use of subsidiary records as defined in the nonfederal entity's written policy; (v) Comply with the established accounting policies and practices of the nonfederal entity; and (vii) Support the distribution of the employee's salary or wages among specific activities or cost objectives if the employee works on more than one Federal award; a federal award and nonfederal award; an indirect cost activity and a direct cost activity; two or more indirect activities which are allocated using different allocation bases; or an unallowable activity and a direct or indirect cost activity. Condition/Context: We noted instances where an indirect rate of 17.5 percent was charged to federal awards instead of the 10 percent de minimis rate approved in the budgets. Additionally, we were unable to obtain evidence of federal approval of a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages as follows: • POE & RDC - For 4 of the 4 months tested, 17.5 percent of indirect rate was charged to various awards instead of the 10 percent de minimis rate. • POE - For 12 of the 36 items tested, we noted a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages. • RDC - For 22 of the 22 items tested, we noted a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages. Questioned Costs: None greater than $25,000 per major program. Cause: Not aware of the requirements. Effect: Failure to comply with 2 CFR 200 can lead to improper payments charged to programs. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management incorporate review control procedures to ensure the 10 percent de minimis rate is properly applied in accordance with UG and ensure appropriate costs are charged to the awards consistent with their federally approved budgets. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education (POE) Research and Development Cluster (RDC) Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 (POE) 15.608 and 15.945 (RDC) Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 (POE) September 2019 through January 2024 (RDC) Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: In accordance with 2 CFR 200.414 Indirect Costs, any nonfederal entity that does not have current negotiated rate and elects the 10% de minimis rate must be applied to modified total direct costs (MTDC) indefinitely and in accordance with 2 CFR 200 UG, costs of compensation are allowable to the extent that they satisfy the specific requirements of the UG, and that the total compensation for individual employees: (1) Is reasonable for the services rendered and conforms to the established written policy of the nonfederal entity consistently applied to both federal and nonfederal activities; (2) Follows an appointment made in accordance with a nonfederal entity's laws and/or rules or written policies and meets the requirements of federal statute, where applicable; and (3) Is determined and supported as provided in accordance with the UG, Standards for Documentation of Personnel Expenses, when applicable. Charges to federal awards for salaries and wages must be based on records that accurately reflect the work performed. These records must: (i) Be supported by a system of internal control which provides reasonable assurance that the charges are accurate, allowable, and properly allocated; (ii) Be incorporated into the official records of the non-Federal entity; (iii) Reasonably reflect the total activity for which the employee is compensated by the nonfederal entity, (iv) Encompass both federally assisted and all other activities compensated by the nonfederal entity on an integrated basis, but may include the use of subsidiary records as defined in the nonfederal entity's written policy; (v) Comply with the established accounting policies and practices of the nonfederal entity; and (vii) Support the distribution of the employee's salary or wages among specific activities or cost objectives if the employee works on more than one Federal award; a federal award and nonfederal award; an indirect cost activity and a direct cost activity; two or more indirect activities which are allocated using different allocation bases; or an unallowable activity and a direct or indirect cost activity. Condition/Context: We noted instances where an indirect rate of 17.5 percent was charged to federal awards instead of the 10 percent de minimis rate approved in the budgets. Additionally, we were unable to obtain evidence of federal approval of a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages as follows: • POE & RDC - For 4 of the 4 months tested, 17.5 percent of indirect rate was charged to various awards instead of the 10 percent de minimis rate. • POE - For 12 of the 36 items tested, we noted a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages. • RDC - For 22 of the 22 items tested, we noted a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages. Questioned Costs: None greater than $25,000 per major program. Cause: Not aware of the requirements. Effect: Failure to comply with 2 CFR 200 can lead to improper payments charged to programs. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management incorporate review control procedures to ensure the 10 percent de minimis rate is properly applied in accordance with UG and ensure appropriate costs are charged to the awards consistent with their federally approved budgets. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education (POE) Research and Development Cluster (RDC) Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 (POE) 15.608 and 15.945 (RDC) Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 (POE) September 2019 through January 2024 (RDC) Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: In accordance with 2 CFR 200.414 Indirect Costs, any nonfederal entity that does not have current negotiated rate and elects the 10% de minimis rate must be applied to modified total direct costs (MTDC) indefinitely and in accordance with 2 CFR 200 UG, costs of compensation are allowable to the extent that they satisfy the specific requirements of the UG, and that the total compensation for individual employees: (1) Is reasonable for the services rendered and conforms to the established written policy of the nonfederal entity consistently applied to both federal and nonfederal activities; (2) Follows an appointment made in accordance with a nonfederal entity's laws and/or rules or written policies and meets the requirements of federal statute, where applicable; and (3) Is determined and supported as provided in accordance with the UG, Standards for Documentation of Personnel Expenses, when applicable. Charges to federal awards for salaries and wages must be based on records that accurately reflect the work performed. These records must: (i) Be supported by a system of internal control which provides reasonable assurance that the charges are accurate, allowable, and properly allocated; (ii) Be incorporated into the official records of the non-Federal entity; (iii) Reasonably reflect the total activity for which the employee is compensated by the nonfederal entity, (iv) Encompass both federally assisted and all other activities compensated by the nonfederal entity on an integrated basis, but may include the use of subsidiary records as defined in the nonfederal entity's written policy; (v) Comply with the established accounting policies and practices of the nonfederal entity; and (vii) Support the distribution of the employee's salary or wages among specific activities or cost objectives if the employee works on more than one Federal award; a federal award and nonfederal award; an indirect cost activity and a direct cost activity; two or more indirect activities which are allocated using different allocation bases; or an unallowable activity and a direct or indirect cost activity. Condition/Context: We noted instances where an indirect rate of 17.5 percent was charged to federal awards instead of the 10 percent de minimis rate approved in the budgets. Additionally, we were unable to obtain evidence of federal approval of a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages as follows: • POE & RDC - For 4 of the 4 months tested, 17.5 percent of indirect rate was charged to various awards instead of the 10 percent de minimis rate. • POE - For 12 of the 36 items tested, we noted a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages. • RDC - For 22 of the 22 items tested, we noted a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages. Questioned Costs: None greater than $25,000 per major program. Cause: Not aware of the requirements. Effect: Failure to comply with 2 CFR 200 can lead to improper payments charged to programs. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management incorporate review control procedures to ensure the 10 percent de minimis rate is properly applied in accordance with UG and ensure appropriate costs are charged to the awards consistent with their federally approved budgets. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education (POE) Research and Development Cluster (RDC) Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 (POE) 15.608 and 15.945 (RDC) Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 (POE) September 2019 through January 2024 (RDC) Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: In accordance with 2 CFR 200.414 Indirect Costs, any nonfederal entity that does not have current negotiated rate and elects the 10% de minimis rate must be applied to modified total direct costs (MTDC) indefinitely and in accordance with 2 CFR 200 UG, costs of compensation are allowable to the extent that they satisfy the specific requirements of the UG, and that the total compensation for individual employees: (1) Is reasonable for the services rendered and conforms to the established written policy of the nonfederal entity consistently applied to both federal and nonfederal activities; (2) Follows an appointment made in accordance with a nonfederal entity's laws and/or rules or written policies and meets the requirements of federal statute, where applicable; and (3) Is determined and supported as provided in accordance with the UG, Standards for Documentation of Personnel Expenses, when applicable. Charges to federal awards for salaries and wages must be based on records that accurately reflect the work performed. These records must: (i) Be supported by a system of internal control which provides reasonable assurance that the charges are accurate, allowable, and properly allocated; (ii) Be incorporated into the official records of the non-Federal entity; (iii) Reasonably reflect the total activity for which the employee is compensated by the nonfederal entity, (iv) Encompass both federally assisted and all other activities compensated by the nonfederal entity on an integrated basis, but may include the use of subsidiary records as defined in the nonfederal entity's written policy; (v) Comply with the established accounting policies and practices of the nonfederal entity; and (vii) Support the distribution of the employee's salary or wages among specific activities or cost objectives if the employee works on more than one Federal award; a federal award and nonfederal award; an indirect cost activity and a direct cost activity; two or more indirect activities which are allocated using different allocation bases; or an unallowable activity and a direct or indirect cost activity. Condition/Context: We noted instances where an indirect rate of 17.5 percent was charged to federal awards instead of the 10 percent de minimis rate approved in the budgets. Additionally, we were unable to obtain evidence of federal approval of a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages as follows: • POE & RDC - For 4 of the 4 months tested, 17.5 percent of indirect rate was charged to various awards instead of the 10 percent de minimis rate. • POE - For 12 of the 36 items tested, we noted a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages. • RDC - For 22 of the 22 items tested, we noted a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages. Questioned Costs: None greater than $25,000 per major program. Cause: Not aware of the requirements. Effect: Failure to comply with 2 CFR 200 can lead to improper payments charged to programs. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management incorporate review control procedures to ensure the 10 percent de minimis rate is properly applied in accordance with UG and ensure appropriate costs are charged to the awards consistent with their federally approved budgets. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education (POE) Research and Development Cluster (RDC) Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 (POE) 15.608 and 15.945 (RDC) Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 (POE) September 2019 through January 2024 (RDC) Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: In accordance with 2 CFR 200.414 Indirect Costs, any nonfederal entity that does not have current negotiated rate and elects the 10% de minimis rate must be applied to modified total direct costs (MTDC) indefinitely and in accordance with 2 CFR 200 UG, costs of compensation are allowable to the extent that they satisfy the specific requirements of the UG, and that the total compensation for individual employees: (1) Is reasonable for the services rendered and conforms to the established written policy of the nonfederal entity consistently applied to both federal and nonfederal activities; (2) Follows an appointment made in accordance with a nonfederal entity's laws and/or rules or written policies and meets the requirements of federal statute, where applicable; and (3) Is determined and supported as provided in accordance with the UG, Standards for Documentation of Personnel Expenses, when applicable. Charges to federal awards for salaries and wages must be based on records that accurately reflect the work performed. These records must: (i) Be supported by a system of internal control which provides reasonable assurance that the charges are accurate, allowable, and properly allocated; (ii) Be incorporated into the official records of the non-Federal entity; (iii) Reasonably reflect the total activity for which the employee is compensated by the nonfederal entity, (iv) Encompass both federally assisted and all other activities compensated by the nonfederal entity on an integrated basis, but may include the use of subsidiary records as defined in the nonfederal entity's written policy; (v) Comply with the established accounting policies and practices of the nonfederal entity; and (vii) Support the distribution of the employee's salary or wages among specific activities or cost objectives if the employee works on more than one Federal award; a federal award and nonfederal award; an indirect cost activity and a direct cost activity; two or more indirect activities which are allocated using different allocation bases; or an unallowable activity and a direct or indirect cost activity. Condition/Context: We noted instances where an indirect rate of 17.5 percent was charged to federal awards instead of the 10 percent de minimis rate approved in the budgets. Additionally, we were unable to obtain evidence of federal approval of a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages as follows: • POE & RDC - For 4 of the 4 months tested, 17.5 percent of indirect rate was charged to various awards instead of the 10 percent de minimis rate. • POE - For 12 of the 36 items tested, we noted a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages. • RDC - For 22 of the 22 items tested, we noted a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages. Questioned Costs: None greater than $25,000 per major program. Cause: Not aware of the requirements. Effect: Failure to comply with 2 CFR 200 can lead to improper payments charged to programs. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management incorporate review control procedures to ensure the 10 percent de minimis rate is properly applied in accordance with UG and ensure appropriate costs are charged to the awards consistent with their federally approved budgets. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education (POE) Research and Development Cluster (RDC) Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 (POE) 15.608 and 15.945 (RDC) Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 (POE) September 2019 through January 2024 (RDC) Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: 2 CFR 2022.1 Definitions – Period of Performance means the total estimated time interval between the start of an initial federal award and the planned end date, which may include one or more funded portions, or budget periods. Identification of the period of performance in the federal award per § 200.211(b)(5) does not commit the awarding agency to fund the award beyond the currently approved budget period. 2 CFR 200.458 Pre-Awards Costs. Pre-award costs are those incurred prior to the effective date of the Federal award or subaward directly pursuant to the negotiation and in anticipation of the federal award where such costs are necessary for efficient and timely performance of the scope of work. Such costs are allowable only to the extent that they would have been allowable if incurred after the date of the federal award and only with the written approval of the federal awarding agency. If charged to the award, these costs must be charged to the initial budget period of the award, unless otherwise specified by the federal awarding agency or pass-through entity. Condition/Context: We noted instances where costs were charged to federal awards outside the period of performance with no evidence of approval by the federal agency as follows: • POE - For 5 of the 7 items tested, we noted costs were charged outside the period of performance. • RDC - For 3 of the 12 items tested, we noted costs were charged outside the period of performance. Questioned Costs: None greater than $25,000 per major program. Cause: Not aware of the requirements. Effect: Noncompliance with federal awards terms and conditions including 2 CFR Part 200 Uniform Guidance. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management incorporate review control procedures to ensure all costs are approved, within the period of performance, and charged in accordance with UG. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education (POE) Research and Development Cluster (RDC) Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 (POE) 15.608 and 15.945 (RDC) Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 (POE) September 2019 through January 2024 (RDC) Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: 2 CFR 2022.1 Definitions – Period of Performance means the total estimated time interval between the start of an initial federal award and the planned end date, which may include one or more funded portions, or budget periods. Identification of the period of performance in the federal award per § 200.211(b)(5) does not commit the awarding agency to fund the award beyond the currently approved budget period. 2 CFR 200.458 Pre-Awards Costs. Pre-award costs are those incurred prior to the effective date of the Federal award or subaward directly pursuant to the negotiation and in anticipation of the federal award where such costs are necessary for efficient and timely performance of the scope of work. Such costs are allowable only to the extent that they would have been allowable if incurred after the date of the federal award and only with the written approval of the federal awarding agency. If charged to the award, these costs must be charged to the initial budget period of the award, unless otherwise specified by the federal awarding agency or pass-through entity. Condition/Context: We noted instances where costs were charged to federal awards outside the period of performance with no evidence of approval by the federal agency as follows: • POE - For 5 of the 7 items tested, we noted costs were charged outside the period of performance. • RDC - For 3 of the 12 items tested, we noted costs were charged outside the period of performance. Questioned Costs: None greater than $25,000 per major program. Cause: Not aware of the requirements. Effect: Noncompliance with federal awards terms and conditions including 2 CFR Part 200 Uniform Guidance. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management incorporate review control procedures to ensure all costs are approved, within the period of performance, and charged in accordance with UG. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education (POE) Research and Development Cluster (RDC) Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 (POE) 15.608 and 15.945 (RDC) Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 (POE) September 2019 through January 2024 (RDC) Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: 2 CFR 2022.1 Definitions – Period of Performance means the total estimated time interval between the start of an initial federal award and the planned end date, which may include one or more funded portions, or budget periods. Identification of the period of performance in the federal award per § 200.211(b)(5) does not commit the awarding agency to fund the award beyond the currently approved budget period. 2 CFR 200.458 Pre-Awards Costs. Pre-award costs are those incurred prior to the effective date of the Federal award or subaward directly pursuant to the negotiation and in anticipation of the federal award where such costs are necessary for efficient and timely performance of the scope of work. Such costs are allowable only to the extent that they would have been allowable if incurred after the date of the federal award and only with the written approval of the federal awarding agency. If charged to the award, these costs must be charged to the initial budget period of the award, unless otherwise specified by the federal awarding agency or pass-through entity. Condition/Context: We noted instances where costs were charged to federal awards outside the period of performance with no evidence of approval by the federal agency as follows: • POE - For 5 of the 7 items tested, we noted costs were charged outside the period of performance. • RDC - For 3 of the 12 items tested, we noted costs were charged outside the period of performance. Questioned Costs: None greater than $25,000 per major program. Cause: Not aware of the requirements. Effect: Noncompliance with federal awards terms and conditions including 2 CFR Part 200 Uniform Guidance. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management incorporate review control procedures to ensure all costs are approved, within the period of performance, and charged in accordance with UG. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education (POE) Research and Development Cluster (RDC) Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 (POE) 15.608 and 15.945 (RDC) Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 (POE) September 2019 through January 2024 (RDC) Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: 2 CFR 2022.1 Definitions – Period of Performance means the total estimated time interval between the start of an initial federal award and the planned end date, which may include one or more funded portions, or budget periods. Identification of the period of performance in the federal award per § 200.211(b)(5) does not commit the awarding agency to fund the award beyond the currently approved budget period. 2 CFR 200.458 Pre-Awards Costs. Pre-award costs are those incurred prior to the effective date of the Federal award or subaward directly pursuant to the negotiation and in anticipation of the federal award where such costs are necessary for efficient and timely performance of the scope of work. Such costs are allowable only to the extent that they would have been allowable if incurred after the date of the federal award and only with the written approval of the federal awarding agency. If charged to the award, these costs must be charged to the initial budget period of the award, unless otherwise specified by the federal awarding agency or pass-through entity. Condition/Context: We noted instances where costs were charged to federal awards outside the period of performance with no evidence of approval by the federal agency as follows: • POE - For 5 of the 7 items tested, we noted costs were charged outside the period of performance. • RDC - For 3 of the 12 items tested, we noted costs were charged outside the period of performance. Questioned Costs: None greater than $25,000 per major program. Cause: Not aware of the requirements. Effect: Noncompliance with federal awards terms and conditions including 2 CFR Part 200 Uniform Guidance. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management incorporate review control procedures to ensure all costs are approved, within the period of performance, and charged in accordance with UG. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education (POE) Research and Development Cluster (RDC) Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 (POE) 15.608 and 15.945 (RDC) Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 (POE) September 2019 through January 2024 (RDC) Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: 2 CFR 2022.1 Definitions – Period of Performance means the total estimated time interval between the start of an initial federal award and the planned end date, which may include one or more funded portions, or budget periods. Identification of the period of performance in the federal award per § 200.211(b)(5) does not commit the awarding agency to fund the award beyond the currently approved budget period. 2 CFR 200.458 Pre-Awards Costs. Pre-award costs are those incurred prior to the effective date of the Federal award or subaward directly pursuant to the negotiation and in anticipation of the federal award where such costs are necessary for efficient and timely performance of the scope of work. Such costs are allowable only to the extent that they would have been allowable if incurred after the date of the federal award and only with the written approval of the federal awarding agency. If charged to the award, these costs must be charged to the initial budget period of the award, unless otherwise specified by the federal awarding agency or pass-through entity. Condition/Context: We noted instances where costs were charged to federal awards outside the period of performance with no evidence of approval by the federal agency as follows: • POE - For 5 of the 7 items tested, we noted costs were charged outside the period of performance. • RDC - For 3 of the 12 items tested, we noted costs were charged outside the period of performance. Questioned Costs: None greater than $25,000 per major program. Cause: Not aware of the requirements. Effect: Noncompliance with federal awards terms and conditions including 2 CFR Part 200 Uniform Guidance. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management incorporate review control procedures to ensure all costs are approved, within the period of performance, and charged in accordance with UG. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education (POE) Research and Development Cluster (RDC) Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 (POE) 15.608 and 15.945 (RDC) Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 (POE) September 2019 through January 2024 (RDC) Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: 2 CFR 2022.1 Definitions – Period of Performance means the total estimated time interval between the start of an initial federal award and the planned end date, which may include one or more funded portions, or budget periods. Identification of the period of performance in the federal award per § 200.211(b)(5) does not commit the awarding agency to fund the award beyond the currently approved budget period. 2 CFR 200.458 Pre-Awards Costs. Pre-award costs are those incurred prior to the effective date of the Federal award or subaward directly pursuant to the negotiation and in anticipation of the federal award where such costs are necessary for efficient and timely performance of the scope of work. Such costs are allowable only to the extent that they would have been allowable if incurred after the date of the federal award and only with the written approval of the federal awarding agency. If charged to the award, these costs must be charged to the initial budget period of the award, unless otherwise specified by the federal awarding agency or pass-through entity. Condition/Context: We noted instances where costs were charged to federal awards outside the period of performance with no evidence of approval by the federal agency as follows: • POE - For 5 of the 7 items tested, we noted costs were charged outside the period of performance. • RDC - For 3 of the 12 items tested, we noted costs were charged outside the period of performance. Questioned Costs: None greater than $25,000 per major program. Cause: Not aware of the requirements. Effect: Noncompliance with federal awards terms and conditions including 2 CFR Part 200 Uniform Guidance. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management incorporate review control procedures to ensure all costs are approved, within the period of performance, and charged in accordance with UG. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education (POE) Research and Development Cluster (RDC) Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 (POE) 15.608 and 15.945 (RDC) Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 (POE) September 2019 through January 2024 (RDC) Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: 2 CFR 2022.1 Definitions – Period of Performance means the total estimated time interval between the start of an initial federal award and the planned end date, which may include one or more funded portions, or budget periods. Identification of the period of performance in the federal award per § 200.211(b)(5) does not commit the awarding agency to fund the award beyond the currently approved budget period. 2 CFR 200.458 Pre-Awards Costs. Pre-award costs are those incurred prior to the effective date of the Federal award or subaward directly pursuant to the negotiation and in anticipation of the federal award where such costs are necessary for efficient and timely performance of the scope of work. Such costs are allowable only to the extent that they would have been allowable if incurred after the date of the federal award and only with the written approval of the federal awarding agency. If charged to the award, these costs must be charged to the initial budget period of the award, unless otherwise specified by the federal awarding agency or pass-through entity. Condition/Context: We noted instances where costs were charged to federal awards outside the period of performance with no evidence of approval by the federal agency as follows: • POE - For 5 of the 7 items tested, we noted costs were charged outside the period of performance. • RDC - For 3 of the 12 items tested, we noted costs were charged outside the period of performance. Questioned Costs: None greater than $25,000 per major program. Cause: Not aware of the requirements. Effect: Noncompliance with federal awards terms and conditions including 2 CFR Part 200 Uniform Guidance. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management incorporate review control procedures to ensure all costs are approved, within the period of performance, and charged in accordance with UG. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education (POE) Research and Development Cluster (RDC) Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 (POE) 15.608 and 15.945 (RDC) Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 (POE) September 2019 through January 2024 (RDC) Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: 2 CFR 2022.1 Definitions – Period of Performance means the total estimated time interval between the start of an initial federal award and the planned end date, which may include one or more funded portions, or budget periods. Identification of the period of performance in the federal award per § 200.211(b)(5) does not commit the awarding agency to fund the award beyond the currently approved budget period. 2 CFR 200.458 Pre-Awards Costs. Pre-award costs are those incurred prior to the effective date of the Federal award or subaward directly pursuant to the negotiation and in anticipation of the federal award where such costs are necessary for efficient and timely performance of the scope of work. Such costs are allowable only to the extent that they would have been allowable if incurred after the date of the federal award and only with the written approval of the federal awarding agency. If charged to the award, these costs must be charged to the initial budget period of the award, unless otherwise specified by the federal awarding agency or pass-through entity. Condition/Context: We noted instances where costs were charged to federal awards outside the period of performance with no evidence of approval by the federal agency as follows: • POE - For 5 of the 7 items tested, we noted costs were charged outside the period of performance. • RDC - For 3 of the 12 items tested, we noted costs were charged outside the period of performance. Questioned Costs: None greater than $25,000 per major program. Cause: Not aware of the requirements. Effect: Noncompliance with federal awards terms and conditions including 2 CFR Part 200 Uniform Guidance. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management incorporate review control procedures to ensure all costs are approved, within the period of performance, and charged in accordance with UG. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education (POE) Research and Development Cluster (RDC) Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 (POE) 15.608 and 15.945 (RDC) Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 (POE) September 2019 through January 2024 (RDC) Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: 2 CFR 2022.1 Definitions – Period of Performance means the total estimated time interval between the start of an initial federal award and the planned end date, which may include one or more funded portions, or budget periods. Identification of the period of performance in the federal award per § 200.211(b)(5) does not commit the awarding agency to fund the award beyond the currently approved budget period. 2 CFR 200.458 Pre-Awards Costs. Pre-award costs are those incurred prior to the effective date of the Federal award or subaward directly pursuant to the negotiation and in anticipation of the federal award where such costs are necessary for efficient and timely performance of the scope of work. Such costs are allowable only to the extent that they would have been allowable if incurred after the date of the federal award and only with the written approval of the federal awarding agency. If charged to the award, these costs must be charged to the initial budget period of the award, unless otherwise specified by the federal awarding agency or pass-through entity. Condition/Context: We noted instances where costs were charged to federal awards outside the period of performance with no evidence of approval by the federal agency as follows: • POE - For 5 of the 7 items tested, we noted costs were charged outside the period of performance. • RDC - For 3 of the 12 items tested, we noted costs were charged outside the period of performance. Questioned Costs: None greater than $25,000 per major program. Cause: Not aware of the requirements. Effect: Noncompliance with federal awards terms and conditions including 2 CFR Part 200 Uniform Guidance. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management incorporate review control procedures to ensure all costs are approved, within the period of performance, and charged in accordance with UG. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education (POE) Research and Development Cluster (RDC) Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 (POE) 15.608 and 15.945 (RDC) Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 (POE) September 2019 through January 2024 (RDC) Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: 2 CFR 2022.1 Definitions – Period of Performance means the total estimated time interval between the start of an initial federal award and the planned end date, which may include one or more funded portions, or budget periods. Identification of the period of performance in the federal award per § 200.211(b)(5) does not commit the awarding agency to fund the award beyond the currently approved budget period. 2 CFR 200.458 Pre-Awards Costs. Pre-award costs are those incurred prior to the effective date of the Federal award or subaward directly pursuant to the negotiation and in anticipation of the federal award where such costs are necessary for efficient and timely performance of the scope of work. Such costs are allowable only to the extent that they would have been allowable if incurred after the date of the federal award and only with the written approval of the federal awarding agency. If charged to the award, these costs must be charged to the initial budget period of the award, unless otherwise specified by the federal awarding agency or pass-through entity. Condition/Context: We noted instances where costs were charged to federal awards outside the period of performance with no evidence of approval by the federal agency as follows: • POE - For 5 of the 7 items tested, we noted costs were charged outside the period of performance. • RDC - For 3 of the 12 items tested, we noted costs were charged outside the period of performance. Questioned Costs: None greater than $25,000 per major program. Cause: Not aware of the requirements. Effect: Noncompliance with federal awards terms and conditions including 2 CFR Part 200 Uniform Guidance. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management incorporate review control procedures to ensure all costs are approved, within the period of performance, and charged in accordance with UG. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education (POE) Research and Development Cluster (RDC) Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 (POE) 15.608 and 15.945 (RDC) Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 (POE) September 2019 through January 2024 (RDC) Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: 2 CFR 2022.1 Definitions – Period of Performance means the total estimated time interval between the start of an initial federal award and the planned end date, which may include one or more funded portions, or budget periods. Identification of the period of performance in the federal award per § 200.211(b)(5) does not commit the awarding agency to fund the award beyond the currently approved budget period. 2 CFR 200.458 Pre-Awards Costs. Pre-award costs are those incurred prior to the effective date of the Federal award or subaward directly pursuant to the negotiation and in anticipation of the federal award where such costs are necessary for efficient and timely performance of the scope of work. Such costs are allowable only to the extent that they would have been allowable if incurred after the date of the federal award and only with the written approval of the federal awarding agency. If charged to the award, these costs must be charged to the initial budget period of the award, unless otherwise specified by the federal awarding agency or pass-through entity. Condition/Context: We noted instances where costs were charged to federal awards outside the period of performance with no evidence of approval by the federal agency as follows: • POE - For 5 of the 7 items tested, we noted costs were charged outside the period of performance. • RDC - For 3 of the 12 items tested, we noted costs were charged outside the period of performance. Questioned Costs: None greater than $25,000 per major program. Cause: Not aware of the requirements. Effect: Noncompliance with federal awards terms and conditions including 2 CFR Part 200 Uniform Guidance. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management incorporate review control procedures to ensure all costs are approved, within the period of performance, and charged in accordance with UG. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education (POE) Research and Development Cluster (RDC) Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 (POE) 15.608 and 15.945 (RDC) Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 (POE) September 2019 through January 2024 (RDC) Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: 2 CFR 2022.1 Definitions – Period of Performance means the total estimated time interval between the start of an initial federal award and the planned end date, which may include one or more funded portions, or budget periods. Identification of the period of performance in the federal award per § 200.211(b)(5) does not commit the awarding agency to fund the award beyond the currently approved budget period. 2 CFR 200.458 Pre-Awards Costs. Pre-award costs are those incurred prior to the effective date of the Federal award or subaward directly pursuant to the negotiation and in anticipation of the federal award where such costs are necessary for efficient and timely performance of the scope of work. Such costs are allowable only to the extent that they would have been allowable if incurred after the date of the federal award and only with the written approval of the federal awarding agency. If charged to the award, these costs must be charged to the initial budget period of the award, unless otherwise specified by the federal awarding agency or pass-through entity. Condition/Context: We noted instances where costs were charged to federal awards outside the period of performance with no evidence of approval by the federal agency as follows: • POE - For 5 of the 7 items tested, we noted costs were charged outside the period of performance. • RDC - For 3 of the 12 items tested, we noted costs were charged outside the period of performance. Questioned Costs: None greater than $25,000 per major program. Cause: Not aware of the requirements. Effect: Noncompliance with federal awards terms and conditions including 2 CFR Part 200 Uniform Guidance. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management incorporate review control procedures to ensure all costs are approved, within the period of performance, and charged in accordance with UG. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education (POE) Research and Development Cluster (RDC) Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 (POE) 15.608 and 15.945 (RDC) Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 (POE) September 2019 through January 2024 (RDC) Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: 2 CFR 2022.1 Definitions – Period of Performance means the total estimated time interval between the start of an initial federal award and the planned end date, which may include one or more funded portions, or budget periods. Identification of the period of performance in the federal award per § 200.211(b)(5) does not commit the awarding agency to fund the award beyond the currently approved budget period. 2 CFR 200.458 Pre-Awards Costs. Pre-award costs are those incurred prior to the effective date of the Federal award or subaward directly pursuant to the negotiation and in anticipation of the federal award where such costs are necessary for efficient and timely performance of the scope of work. Such costs are allowable only to the extent that they would have been allowable if incurred after the date of the federal award and only with the written approval of the federal awarding agency. If charged to the award, these costs must be charged to the initial budget period of the award, unless otherwise specified by the federal awarding agency or pass-through entity. Condition/Context: We noted instances where costs were charged to federal awards outside the period of performance with no evidence of approval by the federal agency as follows: • POE - For 5 of the 7 items tested, we noted costs were charged outside the period of performance. • RDC - For 3 of the 12 items tested, we noted costs were charged outside the period of performance. Questioned Costs: None greater than $25,000 per major program. Cause: Not aware of the requirements. Effect: Noncompliance with federal awards terms and conditions including 2 CFR Part 200 Uniform Guidance. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management incorporate review control procedures to ensure all costs are approved, within the period of performance, and charged in accordance with UG. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education (POE) Research and Development Cluster (RDC) Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 (POE) 15.608 and 15.945 (RDC) Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 (POE) September 2019 through January 2024 (RDC) Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: 2 CFR 2022.1 Definitions – Period of Performance means the total estimated time interval between the start of an initial federal award and the planned end date, which may include one or more funded portions, or budget periods. Identification of the period of performance in the federal award per § 200.211(b)(5) does not commit the awarding agency to fund the award beyond the currently approved budget period. 2 CFR 200.458 Pre-Awards Costs. Pre-award costs are those incurred prior to the effective date of the Federal award or subaward directly pursuant to the negotiation and in anticipation of the federal award where such costs are necessary for efficient and timely performance of the scope of work. Such costs are allowable only to the extent that they would have been allowable if incurred after the date of the federal award and only with the written approval of the federal awarding agency. If charged to the award, these costs must be charged to the initial budget period of the award, unless otherwise specified by the federal awarding agency or pass-through entity. Condition/Context: We noted instances where costs were charged to federal awards outside the period of performance with no evidence of approval by the federal agency as follows: • POE - For 5 of the 7 items tested, we noted costs were charged outside the period of performance. • RDC - For 3 of the 12 items tested, we noted costs were charged outside the period of performance. Questioned Costs: None greater than $25,000 per major program. Cause: Not aware of the requirements. Effect: Noncompliance with federal awards terms and conditions including 2 CFR Part 200 Uniform Guidance. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management incorporate review control procedures to ensure all costs are approved, within the period of performance, and charged in accordance with UG. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education (POE) Research and Development Cluster (RDC) Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 (POE) 15.608 and 15.945 (RDC) Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 (POE) September 2019 through January 2024 (RDC) Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: 2 CFR 2022.1 Definitions – Period of Performance means the total estimated time interval between the start of an initial federal award and the planned end date, which may include one or more funded portions, or budget periods. Identification of the period of performance in the federal award per § 200.211(b)(5) does not commit the awarding agency to fund the award beyond the currently approved budget period. 2 CFR 200.458 Pre-Awards Costs. Pre-award costs are those incurred prior to the effective date of the Federal award or subaward directly pursuant to the negotiation and in anticipation of the federal award where such costs are necessary for efficient and timely performance of the scope of work. Such costs are allowable only to the extent that they would have been allowable if incurred after the date of the federal award and only with the written approval of the federal awarding agency. If charged to the award, these costs must be charged to the initial budget period of the award, unless otherwise specified by the federal awarding agency or pass-through entity. Condition/Context: We noted instances where costs were charged to federal awards outside the period of performance with no evidence of approval by the federal agency as follows: • POE - For 5 of the 7 items tested, we noted costs were charged outside the period of performance. • RDC - For 3 of the 12 items tested, we noted costs were charged outside the period of performance. Questioned Costs: None greater than $25,000 per major program. Cause: Not aware of the requirements. Effect: Noncompliance with federal awards terms and conditions including 2 CFR Part 200 Uniform Guidance. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management incorporate review control procedures to ensure all costs are approved, within the period of performance, and charged in accordance with UG. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education (POE) Research and Development Cluster (RDC) Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 (POE) 15.608 and 15.945 (RDC) Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 (POE) September 2019 through January 2024 (RDC) Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: 2 CFR 2022.1 Definitions – Period of Performance means the total estimated time interval between the start of an initial federal award and the planned end date, which may include one or more funded portions, or budget periods. Identification of the period of performance in the federal award per § 200.211(b)(5) does not commit the awarding agency to fund the award beyond the currently approved budget period. 2 CFR 200.458 Pre-Awards Costs. Pre-award costs are those incurred prior to the effective date of the Federal award or subaward directly pursuant to the negotiation and in anticipation of the federal award where such costs are necessary for efficient and timely performance of the scope of work. Such costs are allowable only to the extent that they would have been allowable if incurred after the date of the federal award and only with the written approval of the federal awarding agency. If charged to the award, these costs must be charged to the initial budget period of the award, unless otherwise specified by the federal awarding agency or pass-through entity. Condition/Context: We noted instances where costs were charged to federal awards outside the period of performance with no evidence of approval by the federal agency as follows: • POE - For 5 of the 7 items tested, we noted costs were charged outside the period of performance. • RDC - For 3 of the 12 items tested, we noted costs were charged outside the period of performance. Questioned Costs: None greater than $25,000 per major program. Cause: Not aware of the requirements. Effect: Noncompliance with federal awards terms and conditions including 2 CFR Part 200 Uniform Guidance. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management incorporate review control procedures to ensure all costs are approved, within the period of performance, and charged in accordance with UG. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education (POE) Research and Development Cluster (RDC) Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 (POE) 15.608 and 15.945 (RDC) Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 (POE) September 2019 through January 2024 (RDC) Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: 2 CFR 2022.1 Definitions – Period of Performance means the total estimated time interval between the start of an initial federal award and the planned end date, which may include one or more funded portions, or budget periods. Identification of the period of performance in the federal award per § 200.211(b)(5) does not commit the awarding agency to fund the award beyond the currently approved budget period. 2 CFR 200.458 Pre-Awards Costs. Pre-award costs are those incurred prior to the effective date of the Federal award or subaward directly pursuant to the negotiation and in anticipation of the federal award where such costs are necessary for efficient and timely performance of the scope of work. Such costs are allowable only to the extent that they would have been allowable if incurred after the date of the federal award and only with the written approval of the federal awarding agency. If charged to the award, these costs must be charged to the initial budget period of the award, unless otherwise specified by the federal awarding agency or pass-through entity. Condition/Context: We noted instances where costs were charged to federal awards outside the period of performance with no evidence of approval by the federal agency as follows: • POE - For 5 of the 7 items tested, we noted costs were charged outside the period of performance. • RDC - For 3 of the 12 items tested, we noted costs were charged outside the period of performance. Questioned Costs: None greater than $25,000 per major program. Cause: Not aware of the requirements. Effect: Noncompliance with federal awards terms and conditions including 2 CFR Part 200 Uniform Guidance. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management incorporate review control procedures to ensure all costs are approved, within the period of performance, and charged in accordance with UG. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education (POE) Research and Development Cluster (RDC) Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 (POE) 15.608 and 15.945 (RDC) Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 (POE) September 2019 through January 2024 (RDC) Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: 2 CFR 2022.1 Definitions – Period of Performance means the total estimated time interval between the start of an initial federal award and the planned end date, which may include one or more funded portions, or budget periods. Identification of the period of performance in the federal award per § 200.211(b)(5) does not commit the awarding agency to fund the award beyond the currently approved budget period. 2 CFR 200.458 Pre-Awards Costs. Pre-award costs are those incurred prior to the effective date of the Federal award or subaward directly pursuant to the negotiation and in anticipation of the federal award where such costs are necessary for efficient and timely performance of the scope of work. Such costs are allowable only to the extent that they would have been allowable if incurred after the date of the federal award and only with the written approval of the federal awarding agency. If charged to the award, these costs must be charged to the initial budget period of the award, unless otherwise specified by the federal awarding agency or pass-through entity. Condition/Context: We noted instances where costs were charged to federal awards outside the period of performance with no evidence of approval by the federal agency as follows: • POE - For 5 of the 7 items tested, we noted costs were charged outside the period of performance. • RDC - For 3 of the 12 items tested, we noted costs were charged outside the period of performance. Questioned Costs: None greater than $25,000 per major program. Cause: Not aware of the requirements. Effect: Noncompliance with federal awards terms and conditions including 2 CFR Part 200 Uniform Guidance. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management incorporate review control procedures to ensure all costs are approved, within the period of performance, and charged in accordance with UG. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education (POE) Research and Development Cluster (RDC) Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 (POE) 15.608 and 15.945 (RDC) Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 (POE) September 2019 through January 2024 (RDC) Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: 2 CFR 2022.1 Definitions – Period of Performance means the total estimated time interval between the start of an initial federal award and the planned end date, which may include one or more funded portions, or budget periods. Identification of the period of performance in the federal award per § 200.211(b)(5) does not commit the awarding agency to fund the award beyond the currently approved budget period. 2 CFR 200.458 Pre-Awards Costs. Pre-award costs are those incurred prior to the effective date of the Federal award or subaward directly pursuant to the negotiation and in anticipation of the federal award where such costs are necessary for efficient and timely performance of the scope of work. Such costs are allowable only to the extent that they would have been allowable if incurred after the date of the federal award and only with the written approval of the federal awarding agency. If charged to the award, these costs must be charged to the initial budget period of the award, unless otherwise specified by the federal awarding agency or pass-through entity. Condition/Context: We noted instances where costs were charged to federal awards outside the period of performance with no evidence of approval by the federal agency as follows: • POE - For 5 of the 7 items tested, we noted costs were charged outside the period of performance. • RDC - For 3 of the 12 items tested, we noted costs were charged outside the period of performance. Questioned Costs: None greater than $25,000 per major program. Cause: Not aware of the requirements. Effect: Noncompliance with federal awards terms and conditions including 2 CFR Part 200 Uniform Guidance. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management incorporate review control procedures to ensure all costs are approved, within the period of performance, and charged in accordance with UG. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education (POE) Research and Development Cluster (RDC) Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 (POE) 15.608 and 15.945 (RDC) Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 (POE) September 2019 through January 2024 (RDC) Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: 2 CFR 2022.1 Definitions – Period of Performance means the total estimated time interval between the start of an initial federal award and the planned end date, which may include one or more funded portions, or budget periods. Identification of the period of performance in the federal award per § 200.211(b)(5) does not commit the awarding agency to fund the award beyond the currently approved budget period. 2 CFR 200.458 Pre-Awards Costs. Pre-award costs are those incurred prior to the effective date of the Federal award or subaward directly pursuant to the negotiation and in anticipation of the federal award where such costs are necessary for efficient and timely performance of the scope of work. Such costs are allowable only to the extent that they would have been allowable if incurred after the date of the federal award and only with the written approval of the federal awarding agency. If charged to the award, these costs must be charged to the initial budget period of the award, unless otherwise specified by the federal awarding agency or pass-through entity. Condition/Context: We noted instances where costs were charged to federal awards outside the period of performance with no evidence of approval by the federal agency as follows: • POE - For 5 of the 7 items tested, we noted costs were charged outside the period of performance. • RDC - For 3 of the 12 items tested, we noted costs were charged outside the period of performance. Questioned Costs: None greater than $25,000 per major program. Cause: Not aware of the requirements. Effect: Noncompliance with federal awards terms and conditions including 2 CFR Part 200 Uniform Guidance. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management incorporate review control procedures to ensure all costs are approved, within the period of performance, and charged in accordance with UG. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Material Weakness in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: Management should have controls over federal reporting and special test and provisions requirements to ensure reports are submitted to the federal agency as required in the terms and conditions of the awards. Condition/Context: Annual reports were not completed and submitted to the federal agency as required by the terms and conditions of the award and there is no effective internal control to ensure these reports are completed and submitted timely. Therefore, we were unable to obtain evidence from these reports if key personnel were involved in the program. Questioned Costs: None. Cause: Due to staffing resource constraints. Effect: Noncompliance with terms and conditions of the federal awards and UG. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management review its current processes and procedures to ensure reports are submitted timely, reviewed, and ensure evidence is retained to support the compilation, review, and submission of the reports and ensure compliance with UG. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Material Weakness in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: Management should have controls over federal reporting and special test and provisions requirements to ensure reports are submitted to the federal agency as required in the terms and conditions of the awards. Condition/Context: Annual reports were not completed and submitted to the federal agency as required by the terms and conditions of the award and there is no effective internal control to ensure these reports are completed and submitted timely. Therefore, we were unable to obtain evidence from these reports if key personnel were involved in the program. Questioned Costs: None. Cause: Due to staffing resource constraints. Effect: Noncompliance with terms and conditions of the federal awards and UG. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management review its current processes and procedures to ensure reports are submitted timely, reviewed, and ensure evidence is retained to support the compilation, review, and submission of the reports and ensure compliance with UG. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Material Weakness in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: Management should have controls over federal reporting and special test and provisions requirements to ensure reports are submitted to the federal agency as required in the terms and conditions of the awards. Condition/Context: Annual reports were not completed and submitted to the federal agency as required by the terms and conditions of the award and there is no effective internal control to ensure these reports are completed and submitted timely. Therefore, we were unable to obtain evidence from these reports if key personnel were involved in the program. Questioned Costs: None. Cause: Due to staffing resource constraints. Effect: Noncompliance with terms and conditions of the federal awards and UG. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management review its current processes and procedures to ensure reports are submitted timely, reviewed, and ensure evidence is retained to support the compilation, review, and submission of the reports and ensure compliance with UG. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Material Weakness in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: Management should have controls over federal reporting and special test and provisions requirements to ensure reports are submitted to the federal agency as required in the terms and conditions of the awards. Condition/Context: Annual reports were not completed and submitted to the federal agency as required by the terms and conditions of the award and there is no effective internal control to ensure these reports are completed and submitted timely. Therefore, we were unable to obtain evidence from these reports if key personnel were involved in the program. Questioned Costs: None. Cause: Due to staffing resource constraints. Effect: Noncompliance with terms and conditions of the federal awards and UG. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management review its current processes and procedures to ensure reports are submitted timely, reviewed, and ensure evidence is retained to support the compilation, review, and submission of the reports and ensure compliance with UG. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Material Weakness in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: Management should have controls over federal reporting and special test and provisions requirements to ensure reports are submitted to the federal agency as required in the terms and conditions of the awards. Condition/Context: Annual reports were not completed and submitted to the federal agency as required by the terms and conditions of the award and there is no effective internal control to ensure these reports are completed and submitted timely. Therefore, we were unable to obtain evidence from these reports if key personnel were involved in the program. Questioned Costs: None. Cause: Due to staffing resource constraints. Effect: Noncompliance with terms and conditions of the federal awards and UG. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management review its current processes and procedures to ensure reports are submitted timely, reviewed, and ensure evidence is retained to support the compilation, review, and submission of the reports and ensure compliance with UG. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Material Weakness in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: Management should have controls over federal reporting and special test and provisions requirements to ensure reports are submitted to the federal agency as required in the terms and conditions of the awards. Condition/Context: Annual reports were not completed and submitted to the federal agency as required by the terms and conditions of the award and there is no effective internal control to ensure these reports are completed and submitted timely. Therefore, we were unable to obtain evidence from these reports if key personnel were involved in the program. Questioned Costs: None. Cause: Due to staffing resource constraints. Effect: Noncompliance with terms and conditions of the federal awards and UG. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management review its current processes and procedures to ensure reports are submitted timely, reviewed, and ensure evidence is retained to support the compilation, review, and submission of the reports and ensure compliance with UG. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education (POE) Research and Development Cluster (RDC) Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 (POE) 15.608 and 15.945 (RDC) Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 (POE) September 2019 through January 2024 (RDC) Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: In accordance with 2 CFR 200.414 Indirect Costs, any nonfederal entity that does not have current negotiated rate and elects the 10% de minimis rate must be applied to modified total direct costs (MTDC) indefinitely and in accordance with 2 CFR 200 UG, costs of compensation are allowable to the extent that they satisfy the specific requirements of the UG, and that the total compensation for individual employees: (1) Is reasonable for the services rendered and conforms to the established written policy of the nonfederal entity consistently applied to both federal and nonfederal activities; (2) Follows an appointment made in accordance with a nonfederal entity's laws and/or rules or written policies and meets the requirements of federal statute, where applicable; and (3) Is determined and supported as provided in accordance with the UG, Standards for Documentation of Personnel Expenses, when applicable. Charges to federal awards for salaries and wages must be based on records that accurately reflect the work performed. These records must: (i) Be supported by a system of internal control which provides reasonable assurance that the charges are accurate, allowable, and properly allocated; (ii) Be incorporated into the official records of the non-Federal entity; (iii) Reasonably reflect the total activity for which the employee is compensated by the nonfederal entity, (iv) Encompass both federally assisted and all other activities compensated by the nonfederal entity on an integrated basis, but may include the use of subsidiary records as defined in the nonfederal entity's written policy; (v) Comply with the established accounting policies and practices of the nonfederal entity; and (vii) Support the distribution of the employee's salary or wages among specific activities or cost objectives if the employee works on more than one Federal award; a federal award and nonfederal award; an indirect cost activity and a direct cost activity; two or more indirect activities which are allocated using different allocation bases; or an unallowable activity and a direct or indirect cost activity. Condition/Context: We noted instances where an indirect rate of 17.5 percent was charged to federal awards instead of the 10 percent de minimis rate approved in the budgets. Additionally, we were unable to obtain evidence of federal approval of a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages as follows: • POE & RDC - For 4 of the 4 months tested, 17.5 percent of indirect rate was charged to various awards instead of the 10 percent de minimis rate. • POE - For 12 of the 36 items tested, we noted a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages. • RDC - For 22 of the 22 items tested, we noted a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages. Questioned Costs: None greater than $25,000 per major program. Cause: Not aware of the requirements. Effect: Failure to comply with 2 CFR 200 can lead to improper payments charged to programs. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management incorporate review control procedures to ensure the 10 percent de minimis rate is properly applied in accordance with UG and ensure appropriate costs are charged to the awards consistent with their federally approved budgets. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education (POE) Research and Development Cluster (RDC) Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 (POE) 15.608 and 15.945 (RDC) Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 (POE) September 2019 through January 2024 (RDC) Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: In accordance with 2 CFR 200.414 Indirect Costs, any nonfederal entity that does not have current negotiated rate and elects the 10% de minimis rate must be applied to modified total direct costs (MTDC) indefinitely and in accordance with 2 CFR 200 UG, costs of compensation are allowable to the extent that they satisfy the specific requirements of the UG, and that the total compensation for individual employees: (1) Is reasonable for the services rendered and conforms to the established written policy of the nonfederal entity consistently applied to both federal and nonfederal activities; (2) Follows an appointment made in accordance with a nonfederal entity's laws and/or rules or written policies and meets the requirements of federal statute, where applicable; and (3) Is determined and supported as provided in accordance with the UG, Standards for Documentation of Personnel Expenses, when applicable. Charges to federal awards for salaries and wages must be based on records that accurately reflect the work performed. These records must: (i) Be supported by a system of internal control which provides reasonable assurance that the charges are accurate, allowable, and properly allocated; (ii) Be incorporated into the official records of the non-Federal entity; (iii) Reasonably reflect the total activity for which the employee is compensated by the nonfederal entity, (iv) Encompass both federally assisted and all other activities compensated by the nonfederal entity on an integrated basis, but may include the use of subsidiary records as defined in the nonfederal entity's written policy; (v) Comply with the established accounting policies and practices of the nonfederal entity; and (vii) Support the distribution of the employee's salary or wages among specific activities or cost objectives if the employee works on more than one Federal award; a federal award and nonfederal award; an indirect cost activity and a direct cost activity; two or more indirect activities which are allocated using different allocation bases; or an unallowable activity and a direct or indirect cost activity. Condition/Context: We noted instances where an indirect rate of 17.5 percent was charged to federal awards instead of the 10 percent de minimis rate approved in the budgets. Additionally, we were unable to obtain evidence of federal approval of a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages as follows: • POE & RDC - For 4 of the 4 months tested, 17.5 percent of indirect rate was charged to various awards instead of the 10 percent de minimis rate. • POE - For 12 of the 36 items tested, we noted a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages. • RDC - For 22 of the 22 items tested, we noted a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages. Questioned Costs: None greater than $25,000 per major program. Cause: Not aware of the requirements. Effect: Failure to comply with 2 CFR 200 can lead to improper payments charged to programs. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management incorporate review control procedures to ensure the 10 percent de minimis rate is properly applied in accordance with UG and ensure appropriate costs are charged to the awards consistent with their federally approved budgets. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education (POE) Research and Development Cluster (RDC) Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 (POE) 15.608 and 15.945 (RDC) Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 (POE) September 2019 through January 2024 (RDC) Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: In accordance with 2 CFR 200.414 Indirect Costs, any nonfederal entity that does not have current negotiated rate and elects the 10% de minimis rate must be applied to modified total direct costs (MTDC) indefinitely and in accordance with 2 CFR 200 UG, costs of compensation are allowable to the extent that they satisfy the specific requirements of the UG, and that the total compensation for individual employees: (1) Is reasonable for the services rendered and conforms to the established written policy of the nonfederal entity consistently applied to both federal and nonfederal activities; (2) Follows an appointment made in accordance with a nonfederal entity's laws and/or rules or written policies and meets the requirements of federal statute, where applicable; and (3) Is determined and supported as provided in accordance with the UG, Standards for Documentation of Personnel Expenses, when applicable. Charges to federal awards for salaries and wages must be based on records that accurately reflect the work performed. These records must: (i) Be supported by a system of internal control which provides reasonable assurance that the charges are accurate, allowable, and properly allocated; (ii) Be incorporated into the official records of the non-Federal entity; (iii) Reasonably reflect the total activity for which the employee is compensated by the nonfederal entity, (iv) Encompass both federally assisted and all other activities compensated by the nonfederal entity on an integrated basis, but may include the use of subsidiary records as defined in the nonfederal entity's written policy; (v) Comply with the established accounting policies and practices of the nonfederal entity; and (vii) Support the distribution of the employee's salary or wages among specific activities or cost objectives if the employee works on more than one Federal award; a federal award and nonfederal award; an indirect cost activity and a direct cost activity; two or more indirect activities which are allocated using different allocation bases; or an unallowable activity and a direct or indirect cost activity. Condition/Context: We noted instances where an indirect rate of 17.5 percent was charged to federal awards instead of the 10 percent de minimis rate approved in the budgets. Additionally, we were unable to obtain evidence of federal approval of a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages as follows: • POE & RDC - For 4 of the 4 months tested, 17.5 percent of indirect rate was charged to various awards instead of the 10 percent de minimis rate. • POE - For 12 of the 36 items tested, we noted a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages. • RDC - For 22 of the 22 items tested, we noted a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages. Questioned Costs: None greater than $25,000 per major program. Cause: Not aware of the requirements. Effect: Failure to comply with 2 CFR 200 can lead to improper payments charged to programs. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management incorporate review control procedures to ensure the 10 percent de minimis rate is properly applied in accordance with UG and ensure appropriate costs are charged to the awards consistent with their federally approved budgets. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education (POE) Research and Development Cluster (RDC) Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 (POE) 15.608 and 15.945 (RDC) Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 (POE) September 2019 through January 2024 (RDC) Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: In accordance with 2 CFR 200.414 Indirect Costs, any nonfederal entity that does not have current negotiated rate and elects the 10% de minimis rate must be applied to modified total direct costs (MTDC) indefinitely and in accordance with 2 CFR 200 UG, costs of compensation are allowable to the extent that they satisfy the specific requirements of the UG, and that the total compensation for individual employees: (1) Is reasonable for the services rendered and conforms to the established written policy of the nonfederal entity consistently applied to both federal and nonfederal activities; (2) Follows an appointment made in accordance with a nonfederal entity's laws and/or rules or written policies and meets the requirements of federal statute, where applicable; and (3) Is determined and supported as provided in accordance with the UG, Standards for Documentation of Personnel Expenses, when applicable. Charges to federal awards for salaries and wages must be based on records that accurately reflect the work performed. These records must: (i) Be supported by a system of internal control which provides reasonable assurance that the charges are accurate, allowable, and properly allocated; (ii) Be incorporated into the official records of the non-Federal entity; (iii) Reasonably reflect the total activity for which the employee is compensated by the nonfederal entity, (iv) Encompass both federally assisted and all other activities compensated by the nonfederal entity on an integrated basis, but may include the use of subsidiary records as defined in the nonfederal entity's written policy; (v) Comply with the established accounting policies and practices of the nonfederal entity; and (vii) Support the distribution of the employee's salary or wages among specific activities or cost objectives if the employee works on more than one Federal award; a federal award and nonfederal award; an indirect cost activity and a direct cost activity; two or more indirect activities which are allocated using different allocation bases; or an unallowable activity and a direct or indirect cost activity. Condition/Context: We noted instances where an indirect rate of 17.5 percent was charged to federal awards instead of the 10 percent de minimis rate approved in the budgets. Additionally, we were unable to obtain evidence of federal approval of a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages as follows: • POE & RDC - For 4 of the 4 months tested, 17.5 percent of indirect rate was charged to various awards instead of the 10 percent de minimis rate. • POE - For 12 of the 36 items tested, we noted a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages. • RDC - For 22 of the 22 items tested, we noted a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages. Questioned Costs: None greater than $25,000 per major program. Cause: Not aware of the requirements. Effect: Failure to comply with 2 CFR 200 can lead to improper payments charged to programs. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management incorporate review control procedures to ensure the 10 percent de minimis rate is properly applied in accordance with UG and ensure appropriate costs are charged to the awards consistent with their federally approved budgets. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education (POE) Research and Development Cluster (RDC) Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 (POE) 15.608 and 15.945 (RDC) Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 (POE) September 2019 through January 2024 (RDC) Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: In accordance with 2 CFR 200.414 Indirect Costs, any nonfederal entity that does not have current negotiated rate and elects the 10% de minimis rate must be applied to modified total direct costs (MTDC) indefinitely and in accordance with 2 CFR 200 UG, costs of compensation are allowable to the extent that they satisfy the specific requirements of the UG, and that the total compensation for individual employees: (1) Is reasonable for the services rendered and conforms to the established written policy of the nonfederal entity consistently applied to both federal and nonfederal activities; (2) Follows an appointment made in accordance with a nonfederal entity's laws and/or rules or written policies and meets the requirements of federal statute, where applicable; and (3) Is determined and supported as provided in accordance with the UG, Standards for Documentation of Personnel Expenses, when applicable. Charges to federal awards for salaries and wages must be based on records that accurately reflect the work performed. These records must: (i) Be supported by a system of internal control which provides reasonable assurance that the charges are accurate, allowable, and properly allocated; (ii) Be incorporated into the official records of the non-Federal entity; (iii) Reasonably reflect the total activity for which the employee is compensated by the nonfederal entity, (iv) Encompass both federally assisted and all other activities compensated by the nonfederal entity on an integrated basis, but may include the use of subsidiary records as defined in the nonfederal entity's written policy; (v) Comply with the established accounting policies and practices of the nonfederal entity; and (vii) Support the distribution of the employee's salary or wages among specific activities or cost objectives if the employee works on more than one Federal award; a federal award and nonfederal award; an indirect cost activity and a direct cost activity; two or more indirect activities which are allocated using different allocation bases; or an unallowable activity and a direct or indirect cost activity. Condition/Context: We noted instances where an indirect rate of 17.5 percent was charged to federal awards instead of the 10 percent de minimis rate approved in the budgets. Additionally, we were unable to obtain evidence of federal approval of a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages as follows: • POE & RDC - For 4 of the 4 months tested, 17.5 percent of indirect rate was charged to various awards instead of the 10 percent de minimis rate. • POE - For 12 of the 36 items tested, we noted a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages. • RDC - For 22 of the 22 items tested, we noted a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages. Questioned Costs: None greater than $25,000 per major program. Cause: Not aware of the requirements. Effect: Failure to comply with 2 CFR 200 can lead to improper payments charged to programs. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management incorporate review control procedures to ensure the 10 percent de minimis rate is properly applied in accordance with UG and ensure appropriate costs are charged to the awards consistent with their federally approved budgets. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education (POE) Research and Development Cluster (RDC) Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 (POE) 15.608 and 15.945 (RDC) Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 (POE) September 2019 through January 2024 (RDC) Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: In accordance with 2 CFR 200.414 Indirect Costs, any nonfederal entity that does not have current negotiated rate and elects the 10% de minimis rate must be applied to modified total direct costs (MTDC) indefinitely and in accordance with 2 CFR 200 UG, costs of compensation are allowable to the extent that they satisfy the specific requirements of the UG, and that the total compensation for individual employees: (1) Is reasonable for the services rendered and conforms to the established written policy of the nonfederal entity consistently applied to both federal and nonfederal activities; (2) Follows an appointment made in accordance with a nonfederal entity's laws and/or rules or written policies and meets the requirements of federal statute, where applicable; and (3) Is determined and supported as provided in accordance with the UG, Standards for Documentation of Personnel Expenses, when applicable. Charges to federal awards for salaries and wages must be based on records that accurately reflect the work performed. These records must: (i) Be supported by a system of internal control which provides reasonable assurance that the charges are accurate, allowable, and properly allocated; (ii) Be incorporated into the official records of the non-Federal entity; (iii) Reasonably reflect the total activity for which the employee is compensated by the nonfederal entity, (iv) Encompass both federally assisted and all other activities compensated by the nonfederal entity on an integrated basis, but may include the use of subsidiary records as defined in the nonfederal entity's written policy; (v) Comply with the established accounting policies and practices of the nonfederal entity; and (vii) Support the distribution of the employee's salary or wages among specific activities or cost objectives if the employee works on more than one Federal award; a federal award and nonfederal award; an indirect cost activity and a direct cost activity; two or more indirect activities which are allocated using different allocation bases; or an unallowable activity and a direct or indirect cost activity. Condition/Context: We noted instances where an indirect rate of 17.5 percent was charged to federal awards instead of the 10 percent de minimis rate approved in the budgets. Additionally, we were unable to obtain evidence of federal approval of a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages as follows: • POE & RDC - For 4 of the 4 months tested, 17.5 percent of indirect rate was charged to various awards instead of the 10 percent de minimis rate. • POE - For 12 of the 36 items tested, we noted a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages. • RDC - For 22 of the 22 items tested, we noted a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages. Questioned Costs: None greater than $25,000 per major program. Cause: Not aware of the requirements. Effect: Failure to comply with 2 CFR 200 can lead to improper payments charged to programs. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management incorporate review control procedures to ensure the 10 percent de minimis rate is properly applied in accordance with UG and ensure appropriate costs are charged to the awards consistent with their federally approved budgets. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education (POE) Research and Development Cluster (RDC) Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 (POE) 15.608 and 15.945 (RDC) Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 (POE) September 2019 through January 2024 (RDC) Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: In accordance with 2 CFR 200.414 Indirect Costs, any nonfederal entity that does not have current negotiated rate and elects the 10% de minimis rate must be applied to modified total direct costs (MTDC) indefinitely and in accordance with 2 CFR 200 UG, costs of compensation are allowable to the extent that they satisfy the specific requirements of the UG, and that the total compensation for individual employees: (1) Is reasonable for the services rendered and conforms to the established written policy of the nonfederal entity consistently applied to both federal and nonfederal activities; (2) Follows an appointment made in accordance with a nonfederal entity's laws and/or rules or written policies and meets the requirements of federal statute, where applicable; and (3) Is determined and supported as provided in accordance with the UG, Standards for Documentation of Personnel Expenses, when applicable. Charges to federal awards for salaries and wages must be based on records that accurately reflect the work performed. These records must: (i) Be supported by a system of internal control which provides reasonable assurance that the charges are accurate, allowable, and properly allocated; (ii) Be incorporated into the official records of the non-Federal entity; (iii) Reasonably reflect the total activity for which the employee is compensated by the nonfederal entity, (iv) Encompass both federally assisted and all other activities compensated by the nonfederal entity on an integrated basis, but may include the use of subsidiary records as defined in the nonfederal entity's written policy; (v) Comply with the established accounting policies and practices of the nonfederal entity; and (vii) Support the distribution of the employee's salary or wages among specific activities or cost objectives if the employee works on more than one Federal award; a federal award and nonfederal award; an indirect cost activity and a direct cost activity; two or more indirect activities which are allocated using different allocation bases; or an unallowable activity and a direct or indirect cost activity. Condition/Context: We noted instances where an indirect rate of 17.5 percent was charged to federal awards instead of the 10 percent de minimis rate approved in the budgets. Additionally, we were unable to obtain evidence of federal approval of a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages as follows: • POE & RDC - For 4 of the 4 months tested, 17.5 percent of indirect rate was charged to various awards instead of the 10 percent de minimis rate. • POE - For 12 of the 36 items tested, we noted a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages. • RDC - For 22 of the 22 items tested, we noted a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages. Questioned Costs: None greater than $25,000 per major program. Cause: Not aware of the requirements. Effect: Failure to comply with 2 CFR 200 can lead to improper payments charged to programs. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management incorporate review control procedures to ensure the 10 percent de minimis rate is properly applied in accordance with UG and ensure appropriate costs are charged to the awards consistent with their federally approved budgets. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education (POE) Research and Development Cluster (RDC) Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 (POE) 15.608 and 15.945 (RDC) Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 (POE) September 2019 through January 2024 (RDC) Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: In accordance with 2 CFR 200.414 Indirect Costs, any nonfederal entity that does not have current negotiated rate and elects the 10% de minimis rate must be applied to modified total direct costs (MTDC) indefinitely and in accordance with 2 CFR 200 UG, costs of compensation are allowable to the extent that they satisfy the specific requirements of the UG, and that the total compensation for individual employees: (1) Is reasonable for the services rendered and conforms to the established written policy of the nonfederal entity consistently applied to both federal and nonfederal activities; (2) Follows an appointment made in accordance with a nonfederal entity's laws and/or rules or written policies and meets the requirements of federal statute, where applicable; and (3) Is determined and supported as provided in accordance with the UG, Standards for Documentation of Personnel Expenses, when applicable. Charges to federal awards for salaries and wages must be based on records that accurately reflect the work performed. These records must: (i) Be supported by a system of internal control which provides reasonable assurance that the charges are accurate, allowable, and properly allocated; (ii) Be incorporated into the official records of the non-Federal entity; (iii) Reasonably reflect the total activity for which the employee is compensated by the nonfederal entity, (iv) Encompass both federally assisted and all other activities compensated by the nonfederal entity on an integrated basis, but may include the use of subsidiary records as defined in the nonfederal entity's written policy; (v) Comply with the established accounting policies and practices of the nonfederal entity; and (vii) Support the distribution of the employee's salary or wages among specific activities or cost objectives if the employee works on more than one Federal award; a federal award and nonfederal award; an indirect cost activity and a direct cost activity; two or more indirect activities which are allocated using different allocation bases; or an unallowable activity and a direct or indirect cost activity. Condition/Context: We noted instances where an indirect rate of 17.5 percent was charged to federal awards instead of the 10 percent de minimis rate approved in the budgets. Additionally, we were unable to obtain evidence of federal approval of a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages as follows: • POE & RDC - For 4 of the 4 months tested, 17.5 percent of indirect rate was charged to various awards instead of the 10 percent de minimis rate. • POE - For 12 of the 36 items tested, we noted a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages. • RDC - For 22 of the 22 items tested, we noted a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages. Questioned Costs: None greater than $25,000 per major program. Cause: Not aware of the requirements. Effect: Failure to comply with 2 CFR 200 can lead to improper payments charged to programs. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management incorporate review control procedures to ensure the 10 percent de minimis rate is properly applied in accordance with UG and ensure appropriate costs are charged to the awards consistent with their federally approved budgets. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education (POE) Research and Development Cluster (RDC) Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 (POE) 15.608 and 15.945 (RDC) Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 (POE) September 2019 through January 2024 (RDC) Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: In accordance with 2 CFR 200.414 Indirect Costs, any nonfederal entity that does not have current negotiated rate and elects the 10% de minimis rate must be applied to modified total direct costs (MTDC) indefinitely and in accordance with 2 CFR 200 UG, costs of compensation are allowable to the extent that they satisfy the specific requirements of the UG, and that the total compensation for individual employees: (1) Is reasonable for the services rendered and conforms to the established written policy of the nonfederal entity consistently applied to both federal and nonfederal activities; (2) Follows an appointment made in accordance with a nonfederal entity's laws and/or rules or written policies and meets the requirements of federal statute, where applicable; and (3) Is determined and supported as provided in accordance with the UG, Standards for Documentation of Personnel Expenses, when applicable. Charges to federal awards for salaries and wages must be based on records that accurately reflect the work performed. These records must: (i) Be supported by a system of internal control which provides reasonable assurance that the charges are accurate, allowable, and properly allocated; (ii) Be incorporated into the official records of the non-Federal entity; (iii) Reasonably reflect the total activity for which the employee is compensated by the nonfederal entity, (iv) Encompass both federally assisted and all other activities compensated by the nonfederal entity on an integrated basis, but may include the use of subsidiary records as defined in the nonfederal entity's written policy; (v) Comply with the established accounting policies and practices of the nonfederal entity; and (vii) Support the distribution of the employee's salary or wages among specific activities or cost objectives if the employee works on more than one Federal award; a federal award and nonfederal award; an indirect cost activity and a direct cost activity; two or more indirect activities which are allocated using different allocation bases; or an unallowable activity and a direct or indirect cost activity. Condition/Context: We noted instances where an indirect rate of 17.5 percent was charged to federal awards instead of the 10 percent de minimis rate approved in the budgets. Additionally, we were unable to obtain evidence of federal approval of a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages as follows: • POE & RDC - For 4 of the 4 months tested, 17.5 percent of indirect rate was charged to various awards instead of the 10 percent de minimis rate. • POE - For 12 of the 36 items tested, we noted a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages. • RDC - For 22 of the 22 items tested, we noted a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages. Questioned Costs: None greater than $25,000 per major program. Cause: Not aware of the requirements. Effect: Failure to comply with 2 CFR 200 can lead to improper payments charged to programs. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management incorporate review control procedures to ensure the 10 percent de minimis rate is properly applied in accordance with UG and ensure appropriate costs are charged to the awards consistent with their federally approved budgets. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education (POE) Research and Development Cluster (RDC) Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 (POE) 15.608 and 15.945 (RDC) Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 (POE) September 2019 through January 2024 (RDC) Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: In accordance with 2 CFR 200.414 Indirect Costs, any nonfederal entity that does not have current negotiated rate and elects the 10% de minimis rate must be applied to modified total direct costs (MTDC) indefinitely and in accordance with 2 CFR 200 UG, costs of compensation are allowable to the extent that they satisfy the specific requirements of the UG, and that the total compensation for individual employees: (1) Is reasonable for the services rendered and conforms to the established written policy of the nonfederal entity consistently applied to both federal and nonfederal activities; (2) Follows an appointment made in accordance with a nonfederal entity's laws and/or rules or written policies and meets the requirements of federal statute, where applicable; and (3) Is determined and supported as provided in accordance with the UG, Standards for Documentation of Personnel Expenses, when applicable. Charges to federal awards for salaries and wages must be based on records that accurately reflect the work performed. These records must: (i) Be supported by a system of internal control which provides reasonable assurance that the charges are accurate, allowable, and properly allocated; (ii) Be incorporated into the official records of the non-Federal entity; (iii) Reasonably reflect the total activity for which the employee is compensated by the nonfederal entity, (iv) Encompass both federally assisted and all other activities compensated by the nonfederal entity on an integrated basis, but may include the use of subsidiary records as defined in the nonfederal entity's written policy; (v) Comply with the established accounting policies and practices of the nonfederal entity; and (vii) Support the distribution of the employee's salary or wages among specific activities or cost objectives if the employee works on more than one Federal award; a federal award and nonfederal award; an indirect cost activity and a direct cost activity; two or more indirect activities which are allocated using different allocation bases; or an unallowable activity and a direct or indirect cost activity. Condition/Context: We noted instances where an indirect rate of 17.5 percent was charged to federal awards instead of the 10 percent de minimis rate approved in the budgets. Additionally, we were unable to obtain evidence of federal approval of a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages as follows: • POE & RDC - For 4 of the 4 months tested, 17.5 percent of indirect rate was charged to various awards instead of the 10 percent de minimis rate. • POE - For 12 of the 36 items tested, we noted a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages. • RDC - For 22 of the 22 items tested, we noted a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages. Questioned Costs: None greater than $25,000 per major program. Cause: Not aware of the requirements. Effect: Failure to comply with 2 CFR 200 can lead to improper payments charged to programs. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management incorporate review control procedures to ensure the 10 percent de minimis rate is properly applied in accordance with UG and ensure appropriate costs are charged to the awards consistent with their federally approved budgets. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education (POE) Research and Development Cluster (RDC) Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 (POE) 15.608 and 15.945 (RDC) Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 (POE) September 2019 through January 2024 (RDC) Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: In accordance with 2 CFR 200.414 Indirect Costs, any nonfederal entity that does not have current negotiated rate and elects the 10% de minimis rate must be applied to modified total direct costs (MTDC) indefinitely and in accordance with 2 CFR 200 UG, costs of compensation are allowable to the extent that they satisfy the specific requirements of the UG, and that the total compensation for individual employees: (1) Is reasonable for the services rendered and conforms to the established written policy of the nonfederal entity consistently applied to both federal and nonfederal activities; (2) Follows an appointment made in accordance with a nonfederal entity's laws and/or rules or written policies and meets the requirements of federal statute, where applicable; and (3) Is determined and supported as provided in accordance with the UG, Standards for Documentation of Personnel Expenses, when applicable. Charges to federal awards for salaries and wages must be based on records that accurately reflect the work performed. These records must: (i) Be supported by a system of internal control which provides reasonable assurance that the charges are accurate, allowable, and properly allocated; (ii) Be incorporated into the official records of the non-Federal entity; (iii) Reasonably reflect the total activity for which the employee is compensated by the nonfederal entity, (iv) Encompass both federally assisted and all other activities compensated by the nonfederal entity on an integrated basis, but may include the use of subsidiary records as defined in the nonfederal entity's written policy; (v) Comply with the established accounting policies and practices of the nonfederal entity; and (vii) Support the distribution of the employee's salary or wages among specific activities or cost objectives if the employee works on more than one Federal award; a federal award and nonfederal award; an indirect cost activity and a direct cost activity; two or more indirect activities which are allocated using different allocation bases; or an unallowable activity and a direct or indirect cost activity. Condition/Context: We noted instances where an indirect rate of 17.5 percent was charged to federal awards instead of the 10 percent de minimis rate approved in the budgets. Additionally, we were unable to obtain evidence of federal approval of a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages as follows: • POE & RDC - For 4 of the 4 months tested, 17.5 percent of indirect rate was charged to various awards instead of the 10 percent de minimis rate. • POE - For 12 of the 36 items tested, we noted a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages. • RDC - For 22 of the 22 items tested, we noted a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages. Questioned Costs: None greater than $25,000 per major program. Cause: Not aware of the requirements. Effect: Failure to comply with 2 CFR 200 can lead to improper payments charged to programs. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management incorporate review control procedures to ensure the 10 percent de minimis rate is properly applied in accordance with UG and ensure appropriate costs are charged to the awards consistent with their federally approved budgets. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education (POE) Research and Development Cluster (RDC) Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 (POE) 15.608 and 15.945 (RDC) Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 (POE) September 2019 through January 2024 (RDC) Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: In accordance with 2 CFR 200.414 Indirect Costs, any nonfederal entity that does not have current negotiated rate and elects the 10% de minimis rate must be applied to modified total direct costs (MTDC) indefinitely and in accordance with 2 CFR 200 UG, costs of compensation are allowable to the extent that they satisfy the specific requirements of the UG, and that the total compensation for individual employees: (1) Is reasonable for the services rendered and conforms to the established written policy of the nonfederal entity consistently applied to both federal and nonfederal activities; (2) Follows an appointment made in accordance with a nonfederal entity's laws and/or rules or written policies and meets the requirements of federal statute, where applicable; and (3) Is determined and supported as provided in accordance with the UG, Standards for Documentation of Personnel Expenses, when applicable. Charges to federal awards for salaries and wages must be based on records that accurately reflect the work performed. These records must: (i) Be supported by a system of internal control which provides reasonable assurance that the charges are accurate, allowable, and properly allocated; (ii) Be incorporated into the official records of the non-Federal entity; (iii) Reasonably reflect the total activity for which the employee is compensated by the nonfederal entity, (iv) Encompass both federally assisted and all other activities compensated by the nonfederal entity on an integrated basis, but may include the use of subsidiary records as defined in the nonfederal entity's written policy; (v) Comply with the established accounting policies and practices of the nonfederal entity; and (vii) Support the distribution of the employee's salary or wages among specific activities or cost objectives if the employee works on more than one Federal award; a federal award and nonfederal award; an indirect cost activity and a direct cost activity; two or more indirect activities which are allocated using different allocation bases; or an unallowable activity and a direct or indirect cost activity. Condition/Context: We noted instances where an indirect rate of 17.5 percent was charged to federal awards instead of the 10 percent de minimis rate approved in the budgets. Additionally, we were unable to obtain evidence of federal approval of a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages as follows: • POE & RDC - For 4 of the 4 months tested, 17.5 percent of indirect rate was charged to various awards instead of the 10 percent de minimis rate. • POE - For 12 of the 36 items tested, we noted a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages. • RDC - For 22 of the 22 items tested, we noted a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages. Questioned Costs: None greater than $25,000 per major program. Cause: Not aware of the requirements. Effect: Failure to comply with 2 CFR 200 can lead to improper payments charged to programs. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management incorporate review control procedures to ensure the 10 percent de minimis rate is properly applied in accordance with UG and ensure appropriate costs are charged to the awards consistent with their federally approved budgets. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education (POE) Research and Development Cluster (RDC) Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 (POE) 15.608 and 15.945 (RDC) Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 (POE) September 2019 through January 2024 (RDC) Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: In accordance with 2 CFR 200.414 Indirect Costs, any nonfederal entity that does not have current negotiated rate and elects the 10% de minimis rate must be applied to modified total direct costs (MTDC) indefinitely and in accordance with 2 CFR 200 UG, costs of compensation are allowable to the extent that they satisfy the specific requirements of the UG, and that the total compensation for individual employees: (1) Is reasonable for the services rendered and conforms to the established written policy of the nonfederal entity consistently applied to both federal and nonfederal activities; (2) Follows an appointment made in accordance with a nonfederal entity's laws and/or rules or written policies and meets the requirements of federal statute, where applicable; and (3) Is determined and supported as provided in accordance with the UG, Standards for Documentation of Personnel Expenses, when applicable. Charges to federal awards for salaries and wages must be based on records that accurately reflect the work performed. These records must: (i) Be supported by a system of internal control which provides reasonable assurance that the charges are accurate, allowable, and properly allocated; (ii) Be incorporated into the official records of the non-Federal entity; (iii) Reasonably reflect the total activity for which the employee is compensated by the nonfederal entity, (iv) Encompass both federally assisted and all other activities compensated by the nonfederal entity on an integrated basis, but may include the use of subsidiary records as defined in the nonfederal entity's written policy; (v) Comply with the established accounting policies and practices of the nonfederal entity; and (vii) Support the distribution of the employee's salary or wages among specific activities or cost objectives if the employee works on more than one Federal award; a federal award and nonfederal award; an indirect cost activity and a direct cost activity; two or more indirect activities which are allocated using different allocation bases; or an unallowable activity and a direct or indirect cost activity. Condition/Context: We noted instances where an indirect rate of 17.5 percent was charged to federal awards instead of the 10 percent de minimis rate approved in the budgets. Additionally, we were unable to obtain evidence of federal approval of a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages as follows: • POE & RDC - For 4 of the 4 months tested, 17.5 percent of indirect rate was charged to various awards instead of the 10 percent de minimis rate. • POE - For 12 of the 36 items tested, we noted a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages. • RDC - For 22 of the 22 items tested, we noted a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages. Questioned Costs: None greater than $25,000 per major program. Cause: Not aware of the requirements. Effect: Failure to comply with 2 CFR 200 can lead to improper payments charged to programs. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management incorporate review control procedures to ensure the 10 percent de minimis rate is properly applied in accordance with UG and ensure appropriate costs are charged to the awards consistent with their federally approved budgets. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education (POE) Research and Development Cluster (RDC) Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 (POE) 15.608 and 15.945 (RDC) Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 (POE) September 2019 through January 2024 (RDC) Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: In accordance with 2 CFR 200.414 Indirect Costs, any nonfederal entity that does not have current negotiated rate and elects the 10% de minimis rate must be applied to modified total direct costs (MTDC) indefinitely and in accordance with 2 CFR 200 UG, costs of compensation are allowable to the extent that they satisfy the specific requirements of the UG, and that the total compensation for individual employees: (1) Is reasonable for the services rendered and conforms to the established written policy of the nonfederal entity consistently applied to both federal and nonfederal activities; (2) Follows an appointment made in accordance with a nonfederal entity's laws and/or rules or written policies and meets the requirements of federal statute, where applicable; and (3) Is determined and supported as provided in accordance with the UG, Standards for Documentation of Personnel Expenses, when applicable. Charges to federal awards for salaries and wages must be based on records that accurately reflect the work performed. These records must: (i) Be supported by a system of internal control which provides reasonable assurance that the charges are accurate, allowable, and properly allocated; (ii) Be incorporated into the official records of the non-Federal entity; (iii) Reasonably reflect the total activity for which the employee is compensated by the nonfederal entity, (iv) Encompass both federally assisted and all other activities compensated by the nonfederal entity on an integrated basis, but may include the use of subsidiary records as defined in the nonfederal entity's written policy; (v) Comply with the established accounting policies and practices of the nonfederal entity; and (vii) Support the distribution of the employee's salary or wages among specific activities or cost objectives if the employee works on more than one Federal award; a federal award and nonfederal award; an indirect cost activity and a direct cost activity; two or more indirect activities which are allocated using different allocation bases; or an unallowable activity and a direct or indirect cost activity. Condition/Context: We noted instances where an indirect rate of 17.5 percent was charged to federal awards instead of the 10 percent de minimis rate approved in the budgets. Additionally, we were unable to obtain evidence of federal approval of a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages as follows: • POE & RDC - For 4 of the 4 months tested, 17.5 percent of indirect rate was charged to various awards instead of the 10 percent de minimis rate. • POE - For 12 of the 36 items tested, we noted a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages. • RDC - For 22 of the 22 items tested, we noted a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages. Questioned Costs: None greater than $25,000 per major program. Cause: Not aware of the requirements. Effect: Failure to comply with 2 CFR 200 can lead to improper payments charged to programs. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management incorporate review control procedures to ensure the 10 percent de minimis rate is properly applied in accordance with UG and ensure appropriate costs are charged to the awards consistent with their federally approved budgets. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education (POE) Research and Development Cluster (RDC) Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 (POE) 15.608 and 15.945 (RDC) Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 (POE) September 2019 through January 2024 (RDC) Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: In accordance with 2 CFR 200.414 Indirect Costs, any nonfederal entity that does not have current negotiated rate and elects the 10% de minimis rate must be applied to modified total direct costs (MTDC) indefinitely and in accordance with 2 CFR 200 UG, costs of compensation are allowable to the extent that they satisfy the specific requirements of the UG, and that the total compensation for individual employees: (1) Is reasonable for the services rendered and conforms to the established written policy of the nonfederal entity consistently applied to both federal and nonfederal activities; (2) Follows an appointment made in accordance with a nonfederal entity's laws and/or rules or written policies and meets the requirements of federal statute, where applicable; and (3) Is determined and supported as provided in accordance with the UG, Standards for Documentation of Personnel Expenses, when applicable. Charges to federal awards for salaries and wages must be based on records that accurately reflect the work performed. These records must: (i) Be supported by a system of internal control which provides reasonable assurance that the charges are accurate, allowable, and properly allocated; (ii) Be incorporated into the official records of the non-Federal entity; (iii) Reasonably reflect the total activity for which the employee is compensated by the nonfederal entity, (iv) Encompass both federally assisted and all other activities compensated by the nonfederal entity on an integrated basis, but may include the use of subsidiary records as defined in the nonfederal entity's written policy; (v) Comply with the established accounting policies and practices of the nonfederal entity; and (vii) Support the distribution of the employee's salary or wages among specific activities or cost objectives if the employee works on more than one Federal award; a federal award and nonfederal award; an indirect cost activity and a direct cost activity; two or more indirect activities which are allocated using different allocation bases; or an unallowable activity and a direct or indirect cost activity. Condition/Context: We noted instances where an indirect rate of 17.5 percent was charged to federal awards instead of the 10 percent de minimis rate approved in the budgets. Additionally, we were unable to obtain evidence of federal approval of a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages as follows: • POE & RDC - For 4 of the 4 months tested, 17.5 percent of indirect rate was charged to various awards instead of the 10 percent de minimis rate. • POE - For 12 of the 36 items tested, we noted a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages. • RDC - For 22 of the 22 items tested, we noted a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages. Questioned Costs: None greater than $25,000 per major program. Cause: Not aware of the requirements. Effect: Failure to comply with 2 CFR 200 can lead to improper payments charged to programs. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management incorporate review control procedures to ensure the 10 percent de minimis rate is properly applied in accordance with UG and ensure appropriate costs are charged to the awards consistent with their federally approved budgets. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education (POE) Research and Development Cluster (RDC) Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 (POE) 15.608 and 15.945 (RDC) Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 (POE) September 2019 through January 2024 (RDC) Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: In accordance with 2 CFR 200.414 Indirect Costs, any nonfederal entity that does not have current negotiated rate and elects the 10% de minimis rate must be applied to modified total direct costs (MTDC) indefinitely and in accordance with 2 CFR 200 UG, costs of compensation are allowable to the extent that they satisfy the specific requirements of the UG, and that the total compensation for individual employees: (1) Is reasonable for the services rendered and conforms to the established written policy of the nonfederal entity consistently applied to both federal and nonfederal activities; (2) Follows an appointment made in accordance with a nonfederal entity's laws and/or rules or written policies and meets the requirements of federal statute, where applicable; and (3) Is determined and supported as provided in accordance with the UG, Standards for Documentation of Personnel Expenses, when applicable. Charges to federal awards for salaries and wages must be based on records that accurately reflect the work performed. These records must: (i) Be supported by a system of internal control which provides reasonable assurance that the charges are accurate, allowable, and properly allocated; (ii) Be incorporated into the official records of the non-Federal entity; (iii) Reasonably reflect the total activity for which the employee is compensated by the nonfederal entity, (iv) Encompass both federally assisted and all other activities compensated by the nonfederal entity on an integrated basis, but may include the use of subsidiary records as defined in the nonfederal entity's written policy; (v) Comply with the established accounting policies and practices of the nonfederal entity; and (vii) Support the distribution of the employee's salary or wages among specific activities or cost objectives if the employee works on more than one Federal award; a federal award and nonfederal award; an indirect cost activity and a direct cost activity; two or more indirect activities which are allocated using different allocation bases; or an unallowable activity and a direct or indirect cost activity. Condition/Context: We noted instances where an indirect rate of 17.5 percent was charged to federal awards instead of the 10 percent de minimis rate approved in the budgets. Additionally, we were unable to obtain evidence of federal approval of a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages as follows: • POE & RDC - For 4 of the 4 months tested, 17.5 percent of indirect rate was charged to various awards instead of the 10 percent de minimis rate. • POE - For 12 of the 36 items tested, we noted a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages. • RDC - For 22 of the 22 items tested, we noted a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages. Questioned Costs: None greater than $25,000 per major program. Cause: Not aware of the requirements. Effect: Failure to comply with 2 CFR 200 can lead to improper payments charged to programs. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management incorporate review control procedures to ensure the 10 percent de minimis rate is properly applied in accordance with UG and ensure appropriate costs are charged to the awards consistent with their federally approved budgets. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education (POE) Research and Development Cluster (RDC) Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 (POE) 15.608 and 15.945 (RDC) Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 (POE) September 2019 through January 2024 (RDC) Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: In accordance with 2 CFR 200.414 Indirect Costs, any nonfederal entity that does not have current negotiated rate and elects the 10% de minimis rate must be applied to modified total direct costs (MTDC) indefinitely and in accordance with 2 CFR 200 UG, costs of compensation are allowable to the extent that they satisfy the specific requirements of the UG, and that the total compensation for individual employees: (1) Is reasonable for the services rendered and conforms to the established written policy of the nonfederal entity consistently applied to both federal and nonfederal activities; (2) Follows an appointment made in accordance with a nonfederal entity's laws and/or rules or written policies and meets the requirements of federal statute, where applicable; and (3) Is determined and supported as provided in accordance with the UG, Standards for Documentation of Personnel Expenses, when applicable. Charges to federal awards for salaries and wages must be based on records that accurately reflect the work performed. These records must: (i) Be supported by a system of internal control which provides reasonable assurance that the charges are accurate, allowable, and properly allocated; (ii) Be incorporated into the official records of the non-Federal entity; (iii) Reasonably reflect the total activity for which the employee is compensated by the nonfederal entity, (iv) Encompass both federally assisted and all other activities compensated by the nonfederal entity on an integrated basis, but may include the use of subsidiary records as defined in the nonfederal entity's written policy; (v) Comply with the established accounting policies and practices of the nonfederal entity; and (vii) Support the distribution of the employee's salary or wages among specific activities or cost objectives if the employee works on more than one Federal award; a federal award and nonfederal award; an indirect cost activity and a direct cost activity; two or more indirect activities which are allocated using different allocation bases; or an unallowable activity and a direct or indirect cost activity. Condition/Context: We noted instances where an indirect rate of 17.5 percent was charged to federal awards instead of the 10 percent de minimis rate approved in the budgets. Additionally, we were unable to obtain evidence of federal approval of a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages as follows: • POE & RDC - For 4 of the 4 months tested, 17.5 percent of indirect rate was charged to various awards instead of the 10 percent de minimis rate. • POE - For 12 of the 36 items tested, we noted a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages. • RDC - For 22 of the 22 items tested, we noted a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages. Questioned Costs: None greater than $25,000 per major program. Cause: Not aware of the requirements. Effect: Failure to comply with 2 CFR 200 can lead to improper payments charged to programs. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management incorporate review control procedures to ensure the 10 percent de minimis rate is properly applied in accordance with UG and ensure appropriate costs are charged to the awards consistent with their federally approved budgets. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education (POE) Research and Development Cluster (RDC) Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 (POE) 15.608 and 15.945 (RDC) Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 (POE) September 2019 through January 2024 (RDC) Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: In accordance with 2 CFR 200.414 Indirect Costs, any nonfederal entity that does not have current negotiated rate and elects the 10% de minimis rate must be applied to modified total direct costs (MTDC) indefinitely and in accordance with 2 CFR 200 UG, costs of compensation are allowable to the extent that they satisfy the specific requirements of the UG, and that the total compensation for individual employees: (1) Is reasonable for the services rendered and conforms to the established written policy of the nonfederal entity consistently applied to both federal and nonfederal activities; (2) Follows an appointment made in accordance with a nonfederal entity's laws and/or rules or written policies and meets the requirements of federal statute, where applicable; and (3) Is determined and supported as provided in accordance with the UG, Standards for Documentation of Personnel Expenses, when applicable. Charges to federal awards for salaries and wages must be based on records that accurately reflect the work performed. These records must: (i) Be supported by a system of internal control which provides reasonable assurance that the charges are accurate, allowable, and properly allocated; (ii) Be incorporated into the official records of the non-Federal entity; (iii) Reasonably reflect the total activity for which the employee is compensated by the nonfederal entity, (iv) Encompass both federally assisted and all other activities compensated by the nonfederal entity on an integrated basis, but may include the use of subsidiary records as defined in the nonfederal entity's written policy; (v) Comply with the established accounting policies and practices of the nonfederal entity; and (vii) Support the distribution of the employee's salary or wages among specific activities or cost objectives if the employee works on more than one Federal award; a federal award and nonfederal award; an indirect cost activity and a direct cost activity; two or more indirect activities which are allocated using different allocation bases; or an unallowable activity and a direct or indirect cost activity. Condition/Context: We noted instances where an indirect rate of 17.5 percent was charged to federal awards instead of the 10 percent de minimis rate approved in the budgets. Additionally, we were unable to obtain evidence of federal approval of a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages as follows: • POE & RDC - For 4 of the 4 months tested, 17.5 percent of indirect rate was charged to various awards instead of the 10 percent de minimis rate. • POE - For 12 of the 36 items tested, we noted a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages. • RDC - For 22 of the 22 items tested, we noted a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages. Questioned Costs: None greater than $25,000 per major program. Cause: Not aware of the requirements. Effect: Failure to comply with 2 CFR 200 can lead to improper payments charged to programs. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management incorporate review control procedures to ensure the 10 percent de minimis rate is properly applied in accordance with UG and ensure appropriate costs are charged to the awards consistent with their federally approved budgets. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education (POE) Research and Development Cluster (RDC) Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 (POE) 15.608 and 15.945 (RDC) Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 (POE) September 2019 through January 2024 (RDC) Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: In accordance with 2 CFR 200.414 Indirect Costs, any nonfederal entity that does not have current negotiated rate and elects the 10% de minimis rate must be applied to modified total direct costs (MTDC) indefinitely and in accordance with 2 CFR 200 UG, costs of compensation are allowable to the extent that they satisfy the specific requirements of the UG, and that the total compensation for individual employees: (1) Is reasonable for the services rendered and conforms to the established written policy of the nonfederal entity consistently applied to both federal and nonfederal activities; (2) Follows an appointment made in accordance with a nonfederal entity's laws and/or rules or written policies and meets the requirements of federal statute, where applicable; and (3) Is determined and supported as provided in accordance with the UG, Standards for Documentation of Personnel Expenses, when applicable. Charges to federal awards for salaries and wages must be based on records that accurately reflect the work performed. These records must: (i) Be supported by a system of internal control which provides reasonable assurance that the charges are accurate, allowable, and properly allocated; (ii) Be incorporated into the official records of the non-Federal entity; (iii) Reasonably reflect the total activity for which the employee is compensated by the nonfederal entity, (iv) Encompass both federally assisted and all other activities compensated by the nonfederal entity on an integrated basis, but may include the use of subsidiary records as defined in the nonfederal entity's written policy; (v) Comply with the established accounting policies and practices of the nonfederal entity; and (vii) Support the distribution of the employee's salary or wages among specific activities or cost objectives if the employee works on more than one Federal award; a federal award and nonfederal award; an indirect cost activity and a direct cost activity; two or more indirect activities which are allocated using different allocation bases; or an unallowable activity and a direct or indirect cost activity. Condition/Context: We noted instances where an indirect rate of 17.5 percent was charged to federal awards instead of the 10 percent de minimis rate approved in the budgets. Additionally, we were unable to obtain evidence of federal approval of a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages as follows: • POE & RDC - For 4 of the 4 months tested, 17.5 percent of indirect rate was charged to various awards instead of the 10 percent de minimis rate. • POE - For 12 of the 36 items tested, we noted a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages. • RDC - For 22 of the 22 items tested, we noted a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages. Questioned Costs: None greater than $25,000 per major program. Cause: Not aware of the requirements. Effect: Failure to comply with 2 CFR 200 can lead to improper payments charged to programs. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management incorporate review control procedures to ensure the 10 percent de minimis rate is properly applied in accordance with UG and ensure appropriate costs are charged to the awards consistent with their federally approved budgets. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education (POE) Research and Development Cluster (RDC) Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 (POE) 15.608 and 15.945 (RDC) Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 (POE) September 2019 through January 2024 (RDC) Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: In accordance with 2 CFR 200.414 Indirect Costs, any nonfederal entity that does not have current negotiated rate and elects the 10% de minimis rate must be applied to modified total direct costs (MTDC) indefinitely and in accordance with 2 CFR 200 UG, costs of compensation are allowable to the extent that they satisfy the specific requirements of the UG, and that the total compensation for individual employees: (1) Is reasonable for the services rendered and conforms to the established written policy of the nonfederal entity consistently applied to both federal and nonfederal activities; (2) Follows an appointment made in accordance with a nonfederal entity's laws and/or rules or written policies and meets the requirements of federal statute, where applicable; and (3) Is determined and supported as provided in accordance with the UG, Standards for Documentation of Personnel Expenses, when applicable. Charges to federal awards for salaries and wages must be based on records that accurately reflect the work performed. These records must: (i) Be supported by a system of internal control which provides reasonable assurance that the charges are accurate, allowable, and properly allocated; (ii) Be incorporated into the official records of the non-Federal entity; (iii) Reasonably reflect the total activity for which the employee is compensated by the nonfederal entity, (iv) Encompass both federally assisted and all other activities compensated by the nonfederal entity on an integrated basis, but may include the use of subsidiary records as defined in the nonfederal entity's written policy; (v) Comply with the established accounting policies and practices of the nonfederal entity; and (vii) Support the distribution of the employee's salary or wages among specific activities or cost objectives if the employee works on more than one Federal award; a federal award and nonfederal award; an indirect cost activity and a direct cost activity; two or more indirect activities which are allocated using different allocation bases; or an unallowable activity and a direct or indirect cost activity. Condition/Context: We noted instances where an indirect rate of 17.5 percent was charged to federal awards instead of the 10 percent de minimis rate approved in the budgets. Additionally, we were unable to obtain evidence of federal approval of a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages as follows: • POE & RDC - For 4 of the 4 months tested, 17.5 percent of indirect rate was charged to various awards instead of the 10 percent de minimis rate. • POE - For 12 of the 36 items tested, we noted a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages. • RDC - For 22 of the 22 items tested, we noted a 1.8 percent administration fee charged to gross wages. Questioned Costs: None greater than $25,000 per major program. Cause: Not aware of the requirements. Effect: Failure to comply with 2 CFR 200 can lead to improper payments charged to programs. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management incorporate review control procedures to ensure the 10 percent de minimis rate is properly applied in accordance with UG and ensure appropriate costs are charged to the awards consistent with their federally approved budgets. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education (POE) Research and Development Cluster (RDC) Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 (POE) 15.608 and 15.945 (RDC) Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 (POE) September 2019 through January 2024 (RDC) Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: 2 CFR 2022.1 Definitions – Period of Performance means the total estimated time interval between the start of an initial federal award and the planned end date, which may include one or more funded portions, or budget periods. Identification of the period of performance in the federal award per § 200.211(b)(5) does not commit the awarding agency to fund the award beyond the currently approved budget period. 2 CFR 200.458 Pre-Awards Costs. Pre-award costs are those incurred prior to the effective date of the Federal award or subaward directly pursuant to the negotiation and in anticipation of the federal award where such costs are necessary for efficient and timely performance of the scope of work. Such costs are allowable only to the extent that they would have been allowable if incurred after the date of the federal award and only with the written approval of the federal awarding agency. If charged to the award, these costs must be charged to the initial budget period of the award, unless otherwise specified by the federal awarding agency or pass-through entity. Condition/Context: We noted instances where costs were charged to federal awards outside the period of performance with no evidence of approval by the federal agency as follows: • POE - For 5 of the 7 items tested, we noted costs were charged outside the period of performance. • RDC - For 3 of the 12 items tested, we noted costs were charged outside the period of performance. Questioned Costs: None greater than $25,000 per major program. Cause: Not aware of the requirements. Effect: Noncompliance with federal awards terms and conditions including 2 CFR Part 200 Uniform Guidance. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management incorporate review control procedures to ensure all costs are approved, within the period of performance, and charged in accordance with UG. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education (POE) Research and Development Cluster (RDC) Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 (POE) 15.608 and 15.945 (RDC) Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 (POE) September 2019 through January 2024 (RDC) Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: 2 CFR 2022.1 Definitions – Period of Performance means the total estimated time interval between the start of an initial federal award and the planned end date, which may include one or more funded portions, or budget periods. Identification of the period of performance in the federal award per § 200.211(b)(5) does not commit the awarding agency to fund the award beyond the currently approved budget period. 2 CFR 200.458 Pre-Awards Costs. Pre-award costs are those incurred prior to the effective date of the Federal award or subaward directly pursuant to the negotiation and in anticipation of the federal award where such costs are necessary for efficient and timely performance of the scope of work. Such costs are allowable only to the extent that they would have been allowable if incurred after the date of the federal award and only with the written approval of the federal awarding agency. If charged to the award, these costs must be charged to the initial budget period of the award, unless otherwise specified by the federal awarding agency or pass-through entity. Condition/Context: We noted instances where costs were charged to federal awards outside the period of performance with no evidence of approval by the federal agency as follows: • POE - For 5 of the 7 items tested, we noted costs were charged outside the period of performance. • RDC - For 3 of the 12 items tested, we noted costs were charged outside the period of performance. Questioned Costs: None greater than $25,000 per major program. Cause: Not aware of the requirements. Effect: Noncompliance with federal awards terms and conditions including 2 CFR Part 200 Uniform Guidance. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management incorporate review control procedures to ensure all costs are approved, within the period of performance, and charged in accordance with UG. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education (POE) Research and Development Cluster (RDC) Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 (POE) 15.608 and 15.945 (RDC) Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 (POE) September 2019 through January 2024 (RDC) Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: 2 CFR 2022.1 Definitions – Period of Performance means the total estimated time interval between the start of an initial federal award and the planned end date, which may include one or more funded portions, or budget periods. Identification of the period of performance in the federal award per § 200.211(b)(5) does not commit the awarding agency to fund the award beyond the currently approved budget period. 2 CFR 200.458 Pre-Awards Costs. Pre-award costs are those incurred prior to the effective date of the Federal award or subaward directly pursuant to the negotiation and in anticipation of the federal award where such costs are necessary for efficient and timely performance of the scope of work. Such costs are allowable only to the extent that they would have been allowable if incurred after the date of the federal award and only with the written approval of the federal awarding agency. If charged to the award, these costs must be charged to the initial budget period of the award, unless otherwise specified by the federal awarding agency or pass-through entity. Condition/Context: We noted instances where costs were charged to federal awards outside the period of performance with no evidence of approval by the federal agency as follows: • POE - For 5 of the 7 items tested, we noted costs were charged outside the period of performance. • RDC - For 3 of the 12 items tested, we noted costs were charged outside the period of performance. Questioned Costs: None greater than $25,000 per major program. Cause: Not aware of the requirements. Effect: Noncompliance with federal awards terms and conditions including 2 CFR Part 200 Uniform Guidance. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management incorporate review control procedures to ensure all costs are approved, within the period of performance, and charged in accordance with UG. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education (POE) Research and Development Cluster (RDC) Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 (POE) 15.608 and 15.945 (RDC) Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 (POE) September 2019 through January 2024 (RDC) Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: 2 CFR 2022.1 Definitions – Period of Performance means the total estimated time interval between the start of an initial federal award and the planned end date, which may include one or more funded portions, or budget periods. Identification of the period of performance in the federal award per § 200.211(b)(5) does not commit the awarding agency to fund the award beyond the currently approved budget period. 2 CFR 200.458 Pre-Awards Costs. Pre-award costs are those incurred prior to the effective date of the Federal award or subaward directly pursuant to the negotiation and in anticipation of the federal award where such costs are necessary for efficient and timely performance of the scope of work. Such costs are allowable only to the extent that they would have been allowable if incurred after the date of the federal award and only with the written approval of the federal awarding agency. If charged to the award, these costs must be charged to the initial budget period of the award, unless otherwise specified by the federal awarding agency or pass-through entity. Condition/Context: We noted instances where costs were charged to federal awards outside the period of performance with no evidence of approval by the federal agency as follows: • POE - For 5 of the 7 items tested, we noted costs were charged outside the period of performance. • RDC - For 3 of the 12 items tested, we noted costs were charged outside the period of performance. Questioned Costs: None greater than $25,000 per major program. Cause: Not aware of the requirements. Effect: Noncompliance with federal awards terms and conditions including 2 CFR Part 200 Uniform Guidance. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management incorporate review control procedures to ensure all costs are approved, within the period of performance, and charged in accordance with UG. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education (POE) Research and Development Cluster (RDC) Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 (POE) 15.608 and 15.945 (RDC) Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 (POE) September 2019 through January 2024 (RDC) Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: 2 CFR 2022.1 Definitions – Period of Performance means the total estimated time interval between the start of an initial federal award and the planned end date, which may include one or more funded portions, or budget periods. Identification of the period of performance in the federal award per § 200.211(b)(5) does not commit the awarding agency to fund the award beyond the currently approved budget period. 2 CFR 200.458 Pre-Awards Costs. Pre-award costs are those incurred prior to the effective date of the Federal award or subaward directly pursuant to the negotiation and in anticipation of the federal award where such costs are necessary for efficient and timely performance of the scope of work. Such costs are allowable only to the extent that they would have been allowable if incurred after the date of the federal award and only with the written approval of the federal awarding agency. If charged to the award, these costs must be charged to the initial budget period of the award, unless otherwise specified by the federal awarding agency or pass-through entity. Condition/Context: We noted instances where costs were charged to federal awards outside the period of performance with no evidence of approval by the federal agency as follows: • POE - For 5 of the 7 items tested, we noted costs were charged outside the period of performance. • RDC - For 3 of the 12 items tested, we noted costs were charged outside the period of performance. Questioned Costs: None greater than $25,000 per major program. Cause: Not aware of the requirements. Effect: Noncompliance with federal awards terms and conditions including 2 CFR Part 200 Uniform Guidance. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management incorporate review control procedures to ensure all costs are approved, within the period of performance, and charged in accordance with UG. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education (POE) Research and Development Cluster (RDC) Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 (POE) 15.608 and 15.945 (RDC) Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 (POE) September 2019 through January 2024 (RDC) Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: 2 CFR 2022.1 Definitions – Period of Performance means the total estimated time interval between the start of an initial federal award and the planned end date, which may include one or more funded portions, or budget periods. Identification of the period of performance in the federal award per § 200.211(b)(5) does not commit the awarding agency to fund the award beyond the currently approved budget period. 2 CFR 200.458 Pre-Awards Costs. Pre-award costs are those incurred prior to the effective date of the Federal award or subaward directly pursuant to the negotiation and in anticipation of the federal award where such costs are necessary for efficient and timely performance of the scope of work. Such costs are allowable only to the extent that they would have been allowable if incurred after the date of the federal award and only with the written approval of the federal awarding agency. If charged to the award, these costs must be charged to the initial budget period of the award, unless otherwise specified by the federal awarding agency or pass-through entity. Condition/Context: We noted instances where costs were charged to federal awards outside the period of performance with no evidence of approval by the federal agency as follows: • POE - For 5 of the 7 items tested, we noted costs were charged outside the period of performance. • RDC - For 3 of the 12 items tested, we noted costs were charged outside the period of performance. Questioned Costs: None greater than $25,000 per major program. Cause: Not aware of the requirements. Effect: Noncompliance with federal awards terms and conditions including 2 CFR Part 200 Uniform Guidance. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management incorporate review control procedures to ensure all costs are approved, within the period of performance, and charged in accordance with UG. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education (POE) Research and Development Cluster (RDC) Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 (POE) 15.608 and 15.945 (RDC) Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 (POE) September 2019 through January 2024 (RDC) Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: 2 CFR 2022.1 Definitions – Period of Performance means the total estimated time interval between the start of an initial federal award and the planned end date, which may include one or more funded portions, or budget periods. Identification of the period of performance in the federal award per § 200.211(b)(5) does not commit the awarding agency to fund the award beyond the currently approved budget period. 2 CFR 200.458 Pre-Awards Costs. Pre-award costs are those incurred prior to the effective date of the Federal award or subaward directly pursuant to the negotiation and in anticipation of the federal award where such costs are necessary for efficient and timely performance of the scope of work. Such costs are allowable only to the extent that they would have been allowable if incurred after the date of the federal award and only with the written approval of the federal awarding agency. If charged to the award, these costs must be charged to the initial budget period of the award, unless otherwise specified by the federal awarding agency or pass-through entity. Condition/Context: We noted instances where costs were charged to federal awards outside the period of performance with no evidence of approval by the federal agency as follows: • POE - For 5 of the 7 items tested, we noted costs were charged outside the period of performance. • RDC - For 3 of the 12 items tested, we noted costs were charged outside the period of performance. Questioned Costs: None greater than $25,000 per major program. Cause: Not aware of the requirements. Effect: Noncompliance with federal awards terms and conditions including 2 CFR Part 200 Uniform Guidance. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management incorporate review control procedures to ensure all costs are approved, within the period of performance, and charged in accordance with UG. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education (POE) Research and Development Cluster (RDC) Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 (POE) 15.608 and 15.945 (RDC) Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 (POE) September 2019 through January 2024 (RDC) Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: 2 CFR 2022.1 Definitions – Period of Performance means the total estimated time interval between the start of an initial federal award and the planned end date, which may include one or more funded portions, or budget periods. Identification of the period of performance in the federal award per § 200.211(b)(5) does not commit the awarding agency to fund the award beyond the currently approved budget period. 2 CFR 200.458 Pre-Awards Costs. Pre-award costs are those incurred prior to the effective date of the Federal award or subaward directly pursuant to the negotiation and in anticipation of the federal award where such costs are necessary for efficient and timely performance of the scope of work. Such costs are allowable only to the extent that they would have been allowable if incurred after the date of the federal award and only with the written approval of the federal awarding agency. If charged to the award, these costs must be charged to the initial budget period of the award, unless otherwise specified by the federal awarding agency or pass-through entity. Condition/Context: We noted instances where costs were charged to federal awards outside the period of performance with no evidence of approval by the federal agency as follows: • POE - For 5 of the 7 items tested, we noted costs were charged outside the period of performance. • RDC - For 3 of the 12 items tested, we noted costs were charged outside the period of performance. Questioned Costs: None greater than $25,000 per major program. Cause: Not aware of the requirements. Effect: Noncompliance with federal awards terms and conditions including 2 CFR Part 200 Uniform Guidance. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management incorporate review control procedures to ensure all costs are approved, within the period of performance, and charged in accordance with UG. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education (POE) Research and Development Cluster (RDC) Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 (POE) 15.608 and 15.945 (RDC) Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 (POE) September 2019 through January 2024 (RDC) Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: 2 CFR 2022.1 Definitions – Period of Performance means the total estimated time interval between the start of an initial federal award and the planned end date, which may include one or more funded portions, or budget periods. Identification of the period of performance in the federal award per § 200.211(b)(5) does not commit the awarding agency to fund the award beyond the currently approved budget period. 2 CFR 200.458 Pre-Awards Costs. Pre-award costs are those incurred prior to the effective date of the Federal award or subaward directly pursuant to the negotiation and in anticipation of the federal award where such costs are necessary for efficient and timely performance of the scope of work. Such costs are allowable only to the extent that they would have been allowable if incurred after the date of the federal award and only with the written approval of the federal awarding agency. If charged to the award, these costs must be charged to the initial budget period of the award, unless otherwise specified by the federal awarding agency or pass-through entity. Condition/Context: We noted instances where costs were charged to federal awards outside the period of performance with no evidence of approval by the federal agency as follows: • POE - For 5 of the 7 items tested, we noted costs were charged outside the period of performance. • RDC - For 3 of the 12 items tested, we noted costs were charged outside the period of performance. Questioned Costs: None greater than $25,000 per major program. Cause: Not aware of the requirements. Effect: Noncompliance with federal awards terms and conditions including 2 CFR Part 200 Uniform Guidance. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management incorporate review control procedures to ensure all costs are approved, within the period of performance, and charged in accordance with UG. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education (POE) Research and Development Cluster (RDC) Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 (POE) 15.608 and 15.945 (RDC) Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 (POE) September 2019 through January 2024 (RDC) Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: 2 CFR 2022.1 Definitions – Period of Performance means the total estimated time interval between the start of an initial federal award and the planned end date, which may include one or more funded portions, or budget periods. Identification of the period of performance in the federal award per § 200.211(b)(5) does not commit the awarding agency to fund the award beyond the currently approved budget period. 2 CFR 200.458 Pre-Awards Costs. Pre-award costs are those incurred prior to the effective date of the Federal award or subaward directly pursuant to the negotiation and in anticipation of the federal award where such costs are necessary for efficient and timely performance of the scope of work. Such costs are allowable only to the extent that they would have been allowable if incurred after the date of the federal award and only with the written approval of the federal awarding agency. If charged to the award, these costs must be charged to the initial budget period of the award, unless otherwise specified by the federal awarding agency or pass-through entity. Condition/Context: We noted instances where costs were charged to federal awards outside the period of performance with no evidence of approval by the federal agency as follows: • POE - For 5 of the 7 items tested, we noted costs were charged outside the period of performance. • RDC - For 3 of the 12 items tested, we noted costs were charged outside the period of performance. Questioned Costs: None greater than $25,000 per major program. Cause: Not aware of the requirements. Effect: Noncompliance with federal awards terms and conditions including 2 CFR Part 200 Uniform Guidance. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management incorporate review control procedures to ensure all costs are approved, within the period of performance, and charged in accordance with UG. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education (POE) Research and Development Cluster (RDC) Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 (POE) 15.608 and 15.945 (RDC) Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 (POE) September 2019 through January 2024 (RDC) Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: 2 CFR 2022.1 Definitions – Period of Performance means the total estimated time interval between the start of an initial federal award and the planned end date, which may include one or more funded portions, or budget periods. Identification of the period of performance in the federal award per § 200.211(b)(5) does not commit the awarding agency to fund the award beyond the currently approved budget period. 2 CFR 200.458 Pre-Awards Costs. Pre-award costs are those incurred prior to the effective date of the Federal award or subaward directly pursuant to the negotiation and in anticipation of the federal award where such costs are necessary for efficient and timely performance of the scope of work. Such costs are allowable only to the extent that they would have been allowable if incurred after the date of the federal award and only with the written approval of the federal awarding agency. If charged to the award, these costs must be charged to the initial budget period of the award, unless otherwise specified by the federal awarding agency or pass-through entity. Condition/Context: We noted instances where costs were charged to federal awards outside the period of performance with no evidence of approval by the federal agency as follows: • POE - For 5 of the 7 items tested, we noted costs were charged outside the period of performance. • RDC - For 3 of the 12 items tested, we noted costs were charged outside the period of performance. Questioned Costs: None greater than $25,000 per major program. Cause: Not aware of the requirements. Effect: Noncompliance with federal awards terms and conditions including 2 CFR Part 200 Uniform Guidance. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management incorporate review control procedures to ensure all costs are approved, within the period of performance, and charged in accordance with UG. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education (POE) Research and Development Cluster (RDC) Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 (POE) 15.608 and 15.945 (RDC) Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 (POE) September 2019 through January 2024 (RDC) Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: 2 CFR 2022.1 Definitions – Period of Performance means the total estimated time interval between the start of an initial federal award and the planned end date, which may include one or more funded portions, or budget periods. Identification of the period of performance in the federal award per § 200.211(b)(5) does not commit the awarding agency to fund the award beyond the currently approved budget period. 2 CFR 200.458 Pre-Awards Costs. Pre-award costs are those incurred prior to the effective date of the Federal award or subaward directly pursuant to the negotiation and in anticipation of the federal award where such costs are necessary for efficient and timely performance of the scope of work. Such costs are allowable only to the extent that they would have been allowable if incurred after the date of the federal award and only with the written approval of the federal awarding agency. If charged to the award, these costs must be charged to the initial budget period of the award, unless otherwise specified by the federal awarding agency or pass-through entity. Condition/Context: We noted instances where costs were charged to federal awards outside the period of performance with no evidence of approval by the federal agency as follows: • POE - For 5 of the 7 items tested, we noted costs were charged outside the period of performance. • RDC - For 3 of the 12 items tested, we noted costs were charged outside the period of performance. Questioned Costs: None greater than $25,000 per major program. Cause: Not aware of the requirements. Effect: Noncompliance with federal awards terms and conditions including 2 CFR Part 200 Uniform Guidance. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management incorporate review control procedures to ensure all costs are approved, within the period of performance, and charged in accordance with UG. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education (POE) Research and Development Cluster (RDC) Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 (POE) 15.608 and 15.945 (RDC) Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 (POE) September 2019 through January 2024 (RDC) Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: 2 CFR 2022.1 Definitions – Period of Performance means the total estimated time interval between the start of an initial federal award and the planned end date, which may include one or more funded portions, or budget periods. Identification of the period of performance in the federal award per § 200.211(b)(5) does not commit the awarding agency to fund the award beyond the currently approved budget period. 2 CFR 200.458 Pre-Awards Costs. Pre-award costs are those incurred prior to the effective date of the Federal award or subaward directly pursuant to the negotiation and in anticipation of the federal award where such costs are necessary for efficient and timely performance of the scope of work. Such costs are allowable only to the extent that they would have been allowable if incurred after the date of the federal award and only with the written approval of the federal awarding agency. If charged to the award, these costs must be charged to the initial budget period of the award, unless otherwise specified by the federal awarding agency or pass-through entity. Condition/Context: We noted instances where costs were charged to federal awards outside the period of performance with no evidence of approval by the federal agency as follows: • POE - For 5 of the 7 items tested, we noted costs were charged outside the period of performance. • RDC - For 3 of the 12 items tested, we noted costs were charged outside the period of performance. Questioned Costs: None greater than $25,000 per major program. Cause: Not aware of the requirements. Effect: Noncompliance with federal awards terms and conditions including 2 CFR Part 200 Uniform Guidance. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management incorporate review control procedures to ensure all costs are approved, within the period of performance, and charged in accordance with UG. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education (POE) Research and Development Cluster (RDC) Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 (POE) 15.608 and 15.945 (RDC) Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 (POE) September 2019 through January 2024 (RDC) Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: 2 CFR 2022.1 Definitions – Period of Performance means the total estimated time interval between the start of an initial federal award and the planned end date, which may include one or more funded portions, or budget periods. Identification of the period of performance in the federal award per § 200.211(b)(5) does not commit the awarding agency to fund the award beyond the currently approved budget period. 2 CFR 200.458 Pre-Awards Costs. Pre-award costs are those incurred prior to the effective date of the Federal award or subaward directly pursuant to the negotiation and in anticipation of the federal award where such costs are necessary for efficient and timely performance of the scope of work. Such costs are allowable only to the extent that they would have been allowable if incurred after the date of the federal award and only with the written approval of the federal awarding agency. If charged to the award, these costs must be charged to the initial budget period of the award, unless otherwise specified by the federal awarding agency or pass-through entity. Condition/Context: We noted instances where costs were charged to federal awards outside the period of performance with no evidence of approval by the federal agency as follows: • POE - For 5 of the 7 items tested, we noted costs were charged outside the period of performance. • RDC - For 3 of the 12 items tested, we noted costs were charged outside the period of performance. Questioned Costs: None greater than $25,000 per major program. Cause: Not aware of the requirements. Effect: Noncompliance with federal awards terms and conditions including 2 CFR Part 200 Uniform Guidance. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management incorporate review control procedures to ensure all costs are approved, within the period of performance, and charged in accordance with UG. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education (POE) Research and Development Cluster (RDC) Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 (POE) 15.608 and 15.945 (RDC) Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 (POE) September 2019 through January 2024 (RDC) Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: 2 CFR 2022.1 Definitions – Period of Performance means the total estimated time interval between the start of an initial federal award and the planned end date, which may include one or more funded portions, or budget periods. Identification of the period of performance in the federal award per § 200.211(b)(5) does not commit the awarding agency to fund the award beyond the currently approved budget period. 2 CFR 200.458 Pre-Awards Costs. Pre-award costs are those incurred prior to the effective date of the Federal award or subaward directly pursuant to the negotiation and in anticipation of the federal award where such costs are necessary for efficient and timely performance of the scope of work. Such costs are allowable only to the extent that they would have been allowable if incurred after the date of the federal award and only with the written approval of the federal awarding agency. If charged to the award, these costs must be charged to the initial budget period of the award, unless otherwise specified by the federal awarding agency or pass-through entity. Condition/Context: We noted instances where costs were charged to federal awards outside the period of performance with no evidence of approval by the federal agency as follows: • POE - For 5 of the 7 items tested, we noted costs were charged outside the period of performance. • RDC - For 3 of the 12 items tested, we noted costs were charged outside the period of performance. Questioned Costs: None greater than $25,000 per major program. Cause: Not aware of the requirements. Effect: Noncompliance with federal awards terms and conditions including 2 CFR Part 200 Uniform Guidance. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management incorporate review control procedures to ensure all costs are approved, within the period of performance, and charged in accordance with UG. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education (POE) Research and Development Cluster (RDC) Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 (POE) 15.608 and 15.945 (RDC) Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 (POE) September 2019 through January 2024 (RDC) Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: 2 CFR 2022.1 Definitions – Period of Performance means the total estimated time interval between the start of an initial federal award and the planned end date, which may include one or more funded portions, or budget periods. Identification of the period of performance in the federal award per § 200.211(b)(5) does not commit the awarding agency to fund the award beyond the currently approved budget period. 2 CFR 200.458 Pre-Awards Costs. Pre-award costs are those incurred prior to the effective date of the Federal award or subaward directly pursuant to the negotiation and in anticipation of the federal award where such costs are necessary for efficient and timely performance of the scope of work. Such costs are allowable only to the extent that they would have been allowable if incurred after the date of the federal award and only with the written approval of the federal awarding agency. If charged to the award, these costs must be charged to the initial budget period of the award, unless otherwise specified by the federal awarding agency or pass-through entity. Condition/Context: We noted instances where costs were charged to federal awards outside the period of performance with no evidence of approval by the federal agency as follows: • POE - For 5 of the 7 items tested, we noted costs were charged outside the period of performance. • RDC - For 3 of the 12 items tested, we noted costs were charged outside the period of performance. Questioned Costs: None greater than $25,000 per major program. Cause: Not aware of the requirements. Effect: Noncompliance with federal awards terms and conditions including 2 CFR Part 200 Uniform Guidance. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management incorporate review control procedures to ensure all costs are approved, within the period of performance, and charged in accordance with UG. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education (POE) Research and Development Cluster (RDC) Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 (POE) 15.608 and 15.945 (RDC) Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 (POE) September 2019 through January 2024 (RDC) Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: 2 CFR 2022.1 Definitions – Period of Performance means the total estimated time interval between the start of an initial federal award and the planned end date, which may include one or more funded portions, or budget periods. Identification of the period of performance in the federal award per § 200.211(b)(5) does not commit the awarding agency to fund the award beyond the currently approved budget period. 2 CFR 200.458 Pre-Awards Costs. Pre-award costs are those incurred prior to the effective date of the Federal award or subaward directly pursuant to the negotiation and in anticipation of the federal award where such costs are necessary for efficient and timely performance of the scope of work. Such costs are allowable only to the extent that they would have been allowable if incurred after the date of the federal award and only with the written approval of the federal awarding agency. If charged to the award, these costs must be charged to the initial budget period of the award, unless otherwise specified by the federal awarding agency or pass-through entity. Condition/Context: We noted instances where costs were charged to federal awards outside the period of performance with no evidence of approval by the federal agency as follows: • POE - For 5 of the 7 items tested, we noted costs were charged outside the period of performance. • RDC - For 3 of the 12 items tested, we noted costs were charged outside the period of performance. Questioned Costs: None greater than $25,000 per major program. Cause: Not aware of the requirements. Effect: Noncompliance with federal awards terms and conditions including 2 CFR Part 200 Uniform Guidance. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management incorporate review control procedures to ensure all costs are approved, within the period of performance, and charged in accordance with UG. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education (POE) Research and Development Cluster (RDC) Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 (POE) 15.608 and 15.945 (RDC) Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 (POE) September 2019 through January 2024 (RDC) Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: 2 CFR 2022.1 Definitions – Period of Performance means the total estimated time interval between the start of an initial federal award and the planned end date, which may include one or more funded portions, or budget periods. Identification of the period of performance in the federal award per § 200.211(b)(5) does not commit the awarding agency to fund the award beyond the currently approved budget period. 2 CFR 200.458 Pre-Awards Costs. Pre-award costs are those incurred prior to the effective date of the Federal award or subaward directly pursuant to the negotiation and in anticipation of the federal award where such costs are necessary for efficient and timely performance of the scope of work. Such costs are allowable only to the extent that they would have been allowable if incurred after the date of the federal award and only with the written approval of the federal awarding agency. If charged to the award, these costs must be charged to the initial budget period of the award, unless otherwise specified by the federal awarding agency or pass-through entity. Condition/Context: We noted instances where costs were charged to federal awards outside the period of performance with no evidence of approval by the federal agency as follows: • POE - For 5 of the 7 items tested, we noted costs were charged outside the period of performance. • RDC - For 3 of the 12 items tested, we noted costs were charged outside the period of performance. Questioned Costs: None greater than $25,000 per major program. Cause: Not aware of the requirements. Effect: Noncompliance with federal awards terms and conditions including 2 CFR Part 200 Uniform Guidance. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management incorporate review control procedures to ensure all costs are approved, within the period of performance, and charged in accordance with UG. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education (POE) Research and Development Cluster (RDC) Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 (POE) 15.608 and 15.945 (RDC) Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 (POE) September 2019 through January 2024 (RDC) Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: 2 CFR 2022.1 Definitions – Period of Performance means the total estimated time interval between the start of an initial federal award and the planned end date, which may include one or more funded portions, or budget periods. Identification of the period of performance in the federal award per § 200.211(b)(5) does not commit the awarding agency to fund the award beyond the currently approved budget period. 2 CFR 200.458 Pre-Awards Costs. Pre-award costs are those incurred prior to the effective date of the Federal award or subaward directly pursuant to the negotiation and in anticipation of the federal award where such costs are necessary for efficient and timely performance of the scope of work. Such costs are allowable only to the extent that they would have been allowable if incurred after the date of the federal award and only with the written approval of the federal awarding agency. If charged to the award, these costs must be charged to the initial budget period of the award, unless otherwise specified by the federal awarding agency or pass-through entity. Condition/Context: We noted instances where costs were charged to federal awards outside the period of performance with no evidence of approval by the federal agency as follows: • POE - For 5 of the 7 items tested, we noted costs were charged outside the period of performance. • RDC - For 3 of the 12 items tested, we noted costs were charged outside the period of performance. Questioned Costs: None greater than $25,000 per major program. Cause: Not aware of the requirements. Effect: Noncompliance with federal awards terms and conditions including 2 CFR Part 200 Uniform Guidance. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management incorporate review control procedures to ensure all costs are approved, within the period of performance, and charged in accordance with UG. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education (POE) Research and Development Cluster (RDC) Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 (POE) 15.608 and 15.945 (RDC) Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 (POE) September 2019 through January 2024 (RDC) Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: 2 CFR 2022.1 Definitions – Period of Performance means the total estimated time interval between the start of an initial federal award and the planned end date, which may include one or more funded portions, or budget periods. Identification of the period of performance in the federal award per § 200.211(b)(5) does not commit the awarding agency to fund the award beyond the currently approved budget period. 2 CFR 200.458 Pre-Awards Costs. Pre-award costs are those incurred prior to the effective date of the Federal award or subaward directly pursuant to the negotiation and in anticipation of the federal award where such costs are necessary for efficient and timely performance of the scope of work. Such costs are allowable only to the extent that they would have been allowable if incurred after the date of the federal award and only with the written approval of the federal awarding agency. If charged to the award, these costs must be charged to the initial budget period of the award, unless otherwise specified by the federal awarding agency or pass-through entity. Condition/Context: We noted instances where costs were charged to federal awards outside the period of performance with no evidence of approval by the federal agency as follows: • POE - For 5 of the 7 items tested, we noted costs were charged outside the period of performance. • RDC - For 3 of the 12 items tested, we noted costs were charged outside the period of performance. Questioned Costs: None greater than $25,000 per major program. Cause: Not aware of the requirements. Effect: Noncompliance with federal awards terms and conditions including 2 CFR Part 200 Uniform Guidance. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management incorporate review control procedures to ensure all costs are approved, within the period of performance, and charged in accordance with UG. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Material Weakness in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: Management should have controls over federal reporting and special test and provisions requirements to ensure reports are submitted to the federal agency as required in the terms and conditions of the awards. Condition/Context: Annual reports were not completed and submitted to the federal agency as required by the terms and conditions of the award and there is no effective internal control to ensure these reports are completed and submitted timely. Therefore, we were unable to obtain evidence from these reports if key personnel were involved in the program. Questioned Costs: None. Cause: Due to staffing resource constraints. Effect: Noncompliance with terms and conditions of the federal awards and UG. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management review its current processes and procedures to ensure reports are submitted timely, reviewed, and ensure evidence is retained to support the compilation, review, and submission of the reports and ensure compliance with UG. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Material Weakness in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: Management should have controls over federal reporting and special test and provisions requirements to ensure reports are submitted to the federal agency as required in the terms and conditions of the awards. Condition/Context: Annual reports were not completed and submitted to the federal agency as required by the terms and conditions of the award and there is no effective internal control to ensure these reports are completed and submitted timely. Therefore, we were unable to obtain evidence from these reports if key personnel were involved in the program. Questioned Costs: None. Cause: Due to staffing resource constraints. Effect: Noncompliance with terms and conditions of the federal awards and UG. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management review its current processes and procedures to ensure reports are submitted timely, reviewed, and ensure evidence is retained to support the compilation, review, and submission of the reports and ensure compliance with UG. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Material Weakness in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: Management should have controls over federal reporting and special test and provisions requirements to ensure reports are submitted to the federal agency as required in the terms and conditions of the awards. Condition/Context: Annual reports were not completed and submitted to the federal agency as required by the terms and conditions of the award and there is no effective internal control to ensure these reports are completed and submitted timely. Therefore, we were unable to obtain evidence from these reports if key personnel were involved in the program. Questioned Costs: None. Cause: Due to staffing resource constraints. Effect: Noncompliance with terms and conditions of the federal awards and UG. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management review its current processes and procedures to ensure reports are submitted timely, reviewed, and ensure evidence is retained to support the compilation, review, and submission of the reports and ensure compliance with UG. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Material Weakness in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: Management should have controls over federal reporting and special test and provisions requirements to ensure reports are submitted to the federal agency as required in the terms and conditions of the awards. Condition/Context: Annual reports were not completed and submitted to the federal agency as required by the terms and conditions of the award and there is no effective internal control to ensure these reports are completed and submitted timely. Therefore, we were unable to obtain evidence from these reports if key personnel were involved in the program. Questioned Costs: None. Cause: Due to staffing resource constraints. Effect: Noncompliance with terms and conditions of the federal awards and UG. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management review its current processes and procedures to ensure reports are submitted timely, reviewed, and ensure evidence is retained to support the compilation, review, and submission of the reports and ensure compliance with UG. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Material Weakness in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: Management should have controls over federal reporting and special test and provisions requirements to ensure reports are submitted to the federal agency as required in the terms and conditions of the awards. Condition/Context: Annual reports were not completed and submitted to the federal agency as required by the terms and conditions of the award and there is no effective internal control to ensure these reports are completed and submitted timely. Therefore, we were unable to obtain evidence from these reports if key personnel were involved in the program. Questioned Costs: None. Cause: Due to staffing resource constraints. Effect: Noncompliance with terms and conditions of the federal awards and UG. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management review its current processes and procedures to ensure reports are submitted timely, reviewed, and ensure evidence is retained to support the compilation, review, and submission of the reports and ensure compliance with UG. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Interior Federal Program Name: National Park Service Conservation, Protection, Outreach, and Education Assistance Listing Number: 15.954 Award Period: June 2020 through August 2024 Statistically Valid Sample: No, and not intended to be a Statistically Valid Sample. Type of Finding: Material Weakness in Internal Control over Compliance and Noncompliance Criteria or Specific Requirement: Management should have controls over federal reporting and special test and provisions requirements to ensure reports are submitted to the federal agency as required in the terms and conditions of the awards. Condition/Context: Annual reports were not completed and submitted to the federal agency as required by the terms and conditions of the award and there is no effective internal control to ensure these reports are completed and submitted timely. Therefore, we were unable to obtain evidence from these reports if key personnel were involved in the program. Questioned Costs: None. Cause: Due to staffing resource constraints. Effect: Noncompliance with terms and conditions of the federal awards and UG. Repeat Finding: No Recommendation: We recommend management review its current processes and procedures to ensure reports are submitted timely, reviewed, and ensure evidence is retained to support the compilation, review, and submission of the reports and ensure compliance with UG. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding. See corrective action plan.