Intent to Sole Source to the University of Maine School of Marine Sciences for Fin Whale Research Project

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)'s Western Acquisition Division intends to negotiate, on a sole-source basis, under the authority of FAR 13.106-1(b)(1), with the University of Maine School of Marine Sciences. This sole-source determination is based on NOAA's requirement that the University of Maine School of Marine Sciences is the sole entity capable of meeting the specified requirements and objectives.

NOAA requires support for the collection of individual identification and movement data of the endangered fin whale (Balaenoptera physalus) within the inner Gulf of Maine region. This work involves standard techniques including photo-ID, genetic sampling, and instrumentation. The project demands expertise in the timing of occurrence, distribution of this substock of whales, and an understanding of their sighting histories in the Gulf of Maine. The University of Maine research group is uniquely capable of provding the specific needs of temporal and spatial coverage within the regional waters.

Objective: This notice of intent is NOT a request for competitive proposals, and no solicitation package is available. However, firms that believe they can fully meet the government's requirements may submit supporting documentation in writing to the identified point of contact (below) within the allotted timeframe after publication. Such documentation will be evaluated solely to determine whether to conduct this procurement on a competitive basis.

A determination by the government not to conduct a competitive procurement, based upon responses to this notice, is solely within the government's discretion. Oral communications are NOT acceptable in response to this notice. Capability statements are due no later than Tuesday, July 16, at 12:00 EST. All correspondence sent via email must contain a subject line that reads "143021-24-0348 - Whale Study." To ensure receipt, attachments must be less than 20 MB in total.

It is the offeror's responsibility to confirm receipt with the government before the due date and time. Capability statements should be submitted by email ONLY as a Microsoft Word or Adobe PDF attachment to:

Jacob Gray Email: jacob.gray@noaa.gov Phone: 210.400.9512