Intent to Sole Source for Scientific and Ecological Research Project on Salmon Prey Concentration

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)'s Western Acquisition Division, intends to negotiate, on a sole source basis, under authority of FAR 13.106-1(b)(1), with Rhithron Associates, INC. regarding an ongoing ecological scientific research project on Hess samples. Since 2001, the NWFSC Fish Ecology Division has been studying the Salmon River ecosystem, focusing on ESA-listed Chinook salmon and steelhead trout.

They measure various environmental attributes to understand how variability affects juvenile salmon and trout. Key is prey concentration, monitored as mg total biomass/m3 of invertebrates. This aims to determine prey availability's impact on growth, movement, and survival. Continuity in data processing by Rhithron Associates, Inc. since 2002 is vital for research integrity. Any changes would complicate habitat assessments for ESA-listed salmon. The research aligns with the Federal Columbia River Power System Biological Opinion. The period of performace for this service is detailed as follows:

01JUN2024 – 31MAY2027 **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 sustainingdocumentation in writing to the identified point of contact (below) within the alloted time frame after publication. Such documentation will be evaluated solely for the purpose of determining whether or not 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 discretion of the government. Oral communications are NOT acceptable in response to this notice. Capability statements are due no later than 09 MAY 2024 at 12:00 CST. Be advised that all correspondence sent via e-mail shall contain a subject line that reads “143041-24-0099 - Hess Samples”.

To ensure your response along with any and all attachments are received, attachment(s) must be less than 20 MB [in total]. It is the responsibility of the offeror to contact the government to confirm receipt prior to the offer due date and time. Capability statements shall be submitted by email ONLY as a Microsoft Word or Adobe PDF attachment to the following POC: jacob.gray@noaa.gov 210.400.9512