Request for Information: NOAA Fisheries AFSC Marine Mammal Observer Program
ID: NOAA-AG0-WAD-SRW-25-10Type: Sources Sought
Overview

Buyer

COMMERCE, DEPARTMENT OFNATIONAL OCEANIC AND ATMOSPHERIC ADMINISTRATIONDEPT OF COMMERCE NOAASEATTLE, WA, 98115, USA

NAICS

Other Scientific and Technical Consulting Services (541690)

Original Source

https://sam.gov/opp/115404db0f0f43219ea5513776d71609/view
Timeline
    Description

    The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is seeking industry feedback through a Request for Information (RFI) for the Alaska Marine Mammal Observer Program (AMMOP), aimed at enhancing fisheries data collection during the 2025 and 2026 commercial salmon drift gillnet fisheries in Southeast Alaska. The initiative focuses on transitioning from traditional observer-centric methods to electronic monitoring (EM) technologies, which have demonstrated cost-effectiveness and minimal disruption to fishing operations while providing higher coverage levels and precise bycatch estimates. This program is crucial for assessing marine mammal interactions and ensuring compliance with the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA), thereby supporting sustainable fisheries management and marine conservation efforts. Interested vendors are encouraged to submit their capabilities and suggestions for the draft performance work statement by January 27, 2025, and can direct inquiries to Sarah Waugh at SARAH.WAUGH@NOAA.GOV.

    Point(s) of Contact
    WAUGH, SARAH
    SARAH.WAUGH@NOAA.GOV
    Files
    Title
    Posted
    AFSC Alaska Marine Mammal Observer Program RFI.docx
    The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is seeking industry feedback through a Request for Information (RFI) for sampling services and electronic monitoring technology to enhance fisheries data collection during the 2025 and 2026 commercial salmon drift gillnet fisheries in Southeast Alaska. The initiative aims to transition from traditional observer-centric methods to electronic monitoring (EM), which has proven to be cost-effective and minimally invasive, providing higher coverage levels and precise bycatch estimates. Following successful trials with Archipelago Marine Resources, NOAA seeks input on a draft performance work statement (PWS) from potential vendors, particularly in maintaining qualified fishery observers and performing EM data reviews. Interested participants are requested to submit their capabilities and suggestions for the PWS by January 27, 2026, emphasizing clarifications and ways to increase vendor participation. This RFI does not represent a commitment by the government to award contracts, and any proprietary information will be protected under applicable regulations.
    AFSC Alaska Marine Mammal Observer Program RFI Q-A.pdf
    The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is seeking information to support its Alaska Marine Mammal Observer Program (AMMOP) for the upcoming 2025 and 2026 salmon drift gillnet fisheries in Southeast Alaska. The initiative aims to transition from traditional fishery observers to electronic monitoring (EM) technologies for collecting critical fisheries data while minimizing operational disruption and costs. The program requires vessels and trained observers capable of handling EM equipment, with an emphasis on enhancing marine mammal interaction documentation. The Request for Information (RFI) invites feedback on the draft performance work statement, covering aspects such as the qualifications for observers, data upload procedures, vessel selection for monitoring, safety training locations, and compliance expectations. Notably, participation in monitoring will become mandatory for the 2025 fishing season, following industry collaboration and outreach in 2023. Responses to the RFI must be submitted by January 27, 2025, and should include organizational capabilities, feedback on the draft, and suggestions for improving vendor participation. This document serves to gauge interest and obtain valuable industry insights, framing NOAA's commitment to effective marine resource management through enhanced data collection methods.
    AMMOP_PWS_12172024.pdf
    The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is issuing a request for proposals (RFP) for the Alaska Marine Mammal Observer Program (AMMOP) aimed at assessing marine mammal interactions with commercial salmon drift gillnet fisheries in Southeast Alaska during 2025-2026. The program will collect data to estimate bycatch levels, including serious injury and mortality of marine mammals, as mandated by the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA). The work will involve both fishery observers and electronic monitoring (EM) technologies for a comprehensive monitoring approach over a 16-week period each year. The contractor will provide qualified observers to gather essential fishery-dependent data and support logistics, alongside procuring EM systems to enhance data collection efficiency. Key objectives include evaluating fishing techniques, ensuring data quality through rigorous sampling practices, and conducting image reviews for interactions with marine species. Performance will be monitored through established standards, ensuring alignment with NOAA’s goals of marine conservation. This initiative reflects the government's commitment to sustainable fisheries management and the protection of marine ecosystems through precise data collection and monitoring methodologies.
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    Request for Information: NOAA Fisheries AFSC Marine Mammal Observer Program
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