Request for Information: Northwest/Southwest Fisheries Integrated Survey Charter Vessel
ID: ACQ-SAP01-24-0076Type: Sources Sought
Overview

Buyer

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

NAICS

Coastal and Great Lakes Passenger Transportation (483114)

Original Source

https://sam.gov/opp/1ae4ad11bf694355b84e3c0ed8e68588/view
Timeline
    Description

    The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) issues a Request for Information (RFI) to gather market intelligence and feedback for potential charter vessels to support its Integrated West Coast Pelagics Survey (IWCPS). This is a crucial fishery-independent acoustic trawl survey, scheduled to begin in 2025, that requires an oceanographic research vessel for extensive environmental sampling and data collection.

    The primary goal is to ensure sustainable fisheries by collecting accurate stock assessments of Pacific hake and various coastal pelagic fish species. To achieve this, the vessel must meet rigorous specifications. It must be at least 65 feet in length, with a cruising speed of 9 knots and the capability to venture at least 35 nautical miles offshore. Crucially, it must have a dedicated onboard laboratory for sensitive eDNA sample processing, sanitized to prevent contamination.

    The vessel should also be equipped with advanced oceanographic data collection systems, including a Conductivity-Temperature-Depth (CTD) rosette and an Acoustic Doppler Current Profiler, along with the necessary winches and cranes for gear recovery. Accommodating at least five to fourteen scientists comfortably is essential, providing berthing, sanitation, and galley facilities. Furthermore, the vessel must ensure internet connectivity and provisions for extended periods at sea.

    NOAA is particularly interested in learning about potential vendors' capabilities regarding vessel availability, duration, and notice requirements. Cost estimates, excluding fuel, are also requested. Vendors are invited to provide feedback on the draft work scope and share any additional capabilities or requirements.

    The deadline for responses is 5:00 PM Pacific Time on Friday, August 9, 2024. Submissions are limited to five pages, and vendors are encouraged to use the Google form provided. For eligibility, vendors must have an active System for Award Management (SAM) registration, and responses should be sent to the email specified in the RFI.

    NOAA emphasizes that this RFI is for market research only and does not guarantee a solicitation or contract award. Vendors are advised not to incur costs or charges in response to this request, as the government will not be liable for any such expenses.

    Point(s) of Contact
    Sarah Waugh
    sarah.waugh@noaa.gov
    Files
    Title
    Posted
    NWFSC-SWFSC Ocean Charter RFI.pdf
    NWFSC-SWFSC Ocean Charter RFI 6-18.pdf
    NWFSC-SWFSC Ocean Charter RFI 7-1.pdf
    The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) issues a Request for Information (RFI) to gather market intelligence and feedback. They seek a suitable charter vessel with specific configurations for the Integrated West Coast Pelagics Survey (IWCPS). This survey aims to collect critical data for accurate stock assessments of fisheries in the California Current Ecosystem. The vessel must have an adequate laboratory space and the ability to accommodate scientists. It should also be equipped for oceanographic sampling, including Conductivity-Temperature-Depth (CTD) rosette systems, seawater supply systems, and sensors for environmental monitoring. NOAA seeks information on potential vendors' capabilities and their vessels' specifications, with a focus on lab space, sampling equipment, and sensor details. Vendors are invited to provide this information and any feedback on the draft work scope. The RFI also seeks availability and pricing details for potential participation in the 2025 IWCPS. Responses are due by July 26th, 2024.
    NWFSC-SWFSC Ocean Charter RFI 7-25.docx
    The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) issues a Request for Information (RFI) to gather market intelligence and feedback. They seek a suitable charter vessel with specific configurations for the Integrated West Coast Pelagics Survey (IWCPS). This vessel would support oceanographic sampling efforts in coordination with a NOAA Fisheries Survey Vessel. The primary objective is to collect critical data for accurate stock assessments of fisheries and to monitor changing ocean conditions. NOAA requires a vessel with a minimum length of 65 feet, capable of cruising at 9-10 knots and surveying 35 nautical miles offshore. It must have an oceanographic winch, seawater desalination system, and a dedicated onboard laboratory for eDNA and HAB sample processing. The laboratory must be sanitized and separate from fish processing areas. Additionally, the vessel should have chemical and equipment storage, accommodation for up to fourteen scientists, and internet access. Oceanographic sampling specifications include Conductivity-Temperature-Depth (CTD) rosette systems, scientific seawater systems, and hull-mounted thermosalinographs. Other requirements are specified for data collection, such as an Acoustic Doppler Current Profiler and an integrated weather system. NOAA also requests information on ancillary sampling capabilities, such as plankton net winches and platforms for visual observations. Potential vendors are invited to provide their capabilities and feedback, including availability, duration, and daily rates. The submission deadline is Friday, August 2, 2024, with interest sought for a five-year surveying period. NOAA emphasizes that this RFI is for market research and does not guarantee a solicitation.
    Statement of Work IWCPS Ocean Charter FY25.pdf
    The National Marine Fisheries Service seeks to charter an oceanographic research vessel for its Integrated West Coast Pelagics Surveys. The primary objective is to conduct environmental sampling and data collection in coordination with a NOAA Fisheries Survey Vessel. The focus is on gathering critical data for accurate stock assessments of Pacific hake and multiple coastal pelagic fish species, ensuring sustainable fisheries. The vessel must fulfill specific requirements, including a length of 65 feet, a cruising speed of 9 knots, and the ability to accommodate a minimum of 7 science personnel. It must be equipped for environmental sampling, with conductivity-temperature-depth instrumentation, an Acoustic Doppler Current Profiler, and a shipboard data acquisition system. Additionally, the vessel should have a crane and pot hauler for gear recovery and a daily ice supply capacity of 500 pounds. The contractor is responsible for providing a licensed Captain and crew, with preference given to those experienced in scientific operations. The charter period is estimated at 75-85 days at sea per year, with a potential four-year contract duration. Key dates include a desired commencement in June 2025 and submission deadlines for contract options. The evaluation of proposals will prioritize technical merit, with experience in similar research operations and vessel qualifications being critical factors.
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