Best Available Science Review - Market Research

The Gulf Coast Ecosystem Restoration Council (GCERC) seeks contractual services for independent science reviews of ecosystem and economic restoration projects. Established by the RESTORE Act, GCERC requires expert assessment to ensure projects are based on “best available science” as defined by the Act, emphasizing quality, objectivity, peer-reviewed data, and clear documentation of risks. The contractor will manage the review process, including selecting subject matter experts, providing guidance, and administering reviewer compensation. Reviews will cover a range of projects, from natural resource protection to infrastructure, and must include a minimum of five reviews annually. The contract is a sixty-month fixed-price award, with a twelve-month base year and four optional years. Key personnel must have environmental experience and specific scientific expertise, with all participants required to sign a Conflict of Interest form.

This Sources Sought Notice from the General Services Administration (GSA) Federal Acquisition Service (FAS) aims to identify vendors capable of providing ecosystem restoration-based science support services for the Gulf Coast Ecosystem Restoration Council (GCERC). The primary objective is to find contractors who can independently review and assess whether proposed projects for natural resource protection and restoration under the RESTORE Act are based on "best available science." This involves utilizing subject matter experts from non-profits, Gulf centers of excellence, and academia to review project and program proposals, including novel or complex techniques. The contractor's main function will be to select reviewers, provide guidance, and administer funds. The contract's anticipated period of performance is sixty months, with a twelve-month base year and four twelve-month option years. This notice is for market research only and does not constitute a solicitation, with further details and solicitations to be published on the Governmentwide Point of Entry.