58--58--SATELLITE IMPLANTABLE TRANSMITTERS FOR DUCKS

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service plans to acquire surgically implantable satellite telemetry transmitters (PTTs) on a sole source basis to monitor a declining population of white-fronted geese. These transmitters are compact enough to be implanted in ducks and feature multi-season duty cycle timers that provide up to 800 hours of battery life. This capability allows for comprehensive documentation of the annual life cycle of the birds, making it a unique and essential tool for the project's objectives. The contract will be awarded to Microwave Telemetry Inc., located in Columbia, Maryland, which is the exclusive provider of this specialized technology. The acquisition supports the Department of the Interior’s efforts to gather critical data through advanced satellite telemetry, enabling improved wildlife management and conservation strategies. Given the sole source nature of the purchase, there are no competitive bids as Microwave Telemetry Inc. is the only supplier offering this specific package. This contract was posted in August 2002 under solicitation number DOI-SNOTE-020826-001 by the FWS Headquarters office located in Falls Church, Virginia.