B -- Notice of intent to negotiate a sole source contract with University of Idaho

The contract involves a sole source negotiation with the University of Idaho to conduct a study and provide a report assessing the quality of fish released from ongoing captive broodstocks. The research is tied to a continuing project funded by the Bonneville Power Administration, with Dr. Hardy from the University of Idaho serving as a principal investigator. This study is essential to the National Marine Fisheries Service and can only be performed by the University of Idaho due to their existing work and expertise funded by BPA. The contract is valued at less than $100,000 and is classified as a simplified acquisition. The Department of Commerce, through its National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration office in Seattle, WA, is overseeing this procurement. Questions regarding the contract are directed to Randall Brown via phone or fax, with no email correspondence accepted. The solicitation was posted in December 2001, reflecting the intent to engage the University of Idaho exclusively, ensuring continuity and specialized knowledge in assessing fish broodstock quality.