B--Review and Analysis Services - Title "Investigation for Development of the Salvinia Weevil for Biological Control of the Aquatic Weed, Salvinia molesta, in the Lower Colorado River".

Notice of Intent 1. INTRODUCTION: These investigations are intended for development of the salvinia weevil for biological control of the aquatic weed, Salvinia molesta, in Lower Colorado River water facilities administered by Reclamation and cooperating agencies. 2. BACKGROUND: Giant salvinia has spread from its initial site of infestation near Blythe, California, down the Palo Verde West Drain Canal, into the Colorado River, down to Imperial and Morelos Dams and into the Imperial Irrigation District and irrigated farmland in Northern Mexico. The giant salvinia weevil, Cyrtobagous salviniae, has been shown to be an effective biocontrol on infestations in Texas, South Africa, and New Guinea. USDA-APHIS, in concert with the Lower Colorado River Salvinia control task force, determined that the salvinia weevil biocontrol was the last practical control method available. After extensive lab testing in California, Texas, and Florida, the insects were finally released in July of 2003. 3. SCOPE: Activities will include development and implementing study components for evaluation and monitoring of biological control insects for management of giant salvinia. This work will involve a number of field trips to the Colorado River demonstration site for environmental evaluation and monitoring. Other activities include analysis of data and writing a final report. A presentation of the findings will be made at the annual meeting of the North American Lake Management Society. 4. CONTRACTOR QUALIFICATIONS: Graduate student / PhD candidate with expertise in biology of salvinia weevil also aquatic plant ecology and aquatic biology. It is Reclamation's belief is that Mr. Choi at the University of Arizona in the Department of the Environmental Research Laboratory/Department of Soil, Water and Environmental Science possesses the above experience and is the only source capable of providing Reclamation with the services required. This is not a formal solicitation. However, individuals or concerns that respond shall be able to provide proof of their capability to meet the above requirements of the review board member prior to being provided a copy of the solicitation. This notice may represent the only official notice of such a solicitation.