Eastern Black Rail Field Surveys

The contract entails conducting field-based biological surveys targeted at the Eastern black rail within the Everglades Headwaters National Wildlife Refuge, with a focus on nocturnal monitoring, acoustic data collection, and comprehensive habitat assessment to support species conservation efforts. Work must be performed in accordance with established ecological survey protocols, including nighttime field operations to capture species vocalizations and behaviors, while simultaneously documenting and evaluating the quality and characteristics of surrounding wetland habitats critical to the rail’s survival. All data gathered will contribute to understanding population dynamics and informing habitat management strategies. This is a subcontract set aside entirely for small businesses under the SBA’s Total Small Business Set-Aside provisions, classified under NAICS code 541620 for environmental consulting services. The solicitation was posted on April 28, 2026, with a response deadline of May 14, 2026, at 7:00 PM Eastern Time. The contracting agency is the FWS SAT Team 3 within the Department of the Interior, and performance is restricted to the Everglades Headwaters National Wildlife Refuge. Although specific location details are not provided, all work must occur within the designated refuge boundaries, and successful offerors are expected to possess the necessary expertise in avian field biology, acoustic monitoring technology, and wetland ecology to meet the project’s objectives.