Genetic Assay Development and Validation for Pine Species ID

A subcontract has been issued by the USDA Forest Service under the agency name Csa Intermountain 1 Usda-Fs to develop and validate a DNA-based genetic assay capable of reliably distinguishing between whitebark pine and limber pine using molecular markers. The project will utilize reference materials provided by the USFS to ensure accuracy and relevance to forest management needs, with the ultimate goal of creating a robust, field-deployable tool for species identification that supports conservation and ecological monitoring efforts. The assay must be scientifically sound, validated through rigorous testing, and capable of consistent performance across varying sample conditions. The solicitation is designated as a Total Small Business Set-Aside under FAR 19.5, indicating that only small business concerns are eligible to respond, and it falls under the NAICS code 541715 for research and development in the physical, engineering, and life sciences. The contract was posted on July 17, 2026, with a deadline for responses set for July 27, 2026, and the work is expected to be performed in Riverdale, Utah, with zip code 84405. The nature of this effort requires expertise in molecular biology, genetic marker development, and forensic or ecological genetics, with results expected to meet federal standards for scientific validation and reproducibility.