NEFSC Cooperative Research Paired Trawl Survey of Flatfish in Southern New England

The Eastern Region Acquisition Division (ERAD) of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) in Norfolk, VA is soliciting quotes, on behalf of the Ecosystem Survey Branch and the Cooperative Research Program of the Northeast Fisheries Science Center (NEFSC) of the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) for a priority research project relative to Northeast fisheries. The research will emphasize industry based fishery independent trawl survey practices that will assist in filling data gaps relative to flatfish stock assessments. The vessels shall be involved in conducting a trawl net sweep comparison study and biological sampling of flatfish populations in Southern New England. The purpose of the sampling will be (1) to conduct experimental work to estimate net efficiency for each net used in the survey for a range of depths and habitat types and (2) to provide biological sampling and tagging opportunities. The project will evaluate flatfish catchability of a Bigelow 4-seam net with rock hopper and cookie sweeps across the range of suitable flatfish habitats. While winter flounder is a priority, the survey project will broadly address flatfish catchability, and will be directed by NEFSC staff. The project will involve alternate paired vessel trawling with vessels equipped with two net reels. Southern New England flatfish habitat will be targeted, especially near shore strata sampled by the MA, RI, and NEAMAP inshore surveys. Winter, summer and yellowtail flounder catch rates and size composition will be compared across habitat types and with inshore and offshore surveys. Results will inform discussions on the need for a dedicated flatfish survey in the future. This is a 100% small business set aside. The North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code for the acquisition is 483112. The small business size standard is 500 employees. Two vessels will be selected to perform alternating tows for approximately 20 days each (10 Fall 2009 - 10 Spring 2010). NOAA anticipates 1 to 2 contract awards as a result of this solicitation. Quotes may be submitted for 1 vessel only or for both vessels. In this project, paired vessels will be expected to fish side by side in close proximity: vessels of similar design, size and power are encouraged to respond. The solicitation and proposed fixed price contract will be issued utilizing the test procedures identified in FAR Subpart 13.5, Test Program For Certain Commercial Items and will be evaluated on a best value basis wherein the following factors 1 - 4, listed in descending order of importance, when combined, are significantly more important than price: (1) Vessel characteristics and configuration (2) Vessel's commercial fishing history fishing capability (3) Master's and crew's work experience and qualifications (4)Pertinent vessel documentation including stability letter, marine insurance coverage, and structural survey or insurance inspection and (5) Price. All responsible sources may submit a quote that shall be considered by the agency. To be eligible for award, vendors must be registered with the Central Contractor Registration (CCR): www.ccr.gov and obtain a DUNS number by calling +1 (555) 000-0000. Prospective contractors are also required to complete electronic annual representations and certifications at http://orca.bpn.gov in conjunction with the required CCR registration. A copy of the solicitation is attached to this announcement as a downloadable Word file. Quotes will be due on or about August 24, 2009. A hard copy of the solicitation will be provided in response to a written or faxed request received directly from the requestor. Telephone requests for hard copies will not be honored. Requests for hard copies of the solicitation may be faxed to +1 (555) 000-0000. Quotes will be accepted electronically at the following email address: contact@example.gov and via facsimile at +1 (555) 000-0000.