NEFSC Cooperative Research Twin 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 vessel shall be involved in conducting a trawl net sweep comparison study and biological sampling of flatfish populations throughout their range in U.S. waters 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 opportunities. This 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 a twin trawling vessel 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. A twin trawl experiment is considered an efficient mechanism for comparative tows. With the nets side by side, an estimated 15-20 days of trawling are likely to be required to achieve the desired 80 paired tows. This project will likely employ different tow durations during tagging opportunities described below. The proposed contract is 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. The period of performance is one 10-day survey leg during the Fall of 2009 (September) and one 10-day survey leg during the Spring 2010 (February-March). 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 will be attached to this announcement as a downloadable Word file. Quotes will be due on or about August 14, 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.