R -- Notice of intent to negotiate a sole source contract

The Department of Commerce's National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), specifically the Northwest Fisheries Science Center, intends to negotiate a sole source contract with the Center for Whale Research (CRC). The contract aims to support the collection and distribution of identification data and literature on killer whales across the Puget Sound inland waters, coastal Pacific Ocean waters, and areas from central Vancouver Island to central California. The CRC is uniquely qualified for this work due to its 26 years of experience in photo-identification research and its established coastal sighting network, which provides specialized expertise necessary for the project’s success. This simplified acquisition contract has an estimated value under $100,000 and reflects NOAA's recognition of the CRC’s ongoing contributions and specific capabilities in marine mammal research. Questions about the procurement may be directed to Randall Brown. The arrangement ensures continuity in the collection of important ecological data on killer whale populations, facilitating research and conservation efforts in the Pacific Northwest and adjacent coastal regions.