R--Provide logistical Support for Avian Influenza

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Region 7, plans to award a sole source contract to the Barrow Arctic Science Consortium to provide comprehensive logistical support for a twelve-person field crew conducting avian influenza research in Barrow, Alaska. The contract period extends from June 1 to September 15, 2006, and includes provisions for housing, food, phone service, use of ATVs and trucks, obtaining permits, and overall logistical coordination necessary for field operations. This support is critical for the team to capture and collect avian swab samples from birds identified as potential carriers of the H5N1 virus. The sampling will follow protocols mandated by the National Wildlife Health Center to ensure the safety of personnel and proper handling, storage, and shipment of samples. This is a sole source procurement, meaning the government has not solicited competitive proposals and does not intend to accept any. The contract award will be finalized 15 calendar days after the notice’s publication date. The effort underscores the government’s commitment to monitoring and managing avian influenza threats through coordinated field research and sampling activities.