Right Whale Interaction Reduction Research Grant
Contract Overview
Solicitation details, issuing organization, response deadlines, documents, and interested companies for this government contract opportunity.
AI Contract Overview
The Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries has issued a Request for Response (RFR 24012) seeking grant proposals for research projects focused on monitoring the North Atlantic right whale (NARW), understanding their interactions with lobster trap fisheries, and developing innovative gear solutions to reduce potentially harmful entanglements. This initiative primarily supports applied research efforts involving ropeless fishing gear, acoustic monitoring, surveillance, and co-occurrence modeling to support whale conservation while maintaining fishery sustainability. The contract structure allows for funding over a maximum period of five years, starting with an initial two-year period ending December 31, 2026, and up to three one-year renewal options extending performance through December 31, 2028, contingent upon federal funding availability and satisfactory project performance. Proposals must include a detailed project timeline, measurable milestones, budget justifications, and demonstrate feasibility and practical applicability aligned with conservation goals and MADMF oversight. Funding is awarded on a fee-for-service basis through a multiple-award format, permitting up to ten contractors with potential additions post-award. The procurement adheres to Massachusetts state-specific contracting regulations rather than federal FAR clauses and requires compliance with Commonwealth terms and conditions, procurement laws, and environmental policies such as the Supplier Diversity Program and Executive Orders related to sustainable purchasing. There is no requirement for federal entity registrations like UEI or CAGE codes, but contractors must not be debarred and must complete vendor registration and tax documentation such as the Massachusetts Substitute W-9. Submission involves electronic delivery via the COMMBUYS portal or email, with strict page limits on proposal volumes and mandatory inclusion of key forms for contract execution. Evaluation criteria emphasize execution capability (60%) including methods, budgets, and performance metrics, alongside relevancy of proposed research (40%), with awards determined on a best-value basis rather than lowest price. The Division maintains substantial involvement in project oversight, requiring regular progress reporting and coordination, ensuring research outputs contribute directly to effective resource management and whale protection efforts within Massachusetts waters.
General Info
Place of Performance
Rodney French Blvd New Bedford, MA, 02744, USASet-Aside
Timeline
Response Deadline
Organization & Contact Information
Full Description
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