Snowy Plover Nest Protection and Monitoring (STWD)

The USDA Forest Service's Siuslaw National Forest is entering into a sole source, firm fixed price contract with the Oregon Biodiversity Information Center (ORBIC) in collaboration with Portland State University for the protection and monitoring of Western Snowy Plover nests. ORBIC holds unique permits under Section 10 of the Endangered Species Act, is the only authorized Master Bander in Oregon certified by the US Fish and Wildlife Service for this species, and complies with the Migratory Bird Act. Their role includes conducting all necessary data collection for Western Snowy Plover monitoring along Siuslaw-managed beaches, following protocols consistent with data recorded since 1990. They will work under the direction of the Forest Service regarding monitoring locations and schedules, providing weekly updates on progress to ensure continuity and quality of data. This contract is justified under federal regulations permitting sole source awards when only one responsible source can meet the agency’s needs, reflecting ORBIC’s exclusive capability to fulfill the contract requirements. The contract was posted in March 2016, carries the NAICS code 115310, and does not involve a competitive solicitation process due to the specialized nature of ORBIC's authorizations and expertise. The contracting officer managing the agreement is Janet Paul, based in Corvallis, Oregon, and the work supports the Siuslaw National Forest’s stewardship responsibilities related to endangered species conservation.