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

The Department of Commerce, NOAA office in Seattle, WA, intends to negotiate a sole source contract with the Korea Ocean Research and Development Institute to support the Pacific Marine Environmental Laboratory (PMEL). The contract involves chartering a vessel and related services to recover hydrophones currently deployed near the Mariana Islands. These hydrophones have been monitoring underwater sounds, particularly those from erupting volcanoes, and their recovery in September 2003 is critical for locating unknown seafloor volcanoes. This information is essential for detailed studies planned for a submersible cruise in January 2004. This procurement is a simplified acquisition with an estimated value below $100,000, and it will be awarded without competitive solicitation, as requests for solicitation will not be entertained. The notice serves as the official announcement of the government's intent, emphasizing the sole source nature of the contract to ensure timely and efficient recovery operations to facilitate ongoing scientific research in the Pacific marine environment.