Workshop and research on derelict fishing gear mitigation

***NMFSs Northwest Region intends to negotiate, on a sole source basis, under authority of FAR 13.106-1(b)(1), with Northwest Straits Marine Foundation, of Mount Vernon, WA, to investigate methods to prevent commercial salmon fishing net loss. ***The sole source determination is based on the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) requirement for identification of ways to prevent reduce the loss of fish nets and shrimp pots in areas inside and outside of the Puget Sound. The period of performance shall be from award date of the contract, thru 08/30/2012. ***This notice of intent is not a request for competitive proposals and no solicitation package is available. However, firms that believe they can provide the service that fully meets the Government's requirements may submit substantiating documentation in writing to the identified point of contact within 15 days after publication of this synopsis. Any documentation should provide sufficient detail to demonstrate the ability to perform the required analysis, including identifying the potential number of derelict shrimp pots by performing sonar surveys of the area, as well as coordinating with multiple agencies and organizations such as the Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife and the Northwest Indian FIsheries Commission. Such documentation will be evaluated solely for the purpose of determining whether or not to conduct this procurement on a competitive basis. A determination by the Government not to conduct a competitive procurement, based upon responses to this notice, is solely within the discretion of the government. Oral communications are not acceptable in response to this notice.