3rd Generation (3G) Environmental Sample Processor (ESP) Integration and Support Services

Summary (Newest Update)

Background The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), through its Acquisition and Grants Office (AGO) and Western Acquisition Division (WAD), is proposing a contract to support the Oceanic and Atmospheric Research (OAR) at the Great Lakes Environmental Research Laboratory (GLERL). This contract is justified as a sole source award to the Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute (MBARI) due to their unique capabilities in providing essential services related to the 3rd Generation Environmental Sample Processor (ESP). Work Details The contractor will provide integration and support services for the deployment, calibration, embedding, and operation of a 3G Environmental Sample Processor (ESP) equipped with surface plasmon resonance (SPR) technology into an Uncrewed Surface Vehicle (USV). The goal is to enhance monitoring capabilities for harmful algal blooms, understand phytoplankton community dynamics, and assist public health efforts related to phycotoxins in the Great Lakes and Alaska. Specific tasks include: - Integrating a water capture sampling system for the 3G ESP onto the USV; - Providing operational support during mission deployments; - Ensuring compliance with federal mandates under 33 U.S.C. 53; - Advancing scientific understanding of harmful algal blooms. Period of Performance The period of performance will consist of one base year plus two option years, totaling three years. Place of Performance The work will be performed primarily in locations relevant to the Great Lakes and Alaska. Bidder Requirements Only MBARI is deemed capable of fulfilling this contract due to their historical involvement with the 3G ESP-SPR system since 2017, their unique technological expertise, and their established infrastructure that ensures continuity of operations. No other bidders have been found to possess the necessary qualifications or experience required for this specialized work.