Upper Midwest Environmental Sciences Center

The Department of the Interior US Geological Survey Upper Midwest Environmental Sciences Center is a civilian research and technical support sub-agency within the USGS that funds environmental science and monitoring work through a limited but recurring contract portfolio. The Center has awarded 9 federal contracts totaling $481 thousand in combined potential value since 2016, with activity concentrated in the opening year; 8 awards closed in 2016 and 1 award closed in 2021, with no recorded awards between those years or after 2021. All $481 thousand in potential value has been obligated.

The competitive base is highly fragmented — nine distinct prime contractors have been awarded across the portfolio, each holding a single award. This pattern suggests the Center procures specialized or mission-specific services rather than sustaining long-term relationships with core primes. Combined dollars obligated equals combined potential value, indicating full commitment at contract execution rather than option exercises or modifications driving subsequent growth.

Set-aside policy favors unrestricted competition, with two-thirds of awards (6 of 9) placed outside set-aside categories. Small business set-asides account for 22 percent of awards (2 of 9), and one competitive 8(a) award represents 11 percent of the portfolio. The remaining awards are open to all contractors.

No recent contract awards are recorded against the Center since September 2021, nor are any recent contract opportunities identified in the source material. The gap in activity over the past five years and absence of open solicitations suggest minimal current procurement velocity at this Center location. Business development professionals evaluating this venue should verify whether procurement activity has resumed or shifted to different administrative channels within the USGS before pursuing engagement.