053-25 Sole Source Determination_4-10-25_Redacted.pdf

SOLE-SOURCE DETERMINATION AND JUSTIFICATION FOR

SUPPLIES AND SERVICES

Date: 4/8/2025 To: April Brenden-Locke, Designated Procurement Officer, Contract Services, Administrative

Services Division

From: Stan French, Cold Water Project Lead Claire Duvall, Procurement and Contract Specialist

RE: Sole Source Determination pursuant to Oregon Revised Statute (ORS) 279B.075 and Oregon

Administrative Rule (OAR) 125-247-0275

CSR: CSR 053-25, Water Temperature Loggers

Authority to enter into a Sole-Source Contract: OAR 125-246-0170(2)(c)(H)

Description of Goods or Services:

The Agency would like to purchase 200 Onset HOBO TidbiT MX2203 temperature loggers. These loggers are manufactured by Onset Computer Corporation (https://www.onsetcomp.com) and are Bluetooth-compatible for wireless data transfer via the HOBOconnect app. They are waterproof and designed for long-term submersion in freshwater environments, making them well-suited for stream temperature monitoring. Each logger has a part number of MX2203, and this model includes a built-in thermistor, user-replaceable battery, and non-volatile memory capable of storing up to 96,000 measurements.

Reason for Need:

These temperature loggers are a core part of our ongoing stream temperature monitoring program, which supports watershed health assessments, regulatory reporting, and long-term climate and habitat research. We need loggers that can be deployed for extended periods in remote freshwater environments, with reliable data storage and minimal maintenance. The MX2203 model is ideal due to its durability, compact design, and Bluetooth functionality, which allows for efficient data download in the field without requiring physical connections. This functionality significantly reduces labor time and improves data collection accuracy. The loggers’ proven performance, compatibility with our existing workflow and equipment, and widespread familiarity among staff and partners make them uniquely suited to our project needs.

Single of Multiple Purchases:

This justification is for a single bulk purchase. We originally acquired the same model of logger in 2022 through an ITB/formal contract bid, which established the product’s suitability for our program. Since then, we’ve made several smaller follow-up purchases to meet incremental needs. With expanded fieldwork planned for upcoming seasons, we are now requesting another bulk order to ensure consistent equipment availability across all sites. This purchase maintains continuity with our existing hardware, streamlines training and data processing, and supports efficient deployment during an extended monitoring period.

Estimated Cost:

The total estimated value of this purchase is approximately

Research Leading to Determination:

Market research included an internet review of commercially available temperature loggers suitable for long-term aquatic deployment, as well as consultation with other state and federal agencies conducting similar monitoring efforts. Sources included vendor websites (e.g., Onset, Campbell Scientific, and In-Situ), product specifications, and published monitoring protocols from peer organizations. The HOBO TidbiT MX2203 was compared with similar models such as the In-Situ Rugged TROLL and the Temp1000IS. While several models offer basic temperature logging, the MX2203 is the only option that meets all our minimum requirements:

submersible and durable for long-term freshwater use, Bluetooth-enabled for efficient data download in the field without cables or readers, and compatible with free, user-friendly software. In terms of compatibility, our program has used the MX2203 since 2021, and we have over 400 currently deployed in the field. Maintaining consistency with the same model ensures that our data remains compatible with historical datasets, existing QA/QC protocols, and processing workflows, and avoids retraining staff or reconfiguring data systems, which would introduce unnecessary cost and complexity.

Onset specs https://www.onsetcomp.com/products/data-loggers/mx2203

USGS Guide to Monitoring Aquatic Stream Temperatures https://pubs.usgs.gov/publication/tm3A25

Analysis of Research / Findings of Fact:

Pursuant to OAR 125-247-0275(2)(a): Compatibility.

The determination that the efficient utilization of existing goods requires the acquisition of compatible goods from only one source is based on several factors. Firstly, our current temperature monitoring network is built around the Onset HOBO TidbiT MX2203 loggers, with over 400 units already deployed across various field sites. These loggers have been calibrated and configured to work seamlessly with our data collection protocols, software (HOBOconnect and HOBOware), and field procedures. Introducing a different model would not only necessitate extensive retraining of field personnel but also require adjustments to our data processing methods, which would introduce inefficiencies and increase the risk of errors in the dataset. Additionally, maintaining uniformity across all monitoring sites ensures that data collected over time remains consistent, comparable, and directly applicable for trend analysis and regulatory reporting. The Onset MX2203 model is the only temperature logger that meets our strict criteria for waterproofness, durability in remote conditions, Bluetooth capability for wireless data transfer, and compatibility with our existing equipment. Its long battery life, precision, and ease of use have been proven in the field, making it the most cost-effective and operationally efficient option. As such, acquiring additional units from Onset ensures the continuity and reliability of our monitoring efforts, without disrupting established workflows or compromising data quality.

Pursuant to ORS 279B.075 (2)(b): Exchange of Software or Data.

The need to acquire software and data exchange services from a single source is based on our ongoing use of Onset's HOBOware and HOBOconnect software, which is fully integrated with the HOBO TidbiT MX2203 loggers. These tools allow seamless data download, analysis, and synchronization, ensuring compatibility with our existing systems and data storage protocols. Furthermore, we share collected data through public resources like AQWAMs, and using Onset's proprietary software ensures that our data can be easily shared and accessed by public agencies such as DEQ. Other data logging systems do not offer the same level of compatibility, nor do they provide the same ease of integration for data exchange with public agencies. By continuing to use Onset's software and loggers, we can avoid data conversion errors, maintain consistency in reporting, and meet the specific data sharing requirements set by other organizations. This makes Onset the only viable option for maintaining effective data exchange with both public and private agencies.

Pursuant to ORS 279B.075 (2)(c): Pilot or Experimental Project.

Pursuant to ORS 279B.075 (2)(d): Other findings that support the conclusion that Supplies and Services are available from only one source may include but are not limited to considerations of: unique design, availability, geographic location, exclusive authorized representative, cost of conversion, and warranty services.

APPROVED BY:

April Brenden-Locke, DPO, ODFW Contract Services Manager Date

4/15/25

January 10, 2025

Thank you for your interest in Onset Computer Corporation and our range of products.

Onset Computer Corporation is the sole manufacturer of HOBO® and InTemp® data loggers, HOBOnet® wireless sensors, HOBOWare® proprietary software, HOBOconnect®, HOBOmobile® and InTemp® apps, as well as cloud platforms HOBOlink® and InTempConnect®.

Our engineering and technical support teams provide repair service and technical assistance. For over 40 years, Onset has built a reputation for delivering accurate, reliable, and cost-effective data loggers. Our HOBO® and InTemp® data logging products are designed and manufactured in Bourne, Massachusetts, U.S.A.

Warranty The HOBO®, HOBOnet® and InTemp® products are warranted to be free from defects in material and workmanship for a period of one year from the date of original purchase. During the warranty period Onset will, at its option, either repair or replace products that prove to be defective. This warranty is void if the Onset products have been damaged by customer error or negligence or if there has been an unauthorized modification.

If I can be of any further service or to discuss any aspect of your application, please let me know. Thank you once again for considering Onset Computer Corporation.

Sincerely, ONSET COMPUTER CORPORATION

Taryn Picard Sr. Director of Business Operations taryn.picard@licor.com Onset Computer Corporation HOBO® & InTemp® Data Loggers a Li-Core Brand