A04_Attachment_A_SOW_2023-2027_1_Sep_2022.pdf

STATEMENT OF WORK:

WALRUS AND POLAR BEAR RESEARCH AND MANAGEMENT SUPPORT

INTRODUCTION

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) has management authority for polar bears (Ursus maritimus) and Pacific walrus (Odobenus rosmarus). Management authority and responsibilities for these species are outlined under the U.S. Mammal Protection Act and the U.S. Endangered Species Act. Research and management efforts for walrus and polar bear stocks is complicated by a complex web of regional, federal, and international policies and regulations; language and political barriers; and a lack of infrastructure in the remote regions where these species occur. The FWS is seeking a full-time research scientist to assist with the coordination and implementation of international walrus and polar bear research and management efforts necessary to establish reliable population assessments and inform sound management decisions. This research scientist will also be responsible to help plan and execute logistical support for a walrus genetic mark-recapture research cruise.

FWS has a common interest in the conservation and management of both Pacific walrus and polar bears as well as associated treaty obligations for these species. Regarding polar bears, the ability of FWS to regularly monitor and research polar bears from the Alaskan side has been compromised due to limitations the deteriorating ice conditions in the Chukchi Sea impose on the capture and marking of polar bears in the spring. This limitation has placed even greater value on establishing a regular research and monitoring program with the larger scientific community. Thus, myriad challenges remain in facilitating this logistically challenging international work that is vital to establishing an informative research and monitoring program on the Chukchi Sea population.

Considering Pacific walruses’ ice dependency and the retreat of summer sea ice in the Chukchi Sea in the past decade, information on stock size, mortality rates, and age-specific demographic rates are necessary for informed management. Additionally, there is great value in establishing a regular research and monitoring program with our Indiginous and academic partners to inform and establish reliable population assessments and sound management decisions. Specific to the research cruise, work will be accomplished using a U.S. research vessel as a primary platform, with government and vessel provided skiffs available for the collection of biopsy samples for a genetic capture-mark-recapture experiment led by the FWS and an age structure survey lead by the USGS with assistance from ADF&G. The cruise will last approximately 4-5 weeks not including transit time and will begin in late May with start and end dates weather and ice condition dependent. The cruise will be supported by aerial surveillance for locating groups of walruses on sea ice in the study area.

The skiffs and associated gear will be loaded onto the charter vessel from a port with road access such as Homer, Alaska. The vessel will be required to transit to Nome where the USFWS and USGS personnel will board. The vessel will conduct operations from Nome to ice edge in the Chukchi Sea. The vessel will return to Nome to offload government personnel and then return to the original port to return the skiffs and gear. Ferry time of the vessel is included in this contract.

Under the guidance of the chief scientist leading the mark-recapture study (designated by FWS) and the chief scientist leading the age structure survey (as designated by USGS), the contractor must be capable of support services and logistics for the above work in U.S. waters. This work will occur in phases according to the time sensitive completion of contract and are outlined below. The contractor must secure a vessel contract to support this work which will ensure travel to the study area, housing for up to 20 biologists, transportation and fuel support for up to 3 to 4 16-21 ft. skiffs for a four to five weeks of survey. The study area is in the Eastern Chukchi Sea, Alaskan waters. The research vessel will be deploying skiffs at different areas along the ice edge. Estimated total distance traveled is ~2500 miles

(with starting and ending locations in Nome, AK). In optional years the contractor might need to secure aircraft contract to provide aerial surveillance of the study area throughout the survey. In accordance with Secretarial Order 3379 the use of drones is prohibited. The contractor will also ensure participation of Alaskan natives and invited scientists in the cruise.

DESCRIPTION OF TASKS

The work outlined here includes:

1. Serving in a research and management position for Pacific walrus and polar bear research. The goal of this work is to facilitate communication and coordinate various elements of these species’ programs amongst our scientific and management partners globally.

2. Assist in the planning and implementation of the Pacific Walrus Genetic Mark Recapture Project throughout the Bering and Chukchi seas.

The contractor shall perform the following tasks and conduct all work in close collaboration with the FWS office of Marine Mammal Management. The overall period of performance for the base tasks are outlined next to each. Up to four additional option years will be considered subject to availability of funds.

BASE YEAR TASK:

CLIN 10010. Research and Management Position and Walrus Genetic Mark Recapture Cruise Planning Contractor shall provide a qualified full-time equivalent specialist to support ongoing walrus and polar bear research and management activities.

Period of Performance: Base year: October 1, 2022 – September 30, 2023

Requirements:

• Specialist must have a Ph.D. in Marine Biology or Ecology.

• Must have at least 10 years of experience working with marine mammals, 6 of which shall include arctic or polar research.

• Must have at least 1 year of experience working with polar bear and walrus research in Alaska.

• Must be first author on a minimum of 5 peer reviewed scientific publications.

• Must be fluent in both English and Russian.

General Tasks:

• Coordinate and support domestic and international walrus and polar bear research projects.

Activities to include plan and organize field work, provide logistic support and assistance to field teams, analyze and report on collected scientific data.

• Facilitate dialog regarding the conservation and management of polar bear and walruses including Organize and facilitate multilateral meetings of polar bear and walrus researchers and managers (in person and on-line), conduct routine communication among partners, and help communicate study results to various stakeholders.

Specific Tasks:

The contractor will be responsible for aiding staff of the FWS MMM office in the planning, organization and implementation of polar bear and walrus projects including but not limited to the following areas of research:

Polar bear:

• Data on population parameters for the analysis of behavior, distribution, use of the environment, and abundance.

• Biological sampling from polar bear and its prey species for genetic and nutritional analyses.

• Ground-based observational surveys.

• Biological sampling using techniques that ensure minimal impact on animals.

• Assist to collect data on human - polar bear interactions.

• Work on development of survey protocols for polar bear.

• Monitor the status of the Alaska-Chukotka polar bear subpopulation.

• Support aerial and ground-based polar bear surveys.

• Facilitate biological sampling and GPS and satellite aging of polar bears.

Walrus:

• Provide planning and support for research to estimate sources and rates of disturbance related mortalities at coastal walrus haulouts.

• Participate in outreach and public awareness campaigns in remote rural communities on walrus conservation and management efforts.

• Assist with the collection, compilation and analysis of data on the age-sex composition of subsistence walrus harvests in the US and Russia.

• Serve as a Co-Primary Investigator (PI) on a walrus genetic mark-recapture (GMR) research study and field cruise. Provide advanced planning, consultation, and logistical support, seek sources of project funding, assist with the analysis and reporting of results.

o Specific Tasks and deliverables as Co-PI on walrus GMR Planning:

• Identify and contact potential U.S vessels and aircraft owners to discuss vessel and fixed wing aircrafts charter options and current prices for four to five weeks walrus research cruise in the Bering and Chukchi Seas in May-June 2023. Vessel will need to match the vessel specification provided by FWS (located at the bottom of this SOW).

• Identification of all permits or licenses required for said vessel to work in U.S. waters and all costs associated with obtaining said permits.

• Deliverable: Report results of findings on vessel and aircraft technical specification in accordance with SOW (proper size, flight endurance for aircrafts, ice reinforcement code for vessels, living conditions for scientific crew, etc.) and charter options (availability in May-June 2023, charter cost, ports of departure and arrival, etc.) and consult with official FWS representative for consideration of different options and select proper vessel and aircraft.

• Deliverable: Secure a contract with the agreed upon US charter vessel for four to fives week research cruise in U.S. waters of the Bering and Chukchi Sea with reasonable and secure advance payments.

CLIN 10011 Option Initial U.S. Research Cruise Charter Vessel Operations – 10 days Period of Performance: October 1, 2022- September 30, 2023

The contractor will work with the contracted charter vessel to secure 10 days on the charter vessel to support the Walrus GMR Project.

• Make commitments and secure 10 days of the already agreed upon U.S. charter boat.

CLIN 10012 Option Additional Days of U.S. Research Cruise Charter Vessel Operations Period of Performance: October 1, 2022- September 30, 2023

The cruise duration could be extended up to 20 days. In this task, the contractor will work with the contracted charter vessel to increase the cruise duration up to a total of 30 days.

CLIN10013 Option Locate and hire research participants for walrus cruise

• Identify Alaskan native hunters and visiting scientist research capable and willing to participate in the cruise in accordance with the SOW, consult with FWS Project Lead for approval of potential hires; conduct interviews and negotiate terms and conditions of services.

• Hire up to 2 Alaskan native hunters and up to 2 visiting scientists to support the walrus cruise

• Make round trip travel arrangements from their home to the port of departure and return.

• If necessary and with approval from the FWS Project lead, train participants to participate in the walrus cruise (i.e., walrus biopsy sample collection method, boat handling skills, etc.)

CLIN 10014 Option Walrus U.S. Research Cruise aerial reconnaissance work in accordance with the SOW

• Research aerial reconnaissance providers

• Contract U.S. plane for 4-5 weeks of aerial reconnaissance work in the U.S. side of the

Bering and Chukchi Seas.

CLIN 10015 Option Purchase Field Equipment and Supplies for the Walrus Cruise Period of Performance: October 1, 2022- September 30, 2023

• Coordinate with FWS Project Lead to identify and procure supplies and equipment necessary for walrus genetic mark-recapture cruise.

CLIN1001 6 Option Advance Planning for 2024 Walrus Cruise - Consultation and Mobilization

• Based on the results of walrus research cruises in 2023, the contractor will make proper commitments and secure the most suitable and cost effective. ice reinforced vessel for the walrus research cruise in May-June 2024. Vessel will need to match the vessel specification provided by FWS (located at the bottom of this SOW).

• Prepare a detailed plan for a 2024 walrus research cruise (vessel, port and preliminary dates of departure, ports to load scientific equipment, pick up U.S. walrus research team, etc.) and submit it to FWS Project Lead for consideration and approval.

• Explore different and cost effective, options for chartering aircraft for aerial reconnaissance for walrus cruise in 2024. Discuss with FWS Project Lead and select proper aviation company for survey in the U.S. Bering and Chukchi Sea. Make arrangements and secure aircrafts for work in May-June 2024.

• Identify and contact new potential US vessels and aircraft owners to discuss vessel and fixed wing aircrafts charter options and current prices for 4-5 weeks walrus research cruise in the Bering and Chukchi Seas in May-June 2024

• Identification of all permits or licenses required for said vessel to work in U.S. waters and all costs associated with obtaining said permits.

• Deliverable:

a. Summarize results of findings on vessel and aircraft technical specification in accordance with SOW (proper size, flight endurance for aircrafts, ice reinforcement code for vessels, living conditions for scientific crew, etc.) and charter options (availability in May-June 2024, charter cost, ports of departure and arrival, etc.) and consult with official FWS representative for consideration of different options and select proper vessel and aircraft.

Required vessel technical specifications with recent images to complete the project are attached.

b. Contract US charter vessel for 4-5 weeks research cruise in U.S. waters of the Bering and Chukchi Seas. Secure charter boat with reasonable and secure advance payments.

c. Contract US aircraft for 4-5 weeks walrus aerial reconnaissance in U.S. waters of the Bering and Chukchi Seas. Secure aircraft with reasonable and secure advance payments.

OPTION YEAR 1 TASK (2024):

CLIN 20010 Research and Management Position Contractor shall provide a qualified full-time equivalent specialist to support ongoing walrus and polar bear research and management activities.

Period of Performance: Base year: October 1, 2023 – September 30, 2024

Requirements:

• Specialist must have a Ph.D. in Marine Biology or Ecology.

• Must have at least 10 years of experience working with marine mammals, 6 of which shall include arctic or polar research.

• Must have at least 1 year of experience working with polar bear and walrus research in Alaska.

• Must be first author on a minimum of 5 peer reviewed scientific publications.

• Must be fluent in both English and Russian.

General Tasks:

• Coordinate and support domestic and international walrus and polar bear research projects.

Activities to include plan and organize field work, provide logistic support and assistance to field teams, analyze and report on collected scientific data.

• Facilitate dialog regarding the conservation and management of polar bear and walruses including Organize and facilitate multilateral meetings of polar bear and walrus researchers and managers (in person and on-line), conduct routine communication among partners, and help communicate study results to various stakeholders.

Specific Tasks:

The contractor will be responsible for aiding staff of the FWS MMM office in the planning, organization and implementation of polar bear and walrus projects including but not limited to the following areas of research:

Polar bear:

• Data on population parameters for the analysis of behavior, distribution, use of the environment, and abundance.

• Biological sampling from polar bear and its prey species for genetic and nutritional analyses.

• Ground-based observational surveys.

• Biological sampling using techniques that ensure minimal impact on animals.

• Assist to collect data on human - polar bear interactions.

• Work on development of survey protocols for polar bear.

• Monitor the status of the Alaska-Chukotka polar bear population.

• Support aerial and ground-based polar bear surveys.

• Facilitate biological sampling and GPS and satellite tagging of polar bears.

Walrus:

• Provide planning and support for research to estimate sources and rates of disturbance related mortalities at coastal walrus haulouts.

• Participate in outreach and public awareness campaigns in remote rural communities on walrus conservation and management efforts.

• Assist with the collection, compilation and analysis of data on the age-sex composition of subsistence walrus harvests in the US and Russia.

• Serve as a Co-Primary Investigator (PI) on a walrus genetic mark-recapture (GMR) research

CLIN 20011 Option U.S. Research Cruise Charter Vessel Operations Period of Performance: October 1, 2023- September 30, 2024

The cruise duration could be extended up to 20 days. In this task, the contractor will work with the contracted charter vessel to increase the cruise duration up to a total of 30 days.

CLIN 20012 Option Locate and hire research participants for walrus cruise Period of Performance: October 1, 2023- September 30, 2024

• Identify Alaskan native hunters and visiting scientist research capable and willing to participate in the cruise in accordance with the SOW, consult with FWS Project Lead for approval of potential hires; conduct interviews and negotiate terms and conditions of services.

• Hire up to 2 Alaskan native hunters and up to 2 visiting scientists to support the walrus cruise

• Make round trip travel arrangements from their home to the port of departure and return.

• If necessary and with approval from the FWS Project lead, train participants to

CLIN 20013 Option Walrus U.S. Research Cruise aerial reconnaissance work Period of Performance: October 1, 2023- September 30, 2024

• Research aerial reconnaissance providers

• Contract U.S. plane for 4-5 weeks of aerial reconnaissance work in the U.S. side of the

Bering and Chukchi Seas.

CLIN 20014 Option Purchase Field Equipment and Supplies for the Walrus Cruise Period of Performance: October 1, 2023- September 30, 2024

• Coordinate with FWS Project Lead to identify supplies and equipment necessary for walrus genetic mark-recapture cruise

• Procure supplies and equipment necessary for walrus genetic mark-recapture cruise

• Ensure supplies and equipment procured make it onto the charter vessel to be utilized during the field cruise.

CLIN 20015 Option Advance Planning for 2025 Walrus Cruise - Consultation and

Period of Performance: October 1, 2023- September 30, 2024

• Based on the results of walrus research cruises in 2024, the contractor will make proper commitments and secure the most suitable and cost affective ice reinforced vessel for the walrus research cruise in May-June 2024. Vessel will need to match the vessel specification provided by FWS (located at the bottom of this SOW).

• Prepare a detailed plan for a 2025 walrus research cruise (vessel, port and preliminary dates of departure, ports to load scientific equipment, pick up U.S. walrus research team, etc.) and submit it to FWS Project Lead for consideration and approval.

• Explore different and cost affective options for chartering aircraft for aerial reconnaissance for walrus cruise in 2025. Discuss with FWS Project Lead and select proper aviation company for survey in the U.S. Bering and Chukchi Sea. Make arrangements and secure aircrafts for work in May-June 2025.

• Identify and contact new potential US vessels and aircraft owners to discuss vessel and fixed wing aircrafts charter options and current prices for 4-5 weeks walrus research cruise in the Bering and Chukchi Seas in May-June 2025

• Identification of all permits or licenses required for said vessel to work in U.S. waters and all costs associated with obtaining said permits.

• Deliverable:

a. Summarize results of findings on vessel and aircraft technical specification in accordance with SOW (proper size, flight endurance for aircrafts, ice reinforcement code for vessels, living conditions for scientific crew, etc.) and charter options (availability in May-June 2025, charter cost, ports of departure and arrival, etc.) and consult with official FWS representative for consideration of different options and select proper vessel and aircraft.

Required vessel technical specifications with recent images to complete the project are attached.

b. Contract US charter vessel for 4-5 weeks research cruise in U.S. waters of the Bering and Chukchi Seas. Secure charter boat with reasonable and secure advance payments.

c. Contract US aircraft for 4-5 weeks walrus aerial reconnaissance in U.S. waters of the Bering and Chukchi Seas. Secure aircraft with reasonable and secure advance payments.

OPTION YEAR 2 TASK (2025):

CLIN 30010 option Research and Management Position Contractor shall provide a qualified full-time equivalent specialist to support ongoing walrus and polar bear research and management activities.

Period of Performance: Base year: October 1, 2024 – September 30, 2025

Requirements:

• Specialist must have a Ph.D. in Marine Biology or Ecology.

• Must have at least 10 years of experience working with marine mammals, 6 of which shall include arctic or polar research.

• Must have at least 1 year of experience working with polar bear and walrus research in Alaska.

• Must be first author on a minimum of 5 peer reviewed scientific publications.

• Must be fluent in both English and Russian.

General Tasks:

• Coordinate and support domestic and international walrus and polar bear research projects.

Activities to include, plan and organize field work, provide logistic support and assistance to field teams, analyze and report on collected scientific data.

• Facilitate dialog regarding the conservation and management of polar bear and walruses including, Organize and facilitate multilateral meetings of polar bear and walrus researchers and managers (in person and on-line), conduct routine communication among partners, and help communicate study results to various stakeholders.

Specific Tasks:

The contractor will be responsible for aiding staff of the FWS MMM office in the planning, organization and implementation of polar bear and walrus projects including but not limited to the following areas of research:

Polar bear:

• Data on population parameters for the analysis of behavior, distribution, use of the environment, and abundance.

• Biological sampling from polar bear and its prey species for genetic and nutritional analyses.

• Ground-based observational surveys.

• Biological sampling using techniques that ensure minimal impact on animals.

• Assist to collect data on human - polar bear interactions.

• Work on development of survey protocols for polar bear.

• Monitor the status of the Alaska-Chukotka polar bear subpopulation.

• Support aerial and ground-based polar bear surveys.

• Facilitate biological sampling and GPS and satellite tagging of polar bears.

Walrus:

• Provide planning and support for research to estimate sources and rates of disturbance related mortalities at coastal walrus haulouts;

• Participate in outreach and public awareness campaigns in remote rural communities on walrus conservation and management efforts.

• Assist with the collection, compilation and analysis of data on the age-sex composition of subsistence walrus harvests in the US and Russia.

• Serve as a Co-Primary Investigator (PI) on a walrus genetic mark-recapture (GMR) research

CLIN 30011 Option U.S. Research Cruise Charter Vessel Operations Period of Performance: October 1, 2024- September 30, 2025 The cruise duration could be extended up to 20 days. In this task, the contractor will work with the contracted charter vessel to increase the cruise duration up to a total of 30 days.

CLIN 30012 Option Locate and hire research participants for walrus cruise Period of Performance: October 1, 2024- September 30, 2025

• Identify Alaskan native hunters and visiting scientist research capable and willing to participate in the cruise in accordance with the SOW, consult with FWS Project Lead for approval of potential hires; conduct interviews and negotiate terms and conditions of services.

• Hire up to 2 Alaskan native hunters and up to 2 visiting scientists to support the walrus cruise

• Make round trip travel arrangements from their home to the port of departure and return.

• If necessary and with approval from the FWS Project lead, train participants to

CLIN 30013 Option Walrus U.S. Research Cruise aerial reconnaissance work Period of Performance: October 1, 2024- September 30, 2025

• Research aerial reconnaissance providers

• Contract U.S. plane for 4-5 weeks of aerial reconnaissance work in the U.S. side of the

Bering and Chukchi Seas.

CLIN 30014 Option Purchase Field Equipment and Supplies for the Walrus Cruise Period of Performance: October 1, 2024- September 30, 2025

• Coordinate with FWS Project Lead to identify supplies and equipment necessary for walrus genetic mark-recapture cruise

• Procure supplies and equipment necessary for walrus genetic mark-recapture cruise

CLIN 30015 Option Advance Planning for 2026 Walrus Cruise - Consultation and

Period of Performance: October 1, 2024- September 30, 2025

• Based on the results of walrus research cruises in 2025, the contractor will make proper commitments and secure the most suitable and cost affective ice reinforced vessel for the walrus research cruise in May-June 2026. Vessel will need to match the vessel specification provided by FWS (located at the bottom of this SOW).

• Prepare a detailed plan for a 2026 walrus research cruise (vessel, port and preliminary dates of departure, ports to load scientific equipment, pick up U.S. walrus research team, etc.) and submit it to FWS Project Lead for consideration and approval.

• Explore different and cost affective options for chartering aircraft for aerial reconnaissance for walrus cruise in 2026. Discuss with FWS Project Lead and select proper aviation company for survey in the U.S. Bering and Chukchi Sea. Make arrangements and secure aircrafts for work in May-June 2026.

• Identify and contact new potential US vessels and aircraft owners to discuss vessel and fixed wing aircrafts charter options and current prices for 4-5 weeks walrus research cruise in the Bering and Chukchi Seas in May-June 2026

• Identification of all permits or licenses required for said vessel to work in U.S. waters and all costs associated with obtaining said permits.

• Deliverable:

a. Summarize results of findings on vessel and aircraft technical specification in accordance with SOW (proper size, flight endurance for aircrafts, ice reinforcement code for vessels, living conditions for scientific crew, etc.) and charter options (availability in May-June 2026, charter cost, ports of departure and arrival, etc.) and consult with official FWS representative for consideration of different options and select proper vessel and aircraft.

Required vessel technical specifications with recent images to complete the project are attached.

b. Contract US charter vessel for 4-5 weeks research cruise in U.S. waters of the Bering and Chukchi Seas. Secure charter boat with reasonable and secure advance payments.

c. Contract US aircraft for 4-5 weeks walrus aerial reconnaissance in U.S. waters of the Bering and Chukchi Seas. Secure aircraft with reasonable and secure advance payments.

OPTION YEAR 3 TASK (2026):

CLIN 40010 option Research and Management Position Contractor shall provide a qualified full-time equivalent specialist to support ongoing walrus and polar bear research and management activities.

Period of Performance: Base year: October 1, 2025 – September 30, 2026

Requirements:

• Specialist must have a Ph.D. in Marine Biology or Ecology.

• Must have at least 10 years of experience working with marine mammals, 6 of which shall include arctic or polar research.

• Must have at least 1 year of experience working with polar bear and walrus research in Alaska.

• Must be first author on a minimum of 5 peer reviewed scientific publications.

• Must be fluent in both English and Russian.

General Tasks:

• Coordinate and support domestic and international walrus and polar bear research projects.

Activities to include, plan and organize field work, provide logistic support and assistance to field teams, analyze and report on collected scientific data.

• Facilitate dialog regarding the conservation and management of polar bear and walruses including organize and facilitate multilateral meetings of polar bear and walrus researchers and managers (in person and on-line), conduct routine communication among partners, and help communicate study results to various stakeholders.

Specific Tasks:

The contractor will be responsible for aiding staff of the FWS MMM office in the planning, organization and implementation of polar bear and walrus projects including but not limited to the following areas of research:

Polar bear:

• Data on population parameters for the analysis of behavior, distribution, use of the environment, and abundance.

• Biological sampling from polar bear and its prey species for genetic and nutritional analyses.

• Ground-based observational surveys.

• Biological sampling using techniques that ensure minimal impact on animals.

• Assist to collect data on human - polar bear interactions.

• Work on development of survey protocols for polar bear.

• Monitor the status of the Alaska-Chukotka polar bear subpopulation.

• Support aerial and ground-based polar bear surveys.

• Facilitate biological sampling and GPS and satellite tagging of polar bears.

Walrus:

• Provide planning and support for research to estimate sources and rates of disturbance related mortalities at coastal walrus haulouts;

• Participate in outreach and public awareness campaigns in remote rural communities on walrus conservation and management efforts.

• Assist with the collection, compilation and analysis of data on the age-sex composition of subsistence walrus harvests in the US and Russia.

• Serve as a Co-Primary Investigator (PI) on a walrus genetic mark-recapture (GMR) research

CLIN 40011 Option U.S. Research Cruise Charter Vessel Operations Period of Performance: October 1, 2025- September 30, 2026 The cruise duration could be extended up to 20 days. In this task, the contractor will work with the contracted charter vessel to increase the cruise duration up to a total of 30 days.

CLIN 40012 Option Locate and hire research participants for walrus cruise

• Identify Alaskan native hunters and visiting scientist research capable and willing to participate in the cruise in accordance with the SOW, consult with FWS Project Lead for approval of potential hires; conduct interviews and negotiate terms and conditions of services.

• Hire up to 2 Alaskan native hunters and up to 2 visiting scientists to support the walrus cruise

• Make round trip travel arrangements from their home to the port of departure and return.

• If necessary and with approval from the FWS Project lead, train participants to

CLIN 40013 Option Walrus U.S. Research Cruise aerial reconnaissance work

• Research aerial reconnaissance providers

• Contract U.S. plane for 4-5 weeks of aerial reconnaissance work in the U.S. side of the

Bering and Chukchi Seas.

CLIN 40014 Option . Purchase Field Equipment and Supplies for the Walrus Cruise Period of Performance: October 1, 2025- September 30, 2026

• Coordinate with FWS Project Lead to identify supplies and equipment necessary for walrus genetic mark-recapture cruise

• Procure supplies and equipment necessary for walrus genetic mark-recapture cruise

CLIN 40015 Option Advance Planning for 2027 Walrus Cruise - Consultation and

Period of Performance: October 1, 2025- September 30, 2026

• Based on the results of walrus research cruises in 2026, the contractor will make proper commitments and secure the most suitable and cost affective ice reinforced vessel for the walrus research cruise in May-June 2027. Vessel will need to match the vessel specification provided by FWS (located at the bottom of this SOW).

• Prepare a detailed plan for a 2027 walrus research cruise (vessel, port and preliminary dates of departure, ports to load scientific equipment, pick up U.S. walrus research team, etc.) and submit it to FWS Project Lead for consideration and approval.

• Explore different and cost affective options for chartering aircraft for aerial reconnaissance for walrus cruise in 2027. Discuss with FWS Project Lead and select proper aviation company for survey in the U.S. Bering and Chukchi Sea. Make arrangements and secure aircrafts for work in May-June 2027.

• Identify and contact new potential US vessels and aircraft owners to discuss vessel and fixed wing aircrafts charter options and current prices for 4-5 weeks walrus research cruise in the Bering and Chukchi Seas in May-June 2027

• Identification of all permits or licenses required for said vessel to work in U.S. waters and all costs associated with obtaining said permits.

• Deliverable:

a. Summarize results of findings on vessel and aircraft technical specification in accordance with SOW (proper size, flight endurance for aircrafts, ice reinforcement code for vessels, living conditions for scientific crew, etc.) and charter options (availability in May-June 2027 charter cost, ports of departure and arrival, etc.) and consult with official FWS representative for consideration of different options and select proper vessel and aircraft.

Required vessel technical specifications with recent images to complete the project are attached.

b. Contract US charter vessel for 4-5 weeks research cruise in U.S. waters of the Bering and Chukchi Seas. Secure charter boat with reasonable and secure advance payments.

c. Contract US aircraft for 4-5 weeks walrus aerial reconnaissance in U.S. waters of the Bering and Chukchi Seas. Secure aircraft with reasonable and secure advance payments.

OPTION YEAR 4 TASK (2027):

CLIN 50010 option Research and Management Position Contractor shall provide a qualified full-time equivalent specialist to support ongoing walrus and polar bear research and management activities.

Period of Performance: Base year: October 1, 2026 – September 30, 2027

Requirements:

• Specialist must have a Ph.D. in Marine Biology or Ecology.

• Must have at least 10 years of experience working with marine mammals, 6 of which shall include arctic or polar research.

• Must have at least 1 year of experience working with polar bear and walrus research in Alaska.

• Must be first author on a minimum of 5 peer reviewed scientific publications.

• Must be fluent in both English and Russian.

General Tasks:

• Coordinate and support domestic and international walrus and polar bear research projects.

Activities to include, plan and organize field work, provide logistic support and assistance to field teams, analyze and report on collected scientific data.

• Facilitate dialog regarding the conservation and management of polar bear and walruses including, Organize and facilitate multilateral meetings of polar bear and walrus researchers and managers (in person and on-line), conduct routine communication among partners, and help communicate study results to various stakeholders.

Specific Tasks:

The contractor will be responsible for aiding staff of the FWS MMM office in the planning, organization and implementation of polar bear and walrus projects including but not limited to the following areas of research:

Polar bear:

• Data on population parameters for the analysis of behavior, distribution, use of the environment, and abundance.

• Biological sampling from polar bear and its prey species for genetic and nutritional analyses.

• Ground-based observational surveys.

• Biological sampling using techniques that ensure minimal impact on animals.

• Assist to collect data on human - polar bear interactions.

• Work on development of survey protocols for polar bear.

• Monitor the status of the Alaska-Chukotka polar bear subpopulation.

• Support aerial and ground-based polar bear surveys.

• Facilitate biological sampling and GPS and satellite tagging of polar bears.

Walrus:

• Provide planning and support for research to estimate sources and rates of disturbance related mortalities at coastal walrus haulouts;

• Participate in outreach and public awareness campaigns in remote rural communities on walrus conservation and management efforts.

• Assist with the collection, compilation and analysis of data on the age-sex composition of subsistence walrus harvests in the US and Russia.

• Serve as a Co-Primary Investigator (PI) on a walrus genetic mark-recapture (GMR) research

CLIN 50011 Option U.S. Research Cruise Charter Vessel Operations Period of Performance: October 1, 2026- September 30, 2027 The cruise duration could be extended up to 20 days. In this task, the contractor will work with the contracted charter vessel to increase the cruise duration up to a total of 30 days.

CLIN 50012 Option Locate and hire research participants for walrus cruise Period of Performance: October 1, 2026- September 30, 2027

• Identify Alaskan native hunters and visiting scientist research capable and willing to participate in the cruise in accordance with the SOW, consult with FWS Project Lead for approval of potential hires; conduct interviews and negotiate terms and conditions of services.

• Hire up to 2 Alaskan native hunters and up to 2 visiting scientists to support the walrus cruise

• Make round trip travel arrangements from their home to the port of departure and return.

• If necessary and with approval from the FWS Project lead, train participants to

CLIN 50013 Option Walrus U.S. Research Cruise aerial reconnaissance work

Period of Performance: October 1, 2026- September 30, 2027

• Research aerial reconnaissance providers

• Contract U.S. plane for 4-5 weeks of aerial reconnaissance work in the U.S. side of the

Bering and Chukchi Seas.

CLIN 50014 Option Purchase Field Equipment and Supplies for the Walrus Cruise Period of Performance: October 1, 2026- September 30, 2027

• Coordinate with FWS Project Lead to identify supplies and equipment necessary for walrus genetic mark-recapture cruise

• Procure supplies and equipment necessary for walrus genetic mark-recapture cruise

VESSEL REQUIREMENTS - RESEARCH VESSEL WILL MEET THE FOLLOWING

REQUIREMENTS:

1. Vessel shall be capable of maintaining a cruise speed of at least 10 knots and the captain must be willing to coordinate daily movements with science team leaders within safety limits as determined by the Captain.

2. Vessel shall have a length of at least 100 feet.

3. Vessel shall have a redundant drive system allowing vessel operation and the ability to return to port in the event the primary drive system is damaged.

4. Vessel shall be equipped with radar, AIS vessel tracking capabilities, GPS, depth sounder, EPIRB, all necessary safety equipment, medical kit, current nautical charts of the operation area, four VHF radios, and enough U.S. Coast Guard approved immersion suits to outfit all research personnel (up to 20) in addition to vessel crew members and an additional 20 to be placed near muster stations.

5. Vessel shall be equipped with a hull-mounted Acoustic Doppler Current Profiler (ADCP), bow thrusters, and winches in support of skiff-based work.

6. The contract vessel must be capable of carrying and communicating with 3-4, work boats 16-21 foot overall length.

7. The contract vessel must be capable of launching and retrieving the workboats in the Bering and Chukchi Seas, marginal sea ice in conditions up through Beaufort scale 5 and in swells up to 8 feet.

8. The contract vessel must be capable of carrying sufficient unleaded ethanol-free gasoline to fuel the 3-4 workboats for a total distance of (20 nm / day x 28 days) 700 nautical miles each.

9. Contractor shall be responsible for providing fuel, lubricants, and other consumables for operating the charter vessel.

10. When the crew is not required for the vessel operations, as determined by the vessel master, the crew will assist research personnel with loading and off-loading gear, supplies, and workboats and maintenance of government-owned equipment.

11. Any mechanical breakdowns in excess of 24 hours that cause rescheduling of the operational schedule shall require the contractor to deduct the operational costs (daily contract rate) for that period of time from their final invoice.

12. Vessel shall carry enough fuel, potable water (approximately 100 gallons per day) and food sufficient for up to 4-5 weeks at sea without a port call.

13. Vessel shall be fit with a Type II or Type III Marine Sanitation Device with sufficient capacity for all gray and black water generated during the cruise.

14. Vessel must meet US Coast Guard standards for an “oceanographic research vessel” for safe operations offshore in the Chukchi Sea

15. Name and detailed description of the vessel designated to be used under this contract and a vessel survey that is not more than two (2) years old shall be provided to USFWS. USFWS must approve any change in the vessel designated in this bid document.

16. Current color photographs of the vessel and of the inside spaces shall be provided.

17. The vessel shall be made available for inspection by the USFWS within 120 days after bid submission and prior to contract award. Vessel shall be made available for inspection in one of the following ports: Seattle, Seward, Homer, or Whittier.

18. Name, proof of US Coast Guard license, and a description of the watercraft experience of the Captain. Captain shall have at least 10 years’ experience operating watercraft, of the size being offered, in Alaskan waters.

19. Contract of vessel shall have marine and general public liability insurance with limits of liability for (1) bodily injury of not less than $100,00 for each person and $500,00 for each occurrence, and

(2) property damage of not less than $100,00 for each incident and $500,000 for in the aggregate.

Proof of insurance shall be provided after contract award.

GENERAL GUIDELINES AND SAFETY

1. All areas of the vessel shall be accessible to the scientific staff unless otherwise agreed to prior to finalization of the contract.

2. The vessel master or designee will, at all times, maintain radio and AIS contact with research personnel working in small boats, according to a pre-arranged radio schedule to assure their safety. In event of a problem or accident, immediate steps will be taken to assist those personnel.

3. Safety orientation will be given on the first day by the vessel master to all research personnel aboard, including location of exits, locations and operation of life rafts, communications, storage of immersion suits, vessel evacuation, and crew overboard procedures.

4. The length of the work day will be jointly determined each day by the Captain and the research project leaders. In the event of a disagreement, the master of the charter vessel has final authority per Code of Federal Regulations (CFR). The Captain has the ultimate authority and responsibility for the ship and all personnel aboard and therefore retains the right to operate the ship in a safe manner based on their best judgment. With this responsibility in mind, the Captain must ensure that enough crew members are on the vessel to run a safe 24-hour operation.

ACCOMMODATIONS

1. Vessel must have at least 20 permanent bunks with mattresses and bedding available for research personnel in addition to bunks for the vessel crew. Bunks shall be a minimum of 76 inches in length and 30 inches wide and, if stacked, there will be a minimum of 24 inches between upper and lower bunks. All bunks shall be fit with lee boards suitable for resting crews during extended offshore operations.

2. Berthing area(s) shall be separate from the galley, wheelhouse, and deck areas; and shall be heated and have adequate ventilation.

3. Vessel shall be clean and provide quality living conditions. This includes free from continuous noise levels greater than 80db in the living and work areas and from undesirable and noxious odors.

4. Vessel lights, heat, hot water, sanitation facilities (including wash basins, toilet, and shower), galley, and cooking and eating supplies shall be appropriate to support up to 20 research personnel in addition to the vessel crew. Berthing spaces, heads, sinks, and showers will be thoroughly cleaned daily by a vessel crew member.

5. Vessel shall be capable of providing a hot shower for each research person every two days.

6. Vessel shall have laundry facilities available for each research crew member once a week.

7. Vessel shall have a heated drying area separate from living accommodations and routine work areas, and capable of drying wet clothing for up to 20 research crew members.

8. Vessel shall have a dry, heated space to store up to 16 crossbows, 600 arrows, and other equipment used for skiff operations.

9. Vessel shall provide access to a freezer to store biological samples or shall provide access to a 120-volt AC outlet to power a freezer provided by USFWS or USGS. The freezer to store biological samples shall be near the laboratory area of the research vessel and a sufficient distance from the galley.

10. Vessel shall have a heated, flat, dry interior laboratory space to process biological samples.

11. Vessel shall have a flat, dry space on the bridge available for setup and operation of up to two laptop computers at a time.

12. Vessel shall be able to provide access for research crew to unlimited data and voice with VSAT/FBB Systems.

13. Vessel shall have 120-volt AC electricity to recharge computers, radios and equipment. If adapters are needed for U.S. electrical equipment, USFWS needs to be notified 1 month prior to departure.

14. Vessel shall provide a safe space on the flying bridge to accommodate a science crew of up to five people to conduct age structure surveys from the vessel. The vessel master will communicate via radio with a scientist for the age structure crew to maneuver the ship as age structure surveys are conducted.

MEALS

1. Three meals per day for up to 20 research personnel shall be provided. The work schedule may require 24 working hours per day and, thus, the galley must allow flexibility in meal times, provision of snack food throughout the day. Provisions for bag lunches shall be available 24 hours a day. Breakfast and lunch may be either hot or cold meals, but dinner must be a hot meal. A commercial grade coffee pot or another similar type of a coffee machine along with coffee making supplies should be available for the research crew at all times. Meals must be well balanced, nutritious, palatable, and varied.