P06 1094799 SS JA Snow Depth Sensors_24Mar23_R1.pdf

United States Department of Agriculture Single Source/Brand Name Justification

Less Than the Simplified Acquisition Threshold (SAT) FAR 13.106-1(b)(1)

1. Identification of the agency and the contracting activity.

NRCS-Utah Snow Survey, 245 Jimmy Doolittle Rd., Salt Lake City, UT 84116

2. Description of supply or service required to meet the agency’s needs.

The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) requires electronics components for hydro-meteorological data retrieval. provides the Sommer USH-9 snow depth sensor that meets NRCS Standards and Specifications identified in the General Manual. This ide NRCS Snow Survey and Water Supply Forecasting Program the required data collection equipment from remote SNOTEL for use in mission critical operations in water supply forecasting and drought monitoring for sites in the SNOTEL network. , this is the only ensor on the market which uses a ceramic sounding unit, which is required for sensor stability and reliability. Previous testing demonstrated that this is the most reliable snow depth sensor available on the market for the kinds of rugged, year-round, remote conditions the sensor will be subjected to, and these sensors replace a less-capable sensor that has not been performing to standard.

3. Rationale or circumstances for limiting competition.

the USH-9 snow depth sensor provided by and associated components tested are the only ones that meet the demands of the SNOTEL system for quality, linear data for the longevity and quality demanded of such a sensor.

4. Description of the market research conducted and the results or a statement of the reason market research was not conducted.

Market research has been conducted to determine that there are comparable vendors or products available for purchase the standard of the NRCS Snow Survey and Water Supply Forecasting Program SNOTEL network.

5. Estimated price, including all options, if applicable.

Estimated for 60 Sommer USH-9 snow depth sensors

6. Recommended source(s).

Control No: FY23-FPAC-Justification-024

Certifications l:8J The info1mation provided for this justification has been reviewed and ce1tified accurate and complete by

Supe1visor, NRCS-Utah Snow Smvey

Contracting Officer (less than SAT). I have reviewed this justification and certify it to be accurate and complete to the best of my knowledge and belief.

Contracting Officer

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