P06 5 Bar Extractor Justification SIGNED.pdf

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United States Department of Agriculture Single Source/Brand Name Justification

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

Control No. (if applicable) ______________________

1. Identification of the agency and the contracting activity.

The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), National Soil Survey Center (NSSC), Lincoln, NE, proposes to procure a 5 BAR PRESSURE PLATE EXTRACTORS from Soil Moisture Equipment Corp. The contracting organization responsible for this action is FPAC Central Section.

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

The NSSC – Kellogg Soil Survey Laboratory (KSSL) Branch proposes to procure 5 BAR PRESSURE PLATE EXTRACTORS from Soil Moisture Equipment Corp by means of other than full and open competition.

3. Rationale or circumstances for limiting competition.

Soil samples are analyzed using a pressure plate extractor with a no less than 75psi pressure rating and multiple desorption ports for sample effluent. This pressure rating is a requirement per Standard Operating Procedures set by the Kellogg Soil Survey Laboratory in support of the Soil Survey for water potential analysis. Soil Moisture Equipment Corporation is the only manufacture of water extraction equipment including the 5 Bar Pressure Plate Extractor with a 75psi pressure rating and effluent ports. This extractor has been historically used in the KSSL with precision and repeated accuracy.

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

Other types of equipment manufactured by Soil Moisture Equipment Corp are currently used in the KSSL. The infrastructure required for these pieces of equipment includes medical-grade regulators and plumbed high-pressure air lines. These 5 Bar pressure plate extractors are compatible with the current laboratory infrastructure making this choice of equipment cost-effective and ensures optimal performance. Market research was conducted on the 5 bar pressure extractors and Soil Moisture Equipment Corporation is the only manufacturer in the United States and provider of these specific extractor units. No other units exist with the specification requirement of 75psi and desoption ports.

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

Estimated cost including shipping and handling is $65,602.65.

6. Recommended source(s).

Soil Moisture Equipment Corp.

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Certifications

☒ The information provided for this justification has been reviewed and certified accurate and complete by Adrien Spidell-Metcalf , Program/Technical Personnel.

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.

Kristin Gilliland Contracting Officer