SF 18 - STATEMENT OF WORK 1305M323QNFFS0017.pdf

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NF-FS7300-23-00574 NF-FS7300-23-005741305M323QNFFS0017

WESTERN ACQUISITION DIVISION

325 BROADWAY, SOU6

BOULDER CO 80305

DIANA ROMERO

DIANA.ROMERO@NOAA.GOV

Please See Continuation Page for Line Item Details

303 578-9265 NATIONAL MARINE MAMMAL LAB

NOAA/NMFS 7600 SAND PT WAY NE F/AKC3

SEATTLE

98115-6349WA

JAN 09, 2023

FEB 28, 2024

FS730031

SCHEDULE Continued

ITEM NO. SUPPLIES/SERVICES QUANTITY UNIT UNIT PRICE AMOUNT

0001 Services, non-personal, to provide all equipment, labor, and materials (unless otherwise provided herein) necessary to secure charter vessel to support visual survey of cetaceans and acoustic mooring deployment in Behm Canal and Southern Clarence Strait, Alaska in accordance with the attached statement of work for seven day period.

Price for additional 1-3 days dependent on weather.

$___________ per day

Period of Performance: 03/01/2023 - 02/28/2024

1.00 JB

0002 Optional Task 1 - Services, non-personal, to provide all equipment, labor and materials (unless otherwise provide herein) necessary based on availability of government funding and vessel location prior to charter to pickup up NOAA gear from Seattle, WA and transport to Alaska and/or return to Seattle after the charter cruise in accordance with the statement of work.

0.00 EA

1001 Optional for additional 7-10 day charter in same area during Fall of 2023, depending on government funding and in accordance with the statement of work.

0.00 EA

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Table of Contents

STATEMENT OF WORK

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CLAUSES

STATEMENT OF WORK

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STATEMENT OF WORK: SERVICE

Charter Vessel for the support of a visual and passive acoustic survey for cetaceans in Behm Canal and Southern Clarence Strait, Alaska

Purchase Request Number: NF-FS7300-23-00574

PURPOSE:

Southeast Alaska provides important habitat for many cetaceans (i.e., whales, dolphins, and porpoises).

Multiple species listed under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) occur in this area, including humpback whales (Mexico Distinct Population Segment [DPS]) and fin whales, along with unlisted stocks of killer whales, harbor porpoise, Dall’s porpoise, and other cetaceans. The Navy maintains several in-water assets within Behm Canal, including a pier, seafloor cable, an offshore acoustic static sight, and others associated with the Navy’s installation and operation range. Maintenance of these assets require updated information on marine mammal presence, distribution and density to support the preparation of environmental planning documentation, including National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA), and Endangered Species Act (ESA) documents and consultations. The Navy will collaborate with NMFS, Alaska Fisheries Science Center (AFSC) to support field assessments for marine mammals in Behm Canal and Clarence Strait. Although this survey will be designed to collect data on cetaceans, opportunistic sightings of other marine mammals, such as pinnipeds and sea otters, will also be recorded.

The contractor shall provide a vessel charter for up to six (6) scientists both government and non-government, to investigate seasonal cetacean density in southern Southeast Alaska, specifically Behm Canal and southern Clarence Strait. Data collection will include: visual observations, passive acoustic monitoring via sonobuoys, and if time allows, photographs for individual identification, biopsy sampling, and collection of water samples for eDNA analysis.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS:

VESSEL REQUIREMENTS:

Minimum Qualifications for the vessel are listed below; vessels not meeting the minimum qualifications will not be considered for award.

A. Configuration:

Minimum overall length of vessel of 70 feet and maximum draft of 12 feet.

Minimum cruising speed of 9 to 10 knots.

A weather proof, heated wheelhouse with room for two computer stations and operators.

A clean, outside area with unobstructed views suitable for observational work at a height above the water line of at least 15 feet.

Space to store one 4’ x 4’ crate of sonobuoys in an easily accessible area clear of the rails.

Ability for an acoustician to install two (2) VHF marine antennas as high on the vessel as possible, preferably in the crow’s nest, and to run cables into the bridge or wheelhouse. All antenna and installation equipment will be provided by the Government.

B. The outside area for observational work must be proximate to the wheelhouse and on the forward part of the vessel (aft-house vessels are not suitable). There must be room in this area for two (2) visual observers.

Each observer will be scanning from their side of the vessel to the forward center line and must have an unobstructed view. The observation area could comprise two (2) areas of equal height such as the bridge wings. The beam path of all radars must be above the height of any observer or be able to be turned off during survey operations.

C. Room in the wheelhouse for two scientific computer stations. The first requires space for a laptop computer and a portable GPS unit (both provided by the scientific party) and for a visual observer to be seated inside the wheelhouse of the ship as data recorder and with an unobstructed view forward of the vessel. When conditions, such as weather, prohibit observation from the outside station, room must be available in the wheelhouse for all three observers. Also required are an accessible 120-volt AC outlet and the ability to route a GPS antenna to the computer station. The station should be situated to allow observations forward of the vessel while working at the computer station. It is important that conditions inside the wheelhouse permit observers to easily view waters directly in front of and abeam of the vessel.

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The station must be situated to allow direct communication with the vessel’s Captain. The second space is for the acoustic monitoring station. Approximately 6 square feet of space is required for two laptops and all associated equipment. Also required is an accessible 120-volt AC outlet and the ability to route a GPS antenna to the computer station.

D. A clean bench or table inside that is suitable for processing water samples is needed. Minimum size of bench or table is 3 ft by 10 ft. A power outlet for a water filtration system is required. It is imperative that the sampling area is clean and free from debris – the area will be sanitized by the scientific crew immediately before sampling operations commence.

E. Vessel shall be equipped with appropriate modern electronic navigation and communication equipment in compliance with industry safety standards. All communication equipment shall be tested and tuned before the charter begins. Minimum requirements are:

Two (2) all-weather radars (36 mile minimum range). Note, that the angle of the radar beam must be above observer height.

At least one (1) VHF radio with a fixed installation.

At least one (1) synthesized 1-18 MHz SSB radio (one or more capable of communicating with

AT&T High Seas Marine Operator).

Two (2) GPS or Loran C navigational equipment.

One (1) fax machine capable of obtaining weather information or equivalent.

A system for switching to backup power (e.g., battery) for radio operation in the event of interruption of the normal power supply.

F. The vessel shall preferably have one (1) skiff or space to accommodate a government provided skiff ~17 to 23-foot rigid-hulled inflatable boat (RHIB or equivalent) which can be used by the scientific crew. The skiff must have a motor with a minimum 115 hp engine, and room for three (3) NOAA scientists and a skiff Captain designated by the vessel’s Captain, or selected from the science team with the approval of the Captain. The side of the skiff must be low enough to the water for a scientist to be able to collect a water sample from the exact location where a cetacean submerged after the skiff has reached that location. A crew member of the vessel is required to have the necessary licenses to operate (drive) the small boat.

Water sampling would be conducted by the NOAA scientists.

G. The vessel must have capability for loading and off-loading the scientific party and the skiff to and from the water; total weight of 3,400 pounds. Loading and off-loading of the skiff shall be with a crane extendable to 10' past the side of the vessel and capable of lifting up to 2 tons. The skiff must be stored on the deck after each use and cannot be towed behind the support vessel.

H. The vessel must provide two (2), 55-gallon drums, including a pump, to store gasoline for the inflatable boat.

I. A clean, flush deck area of at least 500 sq. ft. for storage and launching of skiff. On deck work area(s) should be clear of running gear, equipment, and stowage.

J. Secure and easily accessible rail cleats to securely tie the skiff alongside the vessel.

K. Potable fresh water supply adequate for vessel and personal use for the crew (4) and five (5) researchers for about 7-10 days. If a water maker is not available then a minimum of 4,000 gallons is required.

L. Washer-dryer for personal laundry.

M. The contractor shall provide Arctic-type survival suits, which are in compliance with operational safety standards, for all personnel including crew and scientists. Adequate dry storage space for all survival suits shall be provided.

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N. The vessel shall carry an up-to-date emergency trauma first aid kit in compliance with industry safety standards. It shall be stocked to provide first aid supplies for up to six (6) scientists plus vessel crew. At a minimum, this kit should be equivalent to the Marine 3000 made by Adventure Medical Kits (http://www.adventuremedicalkits.com/product.php?catname=Marine&prodname=Marine%203000&product =118#) and supplemented with a box of nitrile gloves, oxygen therapy bottles, and an AED.

O. With submission of their proposal, the contractor shall provide the Stability Letter from the vessel's Stability Report, certified by a licensed naval architect/marine engineer, which describes the vessel's stability characteristics for the intended charter operations. Recent stability or marine survey reports, pictures, drawings, or blueprints should be included along with other required information to assist in the evaluation.

P. A Category I 406 MHz EPIRB must be affixed to the exterior of the vessel in a manner approved by the U.S. Coast Guard. The EPIRB must be up to date on all Coast Guard registration and inspection.

CREW REQUIREMENTS:

A. Minimum vessel crew shall consist of no fewer than four (4) and shall consist of Captain, engineer-mate, cook-mate and first mate or deck-hand.

B. The Captain shall have a minimum of five (5) years' experience as a master of a vessel comparable in size to, or larger than, the vessel selected. Preference will be given to Captains with prior experience operating vessels throughout the inland waterways of Southeast Alaska and working with cetaceans in this area.

C. At times, the Captain shall be required to closely approach marine mammals under the direction of the Chief Scientist, but with due regard to navigational safety. Captains with prior experience with close approaches to cetacean species to ensure the safety of these animals will be given preference.

D. The engineer-mate must be qualified for independently taking over operations of the vessel in the event the Captain is absent or becomes incapacitated.

E. The cook-mate shall be experienced in preparing nutritionally balanced meals for the crew and scientific team including vegetarian meals and/or specific food requirements that will be described in advance of the cruise.

F. The first mate should be experienced in various activities on the deck. The deck hand must be able to safely operate the crane. There shall be at least two (2) crew members available on deck for all skiff launching and retrieving operations, one to operate the crane and one to assist the scientific party.

G. At least one of the vessel crew is required to have the necessary licenses to operate (drive) the skiff.

H. At least one crew member must be currently certified in CPR plus Wilderness First Aid Training, and qualified/certified to suture and administer intravenous medication. Offerors must provide proof of certification in their proposal, as part of CONTRACT DOCUMENTS, EXHIBITS AND ATTACHMENTS, Attachment 3, Master/Crew Work Experience.

I. At least one crew member must be formally trained in survival skills and firefighting at a level equivalent to that offered by the North Pacific Fishing Vessel Owners Association (http://www.npfvoa.org/index.html).

Offerors must provide proof of the successful completion of this training in their proposal, as part of CONTRACT DOCUMENTS, EXHIBITS AND ATTACHMENTS, Attachment 3, Master/Crew Work Experience.

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J. Replacements for Key Personnel must possess qualifications equal to or exceeding the qualifications of the personnel being replaced. Any changes to Key Personnel specified must be approved by the Contracting Officer and the COR.

ACCOMMODATION REQUIREMENTS (all costs associated with accommodations and meals for crew and party shall be included in the daily rate):

A. Accommodations for a scientific party of six (6) which will include female and male scientists. The scientific party shall be accommodated separately from the crew. Please provide schematics or descriptions of the number of berths and bunk rooms available to the scientific party with your proposal.

B. Berthing spaces shall be adequately ventilated and free from excessive engine noise and fumes.

C. Clean mattresses, pillows, covers, bedding, and towels shall be provided by the Contractor.

D. Suitable sanitary accommodations, including head and shower separated from the living quarters and within the ship, shall be available. Hot, fresh water showers shall be provided at least every second day for each member of the scientific party. The bathroom areas (including head and shower) and hallways shall be cleaned at least twice a week by the crew.

E. Three balanced, nutritious meals shall be provided by the contractor per day, one of which may be a shore lunch for the scientific party. All meals shall include fresh fruits and vegetables. Vegetarian meals may be required for some members of the party. Any food allergy information of prospective scientific party members or other special food requirements will be provided to the contractor at least one (1) week prior to sailing to allow for proper provisioning. Water, juice, soft drinks, fruit, and snacks shall be available throughout the day. Due to the nature of the operation, meal hours must be flexible. The Captain and Chief Scientist will set meal hours that are mutually agreeable on a daily basis.

REQUIRED TASKS:

OPERATING PROCEDURES

A. During charter operations, the visual observations will require the vessel to operate at ~9-10 knots.

During water sampling operations, the skiff will be launched to collect water samples in the water footprint of cetaceans. The vessel and the skiff may be required to closely approach several species of whales, dolphins, and porpoises. All required marine mammal/scientific collection permits will be obtained by the Government prior to the charter. When the scientific party is aboard the skiff, the vessel shall wait nearby or follow the scientific party and the crew shall maintain radio communication with the scientific party. In the event that sea conditions prohibit launching the RHIB, attempts to collect water samples from the charter vessel will be made at the discretion of the Chief Scientist and in consultation with the Vessel Captain.

B. The crew, when not required by the Captain for vessel operations, shall assist the Government scientific party during all survey activities, including but not limited to: launching and retrieving the skiff, water sampling, and monitoring the location of the skiff when away from the vessel.

C. Workday length will be determined each day by the Chief Scientist, in consultation with the Captain. The decision will be based on the type of activity as well as prevailing situations regarding weather, sea state, work schedule, and work progress. Line-transect operations will occur during daylight hours. The Chief Scientist has final authority on working hours, except for work stoppage resulting from uncontrollable situations such as unsafe weather and sea state conditions and other safety-of-life-at-sea considerations as reasonably determined by the Captain.

D. The Chief Scientist and Captain shall meet at a minimum daily to discuss survey operations and resolve any problems that occur. A meeting should occur at the start of the day (before survey operations begin) to discuss the planned activities for the day, and at the end of the day to review the work completed that day, PAGE 8 OF 10 1305M323QNFFS0017 any problems which occurred, and plans for the next day’s operations.

E. The Chief Scientist and Captain shall work together to resolve all problems which occur regarding the charter and survey while at sea. In the event the Chief Scientist and Captain are unable to resolve any problem that has the potential for invalidating the survey or threatens the safety of the field party, the Chief Scientist will attempt to reach the CO to discuss and attempt to resolve the problems. If this is unsuccessful, the Chief Scientist will direct the vessel to return to port where an acceptable solution will be arranged between the Government and the contractor, or the charter will be terminated. The vessel will be off-charter if required to return to port and will remain off-charter until the problem has been resolved and the vessel has returned to the survey area.

F. The Captain and crew shall exercise due caution and follow all safety procedures as directed by the Chief Scientist to help prevent damage to or loss of Government gear and equipment. Specific safety procedures may be presented in writing to the Captain by the Chief Scientist. Repair or replacement costs may be deducted from charter payments if loss or damage to Government equipment is the result of negligent disregard of such instructions and procedures.

G. All equipment and gear specified in the Government's statement of work and that which is not specified but is necessary for the safe and continued operation of the vessel shall be operational at the beginning of the charter and be maintained in working order throughout the duration of the charter.

H. Passengers are not permitted to be transported aboard NOAA chartered vessels for any reason without review and approval from the Contracting Officer in consultation with the COR. No individuals shall be aboard the vessel without NOAA’s authorization. Exceptions to this requirement are permitted for the purposes of rescuing and saving life at sea.

SAFETY:

A. The Captain is responsible for all matters relating to the safety of personnel, the vessel, and equipment operation. The Captain shall adhere at all times to Navigational Rules and Rules of the Road whether it be while towing, running, drifting, or when at anchor. He/she shall review safety procedures and equipment with the scientific party at the beginning of each cruise leg.

B. Prior to the first skiff launch, the Captain shall review launch and recovery procedures, and select an operations leader and additional line handlers. These personnel shall be the only people involved in skiff launch and recovery, and all launch and recovery procedures shall be discussed with the operations leader prior to every execution.

C. The contractor shall provide U.S. Coast Guard-approved survival suits, which are in compliance with operational safety standards, for all personnel, including scientists.

D. The Government will provide dry suits, float coats, life vests, or equivalent flotation devices for work on deck.

E. Periodic and unannounced safety drills shall be conducted by the Captain during the survey. The Captain shall work with the Chief Scientist to identify times when safety drills can occur with minimal impact on the survey mission.

F. The contractor shall provide an emergency trauma first aid kit, nitrile gloves, oxygen therapy bottles, and an AED as described in 4.2 VESSEL REQUIREMENTS.

G. At the time of submission of the proposal, the contractor shall provide the Stability Letter from the vessel's Stability Report as described in 4.2 VESSEL REQUIREMENTS.

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H. A Category I 406 MHz EPIRB must be affixed to the exterior of the vessel in a manner approved by the U.S. Coast Guard as described in 4.2 VESSEL REQUIREMENTS.

I. The ship’s general alarm must be audible from all sleeping locations.

J. All smoke alarms must be wired into the ship’s panel.

K. NOAA's issuance of a notice to proceed will depend on the vessel's passing a Coast Guard fire and safety inspection. Unless the Coast Guard's inspection is performed earlier than two weeks before the vessel's scheduled departure and Coast Guard certification obtained no more than one week before scheduled departure, the Government may terminate this contract without any payment to the Contractor of this contract. Furthermore, the Contractor, in the event of such termination, may be liable to the government for excess procurement costs. The cost for bringing a vessel to a passing standard shall be borne by the Contractor. The vessel Captain is required to have a certification of inspection from the USGC within the past 12 months no less than 2 months.

L. Smoking shall not be permitted anywhere inside the vessel, nor in the areas where marine mammal observers are working outside

OPTIONAL TASKS (depending on availability of government funds):

1. If the vessel is located in the vicinity of Seattle, Washington, and could transport NOAA’s gear north to Alaska, the Government prefers that the loading take place four (4) to six (6) days prior to the start of the charter cruise. If the vessel is transporting NOAA’s gear south to Seattle, the demobilization (i.e., unloading) of Government equipment shall take place in Seattle, WA and the Government prefers that the unloading take place four (4) to six (6) days after the end of the charter cruise.

2. 7-10 charter for same area during fall 2023

GOVERNMENT FURNISHED ITEMS AND SERVICES:

The Government will provide all necessary survey equipment. This includes, but is not limited to, the following:

Visual survey equipment, including laptop computers, binoculars, and angle boards.

Camera equipment for photo-identification work.

Sonobuoy monitoring equipment, including sonobuoys (1 crate of 48), laptop computers, antennas, receivers, and cables.

Float coats/Mustang suits for all scientific personnel for use during visual operations.

Handheld VHF radios for communications among the scientific crew on the ship.

Equipment for water sample collection for eDNA analysis, including filtration system, collection bags, and filters.

Equipment for collection of biopsy samples.

Laptop computer for email communication, if email access is not available through the vessel.

The Government will provide a Cruise Plan prior to the start of the survey that will detail scientific operations to be conducted during the survey. Maps, waypoints, and tracklines will also be provided prior to the start of the survey.

REQUESTED DELIVERY DATE / PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE:

The period of performance shall be for 12 months

The charter shall cover a seven (7) day period, with an option for additional 1-3 days added depending on weather. The survey shall occur sometime between the 19th of March 2023 and the 15th of April 2023, and leave from and return to Ketchikan, Alaska. Depending on performance during the spring 2023 survey and funding availability, a seven to ten (7-10) day charter in the same area to meet the same goals may also occur in fall 2023.

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