Sol_1305M324Q0241.pdf

COMBINED SYNOPSIS/SOLICITATION

Auke Bay Laboratory Non-Personal Vessel Charter Services

(i) This is a combined synopsis/solicitation for commercial items prepared in accordance with the format in FAR Subpart 12.6, as supplemented with additional information included in this notice and in accordance with the simplified acquisition procedures authorized in FAR Part 13. This announcement constitutes the only solicitation;

quotes are being requested and a written solicitation will not be issued.

(ii) This solicitation is issued as a request for quotation (RFQ). Submit written quotes on RFQ Number 1305M324Q0241.

(iii) The solicitation document and incorporated provisions and clauses are those in effect through Federal Acquisition Circular 2024-04 (May 2024).

(iv) This solicitation is being issued as a total Small Business Set-Aside. The associated NAICS code is 483114. The small business size standard is 550 Employees.

(v) This combined solicitation/synopsis is for purchase of the following commercial services:

CLIN 0001 – Base Year Services, non-personal, to provide all labor, equipment and materials (unless otherwise provided herein) necessary for vessel charter services for the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) Alaska Fisheries Science Center (AFSC) Auke Bay Laboratory in Juneau, AK, in accordance with the Statement of Work. Period of Performance 06/30/2024 through 06/29/2025 with 10 vessel days to occur between September 15th and 30th 2024.

CLIN 1001 – Option Year 1 Services, non-personal, to provide all labor, equipment and materials (unless otherwise provided herein) necessary for vessel charter services for the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) Alaska Fisheries Science Center (AFSC) Auke Bay Laboratory in Juneau, AK, in accordance with the Statement of Work. Period of Performance 06/30/2025 through 06/29/2026 with 10 vessel days to occur between September 15th and 30th 2025.

CLIN 2001 – Option Year 2 Services, non-personal, to provide all labor, equipment and materials (unless otherwise provided herein) necessary for vessel charter services for the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) Alaska Fisheries Science Center (AFSC) Auke Bay Laboratory in Juneau, AK, in accordance with the Statement of Work. Period of Performance 06/30/2026 through 06/29/2027 with 10 vessel days to occur between September 15th and 30th 2026.

(vi) Description of requirements is as follows:

See attached Statement of Work which applies to Base Year and all Option Years 1 – 2.

(vii) Date(s) and place(s) of delivery and acceptance:

Period of performance shall be:

Base Year for a twelve month period 06/30/2024 through 06/29/2025 10 vessel days between September 15 and 30, 2024.

Option Period 1 for a twelve month period 06/30/2025 through 06/29/2026 10 vessel days between September 15 and 30, 2025.

Option Period 2 for a twelve month period 06/30/2026 through 06/29/2027 10 vessel days between September 15 and 30, 2026.

Exact dates will be decided on at pre-survey meetings to be held 2 months prior to the survey.

Place of Performance is All surveys shall depart from and return to Whittier, AK or Cordova, AK.

Auke Bay Laboratories Ted Stevens Marine R.I.

17109 Pt. Lena Loop Rd.

Juneau, AK 99801

(viii) FAR provision 52.212-1, Instructions to Offerors-Commercial Products and Commercial Services (Sept 2023), applies to this acquisition and can be found on the Request for Quote form SF1449 attachment.

(ix) FAR provision 52.212-2, Evaluation-Commercial Products and Commercial Services (Nov 2021), applies to this acquisition and can be found on the Request for Quote form SF1449 attachment.

(x) FAR provision 52.212-3, Offeror Representations and Certifications-Commercial Products and Commercial Services (Feb 2024), applies to this acquisition and can be found on the Request for Quote form SF1449 attachment.

Offerors are advised to include a completed copy of the provision with its offer.

(xi) FAR clause at 52.212-4, Contract Terms and Conditions-Commercial Products and Commercial Services (Nov 2023), applies to this acquisition and can be found on the Request for Quote form SF1449 attachment.

(xii) FAR clause at 52.212-5, Contract Terms and Conditions Required To Implement Statutes or Executive Orders- Commercial Products and Commercial Services (Feb 2024), applies to this acquisition apply can be found in full text on the Request for Quote form SF1449 attachment.

(xiii) Any additional contract requirement(s) or terms and conditions that apply can be found on the Request for Quote form SF1449 attachment.

(xiv) Defense Priorities and Allocations System (DPAS) and assigned rating does not apply.

(xv) Quotes are required to be received in the contracting office no later than 12:00PM MST/MDT on 05/23/2024.

All quotes must be submitted electronically via email to Jamie.Rosales@noaa.gov.

(xvi) Any questions regarding this solicitation should be submitted electronically via email to to Jamie.Rosales@noaa.gov.

UTILIZATION OF FEDCONNECT® FOR CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION

The Department of Commerce will utilize the FedConnect® web portal in administering this award. The contractor must be registered in FedConnect® and have access to the FedConnect® website located at https://www.fedconnect.net/Fedconnect/. For assistance in registering or for other FedConnect® questions please call the FedConnect® Help Desk at (800) 899-6665 or email at support@fedconnect.net. There is no charge for registration in or use of FedConnect®.

(End)

1352.215-72 Inquiries (Apr 2010)

OFFERORS MUST SUBMIT ALL QUESTIONS CONCERNING THIS SOLICITATION IN WRITING VIA

EMAIL TO JAMIE.ROSALES@NOAA.GOV. QUESTIONS SHOULD BE RECEIVED NO LATER THAN

05/21/2024. Any responses to questions will be made in writing, without identification of the questioner, and will be included in an amendment to the solicitation. Even if provided in other form, only the question responses included in the amendment to the solicitation will govern performance of the contract.

(End of clause)

STATEMENT OF WORK: SERVICE

PRINCE WILLIAM SOUND SURVEY CHARTER VESSEL

PURPOSE:

The objective of this award is to charter a vessel to serve as a research platform to assess humpback whale populations and prey within Prince William Sound and the adjacent waters.

Humpback whale predation has been identified as a significant source of mortality on wintering Pacific herring in Prince William Sound (EVOSTC project PJ090804). From 2007-2015, the distribution and abundance of whales and herring remained relatively constant. However, from 2017 and 2021 lower numbers of humpback whales and marine birds were observed along with a record low biomass of herring, and low numbers of other forage fish relative to previous years.

Despite increased effort and excellent conditions while surveying, we failed to locate any concentrations of whales or prey. Our PWS observations were similar to what we have been seeing in northern Southeast Alaska, low whale numbers and few calves. Whales in both areas have switched to targeting scattered prey rather than the large, dense aggregations of krill and herring that we have seen in the past. It seems likely that the whales have moved to new feeding grounds or died.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS:

A vessel is required to locate, photograph, and biopsy humpback whales and sample prey from multiple locations within and in the waters adjacent to Prince William Sound (Fig. 1). Gillnets, plankton nets, and jigging will be the preferred methods of sampling. The vessel shall accommodate five scientists to sample herring catches for nutritional content and age structure.

Work space for sample analysis and freezer capacity to temporarily preserve samples is required.

The contractor will provide a vessel for transportation to survey sites, assist in locating schools of forage fish using sonar, sampling prey, and deploy and retrieve other sampling devices such as plankton nets and water quality data loggers. Additionally, the contractor will provide food and berthing logistics to scientific field party (5), and general support logistics for research operations.

All surveys will depart and return from/to Whittier, AK or Cordova, AK

Three well balanced meals and snacks galley cleanup will be provided by the contractor. Work generally will be conducted during a 12-hour working day.

1) VESSEL REQUIREMENTS

a) Minimum overall length of 50 ft.

b) Area outside suitable for photographing whales and a wheel house with good visibility.

c) An outboard powered inflatable or skiff for collecting biopsies.

d) Dry storage area of at least 15 cubic feet in the main house for holding scientific supplies is required.

e) A minimum of 5 cubic feet of freezer storage exclusive of space for ship's stores for stowing scientific samples is required.

f) potable fresh water supply adequate for vessel and personal use for the crew and 5 scientists for trip duration is required.

g) Clean and sanitary overnight accommodations for crew and 5 scientists are required.

h) Work spaces, berthing, and galley spaces shall be adequately ventilated and free from tobacco smoke.

i) In an effort to reduce marine debris pollution, the Captain shall comply with waste management regulations as described in Section V of MARPOL. The vessel shall be required to have a storage facility, with or without a trash compactor to retain all refuse (except food and paper materials) or a means to incinerate this refuse so that it is not disposed of at sea. Reference Clause H.14 - Control of Plastic Discharges.

j) 2 sets of VHF radios are required.

k) Radar with a minimum range of 39 km (24 miles) is required.

l) Depth sounders: Color scope unit operating in the 38-50 kHz and 150-200 kHz range.

m) A system for switching to battery power for radio operation in the event of interruption of the normal power supply is required.

n) Certificate of documentation.

o) Certificate of inspection (vessel safety examination decal or USCG letter of inspection).

p) 100% of required lifesaving equipment.

q) A hydraulic block capable of retrieving CTDs and plankton nets.

2) CREW REQUIREMENTS

a) The minimum crew shall consist of a Captain and adequate crew for safe operations.

b) The Captain shall have a minimum of 5 years of experience as a captain in Prince

William Sound.

c) The Captain shall be competent in the use of modern navigation and fish detecting equipment.

d) The Captain shall have experience working in close proximity to humpback whales.

3) SCIENTIFIC PERSONNEL

a) The Government field party shall consist of 5 scientists.

b) One Government employee will be responsible for compliance with the charter terms, and the conduct and performance of Government personnel aboard the vessel.

4) OPERATING PROCEDURES

a) The Contractor shall provide three (3) nutritionally balanced meals and snacks each charter day.

b) The Government employees and vessel Captain will work together to resolve all problems which occur regarding the charter. In the event the government employees and

Captain are unable to resolve any problem which could threaten the safety of the field party, the Government employees will return to port where an acceptable solution will be arranged.

c) The Captain and crew shall exercise due caution and follow safety procedures to help prevent damage or loss of Government gear and equipment. Specific safety procedures may be presented in writing to the Captain by the Government employee. 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.

d) The Contractor shall provide for all operating expenses of the vessel exclusive of communications costs such as use of cellular phones costs to conduct official business which will be reimbursable.

5) SAFETY

a) The vessel Captain is responsible for all matters relating to safety of personnel, the vessel, and equipment operation. The Captain will adhere at all times to Navigational Rules and Rules of the Road whether it be while fishing, 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. Reference Clause H.11 - Vessel Safety.

b) The Government will provide U.S. Coast Guard-approved Arctic-type survival suits for all scientific personnel. The contractor shall provide survival suits for vessel crew.

Adequate dry, top-side storage for all survival suits shall be provided.

c) The contractor will provide a first-aid kit.

d) All personnel working or being transported in a skiff shall wear a Coast Guard-approved life jacket, float coat, or survival suit.

e) A Category I 406 MHZ EPIRB (Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon) must be affixed to the exterior of the vessel in a manner approved by the U.S. Coast Guard.

6) DESIRED BUT NOT ESSENTIAL SPECIFICATIONS

a) A crew-member with certified first aid or EMT (emergency medical technician) training.

b) A Stability Letter from the vessel's Stability Report, certified by a licensed naval architect/marine engineer, which describes the vessel's stability characteristics.

c) At least one crew member with formal survival and firefighting training equivalent to that offered by the North Pacific Fishing Vessel Owner’s Association is desirable.

Vessel daily charter price to include all food, fuel, and typical expenses for crew and NOAA staff for the 10-day charter.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

COAST GUARD INSPECTION

Performance under this contract is dependent on the vessel(s) passing a U.S. Coast Guard safety examination. The Coast Guard inspection shall be performed no earlier than two weeks before the vessels’ scheduled departure and the Coast Guard certification must be obtained by the vessels no less than one week prior to scheduled departure. In the event that the contractor does not obtain the Coast Guard inspection, the Government may terminate the contract, and the contractor may be liable to the Government for excess re-procurement costs. Inspection is required before the commencement of each charter year, unless the Coast Guard has issued a letter of inspection that is valid for the time period of the charter. The contractor will arrange for the inspection, and any costs associated with bringing the vessels to passing standard shall be borne by the contractor. A copy of the Coast Guard certification shall be posted on each vessel.

CHARTER VESSEL SAFETY

The contractor shall adhere to the safety regulations as set forth in Coast Guard rules effective on September 15, 1991, and as provided for by the Commercial Fishing Industry Vessel Safety Act of 1988 (specifically, 46 CFR Part 28) or subsequent additions or revisions. These regulations require that specified vessels be equipped with a variety of safety features and equipment.

A Coast Guard inspection of the vessel based on an interagency agreement between National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) and the Coast Guard or 46 CFR Part 28 will be required prior to performance.

In addition to the requirements of 46 CFR Part 28, the Coast Guard inspection will require conformance with standards for lifesaving and firefighting equipment in the Rules for Small Passenger Vessels, which exceed 46 CFR Part 28. Issuance of the notice to proceed by the Government is conditioned upon the successful completion of the mandatory Coast Guard inspection under Part I, Paragraph 17 of this contract. Failure of the Contractor to successfully complete the inspection requirements shall be grounds for termination of this contract. Conformance with present regulations for commercial fishing vessels requires that the master or an individual in charge of the vessel ensures that safety drills and instruction are conducted at least once a month (46 CFR 28.270). Safety orientations must be given to each individual on board that has not received the instruction and has not participated in the drills before the vessel can continue to operate. The contractor shall conduct such safety orientations prior to sailing on each cruise leg. It is recommended that a full drill be completed early in each cruise leg even if less than a month has elapsed since the last drill due to the frequent wholesale exchange of scientific personnel at cruise breaks. Each vessel must also have all required emergency instructions posted (46 CFR 28.265).

MECHANICAL BREAKDOWNS OR NON-PERFORMANCE

The contractor is responsible for maintaining all contractor provided equipment and vessels in a safe operating condition during the contract performance. If a mechanical breakdown occurs of the vessel(s) or other contractor provided equipment that is greater than 12 hours cumulative within a 24-hour period that begins at 0700 and ends at 0659, the vessel(s) and all contractor provided equipment shall be considered off charter and make-up fishing days may be required.

The charter shall also be considered off charter if the Captain or Crew of the boat is unable to perform the duties as outlined in the Statement of Work in increments of time greater than 12 hours cumulative within a 24-hour period that begins at 0700 and ends at 0659. The contractor shall make every reasonable effort to resolve the problem causing the vessel(s), contractor provided equipment or Captain and Crew to be out of service and bring it back into service as quickly as possible to continue contract performance.

Mechanical breakdown periods in excess of four (4) consecutive or four (4) cumulative days may be grounds for termination of the contract. In the event that the breakdown requires the vessel(s) to return to port for repairs, the vessel(s) will not be considered back on charter until the vessel(s) returns to active survey status as determined by the Contracting Officer in consultation with COR.

WORKING CONDITIONS FOR GOVERNMENT PERSONNEL

The contractor shall provide safe, efficient working conditions and accommodations to the Government personnel free from violence, threats of violence, harassment (including sexual harassment), intimidation, and other disruptive behavior. The contractor, its agents, subcontractors, and employees, including the Captain and crew of the vessel shall not harass, assault, oppose, impede, intimidate, threaten, interfere with or make unwelcome advances toward any member of the Government field party. Violation under this clause may result in termination of the contract, at the discretion of the Government under the Default Clause, and in consequent liability of the contractor to the Government for any costs incurred, as well as debarment, suspension or similar action from future participation in government contracts.

PRESENCE OF FAMILY MEMBERS

Unless serving as crew, the spouses or children of crew members or owner(s) may not accompany the vessel during the term of the charter without obtaining written approval in advance from the vessel captain. Liability for any family members allowed on board during the charter is the sole responsibility of the contractor.

Figure 1. Location of study area.

REQUESTED DELIVERY DATE / PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE:

Base Year for a twelve month period 06/30/2024 through 06/29/2025 10 vessel days between September 15 and 30, 2024.

Option Period 1 for a twelve month period 06/30/2025 through 06/29/2026 10 vessel days between September 15 and 30, 2025.

Option Period 2 for a twelve month period 06/30/2026 through 06/29/2027 10 vessel days between September 15 and 30, 2026.

Exact dates will be decided on at pre-survey meetings to be held 2 months prior to the survey.

POINT OF CONTACT:

To be provided at time of award.

SEE ADDENDUMIS CHECKED

CODE 18a. PAYMENT WILL BE MADE BY

CODE

FACILITYCODE

17b. CHECK IF REMITTANCE IS DIFFERENT AND PUT SUCH ADDRESS IN OFFER

OFFEROR

WAD-SAP-S

SEATTLE WA 98115

7600 Sand Point Way NE

WAD-SAP

FS740A31 CODE 16. ADMINISTERED BYCODE

X

X

X

483114

SIZE STANDARD:

100.00 % FOR:SET ASIDE:UNRESTRICTED ORWAD-SAP-S

REQUEST FOR

PROPOSAL

(RFP)

INVITATION

FOR BID (IFB)

10. THIS ACQUISITION ISCODE

REQUEST FOR

QUOTE (RFQ)

14. METHOD OF SOLICITATION

13b. RATING

NORTH AMERICAN INDUSTRY

CLASSIFICATION STANDARD

(NAICS):

SMALL BUSINESS

05/24/2024 1200 MD

05/14/2024

JAMIE ROSALES

(No collect calls)

INFORMATION CALL:

FOR SOLICITATION 8. OFFER DUE DATE/LOCAL TIMEb. TELEPHONE NUMBER a. NAME

4. ORDER NUMBER3. AWARD/ 6. SOLICITATION

1305M324Q0241

5. SOLICITATION NUMBER

SOLICITATION/CONTRACT/ORDER FOR COMMERCIAL ITEMS 1. REQUISITION NUMBER PAGE OF

1 52 143061-24-0114OFFEROR TO COMPLETE BLOCKS 12, 17, 23, 24, & 30

TELEPHONE NO.

17a. CONTRACTOR/

JUNEAU AK 99801-8344

17109 PT. LENA LOOP RD.

TED STEVENS MARINE R.I.

AUKE BAY LABORATORIES

15. DELIVER TO

SEATTLE WA 98115

7600 Sand Point Way NE

9. ISSUED BY

7.

2. CONTRACT NO.

EFFECTIVE DATE

18b. SUBMIT INVOICES TO ADDRESS SHOWN IN BLOCK 18a UNLESS BLOCK BELOW

ISSUE DATE

DELIVERY FOR FREE ON BOARD

(FOB) DESTINATION UNLESS

BLOCK IS MARKED

11.

SEE SCHEDULE

12. DISCOUNT TERMS THIS CONTRACT IS A RATED

ORDER UNDER THE DEFENSE

PRIORITIES AND ALLOCATIONS

SYSTEM - DPAS (15 CFR 700)

13a.

SERVICE-DISABLED

VETERAN-OWNED

SMALL BUSINESS

(SDVOSB)

HUBZONE SMALL

BUSINESS

8(A)

WAD-SAP

WOMEN-OWNED SMALL

BUSINESS (WOSB)

ECONOMICALLY DISADVANTAGED

WOMEN-OWNED SMALL

BUSINESS (EDWOSB)

24.

AMOUNT

23.

UNIT PRICE

22.

UNIT

21.

QUANTITY

20.

SCHEDULE OF SUPPLIES/SERVICES

19.

ITEM NO.

Period of Performance: 06/30/2024 to 06/29/2025

(Use Reverse and/or Attach Additional Sheets as Necessary)

HEREIN, IS ACCEPTED AS TO ITEMS:

XX

DATED

MICHELLE WALTON

. YOUR OFFER ON SOLICITATION (BLOCK 5),

INCLUDING ANY ADDITIONS OR CHANGES WHICH ARE SET FORTH

COPIES TO ISSUING OFFICE. CONTRACTOR AGREES TO FURNISH AND DELIVER

ARE

ARE

31c. DATE SIGNED

27b. CONTRACT/PURCHASE ORDER INCORPORATES BY REFERENCE FAR 52.212-4. FAR 52.212-5 IS ATTACHED. ADDENDA

31a. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA (SIGNATURE OF CONTRACTING OFFICER)

30c. DATE SIGNED 31b. NAME OF CONTRACTING OFFICER (Type or print)

ALL ITEMS SET FORTH OR OTHERWISE IDENTIFIED ABOVE AND ON ANY ADDITIONAL

SHEETS SUBJECT TO THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS SPECIFIED.

27a. SOLICITATION INCORPORATES BY REFERENCE (FEDERAL ACQUISITION REGULATION) FAR 52.212-1, 52.212-4. FAR 52.212-3

AND 52.212-5 ARE ATTACHED. ADDENDA

26. TOTAL AWARD AMOUNT (For Government Use Only)

OFFER

STANDARD FORM 1449 (REV. 11/2021)

Prescribed by GSA - FAR (48 CFR) 53.212

ARE NOT ATTACHED.

ARE NOT ATTACHED.

AUTHORIZED FOR LOCAL REPRODUCTION

PREVIOUS EDITION IS NOT USABLE

30b. NAME AND TITLE OF SIGNER (Type or print)

30a. SIGNATURE OF OFFEROR/CONTRACTOR

28. CONTRACTOR IS REQUIRED TO SIGN THIS DOCUMENT AND RETURN

25. ACCOUNTING AND APPROPRIATION DATA

29. AWARD OF CONTRACT: REFERENCE

32e. MAILING ADDRESS OF AUTHORIZED GOVERNMENT REPRESENTATIVE

32c. DATE 32b. SIGNATURE OF AUTHORIZED GOVERNMENT REPRESENTATIVE

ACCEPTED, AND CONFORMS TO THE CONTRACT, EXCEPT AS NOTED:

32a. QUANTITY IN COLUMN 21 HAS BEEN

RECEIVED INSPECTED

40. PAID BY39. S/R VOUCHER NUMBER38. S/R ACCOUNT NUMBER

37. CHECK NUMBER

FINALPARTIAL

36. PAYMENT

FINALPARTIAL

35. AMOUNT VERIFIED

CORRECT FOR

34. VOUCHER NUMBER33. SHIP NUMBER

COMPLETE

32g. E-MAIL OF AUTHORIZED GOVERNMENT REPRESENTATIVE

42d. TOTAL CONTAINERS42c. DATE REC'D (YY/MM/DD)

42b. RECEIVED AT (Location)

42a. RECEIVED BY (Print)

41c. DATE41b. SIGNATURE AND TITLE OF CERTIFYING OFFICER

41a. I CERTIFY THIS ACCOUNT IS CORRECT AND PROPER FOR PAYMENT

STANDARD FORM 1449 (REV. 11/2021) BACK

24.

AMOUNT

23.

UNIT PRICE

22.

UNIT

21.

QUANTITY

20.

SCHEDULE OF SUPPLIES/SERVICES

19.

ITEM NO.

32f. TELEPHONE NUMBER OF AUTHORIZED GOVERNMENT REPRESENTATIVE

32d. PRINTED NAME AND TITLE OF AUTHORIZED GOVERNMENT REPRESENTATIVE

52 2 of

1305M324Q0241 BASE

Section II - Supplies or Services and Price/Costs Section IX - Contract Clauses Section X - List of Attachments

Section II - Supplies or Services and Price/Costs

CLIN List

Item Number Description Quantity Unit Unit Price Amount

0001 10 DA

BASE YEAR: Services, non-personal, to provide all labor, equipment and materials (unless otherwise provided herein) necessary for vessel charter services for the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) Alaska Fisheries Science Center (AFSC) Auke Bay Laboratory in Juneau, AK, in accordance with the Statement of Work. Charter to occur between September 15th and 30th.

Award Type: Firm-fixed-price Product/Service Code: V224 Requisition No: 143061-24-0114

1001 10 DA

Option Year 1: Services, non-personal, to provide all labor, equipment and materials (unless otherwise provided herein) necessary for vessel charter services for the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) Alaska Fisheries Science Center (AFSC) Auke Bay Laboratory in Juneau, AK, in accordance with the Statement of Work. Charter to occur between September 15th and 30th.

Award Type: Firm-fixed-price

(Option Line Item)

Product/Service Code: V224 Period of Performance: 06/30/2025 to 06/29/2026

2001 10 DA

Option Year 1: Services, non-personal, to provide all labor, equipment and materials (unless otherwise provided herein) necessary for vessel charter services for the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) Alaska Fisheries Science Center (AFSC) Auke Bay Laboratory in Juneau, AK, in accordance with the Statement of Work. Charter to occur between September 15th and 30th.

Award Type: Firm-fixed-price

(Option Line Item)

Product/Service Code: V224

Item Number Description Quantity Unit Unit Price Amount

Period of Performance: 06/30/2026 to 06/29/2027

Section IX - Contract Clauses

Clauses Incorporated by Reference Clause Number Clause Title

52.204-7 System for Award Management. (OCT 2018)

52.204-13 System for Award Management Maintenance. (OCT 2018)

52.204-16 Commercial and Government Entity Code Reporting.

(AUG 2020)

52.204-17 Ownership or Control of Offeror. (AUG 2020)

52.204-18 Commercial and Government Entity Code Maintenance.

(AUG 2020)

52.204-20 Predecessor of Offeror. (AUG 2020)

52.212-4 Contract Terms and Conditions - Commercial Products and Commercial Services. (NOV 2023)

52.232-18 Availability of Funds. (APR 1984) 1352.201-70 Contracting Officer's Authority. (MAR 2010) 1352.209-73 Compliance with the laws. (APR 2010) 1352.209-74 Organizational conflict of interest. (APR 2010)

Standard Language UTILIZATION OF FEDCONNECT FOR CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION

The Department of Commerce will utilize the FedConnect® web portal in administering this award. The contractor must be registered in FedConnect® and have access to the FedConnect® website located at https://www.fedconnect.net/Fedconnect/. For assistance in registering or for other FedConnect® questions please call the FedConnect® Help Desk at (800) 899-6665 or email at support@fedconnect.net. There is no charge for registration in or use of FedConnect®.

FAR 52.204-24 Representation Regarding Certain Telecommunications and Video Surveillance Services or Equipment. (NOV 2021)

The Offeror shall not complete the representation at paragraph (d)(1) of this provision if the Offeror has represented that it "does not provide covered telecommunications equipment or services as a part of its offered products or services to the Government in the performance of any contract, subcontract, or other contractual instrument" in paragraph (c)(1) in the provision at 52.204-26, Covered Telecommunications Equipment or Services-Representation, or in paragraph (v)(2)(i) of the provision at 52.212-3, Offeror Representations and Certifications-Commercial Products and Commercial Services.

The Offeror shall not complete the representation in paragraph (d)(2) of this provision if the Offeror has represented that it "does not use covered telecommunications equipment or services, or any equipment, system, or service that uses covered telecommunications equipment or services" in paragraph (c)(2) of the provision at 52.204-26, or in paragraph (v)(2)(ii) of the provision at 52.212-3.

(a) Definitions. As used in this provision-

Backhaul, covered telecommunications equipment or services, critical technology, interconnection arrangements, reasonable inquiry, roaming, and substantial or essential component have the meanings provided in the clause 52.204-25, Prohibition on Contracting for Certain Telecommunications and Video Surveillance Services or Equipment.

(b) Prohibition. (1) Section 889(a)(1)(A) of the John S. McCain National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2019 (Pub. L. 115-232) prohibits the head of an executive agency on or after August 13, 2019, from procuring or obtaining, or extending or renewing a contract to procure or obtain, any equipment, system, or service that uses covered telecommunications equipment or services as a substantial or essential component of any system, or as critical technology as part of any system. Nothing in the prohibition shall be construed to-

(i) Prohibit the head of an executive agency from procuring with an entity to provide a service that connects to the facilities of a third-party, such as backhaul, roaming, or interconnection arrangements; or

(ii) Cover telecommunications equipment that cannot route or redirect user data traffic or cannot permit visibility into any user data or packets that such equipment transmits or otherwise handles.

(2) Section 889(a)(1)(B) of the John S. McCain National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2019 (Pub. L. 115-232) prohibits the head of an executive agency on or after August 13, 2020, from entering into a contract or extending or renewing a contract with an entity that uses any equipment, system, or service that uses covered telecommunications equipment or services as a substantial or essential component of any system, or as critical technology as part of any system. This prohibition applies to the use of covered telecommunications equipment or services, regardless of whether that use is in performance of work under a Federal contract. Nothing in the prohibition shall be construed to-

(i) Prohibit the head of an executive agency from procuring with an entity to provide a service that connects to the facilities of a third-party, such as backhaul, roaming, or interconnection arrangements; or

(ii) Cover telecommunications equipment that cannot route or redirect user data traffic or cannot permit visibility into any user data or packets that such equipment transmits or otherwise handles.

(c) Procedures. The Offeror shall review the list of excluded parties in the System for Award Management (SAM) (https://www.sam.gov) for entities excluded from receiving federal awards for "covered telecommunications equipment or services."

(d) Representations. The Offeror represents that-

(1) It [ ] will, [ ] will not provide covered telecommunications equipment or services to the Government in the performance of any contract, subcontract or other contractual instrument resulting from this solicitation. The Offeror shall provide the additional disclosure information required at paragraph (e)(1) of this section if the Offeror responds "will" in paragraph (d)(1) of this section; and

(2) After conducting a reasonable inquiry, for purposes of this representation, the Offeror represents that-

It [ ] does, [ ] does not use covered telecommunications equipment or services, or use any equipment, system, or service that uses covered telecommunications equipment or services. The Offeror shall provide the additional disclosure information required at paragraph (e)(2) of this section if the Offeror responds "does" in paragraph (d)(2) of this section.

(e) Disclosures. (1) Disclosure for the representation in paragraph (d)(1) of this provision. If the Offeror has responded "will" in the representation in paragraph (d)(1) of this provision, the Offeror shall provide the following information as part of the offer:

(i) For covered equipment-

(A) The entity that produced the covered telecommunications equipment (include entity name, unique entity identifier, CAGE code, and whether the entity was the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) or a distributor, if known);

(B) A description of all covered telecommunications equipment offered (include brand; model number, such as OEM number, manufacturer part number, or wholesaler number; and item description, as applicable); and

(C) Explanation of the proposed use of covered telecommunications equipment and any factors relevant to determining if such use would be permissible under the prohibition in paragraph (b)(1) of this provision.

(ii) For covered services-

(A) If the service is related to item maintenance: A description of all covered telecommunications services offered (include on the item being maintained: Brand; model number, such as OEM number, manufacturer part number, or wholesaler number; and item description, as applicable); or

(B) If not associated with maintenance, the Product Service Code (PSC) of the service being provided; and explanation of the proposed use of covered telecommunications services and any factors relevant to determining if such use would be permissible under the prohibition in paragraph (b)(1) of this provision.

(2) Disclosure for the representation in paragraph (d)(2) of this provision. If the Offeror has responded "does" in the representation in paragraph (d)(2) of this provision, the Offeror shall provide the following information as part of the offer:

(i) For covered equipment-

(A) The entity that produced the covered telecommunications equipment (include entity name, unique entity identifier, CAGE code, and whether the entity was the OEM or a distributor, if known);

(B) A description of all covered telecommunications equipment offered (include brand; model number, such as OEM number, manufacturer part number, or wholesaler number; and item description, as applicable); and

(C) Explanation of the proposed use of covered telecommunications equipment and any factors relevant to determining if such use would be permissible under the prohibition in paragraph (b)(2) of this provision.

(ii) For covered services-

(A) If the service is related to item maintenance: A description of all covered telecommunications services offered (include on the item being maintained: Brand; model number, such as OEM number, manufacturer part number, or wholesaler number; and item description, as applicable); or

(B) If not associated with maintenance, the PSC of the service being provided; and explanation of the proposed use of covered telecommunications services and any factors relevant to determining if such use would be permissible under the prohibition in paragraph (b)(2) of this provision.

(End of provision)

FAR 52.204-29 Federal Acquisition Supply Chain Security Act Orders-Representation and Disclosures.

(DEC 2023)

(a) Definitions. As used in this provision, Covered article, FASCSA order, Intelligence community, National security system, Reasonable inquiry, Sensitive compartmented information, Sensitive compartmented information system, and Source have the meaning provided in the clause 52.204-30, Federal Acquisition Supply Chain Security Act Orders-Prohibition.

(b) Prohibition. Contractors are prohibited from providing or using as part of the performance of the contract any covered article, or any products or services produced or provided by a source, if the prohibition is set out in an applicable Federal Acquisition Supply Chain Security Act (FASCSA) order, as described in paragraph (b)(1) of FAR 52.204-30, Federal Acquisition Supply Chain Security Act Orders-Prohibition.

(c) Procedures. (1) The Offeror shall search for the phrase "FASCSA order" in the System for Award Management (SAM)(https://www.sam.gov) for any covered article, or any products or services produced or provided by a source, if there is an applicable FASCSA order described in paragraph (b)(1) of FAR 52.204-30, Federal Acquisition Supply Chain Security Act Orders- Prohibition.

(2) The Offeror shall review the solicitation for any FASCSA orders that are not in SAM, but are effective and do apply to the solicitation and resultant contract (see FAR 4.2303(c)(2)).

(3) FASCSA orders issued after the date of solicitation do not apply unless added by an amendment to the solicitation.

(d) Representation. By submission of this offer, the offeror represents that it has conducted a reasonable inquiry, and that the offeror does not propose to provide or use in response to this solicitation any covered article, or any products or services produced or provided by a source, if the covered article or the source is prohibited by an applicable FASCSA order in effect on the date the solicitation was issued, except as waived by the solicitation, or as disclosed in paragraph (e).

(e) Disclosures. The purpose for this disclosure is so the Government may decide whether to issue a waiver. For any covered article, or any products or services produced or provided by a source, if the covered article or the source is subject to an applicable FASCSA order, and the Offeror is unable to represent compliance, then the Offeror shall provide the following information as part of the offer:

(1) Name of the product or service provided to the Government;

(2) Name of the covered article or source subject to a FASCSA order;

(3) If applicable, name of the vendor, including the Commercial and Government Entity code and unique entity identifier (if known), that supplied the covered article or the product or service to the Offeror;

(4) Brand;

(5) Model number (original equipment manufacturer number, manufacturer part number, or wholesaler number);

(6) Item description;

(7) Reason why the applicable covered article or the product or service is being provided or used;

(f) Executive agency review of disclosures. The contracting officer will review disclosures provided in paragraph (e) to determine if any waiver may be sought. A contracting officer may choose not to pursue a waiver for covered articles or sources otherwise subject to a FASCSA order and may instead make an award to an offeror that does not require a waiver.

(End of provision)

FAR 52.212-1 Instructions to Offerors - Commercial Products and Commercial Services. (SEP 2023)

NOTICE TO OFFERORS: Instructions for submitting quotations under this request for quote must be followed. Failure to provide all information to aid in the evaluation may be considered non-responsive.

Offers that are non-responsive may be excluded from further evaluation and rejected without further notification to the offeror.

1. Submit PDF or Microsoft Word format quotations to the office specified in this solicitation at or before the time specified in the solicitation. Email quotes are required and can be sent to

Jamie.Rosales@noaa.gov.

2. Offeror shall have an active registration in the System for Award Management (SAM found at https://sam.gov/content/home) in order to provide a quote and be eligible for award. Must provide their UEID/CAGE CODE with their quote.

3. Offerors shall assume that the Government has no prior knowledge of them or their capability.

4. Offerors must provide all evaluation criteria in accordance with FAR 52.212-2. Offerors who do not provide all evaluation criteria will not be accepted.

5. Quote shall include at least two references for similar services including the phone number, full address, and e-mail address. References will be checked. The Government will use its discretion to determine the sources of past performance information used in the evaluation, and the information may be obtained from references provided by the offeror, the agency’s knowledge of contractor performance, other government agencies or commercial entities, or past performance databases, and will be based on responsiveness, quality, and customer services.

The following minimum information shall be provided within contractor submitted references:

• Contract Number/Order Number

• Date of Contract Award

• Name and Address of the Government Agency or Commercial Entity

• Contract Type

• Annual Contract Cost

• Period of Performance

• Description of Work

• Valid name, phone number and e-mail address of Contracting Officer, Contracting Officer’s Representative or Prime Contractor (if company was subcontracted).

• In the description of work, quotes should provide a detailed explanation demonstrating the similarity of the contract, in terms of scope and size to the requirements of the solicitation for purposes of the relevancy review.

Additionally, offerors should provide a brief description of work performed and results achieved;

description of the methodology, tools, and processes utilized. In addition to the information requested above, offerors shall complete Blocks 1 through 4 on Page 1 of the Past Performance Questionnaire. The offeror is required to send the Past Performance Questionnaire to those Government and commercial activities provided by the offeror in their submission and e-mail the completed survey form directly to JAMIE ROSALES at JAMIE.ROSALES@NOAA.GOV by the DUE DATE OF THIS SOLICITATION. The Government reserves the right to consider past performance report forms received after the due date of the solicitation and to contact references for verification or additional information. Vendors are cautioned that the Government reserves the right to obtain information for use in the evaluation of past performance from any sources including sources outside of the Government. The Government may obtain whatever information it deems most relevant to the required effort by telephonic and/or written inquiry. This information may include SAM.gov information, or past performance information from any source.

6. If proposed subcontractor past performance is provided as part of the two (2) of its most relevant contracts or efforts and type of work to be done by the subcontractor on the solicitation requirement must be stated. The offeror’s submittal shall clearly detail the aspects of the work in the solicitation that the subcontractor is proposed to perform. A Past Performance example which does not clearly detail the aspects of the work in the solicitation that the subcontractor is proposed to perform will not be evaluated. If the prime offeror or intended subcontractor/partner submits a past performance example in which it served as a subcontractor, the prime/sub/partner shall clearly detail the work that it performed and the size (dollar value) of that subcontracted work only. A Past Performance example that https://sam.gov/content/home does not differentiate between the overall contract effort and the subcontractor effort will not be evaluated. Subcontractor performance (either the vendors own subcontractor experience or proposed subcontractor’s experience) of major or critical aspects of this requirement will be considered the same as prime contractor past performance information for the vendor. Failure of offerors to provide the required information and level of specificity will result in the contract reference not being evaluated.

“THE GOVERNMENT DOES NOT ACCEPT RESPONSIBILITY FOR NON-RECEIPT OF QUOTES. IT IS THE CONTRACTOR’S RESPONSIBILITY TO REQUEST AND RECEIVE A CONFIRMATION OF THE QUOTE RECEIPT”.

FAR 52.212-2 Evaluation - Commercial Products and Commercial Services. (NOV 2021)

Offers will be evaluated based on price and the factors set forth in paragraph (a).

The evaluation will consider the Non-Price Technical Solution (Technical Approach and Past Performance) to be significantly more important than price. However, as quotes are determined to be more equal in the non-price evaluation factor, price becomes more important and may become the determining factor for award. If, at any stage of the evaluation, all vendors are determined to have submitted equal, or virtually equal, Non-Price Technical Solutions, price could become the factor in determining which vendor will receive the award.

The Government intends to evaluate the quotes and award a purchase order based on the Offeror’s initial quote; therefore, the Offeror’s initial quote should contain the Offeror’s best terms from a Non- Price Technical Solution and price standpoint.

The Government reserves the right not to award a purchase order depending on the quality of the quote(s) submitted and the availability of funds. Furthermore, the Government may waive informalities and minor irregularities or omissions in quotes received.

The Government may make award to other than the lowest-priced Offeror or the Offeror with the highest technical rating if the Contracting Officer determines that to do so would result in the best value to the Government. The Government will not make an award at a significantly higher overall price to achieve only slightly superior performance capability.

(a) The Government will award a contract resulting from this solicitation to the responsible offeror whose offer conforming to the solicitation will be most advantageous to the Government, price and other factors considered.

Paragraph (a) is hereby completed as follows: Evaluation factors are listed in order of importance and all factors are more important than price.

1. Technical Approach and Capability.

The Offeror’s overall technical approach will be evaluated to assess the Government's level of confidence in the Offeror’s understanding of, approach to, and ability to successfully perform the requirements as described in the Statement of Work. Provide a detailed description of the company’s experience performing similar services. A detailed technical approach write-up describing how the Offeror will perform this service is required to be submitted with the quote regardless of whether a site visit was made or not. The technical approach write-up must not be a reiteration of the Statement of Work, but how your company plans on performing the tasks listed in the attached Statement of Work. (i.e. performance checklists, anticipated number of employees, anticipated hours at the facility and/or confirmation of supplies being provided, etc.)

2. Past Performance. The Offeror's past performance on related contracts will be evaluated to determine, as appropriate, successful performance of contract requirements, quality and timeliness of delivery of goods and services, cost management, communications between contracting parties, proactive management and customer satisfaction. The Government will use its discretion to determine the sources of past performance information used in the evaluation, and the information may be obtained from references provided by the Offeror, the agency’s knowledge of Offeror performance, other government agencies or commercial entities, or past performance databases, and will be based on responsiveness, quality, and customer services.

Quote shall include at least two references from at least two separate contracts for similar and relevant services including the phone number, full address, and e-mail address.

3. Offerors lacking relevant past performance history, or for whom past performance information is either not available or has not been submitted to the Government, will receive a neutral rating for past performance.

4. Vessel Requirements

a. Minimum overall length of 50 ft.

b. Area outside suitable for photographing whales and a wheel house with good visibility.

c. An outboard powered inflatable or skiff for collecting biopsies.

d. Dry storage area of at least 15 cubic feet in the main house for holding scientific supplies is required.

e. A minimum of 5 cubic feet of freezer storage exclusive of space for ship's stores for stowing scientific samples is required.

f. potable fresh water supply adequate for vessel and personal use for the crew and 5 scientists for trip duration is required.

g. Clean and sanitary overnight accommodations for crew and 5 scientists are required.

h. Work spaces, berthing, and galley spaces shall be adequately ventilated and free from tobacco smoke.

i. In an effort to reduce marine debris pollution, the Captain shall comply with waste management regulations as described in Section V of MARPOL. The vessel shall be required to have a storage facility, with or without a trash compactor to retain all refuse (except food and paper materials) or a means to incinerate this refuse so that it is not disposed of at sea. Reference Clause H.14 - Control of Plastic Discharges.

j. 2 sets of VHF radios are required.

k. Radar with a minimum range of 39 km (24 miles) is required.

l. Depth sounders: Color scope unit operating in the 38-50 kHz and 150-200 kHz range.

m. A system for switching to battery power for radio operation in the event of interruption of the normal power supply is required.

n. Certificate of documentation.

o. Certificate of inspection (vessel safety examination decal or USCG letter of inspection).

p. 100% of required lifesaving equipment.

q. A hydraulic block capable of retrieving CTDs and plankton nets.

5. Crew Requirements

a. The minimum crew shall consist of a Captain and adequate crew for safe operations.

b. The Captain shall have a minimum of 5 years of experience as a captain in Prince William

Sound.

c. The Captain shall be competent in the use of modern navigation and fish detecting equipment.

d. The Captain shall have experience working in close proximity to humpback whales.

6. Scientific Personnel

a. The Government field party shall consist of 5 scientists.

b. One Government employee will be responsible for compliance with the charter terms, and the conduct and performance of Government personnel aboard the vessel.

7. Operating Procedures

a. The Contractor shall provide three (3) nutritionally balanced meals and snacks each charter day.

b. The Government employees and vessel Captain will work together to resolve all problems which occur regarding the charter. In the event the government employees and Captain are unable to resolve any problem which could threaten the safety of the field party, the Government employees will return to port where an acceptable solution will be arranged.

c. The Captain and crew shall exercise due caution and follow safety procedures to help prevent damage or loss of Government gear and equipment. Specific safety procedures may be presented in writing to the Captain by the Government employee. 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.

d. The Contractor shall provide for all operating expenses of the vessel exclusive of communications costs such as use of cellular phones costs to conduct official business which will be reimbursable.

8. Safety

a. The vessel…