Sol_140M0122R0008.pdf

140M0122R0008

SOLICITATION, OFFER AND AWARD

4. TYPE OF SOLICITATION2. CONTRACT NUMBER 3. SOLICITATION NUMBER

7. ISSUED BY CODE 8. ADDRESS OFFER TO (If other than Item 7)

ORDER UNDER DPAS (15 CFR 700)

6. REQUISITION/PURCHASE NUMBER

NOTE: In sealed bid solicitations "offer" and "offeror" mean "bid" and "bidder".

NEGOTIATED (RFP)

SEALED BID (IFB)

5. DATE ISSUED

1. THIS CONTRACT IS A RATED RATING PAGE OF PAGES

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C. E-MAIL ADDRESS

EXT.NUMBERAREA CODE

B. TELEPHONE (NO COLLECT CALLS)A. NAME

10. FOR

INFORMATION

CALL:

CAUTION: LATE Submissions, Modifications, and Withdrawals: See Section L, Provision No. 52.214-7 or 52.215-1. All offers are subject to all terms and conditions contained in this solicitation.

(Date)(Hour) local timeuntildepository located in copies for furnishing the supplies or services in the Schedule will be received at the place specified in Item 8, or if hand carried, in the

SOLICITATION

9. Sealed offers in original and

PART IV - REPRESENTATIONS AND INSTRUCTIONS

OTHER STATEMENTS OF OFFERORS

EVALUATION FACTORS FOR AWARD

INSTRS., CONDS., AND NOTICES TO OFFERORS

REPRESENTATIONS, CERTIFICATIONS AND

LIST OF ATTACHMENTS

CONTRACT CLAUSES

PART III - LIST OF DOCUMENTS, EXHIBITS AND OTHER ATTACH.

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M SPECIAL CONTRACT REQUIREMENTS

CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION DATA

DELIVERIES OR PERFORMANCE

INSPECTION AND ACCEPTANCE

PACKAGING AND MARKING

DESCRIPTION/SPECS./WORK STATEMENT

SUPPLIES OR SERVICES AND PRICES/COSTS

SOLICITATION/CONTRACT FORM

PART II - CONTRACT CLAUSESPART I - THE SCHEDULE

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11. TABLE OF CONTENTS

18. OFFER DATE17. SIGNATURE

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15C. CHECK IF REMITTANCE ADDRESS

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15B. TELEPHONE NUMBER

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OFFEROR

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FACILITY

16. NAME AND TITLE OF PERSON AUTHORIZED TO SIGN OFFER15A. NAME

DATEAMENDMENT NO.DATEAMENDMENT NO.

and related documents numbered and dated):

amendments to the SOLICITATION for offerors

(The offeror acknowledges receipt of

14. ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF AMENDMENTS

CALENDAR DAYS (%)30 CALENDAR DAYS (%)20 CALENDAR DAYS (%)10 CALENDAR DAYS (%)

(See Section I, Clause No. 52.232.8)

13. DISCOUNT FOR PROMPT PAYMENT

designated point(s), within the time specified in the schedule.

by the offeror) from the date for receipt of offers specified above, to furnish any or all items upon which prices are offered at the price set opposite each item, delivered at the

NOTE: Item 12 does not apply if the solicitation includes the provisions at 52.214-16, Minimum Bid Acceptance Period.

OFFER (Must be fully completed by offeror)

IMPORTANT - Award will be made on this Form, or on Standard Form 26, or by other authorized official written notice.

28. AWARD DATE

(Signature of Contracting Officer)

27. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

25. PAYMENT WILL BE MADE BY

26. NAME OF CONTRACTING OFFICER (Type or print)

CODE 24. ADMINISTERED BY (If other than Item 7)

ITEM

(4 copies unless otherwise specified)

23. SUBMIT INVOICES TO ADDRESS SHOWN IN

41 U.S.C. 253 (c) ( 10 U.S.C. 2304 (c) (

22. AUTHORITY FOR USING OTHER THAN FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION:

21. ACCOUNTING AND APPROPRIATION20. AMOUNT19. ACCEPTED AS TO ITEMS NUMBERED

AWARD (To be completed by government)

CODE

05/31/2022 X

M10

BOEM-HQ

45600 Woodland Road, VAE-AMD Sterling VA 20166-9216

See Section L

1200 ED 07/01/2022

William Rilee 703 William.Rilee@bsee.gov

787-1757

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William Rilee

AUTHORIZED FOR LOCAL REPRODUCTION

Previous edition is unusable

STANDARD FORM 33 (Rev. 9-97)

Prescribed by GSA - FAR (48 CFR) 53.214(c)

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7-19 21-22 24-28 29-35

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54-61

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12. In compliance with the above, the undersigned agrees, if this offer is accepted within _____0_________ calendar days (60 calendar days unless a different period is inserted

RFP 140M0122R0008

SECTION B:

SUPPLIES OR SERVICES AND PRICES/COSTS:

B.1 INTRODUCTION & AUTHORITY / GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS:

The United States Department of the Interior, Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement (BSEE), on behalf of the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM), is hereby awarding an Indefinite Delivery Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) type contract.

Task orders issued under this IDIQ contract are anticipated to be Firm-Fixed-Price (FFP).

However, the government reserves the right to issue Time-and-Materials (T&M) or Labor hour (LH) orders. The ordering period shall not exceed five (5) years from date of award.

The Contractor shall provide all labor, materials, equipment, services, logistical support, and supplies necessary to perform, in accordance with the Section C, Statement of Work.

In accordance with the Federal Acquisition Regulation FAR Subpart 16.5 - Indefinite-Delivery Contracts, and the FAR Part 15 – Contracting by Negotiation, this is a Full-and-Open (Unrestricted) Competitive Solicitation, and Request for Proposals (RFP), issued to meet the Government’s Requirements Titled: “Telemetry, Scientific, Communications, and Engineering Support Services.” The North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) Code 541620—Environmental Consulting Services, with a small business size standard of $16.5 Million Dollars, is applicable to the Government’s Requirements. The Product Service Code B510—Special Studies/Analysis - Environmental Assessments, is applicable to the Government’s Requirements.

B.2 CONTRACT PRICING:

All task orders issued under this ID/IQ contract shall be priced in accordance with Section B.2.1.

The labor rates in Section B.2.1 serve as the maximum labor rates that the Contractor may propose under task orders against the ID/IQ. The Contractor may always provide lower labor rates and discounts, via future task order proposals, under task orders against the ID/IQ. The labor categories are anticipated to be the primary labor categories necessary for the Contractor to successfully perform all services and provide all deliverables at the task order level. Other labor categories may be added, via modification to the ID/IQ by the Contracting Officer, if the labor categories are determined necessary and applicable to successfully perform the scope/work of the ID/IQ and the task order level, and if the labor categories are proposed by the Contractor and advance approved by the Contracting Officer (CO) and Contracting Officer’s Representative

(COR).

B.2.1 CONTRACT LINE ITEM NUMBERS (CLIN) PRICING STRUCTURE FOR

ID/IQ:

The pricing structure of the ID/IQ is detailed as follows:

The Contractor shall provide fully burdened, fixed hourly labor rates which include wages, overhead, general and administrative expenses, and profit. The labor rates shall serve as the maximum labor rates the Contractor may propose when submitting business/cost proposals at the task order level. Each task order will identify the level of effort required for the successful performance of the task order. * The fully burdened, fixed hourly labor rates proposed for each year are to be provided under the applicable CLIN.

* The Government has provided the Project Manager as a required labor category under the Government’s Requirements and the ID/IQ. Any offeror SHALL provide pricing for this required labor category: Project Manager. The Contractor shall also propose other appropriate labor categories that are determined necessary and applicable to successfully perform the scope/work of the ID/IQ and the task order level, i.e., necessary and applicable to successfully perform the scope/work described in Section C, Section F and the Sample Task Order Statement of Work. * At a minimum, all labor categories and fully burdened, fixed hourly labor rates proposed for each year and for the Sample Task Order must be included in Section B.2.1.

While not mandatory, the following list is provided for informational purposes only. This list provides possible labor categories offerors might want to consider at various experience or seniority levels for including in their IDIQ pricing.

Administrative Assistant Administrative Specialist Logistics Analyst Scientist Engineer Facilitator Science Writer Photographer Videographer Video/Content Editor Video/Content Producer

This list is just possible labor categories for consideration and is not all inclusive.

ID/IQ CLIN 00010 – Base Ordering Year (Months 1 through 12)

Labor Category Fully Burdened, Fixed Hourly Labor Rate

* Project Manager * $

* The Government has provided the Project Manager as a required labor category under this IDIQ. The Contractor shall propose other appropriate categories.

The level of effort required will be identified at the task order level. The Contractor shall provide fully burdened fixed hourly labor rates which include wages, overhead, general and administrative expenses, and profit. These rates shall be used by the Contractor when submitting price quotes at the task order level. The fully burdened rates that apply to Year 1 are provided under CLIN 00010. The Contractor shall also propose other appropriate categories applicable to accomplish the work described in Section C.

ID/IQ CLIN 00020 - Ordering Year Two (2) (Months 13 through 24)

The level of effort required will be identified at the task order level. The Contractor shall provide expenses, and profit. These rates shall be used by the Contractor when submitting price quotes at the task order level. The fully burdened rates that apply to Year 2 are provided under CLIN 00020. The Contractor shall also propose other appropriate categories applicable to accomplish

ID/IQ CLIN 00030 - Ordering Year Three (3) (Months 25 through 36)

The level of effort required will be identified at the task order level. The Contractor shall provide expenses, and profit. These rates shall be used by the Contractor when submitting price quotes at the task order level. The fully burdened rates that apply to Year 3 are provided under CLIN 00030. The Contractor shall also propose other appropriate categories applicable to accomplish

ID/IQ CLIN 00040 - Ordering Year Four (4) (Months 37 through 48)

The level of effort required will be identified at the task order level. The Contractor shall provide expenses, and profit. These rates shall be used by the Contractor when submitting price quotes at the task order level. The fully burdened rates that apply to Year 4 are provided under CLIN

00040. The Contractor shall also propose other appropriate categories applicable to accomplish

ID/IQ CLIN 00050 – Ordering Year Five (5) (Months 49 through 60)

The level of effort required will be identified at the task order level. The Contractor shall provide expenses, and profit. These rates shall be used by the Contractor when submitting price quotes at the task order level. The fully burdened rates that apply to Year 5 are provided under CLIN 00050. The Contractor shall also propose other appropriate categories applicable to accomplish

B.2.2 SAMPLE TASK ORDER PRICING:

Below is the pricing table for the Sample Task Order (TO) (Attachment 1). The offeror shall provide detailed pricing in accordance with the instructions in Section L, below. The Government anticipates that the Sample TO (Attachment 1) will be the first TO issued against an anticipated ID/IQ Contract.

CLIN Description Firm Fixed Price Total 00010 “Support for Whale Shark Movement Ecology

Study”

* $TBD

* = Any offeror shall provide TO Level Pricing in its Sample TO Business/Cost Proposal. The description contained in table above is for illustrative purposes only and will change based on the information in the Sample TO and successful offeror’s proposal.

CLIN 00010 is a Firm-Fixed-Price line item to perform the work under the TO Level Statement of Work (SOW) to be paid in accordance with the Partial Delivery Payment Schedule in Section B.2.3.

B.2.3 PARTIAL DELIVERY PAYMENT SCHEDULE: SAMPLE TO LEVEL:

The following Partial Delivery Payment Schedule is for the Firm-Fixed-Price Sample TO requirement (CLIN 00010). Payment shall be made after services have been successfully performed/rendered by the contractor, after deliverables have been submitted by the contractor to the Government, and after deliverables have been received and accepted by the Government in accordance with FAR Clause 52.232-1, Payments.

FOR ILLUSTRATIVE PURPOSES ONLY

Payment Deliverable / Milestone Payment Amount

Service Performed/Rendered &

Deliverable 1 Received and Accepted

* $TBD (30%)

Service Performed/Rendered &

Deliverable 2 Received and Accepted

* $TBD (30%)

Service Performed/Rendered &

Deliverable 3 Received and Accepted

* $TBD (20%)

Service Performed/Rendered &

Deliverable 4 Received and Accepted

* $TBD (20%)

Total Firm-Fixed-Price * $TBD

* = Any offeror shall propose a Partial Delivery Payment Schedule in its Sample TO Business/Cost Proposal. The descriptions contained in table above is for illustrative purposes only and will change based on the information in the Sample TO and successful offeror’s proposal.

B.3 MINIMUM/MAXIMUM (NOT TO EXCEED CEILING) & OVERALL VALUE:

Both the Government and the Contractor agree that the minimum order consideration under this contract is $25,000.00 worth of task orders, in accordance with FAR Clause 52.216-22 entitled “Indefinite Quantity” and the maximum consideration under this Contract over a five-year period is estimated to be $20,000,000

B.4 TRAVEL:

Travel requirements, if applicable, will be specified on the TO Level. When travel costs are allowable under a reimbursable line item, travel costs will be reimbursed for actual, allowable, and reasonable travel and travel related costs incurred, exclusive of any fee, in accordance with the Federal Travel Regulation (FTR) policy in effect at the time of travel (http://www.gsa.gov/portal/content/104790) and in accordance with the FAR 31.205-46. All reimbursable travel shall be approved by the COR prior to travel arrangements being made.

SECTION C:

DESCRIPTION/SPECIFICATIONS/S

TATEMENT OF WORK:

DESCRIPTION/ STATEMENT OF WORK

Telemetry, Scientific, Communications, and Engineering Support Services

2.1 BACKGROUND

The Office of Environmental Programs of the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) is engaged in several studies and environmental risk assessments which incorporate ecological modeling, animal movement, acoustic ecology, and impact assessments to better understand how they may potentially be impacted by energy or mineral extraction. These efforts require support for procuring and customizing various types of animal telemetry tags, field testing, tag deployments, risk assessment frameworks, expert elicitation as well as support for temporary animal holding, such as the provision of testing facilities as well as scientific communications in support of these objectives.

2.2 PURPOSE

The objective of this contract is to dynamic support ecological modeling, animal behavior, physiological studies, impact assessments, and related environmental risk assessments in relationship to energy and mineral development and alternate use, provide vessel, logistical and where applicable, observational, support in the field, and/or recovery and preliminary analysis of data. The contractor shall perform appropriate Quality Assurance (QA)/Quality Control (QC) and conduct preliminary analysis and interpretation of the data collected in support of BOEM principal investigators as well as support strategic communications and technology development.

2.3 SCOPE OF WORK

Below is an overview of the Scope of the IDIQ contract for which task orders may be issued against.

BOEM requires technical, logistical and communications support services for ecological research and environmental assessments, including those related to acoustic impact assessments.

To accomplish these diverse needs, BOEM requires the provision of, systems modeling and engineering resources which may include logistical, technical and analytical support of animal telemetry and acoustic ecology projects to better understand the baseline and ecological impacts to the Outer Continental Shelf (OCS). Specifically, BOEM requires logistical support of field studies into the spatial and behavioral ecologies of various vertebrate species. This includes seawater systems, telemetry trials, several models of customized telemetry tags with acoustic recording abilities, oceanographic measuring, as well as logistical, communication and analytical support and customization. BOEM also requires support services for acoustic impact assessment, standards development, field studies related to sound source characterization and propagation, empirical studies on animal hearing and behavioral responses, expert contributions to acoustic impact risk assessments, and science communications support for these activities.

This contract implements BOEM’s Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act mandate to monitor the marine environment adjacent to U.S. Outer Continental Shelf (OCS) operations. Understanding animal movement, ecological impacts, and impacts from anthropogenic sound sources, in the OCS is required for everything under BOEM's purview. Information regarding the distribution, behavior and ecological impacts to various species will allow BOEM to effectively evaluate the potential for impacts from offshore energy development and marine mineral extraction for beach renourishment.

Telemetry is an important tool to support animal movement and behavior studies to supplement the survey effort. Additionally, animal telemetry can be used to infer movements related to activities in the OCS, such as geophysical surveys, construction and demolition. Acoustic risk assessment frameworks also serve as important tools in environmental risk assessments. All of the above activities can provide relevant information for NEPA, MMPA, ESA consultations across program areas such as wind and hydrokinetic placement locations, oil/gas leasing and even used in monitoring impacts of climate change.

BOEM requires support services and provisioning of equipment such as the purchasing of animal tags (tags), support for autonomous systems piloting and developing innovative research and communication methodologies which can increase the cost effectiveness of OCS science and environmental risk assessment while improving stakeholder engagement and understanding.

2.3.1 Specifications for Required Service Areas

2.3.3.1 Service Area 1:

The contractor shall provide logistical support services. The contractor shall provide logistical support for BOEM studies incorporating acoustics and spatial telemetry. The services to be provided by the contractor include assisting in research study planning(s); providing all equipment necessary for conducting research; explore, identify and arrange all required platforms to conduct research; and provide vessel support time across the United States OCS.

(Any specific minimum and maximum will be included at the Task Order Level). The contractor shall provide the same logistical support services for BOEM field and lab studies testing sound source characterization and propagation, animal hearing, and behavioral response to acoustic stimuli.

2.3.3.2 Service Area 2:

The contractor shall provide analytical support services. The contractor shall provide technical assistance in analytical support for systems modeling, data consolidation, analysis, and scenario analysis modeling, with direction from the BOEM principal investigator; assist in literature reviews and drafting or reviewing technical narratives to support BOEM reports and environmental assessments from project data acquisition; and provide communications support in dissemination.

2.3.3.3 Service Area 3:

The contractor shall provide support to the development of innovative science communication, education, and outreach initiatives which advance the modernization of analysis and communication methodologies.

2.4 IDIQ TASK AREAS

Task orders may be issued including any of the following task areas depending on the specific needs of the task order being issued. Some, or all, the requirements detailed in the below task areas may be included in task orders issued.

2.4.1 Task Area 1, Support for Movement Ecology Studies

The purpose of this study is to understand how ecological and behavioral drivers impact risk of mortality to a variety of species, an ongoing and active issue in the offshore energy, mineral, and alternate use industries. Specifically, this study aims to quantify the amount of time spent within core BOEM activity areas.

To meet this objective, this study will collect new, and synthesize existing data on spatial and behavioral ecology of species in the vicinity of both renewable and non-renewable energy operations to determine risk in relation to habitat use. Additional telemetry data will improve fine scale behavior and understanding of interaction risk. Animal-borne sensors which sample at rapid intervals, typically sub-second, collect information on pitch, roll, heading and depth as well as other oceanographic variables can be utilized to visualize an animal's behavior. Contractor should additionally be able to advance the ability to animal borne sensors to advance oceanographic monitoring through the creative use of open-source hardware.

2.4.2 Task Area 2, Spatial Ecology Studies, and Behavioral Research Planning

The Contractor shall complete any background research and shall assist in the development of a Draft Field Support Plan for movement ecology or behavioral response studies. The Contractor shall provide a draft project management plan for supporting fieldwork. Specific details will be provided at the task order level but may include a) identifying who (if not a specific individual, then a general position and qualifier, i.e. Data manager with expertise in data quality) b) An outline of the methodology developed in concert with the BOEM principal investigator and c) a timeline as to when specific tasks will be accomplished. This document shall also contain any necessary equipment which will need to be procured to reach the needed objective. This task shall include the synthesis of available spatial, behavioral and geographic data by reviewing relevant publications, planning documents, and other materials from BOEM, partners, and researchers. Annotated Bibliography: Preliminary versions of the annotated bibliography will be provided for examination and discussion at scheduled interim meetings. The final annotated bibliography shall be submitted in a readable catalog-style format as a MS Word document, as well as in an electronic format agreed upon by BOEM that is compatible with commonly used bibliographic software, such as Endnote. The Contractor shall also provide a copy in PDF format of each reference that is not already in BOEM’s possession or are readily accessible from the internet or through the DOI’s interlibrary loan program (https://www.doi.gov/library).

2.4.2.1 Acoustic Impact Studies and Behavioral Research Planning

The Contractor shall plan, execute, and report on projects related to acoustic impact studies, underwater sound propagation and source measurements and animal behavioral research as directed by BOEM through specific Task Orders. These projects may take the form of desk studies, laboratory experiments, or field studies, depending on the identified objectives. Each Task Order may be different, but the Contractor should be prepared and capable of both managing the research or field test and conducting all facets of the actual scientific research being performed. Some of the more critical elements in this capability include: a) obtaining the services of scientist or engineers knowledgeable and experienced in these types of studies, b) procurement of the necessary equipment to conduct the study, and c) acquisition of the necessary vessels or facilities to conduct the project. Additionally, BOEM may require some preliminary research and synthesis of existing data that will be conducted prior to or concurrent with the initial planning of the project. Typically, this preliminary work will require a written report and/or briefing before completion of the planning process. The Contractor will produce a Project Management Plan (PMP) for each Task Order that specifically addresses the needs of that Task Order. At a minimum that PMP should include a) identification of all Key and Significant personnel and their roles/responsibilities, b) a review of the proposed objectives and the project and the methods by which they will be accomplished, c) a proposed timeline including acquisition plans for all critical component and equipment, and any vessel requirements, and d) identification of potential issues and solution to the project. Any other specific requirements necessary for the PMP will be identified by BOEM prior to award of the Task Order.

Additionally, any additional reporting or data requirements for this project, if different from those cited in this IDIQ, will also be identified then.

2.4.3 Task Area 3, Vessel Support for Research Implementation

The Contractor shall provide vessel support for at-sea research. It is anticipated the contractor will provide a minimum of 30 days of support vessel time, but the specific support required will be provided at the task order level. The vessel shall be as adequately equipped for offshore use and able to spend extended days and possible overnights at sea. The contractor shall contain all equipment needed for tagging, including radio direction finding equipment for locating detached tags, as well as optional equipment to conduct acoustic field measurements and behavioral response studies. Geographic areas of operation to include anywhere throughout the US outer continental shelf. This shall include provision of any needed kinematic behavioral logging telemetry tags as well as acoustic sources (e.g., underwater speakers), satellite tags and acoustic monitoring devices. Vessel support should include options for limiting carbon emissions associated with research.

2.4.4 Task Area 4, Spatial Ecology Research Implementation

The Contractor shall provide geospatial, kinematic, and acoustic analysis support services related to animal physiological studies; provide technical assistance in analytical support; with direction from the BOEM principal investigator, assist in manuscript writing to support BOEM reports from project data acquisition as needed and specified under task orders.

The objective of several spatial ecological studies is to understand how ecological and behavioral drivers impact risk of mortality to various species; an ongoing and active issue in the offshore energy and mineral industry. Specifically, this task area aims to quantify the amount of time fishes, such as large bodied, low trophic elasmobranchs, sea turtles, and other species of interest spend within core BOEM activity areas.

To meet this objective, this task area may include collecting new, and synthesizing existing data on spatial and behavioral ecology of these species in the vicinity of both renewable and non-renewable energy operations to determine risk in relation to habitat use. Additional telemetry data will improve fine scale behavior and interaction risk. Animal-borne sensors which sample at rapid intervals, typically sub-second, collect information on pitch, roll, heading and depth as well as other oceanographic variables can be utilized to visualize an animal's behavior. Additional sensors, such as species interaction, may be required for such studies.

Anticipated analytical support time may be detailed at the task order level. Support will include data analysis, organization, and preparation of spatial and behavioral data. The contractor shall present data in an organized fashion that leads to manuscript authoring. The contractor shall collate and respond to feedback from coauthors and submit manuscript for peer review journal.

The contractor shall address any editor feedback from journal and BOEM editors.

It is estimated that this task area may compile approximately 300-400 hours sampled at 60-90hz of inertial measurement unit data from biologging sensors which will require analysis. Specific details will be provided at the task order level. Appropriate staff time should be attributed for analysis of data.

2.4.5 Task Area 5, Workshop Support

The contractor shall conduct up to an estimated ten (10) planning meetings under this task area.

These planning meetings shall include of a facilitator and should be held via video conference (contractor shall identify and provide a platform for video conferencing) The contractor shall review relevant publications, planning documents, and other materials from BOEM, partners, and researchers.

The contractor shall provide facilitation and workshop planning services using staff familiar with ecosystem-based management, acoustics and related impact issues, science communications, strategic planning, ecosystem modeling, and a trained graphic facilitator for up to five (5) meetings or as otherwise detailed in the task order. This shall include meeting planning and preparations, agenda development, note-taking, and development of a final workshop report.

This should include expert technical understanding and experience with digital collaborative tools, multiple facilitators for breakout groups if needed, and summary reporting of results.

Facilitators should have expertise in multi-stakeholder processes and are expected to be a proactive member of a successful project team. The facilitator will be responsible for ensuring workshops are properly organized, have evaluation measures in place, and ensuring all technical needs are addressed to maximize effectiveness of virtual workshops. Applicants should explain past expertise and how they will ensure workshop/meeting success.

2.4.6 Task Area 6, Citizen Science, Open-Source Hardware Development and Outreach

The contractor shall assist in the planning and execution of a collaboration/citizen science workshop using open-source tools such as the OpenCTD or related open-source technology of use for environmental monitoring citizen science initiatives. This shall include assembly, demonstration units, and communications/outreach support. The contractor shall provide a minimum of 10 OpenCTD units as well as training, technical support, data management and data visualization unless otherwise detailed in the task order. Applicant should give examples of experience specifically with Open-source hardware, as well as expertise coordinating across geographically dispersed stakeholders. Additional expertise in open-source hardware development for oceanographic monitoring, such as using open-standard small satellites, or advancing open-standard animal tags is desired. Additional expertise in mobile application development, which can ensure data is submitted to proper government repositories as well as leverage the dissemination of real time alerts from government feeds is also desired.

2.4.7 Task Area 7, Engineering Support for Animal Telemetry Studies

The contractor shall provide support for hardware customization services design of open-source telemetry tags that includes development of sensor types and software compression for transmission. This shall include flexibility in species attachment for various tag types, as well as appropriate software compression for transmitting via satellite if needed. This may include integration of sensors such as heart rate, conductivity, and acoustic event sensing. Additionally, this may also include the need for a recovery beacon for recoverable tags. Integration of physiological sensors maybe additionally required. Contractor should have expertise in the development of open-source hardware tools for oceanographic research to advance the state of telemetry studies. This specifically should include existing expertise in open hardware design for acoustic and biologging studies.

2.4.8 Task Area 8, Science Communication Support

The contractor shall develop Science Communication Video(s). The contractor shall provide video production support and all required equipment for one live action or animated video or as specified in the task order.

Videos shall feature a BOEM environmental study or assessment topic and must be of appropriate length and quality for engaging public dissemination such as on NOAA Ocean Today Kiosk and other media outlets. This task area may include travel to at least one BOEM study location if specified in the task order. This task area may include several days at sea, not exceeding an anticipated two (2) week. The contractor shall provide communications support including staff with a background in visual communications with experience working in the field, under adverse conditions, and able to work independently as well as supported by the project to complete concise, effective, and compelling visual products on the subject matter.

The contractor shall include use of data visualization or animation products when appropriate.

Contractor support under this task area must meet the following:

Must be able to supply all recording equipment of a professional level.

Possess proper general liability insurance.

An extensive portfolio of natural history subjects is required Must be a capable pilot with expertise in a variety of difficult missions in adverse conditions. (For example, small boat operations in swells while underway in poor conditions to capture footage)

Record of experience in visual communication using animation, motion graphics Knowledge of the subject matter such as marine mammal science, highly migratory and protected species identification and behavior as well as experience in basic maritime operations and first aid certificates.

Personnel assigned to join fieldwork will be one of the team and shall contribute to the study objective beyond their communications specialization.

Must possess underwater videography capabilities with both pole-camera systems and/or housed camera units.

The communications individual(s) shall have proven expertise meeting tight deadlines, be adaptable to shoot and storyboard with little notice and communicate effectively.

Personnel shall be prepared for physically demanding long days at sea followed by efficient file management as well as managing large image libraries all while on expedition.

Personnel shall work with the study’s communications coordinator to author necessary scripts or storyboards for BOEM approval.

Able to provide/work with animation for effective science communication of concepts and subject matter than may not be easily filmed.

2.4.8.1 Task Area 8a, Science Communication Support- Development of Animated Gifs and/or Maps

The contractor shall develop animated gifs or infographics. The contractor shall develop an animated gif based on a scientific method, ecological concept, or environmental assessment need. This animated gif should be appropriately sized for use in social media and in presentations.

2.4.8.2 Task Area 8b, Science Communication Support- Animated Video

The Contractor shall develop Science Communication Video(s). The contractor shall produce an animated video. Videos shall feature a BOEM environmental study or assessment topic and must be of appropriate length, style, and quality for engaging public dissemination such as both on NOAA Ocean Today Kiosk and other media outlets. Communications support shall include contractor staff with a background in story development, visual communications, motion graphics/animation, and overall video production. The contractor must be able to work independently as well as collaborate with the project team to complete concise, effective, and compelling visual products on the subject matter. This will include the use of data visualization and animation products when appropriate. The contractor shall have experience in producing work with animation for effective science communication of complicated concepts and subject matter that may not be easily filmed.

2.4.8.3 Task Area 8c, Science Communication Support- Outreach Presentation Development

The contractor shall provide communications support for co-authoring and developing a concise presentation on a study subject or need. This should not exceed 15 minutes in length, unless otherwise specified in the task order, and will include development of key messages, content, scripting and developing animations/graphics to convey the key messages.

2.4.8.4 Task Area 8d, Science Communication Support- Development of Interactive PDF Document

The contractor shall develop a single interactive PDF report based on text provided by the Office of Environmental Programs that incorporates digitally rich media. This interactive pdf shall be viewable in multiple readers. This may include links to BOEM supporting studies, videos, audio, forms, buttons, animated gif files embedded within the document to effectively communicate scientific content using multiple cognitive modalities.

2.4.8.5 Task Area 8e: Science Communication Support, Develop an Infographic Package

The Contractor shall develop a minimum of two of infographic packages related to a BOEM study or environmental subject. This should graphically depict the importance of a scientific study or subject. The specific studies or subjects will be determined at the task order level.

Graphic designers should have documented expertise in successful science communication initiatives as well as background in both still and animated communications. Infographics should be delivered in both print and web formats as well as a format suitable for sharing on social media. Contract should submit samples of relevant past work in application.

2.4.9 Task Area 9, Improve User Engagement in Open-Source Participatory Science

The Environmental Studies Program (ESP) of the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) is engaged in several studies which incorporate mobile applications, and/or machine learning to better understand protected species populations in the vicinity of energy and mineral development operations. These studies require the ability to ingest and analyze vast quantities of mark-recapture photo-identification data in little time on a number of species.

The contractor shall improve the usability of machine learning algorithms incorporated into an open-source distributed database. The Contractor shall perform appropriate quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC) and conduct preliminary analysis and interpretation of the data collected in coordination with the BOEM principal investigator. This may include a) quantitative assessment of user experience and user interface; b) Establish a baseline of distributed database usability and data-informed improvements; c) Detection model training: Create a deep learning model that will allow future photos to be curated without human intervention (finding animals in the image, removing background pixels, predicting viewpoint). This model is the precursor to second stage individual ID with algorithms and machine learning.

Data blending of legacy data, linking at least photos to IDs shall be imported into Flukebook.org where data can be secured for private access and wherein matching algorithms can be run. The contractor shall generate a final report of matching performance, user accessibility, and suggest avenues forward in scaling matching using computer video/machine learning. The contractor shall support the development of innovative educational materials which support ocean and climate literacy concepts. Applicants should submit examples of open-source data curation or mobile app development where data is piped to stakeholders and long-term repositories such at IOOS or the Ocean Biogeographic Information System.

2.4.10 Task Area 10, Literature Review and Data Collection

The contractor shall conduct a careful literature compilation of all relevant information on a subject area. Information sources consulted should include, but not necessarily be limited to:

technical reports from government agencies or scientific research groups, working papers from research groups or committees, white papers, pre-prints, published peer reviewed literature, gray literature, and conference proceedings. This review shall concentrate on study results that are relevant to impacts to resources commonly evaluated in BOEM’s NEPA analyses for oil and gas, renewable energy exploration, development, production, and decommissioning on the Outer Continental Shelf. As practicable, the BOEM COR may provide the Contractor with relevant references to studies and other information for potential incorporation into this analysis.

The Contractor shall also provide an annotated bibliography detailing results from the literature search in an electronic format. Incorporated information shall include, but not necessarily be limited to: Reference Type, Author(s), Primary Title, Journal Name, Cover Date, Publisher, International Standard Serial Number (ISSN), Subject, Start Page, End Page, Volume, Issue, Uniform Resource Locator (URL), Digital Object Identifier, Abstract, and Keywords. A list of standardized keywords shall be developed for this purpose in consultation with BOEM. The Contractor shall also provide a copy in Adobe portable document format (PDF) of references that are difficult to obtain. Reports or documents that are already in BOEM’s possession, are readily accessible from the internet or through the Department of the Interior (DOI) interlibrary loan program (https://www.doi.gov/library), or are subject to subscription or copyright restriction need not be provided.

The Contractor shall convene approximately two to four web-conferences with BOEM to discuss results of the literature review and refine the scope of the subsequent analysis. The goal of these meetings is to ensure that the literature search is providing the necessary information and mutual agreement regarding the analysis approach.

The Contractor shall analyze and synthesize the data collected to produce a summary of research collected and analysis. The Contractor shall identify any additional information needs pertinent to environmental impact analysis related to oil spills in this size range and offer a suggested approach to filling such needs, as appropriate.

2.4.11 Task Area 11, Systems Modeling to Support Decision-Making

BOEM requires systems modeling to support decision-making of the relationship between bottom habitat and fisheries using the Multiscale Integrated Model of Ecosystem Services (MIMES). MIMES models are distinguished by their ability to incorporate the observed complexities of real-world systems, with a focus on knock-on effects and feedbacks whose influence must be understood to rigorously assess the long-term sustainability of decisions.

● Synthesis of produced oceanographic model for determining impacts from BOEM decisions.

● Analysis in MIMES of trade-offs of various management scenarios and costs/benefits of various stakeholder groups.

● Integration of data for feasibility of impacts to commercial fisheries, including high value highly migratory species.

2.4.12 Task Area 12, Scientific Expert Contributions

As BOEM evaluates and implements its science and impact assessment activities related to ecological modeling, animal movement, telemetry, acoustic ecology, and acoustic impact assessments, there will arise a need for specific knowledge and experience resident outside of BOEM. To that end, the Contractor shall either provide resources from within their team or be capable of contracting them externally. It is understood that not all, but many of these resources may not be indigenous to the winning Contractor(s) team, but mechanisms should be demonstrated to acquire them. Samples of the types of scientific expert knowledge and experience that may be required include, but are not limited to: a) effects of BOEM-authorized activities at the project-specific, regional and national scales; b) full or partially based quantitative ecological services modeling, acoustic risk assessment methodologies, and cumulative impact assessment approaches; c) collection and analysis of animal movement data;

d) application of animal telemetry tools; e) assessment of animal hearing, integration and recovery times (during and post-exposure) and acoustic ecology; f) acoustic, geophysical, oceanographic, geological and meteorological databases and their accessibility/availability; g) sound propagation (i.e., ability to help define impulsive versus non-impulsive signal as a function of distance from various source and determination of near and far fields for various sources); h) complex ecological and acoustic data analysis, including developing related power analyses; and i) science communication of these topics to a variety of audiences. BOEM may use such expertise in a variety of ways, including but not limited to: advising, writing, and/or reviewing relevant portions of BOEM written environmental risk assessments or other technical papers; advising on study methodologies (where no conflict of interest exists); and/or advising on technical content in science communication products.

2.5 MEETINGS, REPORTS AND OTHER DELIVERABLES

Each task order issued by the Government under the IDIQ contract shall specify deliverables, quantities, delivery location, and delivery schedules as applicable. The Contractor shall clearly mark all documents and correspondence with the task order and IDIQ contract number on the first page. All correspondence, including email, pertaining to this Contract shall include the task order and contract number on the subject line. The following deliverables shall be submitted and meetings held in accordance with the schedule provided at the task order level. The Contractor is responsible for editing and proofreading all material in order to prepare products as error free as possible prior to their delivery to the BOEM. The Contractor shall submit all manuscripts intended for publication in journals and all abstracts or summaries prepared for oral presentations, based on this study, to the BOEM COR for review and comment prior to submittal to the journal or conference authority.

2.5.1 Meeting Attendance

The Contractor shall attend meetings as required during performance of the contract and as specified under individual task orders. Meetings typically include a kickoff meeting, one or more progress meetings, and meetings to present final reports. Meetings may consist of webinars or conference calls in lieu of in-person meetings to reduce travel expenses.

2.5.2 Quarterly Status Reports

The Contractor shall prepare and submit status reports as otherwise specified under individual TOs. These reports shall be in sufficient detail to describe all work accomplished and results achieved during the month and shall include a brief discussion of the planned actions for the succeeding month. These reports may be submitted via email. This requirement will end upon final acceptance of task order deliverables.

2.5.3 Post-Award Planning Meeting and Summary

The Contractor shall attend a Post-Award Planning Meeting as soon as possible after contract award but no later than one (1) month after award via conference call or webinar. The Contractor shall provide an Agenda and their PMP one (1) week before the meeting. The Contractor shall present the PMP including the purpose of the project, the scope, roles and responsibilities of the project team, the deliverables, the risks, the assumptions, the planned effort, and the deadline.

Within one (1) week following the meeting, the Contractor shall submit a summary of the meeting including any agreements made and a revised PMP, if applicable. No changes to the terms or conditions are authorized unless approved in writing by the Contracting Officer via a modification to the contract.

2.5.4 Draft Final Report

The Contractor shall submit a Draft Methodology Report to BOEM for review. The report shall summarize the study results. The Contractor shall prepare the Draft Report with clear, concise writing at a level suitable to a technical audience familiar with the various facets of the marine sciences. The format and organization for the report shall be agreed upon between the Contractor’s PM and the BOEM COR prior to preparation. This report shall conform to the specifications found at the following BOEM web site: https://www.boem.gov/ESP-Report- Specifications/

2.5.5 Draft Technical Summary

The Contractor shall submit a Draft Technical Summary to BOEM for scientific peer and editorial review. The Technical Summary should cover all technical tasks. The format and organization for the report will be agreed upon between the Contractor’s PM and the BOEM COR prior to preparation. This report shall conform to the specifications found at the following BOEM web site: https://www.boem.gov/environment/environmental-studies/report-specifications/esp-report-and-footprint-specifications

2.5.6 Final Report

The Contractor shall submit a Final Report including any changes and/or comments noted by BOEM and the scientific review board. The Contractor shall provide the rationale in a letter accompanying the Final Report for any review comments not accommodated. Copies of the report, a high-quality master copy, and a searchable-text .pdf digital copy shall be provided to BOEM. The Contractor shall provide bibliographic citations for the Final Report to BOEM also in EndNote compatible format. The Contractor shall not provide copies of this Report, nor any subsequent revisions prepared during the review process, nor data contained within, nor any portions thereof, to any parties not specifically designated in Section F.6 prior to final acceptance by BOEM. If a need arises to do so, the PM must obtain the written approval of the CO.

2.5.7 Project Webinar

The Contractor shall present a webinar to BOEM staff and invited participants summarizing the study and major finding at the conclusion of the study. The Program Manager and appropriate technical leads shall participate in the presentation and provide presentation slides to BOEM prior to the webinar.

2.5.8 Journal Publications and Oral Presentations

The Contractor shall collaborate with BOEM COR on all manuscripts intended to be published in journals and all abstracts or summaries prepared for oral presentations based on this contract.

All associated tables and…