SOLE_SOURCE_NOTICE_20230707-SMITH-ROOT.docx

Mississippi State University Notice of Proposed Sole Source Purchase 234-126 Mississippi State University anticipates purchasing the item(s) listed below as a sole source purchase. Anyone objecting to this purchase shall follow the procedures outlined below.

1. Commodity or commodities to be purchased (make, model, description):

EDNA SELF-PRESERVING FILTER PACK - CASE OF 25, 0.45um pore, SKU: 11747-25 EDNA SELF-PRESERVING FILTER PACK - CASE OF 25, 1.2um pore, SKU: 11579-25 EDNA SELF-PRESERVING FILTER PACK - CASE OF 25, 5.0um pore, SKU: 11580-25 EDNA FILTER PACK - CASE OF 25, 0.45um pore, SKU: 11746-25 EDNA FILTER PACK - CASE OF 25, 1.2um pore, SKU:10996-25 EDNA FILTER PACK - CASE OF 25, 5.0um pore, SKU: 10995-25

2. Explanation of the need to be fulfilled by this item(s), how is it unique from all other options, and why it is the only one that can meet the specific needs of the department:

Smith-Root is the first and only manufacturer of the Self-Preserving eDNA filter. The innovative design uses a biodegradable/hydrophilic resin to absorb moisture from the filter membrane, automatically preserving the captured eDNA. This greatly simplifies the sampling process. No more cold storage, bags of silica, or preservation buffer needed — simply place the filter back in the packaging and seal it shut. The eDNA is then shelf-stable for more than 6 months at room temperature! Self-preserving filters are ideal for projects that rely on citizen scientists for sampling or for researchers without a molecular biology background.

A 25-count case of eDNA one-time-use filter packs, contains preloaded, openable inline filter housing, single use forceps for filter membrane removal, and tubing extension for filter housing. Smith-Root eDNA filter packets are custom designed to maximize the filterable water volume in eDNA studies and help improve species detection sensitivity. The inverted filtration orientation and mechanical design maximize eDNA particle concentration on the membrane filter. A range of pore sizes are available for different environmental conditions.

3. Name of company/individual selling the item and why that source is the only possible source that can provide the required item(s):

Smith-Root, Inc. is the only source for the self-preserving eDNA filter pack because they are the only manufacturer and only distributor in the United States.

4. Estimated cost of item(s) and an explanation why the amount to be expended is considered reasonable:

EDNA SELF-PRESERVING FILTER PACK - CASE OF 25: $426.75

EDNA FILTER PACK - CASE OF 25: $448.75

The self-preserving filters are ~$17 each. Because they are single use and self-preserving additional costs for storage and preservation are avoided. The eDNA filter packs are ~$18 each. Both models are single use and because of this are essential to avoiding contamination.

5. Explanation of the efforts taken by the department to determine this is the only source and the efforts used to obtain the best possible price:

We reviewed other suppliers of eDNA filters and found no comparable models because Smith-Root is the only manufacturer of the product. We contacted a company called EnvrioDNA, but they are only resellers for Smith-Root products outside of the United States.

Any person or entity that objects and proposes that the commodity listed is not sole source and can be provided by another person or entity shall submit a written notice to:

Jennifer Mayfield, CPPO Interim Deputy Director of Procurement & Contracts jmayfield@procurement.msstate.edu Subject Line must read “Sole Source Objection” The notice shall contain a detailed explanation of why the commodity is not a sole source procurement. Appropriate documentation shall also be submitted if applicable.

If after a review of the submitted notice and documents, MSU determines that the commodity in the proposed sole source request can be provided by another person or entity, then MSU will withdraw the sole source request publication from the procurement portal website and submit the procurement of the commodity to an advertised competitive bid or selection process.

If MSU determines after review that there is only one (1) source for the required commodity, then MSU will appeal to the Public Procurement Review Board. MSU will have the burden of proving that the commodity is only provided by one (1) source.