Special_Notice__Infrasound_WInd_Reduction_Device_1.docx

NOTICE OF INTENT

This is a notice of intent to solicit from a single source.

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) intends to award a non-competitive purchase order with Wickum Weld of Vancouver, WA for infrasound wind reduction devices.

Award will be in accordance with Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR) 13.106-1(b)(1) and the procedures of FAR Part 12, entitled, “Acquisition of Commercial Items.” Wickum Weld, is to the knowledge of the USGS, the only source that can provide Wickum Weld Part Number 199-1645-109596 proprietary engineered custom infrasound wind reduction devices. The USGS, Volcano Disaster Assistance Program (VDAP) requires these devices for monitoring active volcanoes around the world. With limited vehicle access to many of these volcanic disasters, this device is vital for transportability, accuracy, and signal-to-noise ratio (SNR). Signal-to-noise ratio measures the strength of a desired signal relative to background noise. This device improves the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) so that instruments can be placed at a safe distance from the active volcano, with minimal risk. The custom-made, engineered device has eight alternating, 270-degree hinges that allow the device to reduce its volume by 10X for transportation, without compromising strength, durability, or functionality. This high SNR creates clearer, more accurate reproduction by reducing the background hiss, and increasing signal power. Once stationed at the disaster location, it requires less than 0.1 man hours to deploy---its rapid deployment is critical for reducing time in remote and hazardous locations. Wickum Weld produced proprietary engineering drawings of the design, and they are the only known holders of those drawings.

The purpose of this notice is to satisfy the requirement of FAR Subpart 5.2. This notice of intent is not a request for competitive quotes. Other interested concerns having the ability to furnish these items may submit a capabilities statement to the Contracting Officer no later than the closing date of this announcement. All submissions will be evaluated to determine if competitive opportunities exist. No solicitation will be issued. A determination not to compete this action based upon responses received is in the sole discretion of the Government.

The NAISC code 332999 All Other Miscellaneous Fabrication Product Manufacturing and PSC 3438 Miscellaneous Welding Equipment apply to this announcement.

All responses must be in writing directed to the Contracting Officer by email to fukunaga@usgs.gov and must be uploaded and received in their entirety no later than March 29, 2026 at 1500 hours Eastern Time. Responses submitted by hardcopy, or any web portal shall not be accepted or considered.