7G--NOI for Fetch Transponders

This is a notice of intent to solicit from a single source for the USGS Earthquake Science Center.

The US Geological Survey (USGS) intends to award noncompetitive action to Sonardyne for the purchase of Qty. 6 Fetch Transponders.
In order to fulfill our mission of assessing earthquake hazards during the inter-, co-, and post-seismic phases of the seismic cycle, we require the capability of making cm- to sub-cm resolution (repeatability) location measurements of benchmarks located on the seafloor in an integrated system using the GNSS-A (Global Positioning System - Acoustic method). In particular, we have a need to place transponder in locations from 3000 -6000 meters depth. Additionally, we require that the transponders be able to communicate with a Liquid Robotics wave-glider autonomous ocean-surface vessel. The wave-glider is the device that communicates with the seafloor transponders and permits the high accuracy measurements to be achieved. The Sonardyne Fetch transponders are the only ocean floor instruments that are compatible with and communicate directly with this USGS owned equipment. Switching to a new platform would destroy the continuity of the long-term data set. Switching to a new platform would require replacement of the entire sensor network.

Sonardyne Fetch transponders are the only ocean floor instruments that are compatible with and communicate directly with our recently purchased Waveglider with Sonardyne GPS-A module. Further, Sonardyne has no authorized resellers among whom competition can be obtained.

Award will be made in accordance with Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) 13.106-1(b) and the procedures at FAR Part 12 entitled, Acquisition of Commercial Items and FAR Part 13 entitled, Simplified Acquisition Procedures.
The purpose of this notice is to satisfy the requirements of FAR Subpart 5.2. This notice of intent is not a request for competitive quotes. However, all responsible parties may submit a quotation by the closing date of this announcement which shall be considered by the agency. No solicitation will be issued. A determination not to compete this action based upon responses received is in the sole discretion of the Government.
Responses or inquiries shall only be accepted through electronic mail addressed to cjfejarang@usgs.gov and must be uploaded and received in their entirety no later than 09/18/2023. Responses submitted by hardcopy or through SAM.gov shall not be accepted or considered.