Benthic algae meter

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), an agency under the Department of the Interior, is conducting market research through a Sources Sought announcement to identify qualified vendors capable of supplying an in situ benthic algae measurement instrument. This pre-solicitation notice is not a binding request for proposals or quotes, and the Government makes no commitment to award a contract based on responses received. The instrument must meet specific salient characteristics, including the ability to measure benthic algae on substrate within waterbodies without sample preparation, a measurement range of 0-15 micrograms chlorophyll-a per square centimeter with 0.1 microgram resolution, the capability to differentiate green algae, cyanobacteria, and diatoms, and must include a built-in display and datalogger function. Interested vendors should submit brochures and/or technical specifications demonstrating their product's ability to meet these requirements via email to aberry@usgs.gov by March 16, 2026, at 5:00 PM Pacific Daylight Time. Only electronic submissions will be accepted, and the Government will not reimburse any costs associated with preparing responses to this market research notice.

This opportunity is designated as a Total Small Business set-aside, with the applicable NAICS code 334516 (Analytical Laboratory Instrument Manufacturing) establishing a small business size standard of 1,000 employees. No incumbent contractor or current vendor is identified in this announcement, nor is a specific award value or budget range disclosed in the pre-solicitation materials. The Sources Sought announcement represents an early-stage market research phase rather than a formal procurement with defined quantities or contract values. Vendors responding to this notice should be prepared to provide detailed technical specifications that directly address each salient characteristic requirement. The information gathered from vendor responses will inform the Government's acquisition strategy and help determine the most appropriate procurement approach for this specialized scientific instrument.