CA-SAN diego NWR complex-caulerpa prolif

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is seeking contractors to conduct eradication-level surveys for Caulerpa prolifera, an invasive marine algae species, in South San Diego Bay through a comprehensive SCUBA diving operation. The contract requires specialized personnel who are NOAA-certified Caulerpa surveyors with a minimum of 8 hours of prior surveying experience to conduct systematic underwater surveys across approximately 100 acres of marine habitat. The primary objectives include identifying and treating any Caulerpa prolifera infestations that pose a significant threat to native marine ecosystems, developing survey designs, and providing weekly status reports throughout the contract period. The procurement will be awarded on a best value basis, with evaluation factors including price reasonableness, technical approach, personnel qualifications, relevant experience in marine invasive species management within the last five years, and past performance regarding deliverable timelines and agency coordination. Critical dates include the quote submission deadline of 1:00 PM Eastern Time on October 9, 2025, with contract performance scheduled to begin on October 20, 2025.

This opportunity is designated as a total small business set-aside under NAICS code 562910 (Remediation Services) with a size standard of $25 million, though no specific contract value has been disclosed in the solicitation documents. The survey area encompasses 55 acres within the San Diego Bay National Wildlife Refuge and 45 acres on Port of San Diego submerged lands, reflecting the collaborative nature of this environmental protection effort. The contract establishes a base period of one year with a total performance period extending from October 20, 2025, through October 19, 2026, providing contractors with a two-year timeframe to complete the comprehensive survey and treatment activities. Performance will occur primarily in the South San Diego Bay area, with contract administration handled by the Fish and Wildlife Service SAT Team 1 in Falls Church, Virginia, and delivery requirements to the San Diego National Wildlife Refuge Complex in Chula Vista, California. The urgency of this procurement stems from the April 2024 discovery of Caulerpa prolifera infestations, which can rapidly spread and displace critical native marine habitats if not promptly addressed.