Fish Liver Cyanotoxin Analysis Using the MMPB Method

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), Western Fisheries Research Center, is seeking qualified laboratories to perform Microcystin analysis on fish liver samples using the MMPB method. This market research notice is issued to identify capable contractors for analyzing 70-80 juvenile fall Chinook salmon liver samples collected from Lower Granite Reservoir to detect cyanotoxin accumulation. Interested laboratories must submit capability statements addressing technical capability, relevant experience, personnel qualifications, sample processing capacity, and business information by November 27, 2025, via email to Joel Berberena at jberberena@usgs.gov. The MMPB method measures free, protein-bound, and thiol-bound Microcystins, which traditional ELISA methods often under-report, making technical expertise in this specialized analytical approach essential. The evaluation will assess respondents' demonstrated experience with cyanotoxin analysis, laboratory certifications, staff qualifications, and capacity to handle the specified sample volume. This is a market research notice for planning purposes and does not constitute a formal solicitation or commitment to award a contract.

This pre-solicitation notice contains no set-aside designations, though the government encourages responses from small businesses, including those designated as HUBZone, Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Business (SDVOSB), Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB), and 8(a) firms. No incumbent contractor or specific award value is identified in this market research phase. The applicable NAICS code is 541380 (Testing Laboratories and Services) with a $19 million size standard threshold, and the PSC category is B529 (Special Studies/Analysis—Scientific Data). The scope encompasses analysis of the fish liver samples collected from a specific freshwater reservoir, with the project focus on measuring multiple forms of Microcystin toxins to better understand cyanotoxin bioaccumulation in juvenile salmon. While specific contract duration and total funding are not disclosed in this pre-solicitation notice, the defined sample quantity of 70-80 specimens and specialized analytical requirements indicate this is a targeted, well-defined procurement.