Fishery Observer Support Services for AMMOP

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is seeking Fishery Observer Support Services for the Alaska Marine Mammal Observer Program (AMMOP), a contract focused on monitoring commercial salmon drift gillnet fisheries in Southeast Alaska. The primary objectives include collecting data on marine mammal and seabird interactions, verifying vessel reports, identifying changes in fishing methods, and recording bycatch data across districts 6, 8, 11, and 15. The solicitation requires contractors to provide qualified observers, boat operators, and vessels to support 300 days of fishery monitoring, with a focus on incorporating electronic monitoring technology for the first time. Evaluation criteria will assess the offeror's management approach, operational requirements, observer support services, and past performance. Quotations are due by 2330 PD on May 19, 2025, and must be submitted electronically to Contract Specialist Novelle Key and Contracting Officer Sarah Waugh.

This is a total small business set-aside contract with a NAICS code of 541990 and a small business size standard of $19.5 million. The contract will have a base period from June 1, 2025, through September 30, 2025, with two optional extension periods through October 1, 2026, and October 1, 2027. The program anticipates approximately 150 observer days across 70 vessels weekly, with four vessels required for deployment in locations including Juneau, Haines, Petersburg, and Wrangell. Observers must have prior fishery observation experience, preferably in the North Pacific Observer Program, and will be subject to wage determinations that establish minimum hourly rates ranging from $19.33 to $23.94 depending on observer level. The government will provide training, and the contractor must ensure personnel can meet the rigorous data collection and monitoring requirements of the AMMOP program.