Laboratory Analyses of Samples of AIS

The National Park Service Intermountain Region has issued a Special Notice announcing its intent to award a sole source contract for laboratory analyses of aquatic invasive species (AIS) samples for Yellowstone National Park. The notice, posted on July 16, 2025, with a response deadline of July 18, 2025, identifies Pisces Molecular as the intended contractor under simplified acquisition procedures. The contract falls under NAICS code 541714 (Research and Development in Biotechnology) and PSC code AH22 (Natural Resources and Environment R&D Services). The government has classified this as a sole source procurement based on Pisces Molecular's proprietary DNA detection method capabilities. The procurement is not set aside for small businesses and represents a civilian agency contracting opportunity.

The primary objective of this Special Notice is to secure laboratory testing services for the early detection of priority aquatic invasive species to protect Yellowstone's natural resources and visitor experience, with sample testing scheduled for summer FY25. The government justifies the sole source approach by citing Pisces Molecular's proprietary DNA detection method as uniquely capable and more sensitive than alternative laboratory techniques available in the market. Contractors who believe they can provide comparable capabilities are invited to contact Contract Specialist Stacy Vallie by the July 18, 2025 deadline to express their interest and demonstrate their qualifications. However, the notice emphasizes that the government retains full discretion in determining whether to compete the proposed order based on any responses received. The critical nature of early AIS detection for environmental protection serves as the driving force behind this time-sensitive procurement initiative.