MA-RIMA WEA Protected Species Aerial Surveys

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration seeks an aerial survey contractor to conduct three months of surveys between August 2022 and July 2027 to observe protected species such as right whales and sea turtles in the Massachusetts and Rhode Island Wind Energy Areas. The contractor will be responsible for condensed surveys to study whale residency patterns, daily reporting of sightings and survey results, photographing and identifying whales according to established methods, analyzing photographic data according to protocols, conducting line transect surveys to map species distributions, and collecting vertical photography data. Respondents must provide capability statements, experience on similar projects, and company information by May 11, 2022 to be considered under this request for information.

There is no set-aside designated for this procurement. The incumbent contractor under a previous contract valued at $2,185,138.64 was the New England Aquarium Corporation. Key details include conducting aerial surveys over three months each year between 2022 and 2027 to observe protected marine species in the wind energy areas and report findings.