Methodological development for tracking delta smel

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is seeking a contractor to conduct methodological development for tracking delta smelt using acoustic telemetry tags in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta region. This collaborative research project requires the contractor to assess a new acoustic tag design specifically for small-bodied fish, with work including land and boat-based deployment and retrieval of acoustic receivers, tags, and tagged delta smelt. Key qualifications include demonstrated ability to work with delta smelt, surgical implantation of JSATS "Shad" acoustic tags, acoustic telemetry data quality control management, fish movement track analysis, collaboration with UC Davis researchers, provision of boat and crew for receiver deployment, and suitable laboratory facilities. The government will evaluate offers based on technical acceptability, including past performance, and price. Amendment 00001 has extended the solicitation close date from August 12, 2025 at 8:00 AM EST to August 14, 2025 by noon EST, with quotes to be submitted electronically to the designated contracting officer.

This opportunity is set aside for small businesses under NAICS code 541620 (Environmental Consulting Services) with a size standard of $19 million, and no incumbent contractor is identified in the documentation. The contract structure is firm-fixed price with a base year running from September 1, 2025 to August 31, 2026, plus two 12-month option years, creating a total potential performance period through August 31, 2028. The government will provide approximately 440 JSATS Shad acoustic tags for the project. Work will be performed in the San Francisco Bay-Delta National Wildlife Refuge area, specifically within the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta system. While no specific contract value is disclosed in the available documentation, the multi-year structure and specialized nature of the research indicate a substantial investment in delta smelt conservation methodology.