Multi-Function Trawl System

The Department of Commerce's National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has issued a Special Notice for a Multi-Function Trawl System procurement. The notice details a non-competitive contract action under Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) 13.501(a), specifically targeting Ocean Gold Seafoods, Inc. as the sole known provider capable of developing a specialized fishing net system. The proposed contract involves a single net capable of operating in two fishing modes: midwater and surface trawling, with a single set of doors that can function in both modes. This procurement is being conducted using Simplified Acquisition Procedures under FAR 13.5, which allows for streamlined acquisition of commercial products and services. The notice is classified under NAICS code 314994 and aims to improve small business access to acquisition information.

The primary objective of this Special Notice is to procure a multi-function trawl system that increases maritime safety and fishing efficiency. Interested parties may submit their capabilities and interest via email to nathan.rowsell@noaa.gov no later than January 06, 2024, at 2:30 pm Pacific Time, with senders responsible for ensuring complete and timely transmission. The government intends to award a firm-fixed price commercial item contract that covers the supply of the trawl system, along with services and travel necessary for testing, refinement, modification, repair, maintenance, and system testing throughout the contract's duration. While the notice suggests an opportunity for potential contractors, it explicitly states that the determination not to compete this action remains solely within the government's discretion. Contractors should carefully review the specific requirements and be prepared to demonstrate capabilities that align with the unique specifications of the multi-function trawl system.