Notice of Intent to Award - USGS Isotope Work
Closed Special Notice Posted
- Solicitation number
- 140G0126Q0262
- Agency
-
Office of Acquisitions and Grants
US Geological Survey, Department of the Interior
- Responses due
- Set-aside
- No set-aside
Opportunity facts
- NAICS code
- 541380 Testing Laboratories and Services
- PSC
- B517 Special Studies/Analysis- Geological
- Points of contact
Notice details come from SAM.gov. Updated .
About this opportunity
The US Geological Survey Office of Acquisitions and Grants announced a notice of intent to award a sole-source contract to Washington State University's Radiogenic Isotope and Geochronology Lab (RIGL) for Lu-Hf, Sm-Nd, and Pb isotope measurements, with a vendor challenge deadline of 1:00 PM EDT on September 3, 2026.
The USGS Geology, Energy, and Minerals Science Center requires high-precision isotope dilution analysis of whole rock and mineral samples to determine melt sources of igneous rocks and constrain deformation and metamorphism timescales associated with magmatic activity. The sole-source justification rests on RIGL's exclusive domestic methodologies for Lu-Hf isotope collection, characterized enriched spike solutions (149Sm-150Nd and 176Lu-180Hf), specialized multi-collector ICPMS instrumentation, and continuity with a previously established database required for tectonic modeling of basement geology in the central United States and Southern Appalachians and mineral resource assessments. Market research via internet search, System for Award Management, and industry peer discussion confirmed no alternative sources possess the required infrastructure or methodologies.
The Statement of Work specifies analysis of 6 whole rock samples for Sm-Nd and Pb concentration, 20 whole rock samples for Lu-Hf and Sm-Nd dilution, 8 garnet aliquots for Lu-Hf and Sm-Nd analysis, 4 garnet aliquots post-H2SO4 treatment, and 26 samples requiring agate grinding. All work must remain in-house at RIGL and cannot be subcontracted. Period of performance is 12 months from award. Vendors believing they possess equivalent technical expertise and capability may contact Contract Specialist Miranda Blankenship at Miranda_blankenship@ios.doi.gov by the deadline.
Notice text
The USGS Geology, Energy, and Minerals Science Center requires Lu-Hf, Sm-Nd, and Pb isotope measurements of whole rock and mineral aliquots. These new isotopic data are essential for determining the melt sources of igneous rocks and constraining the timescales of deformation and metamorphism associated with magmatic activity.
The USGS is aware of no other source that can provide the above. Therefore, it intends to make an award to Washington State University Radiogenic Isotope and Geochronology Lab (RIGL) unless it is contacted by any vendor who believes they have similar technical expertise and can provide the same service(s). Vendors are invited to contact the Contract Specialist, Miranda Blankenship, via email at Miranda_blankenship@ios.doi.gov no later than 1:00 PM EDT, Thursday, September 3, 2026, with an affirmative answer.
Files
| File | Type | Posted |
|---|---|---|
| Sole_Source_Determination_1.pdf | ||
| Attachment_-_Statement_of_Work_1.pdf |
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