Phytoplankton Identification & Enumeration

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) California Water Science Center is seeking qualified vendors to provide phytoplankton microscopic identification and enumeration services for surface water samples from the Sacramento San Joaquin River Delta and San Francisco Bay. The procurement involves processing up to 200 samples through October 2025, with vendors required to demonstrate expertise in identifying and counting phytoplankton using compound microscopes, concentrating cells on membrane filters, and enumerating at least 400 phytoplankton units. Key technical requirements include estimating biovolumes, providing comprehensive documentation, and delivering electronic results within 12 weeks of sample receipt. Vendors must follow specific scientific methodologies, such as Lund et al. 1958 and McNabb 1960, and meet performance standards including completing all required data fields and undergoing split replicate quality assurance checks. The performance period is from May 5, 2025 to December 31, 2025, with a final deliverable deadline of June 30, 2025.

This contract opportunity is designated as a Total Small Business set-aside, falling under the Testing Laboratories and Services NAICS category (541380). While no specific award value is mentioned in the documentation, the scope suggests a comprehensive scientific services contract focused on precise biological sampling and analysis. The project will require vendors to submit an annual taxonomic master list and provide photographic documentation of new taxa encountered during the analysis. The work is expected to involve detailed microscopic examination of water samples, with rigorous quality control measures to ensure scientific accuracy. The solicitation targets vendors with proven experience in phytoplankton microscopic analysis and the technical capability to meet the USGS's stringent research and documentation requirements.