Scientific Writing Support Services

The USDA Forest Service's International Institute of Tropical Forestry is seeking scientific writing support services to strengthen communication and science delivery capacities serving Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The contractor will provide specialized scientific writing focused on hurricane recovery science and project deliveries, including developing content for product reports, brochures, and outreach materials, advising on communication strategies across agency and public audiences, and translating scientific findings for general comprehension. Key personnel must demonstrate at least 5 years of experience in public affairs, fluency in both English and Spanish, excellent writing skills, and specialized expertise in scientific communications and branding. Offerors must submit key personnel qualifications (maximum 10 pages), a completed price schedule, and representations and certifications by email to heather.harkley@usda.gov and nestor.riveragonzalez@usda.gov no later than 11:00 am EST on September 19, 2025. The evaluation will assess whether proposed personnel meet minimum qualifications outlined in the Statement of Work, company capabilities, and pricing structure.

This opportunity is designated as a 100% small business set-aside under NAICS code 561320 (Temporary Help Services) with a size standard of $34 million. The anticipated period of performance spans 12 months from October 1, 2025 through September 30, 2026, with two additional one-year option periods potentially extending the contract to 36 months total. The contract will be awarded as a firm fixed-price arrangement supporting monthly briefings, quarterly progress reports, yearly accomplishment reports, and bimonthly Congressional reports related to Forest Service American Relief Act requirements. Work will be performed at 585 Av. Franklin Delano Roosevelt, San Juan, Puerto Rico, where the Institute will provide office space, vehicle access, and necessary supplies. Key deliverables include science translation content, research highlights, and communications materials developed in collaboration with Dr. Grizelle Gonzalez and the IITF research team to support critical Forest Service programs in Fire Science, Timber, and Forest Inventory.