Stream Sediment Removal

Added: May 10, 2012 5:45 pm The U.S. Geological Survey, Northern Rocky Mountain Science Center, Bozeman, MT has a requirement to remove fine sediments from three streams. Excessive fine sediments that result from poor land-use practices threaten the persistence and viability of salmonids across western North America. Fine sediments degrade spawning habitat and reduce food availability. In many areas, Government agencies and non-profits have worked with landowners to reduce sediment inputs into streams by improving land management practices, but the sediments from land-use past remain in these streams. However, traditional means of removing these sediments involve heavy equipment (e.g., backhoes) and can do more harm than good to the fragile stream and riparian ecosystems that support healthy salmonid populations. New tools are needed that are effective at removing sediments, but cause minimal impact on biota and habitat.

The requirement specifies technology that combines suction and water technology to selectively remove fine sediments. Unlike a dredging operation that can suspend bottom sediments back into the water column, this service requires a unit that is completely adjustable and all suction and vacuuming is contained beneath a hood to minimize disturbances.

The USGS is in search of Service Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) firms who are able to perform the above mentioned services. SDVOSB who feel that they can furnish the required services, meeting all the technical requirements stated above, are invited to submit in writing an affirmative response to this announcement. An affirmative response would include literature, brochures and such other materials, which correspond to the required services stated herein. This information will be evaluated and used to determine if competitive opportunities exist. Affirmative response shall be received by this office by close of business May 17, 2012 by 3:00 PM Mountain Standard Time.