Massachusetts Large Whale and Sea Turtle Conservation Program

The Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries (MA DMF) is seeking a contractor to assist with the operation of the Massachusetts Large Whale and Sea Turtle Conservation Program. The scope of work includes year-round on-call entanglement readiness and response, aerial and vessel-based surveillance and monitoring of North Atlantic right whales, and reporting of sightings and data collection. The contractor must have expertise in large whale and sea turtle entanglement response, zooplankton analysis, and identification of marine species. Proposals are due by August 26, 2024, and the estimated contract start date is based on federal fund availability, ending June 30, 2025, with up to 3 one-year renewal options. The estimated annual value of the procurement is $1,400,000, contingent upon state and federal funding from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the Massachusetts Environmental Trust. The technical and management experience, capabilities, and pricing of the proposals will be evaluated, with the supplier diversity plan accounting for at least 25% of the total evaluation points.

MA DMF encourages applications from minoritized communities, businesses, and individuals, and will not discriminate based on protected characteristics. Bidders are required to make a financial commitment of at least 1% of contract sales to partner with certified diverse businesses or non-profit organizations. The Commonwealth has a Supplier Diversity Program that will provide additional evaluation points for higher SDP commitments. The contract does not specify any incumbent contractors or technology integration requirements.