Shrimp Trawl Gear Modification Research

The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW), in collaboration with the Pacific States Marine Fisheries Commission (PSMFC), is seeking to charter one ocean shrimp trawl vessel for a research project focused on bycatch reduction. The primary objective is to evaluate the impact of modifying the height of trawl nets off the seafloor to minimize bycatch of eulachon and other fish species. The research requires eight sample days between June 1 and August 31, 2024, ideally structured as two four-day research cruises. Proposers must provide a fully equipped vessel with appropriate trawl gear, crew, fuel, and other necessary supplies, while ODFW and PSMFC will supply scientific equipment and project design. Key deliverables include conducting the research cruises, collecting data on trawl net modifications, and reporting findings related to bycatch reduction. The proposal submission deadline is June 18, 2024, with the contract award anticipated on June 4, 2024, and the contract term extending through October 31, 2024. Evaluation criteria are likely to include vessel capabilities, crew experience, technical approach, and proposed pricing.

The RFP encourages participation from certified small businesses and may require the successful contractor to submit a Certified Disadvantaged Business Outreach Plan prior to contract execution. While specific set-aside designations are not explicitly detailed, there is a focus on supporting smaller or disadvantaged business enterprises. All ocean shrimp catch during the research cruises will be retained for sale, with proceeds going to ODFW. The maximum compensation for the project is not explicitly stated in the provided documents, but proposers are required to submit a detailed price proposal using the provided Price Proposal Form, which includes daily rates for sample days, potential port call days, mobilization, and demobilization. ODFW reserves the right to adjust the number of sample days based on budgetary constraints, with the total price being proportionally modified according to the submitted daily rate. The procurement is specific to marine research vessels with the capability to conduct scientific trawling operations and collect detailed data on fishing gear modifications.