20--eDNA Autosampler
Overview
Buyer
Place of Performance
NAICS
PSC
Set Aside
Original Source
Timeline
Qualification Details
Fit reasons
- NAICS alignment with historical contract wins in similar service areas.
- Scope strongly matches core technical capabilities and delivery model.
Risks
- Past performance thresholds may require one additional teaming partner.
- Potential clarification needed on staffing minimums before bid/no-bid.
Next steps
Validate eligibility requirements, assign capture owner, and schedule partner outreach to confirm teaming strategy before submission planning.
Quick Summary
The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), under the Department of Interior, is conducting market research through a Sources Sought notice for an eDNA autosampling platform. This initiative aims to identify qualified businesses capable of providing a system that meets specific salient characteristics for environmental DNA collection. Responses are due by May 26, 2026, at 10:00 AM PD.
Purpose
This Sources Sought announcement is for planning purposes only to assist the Government in determining its acquisition strategy. It is not a request for quote and does not commit the Government to award a purchase order or contract. The USGS seeks to understand the availability of platforms capable of autonomous eDNA water sample collection, filtration, and preservation.
Key Requirements
The desired eDNA autosampling platform must meet or exceed the following salient characteristics:
- Autonomous Operation: Collect, filter, and preserve 30 or more eDNA water samples for up to 3 months.
- Biofouling Prevention: Utilize a UV-based system.
- Data Logging: Log sampling metadata.
- Field Serviceability: Easy field service (< 20 min, 1 person).
- Contamination Control: Minimize contamination risk during sampling and transport.
- Filter Compatibility: Reusable filter sample holders accommodating various 47-mm diameter filter types (e.g., PES, GF, MCE).
- Preservation Solution Compatibility: Accommodate different sample preservation solutions (e.g., RNALater, EtOH).
- Accuracy: Water volume accuracy of ≥ 95% for ≤ 2 L sample volumes.
- Deployment: Land-based deployment from shore.
- Portability: Compact design, carriable by 1-2 people.
- Power: Swappable battery pack for field operation and minimum power draw.
- Programmability: User-definable and programmable sampling rate.
- Validation: Requires evidence of validation and testing.
Contract & Timeline
- Opportunity Type: Sources Sought
- NAICS Code: 334516 Analytical Laboratory Instrument Manufacturing (Size Standard: 1,000 employees)
- Product/Service Code: 2060 Commercial Fishing Equipment
- Set-Aside: None specified
- Response Due: May 26, 2026, 10:00 AM PD (17:00:00Z)
- Published Date: May 19, 2026
Submission Details
All responsible sources may submit a capabilities statement detailing their ability to meet the outlined requirements. Responses must be submitted via electronic mail to elizabeth_adam@ios.doi.gov and received in their entirety by the deadline. The Government will not pay for any costs incurred in preparing responses.