66--INTENT TO AWARD - USGS ELECTROFISHER RAFT
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 United States Geological Survey (USGS), specifically the North Carolina Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit (NCCFWRU), intends to award a sole source, firm fixed-price contract to Midwest Lake Electrofishing Systems (MLES) for a custom electrofishing raft. This specialized raft is required to support fish sampling in North Carolina's rivers for research objectives related to fisheries management, aquatic invasive species prevention, and resource conservation. Vendors who believe they can provide a similar product must contact the Contract Specialist by June 23, 2026, at 1:00 PM EDT.
Scope of Work
The requirement is for a custom electrofishing raft with hardwired electrical components and attachments necessary for electrofishing. Key specifications include:
- Raft Design: A 14ft custom hybrid raft with a molded, drainable floor, meeting USCG guidelines.
- Electrical Components: Hardwired, waterproof electrical circuits compatible with MLES high-voltage equipment and control boxes, including a dual-purpose anode/cathode junction box and UV/water-resistant cords.
- Hardware & Accessories: Heavy-duty oar locks, motor mount, removable bow electrofishing shock rail and standing platform, equipment racks, removable bow cathode curtain, removable treadplate captains floor, portable livewell, and stainless steel hardware.
- Electrofishing Booms: Two pivot/swing fiberglass booms with UV inhibitors and non-conductive material.
- Anode Arrays: Collapsible anode arrays with stainless steel cables.
- Safety Features: Foot pedal safety switch and non-conductive boom material.
- Generator: Lightweight 4kw generator with pull start and isolated neutral.
- Trailer: Custom-built, single-axle flatbed trailer (16ft x 84" cargo area) with treated deck lumber, HDPE slides, and a rear fold-down gate.
- Outboard Motor: Suzuki 6hp outboard motor with tiller steer and internal fuel tank.
Contract & Timeline
- Nature of Action: Intent to Award (Sole Source)
- Intended Awardee: Midwest Lake Electrofishing Systems (MLES)
- Contract Type: Firm Fixed-Price
- Statutory Authority: FAR RFO 12.102(a) – Only one source reasonably available.
- Response Due: June 23, 2026, 1:00 PM EDT
- Published Date: June 17, 2026
Rationale for Sole Source
The USGS asserts that MLES is the only source capable of providing the required raft due to critical compatibility needs with the NCCFWRU's existing MLES electrofishing equipment (two control-boxes, two electrofishing boats). This ensures:
- Efficiency: Interchangeability of control-boxes across all vessels.
- Standardization: Consistent data quality by using familiar and compatible equipment.
- Safety: Hardwired connections prevent electrical shock/short-circuits, and the raft's design accommodates MLES control-boxes securely and safely within reach of the operator's emergency shutoff. Market research confirmed MLES's unique ability to custom manufacture the raft, electrofishing equipment, and trailer in tandem, ensuring full integration and simplifying future modifications or repairs.
Action for Vendors
Any vendor believing they possess similar technical expertise and can provide the same product(s) should contact the Contract Specialist by the response deadline.
Contact Information
- Contract Specialist: Miranda Blankenship
- Email: mblankenship@usgs.gov