At-Sea Observer
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 National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), specifically the National Marine Sanctuaries Office, intends to award a sole source purchase order to Point Blue Conservation Science for At-Sea Observer services at Monterey Bay. This presolicitation notice indicates no set-aside will be used.
Scope of Work
The requirement is for at-sea observation services, including marine mammal and seabird observation. Point Blue Conservation Science will collect new data and synthesize it with all historical data previously collected by them for the Davidson Seamount project. This ensures data consistency and allows for direct comparisons to previous years, enabling a more comprehensive analytical product across multiple expeditions and sanctuaries (Monterey Bay, Cordell Bank, and Greater Farallones National Marine Sanctuaries).
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Presolicitation (intended sole source Purchase Order)
- Set-Aside: None
- NAICS: 541690 (Other Scientific and Technical Consulting Services)
- Period of Performance: Date of award to January 31, 2027
- Response Due: May 26, 2026 (for firms challenging the sole source)
- Published: May 11, 2026
Sole Source Justification
NOAA's determination is based on Point Blue Conservation Science being the only vendor that manufactures and distributes this specific service. Their marine mammal and seabird observers are uniquely qualified, providing a consistent high level of identification crucial for comparing previously collected data. Their possession of all historical data is essential for synthesizing and producing comprehensive analytical products.
Additional Notes
This presolicitation is not a request for competitive proposals. Firms that believe they can fully meet the government's requirements may submit substantiating documentation or a request for additional information in writing to Kyle Lawrence (KYLE.LAWRENCE@NOAA.GOV) within 15 days of publication (by May 26, 2026). The government will evaluate these responses to determine if a competitive procurement is warranted.