B--Sources Sought - Breeding Waterfowl Surveys (IA) - Base Period with up to Two O
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. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS), under the Department of the Interior, is conducting a Sources Sought for Breeding Waterfowl Surveys in Iowa. This market research aims to identify qualified sources capable of performing long-term wetland condition and waterfowl breeding surveys. Responses are due by March 30, 2026.
Purpose & Background
This notice is for market research and planning purposes only and is not a solicitation. The FWS's Habitat and Population Evaluation Team (HAPET) has conducted these surveys since 1988 using Four Square Mile Breeding Waterfowl Survey protocols. Historically, the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) has performed this work, developing methodologies aligned with FWS protocols and maintaining long-term expertise and data continuity. The Government believes IDNR may be uniquely positioned but seeks information from all responsible sources.
Requirement Details
The contractor will provide all personnel, equipment, supplies, transportation, materials, and services to conduct the Iowa Breeding Waterfowl Survey. Key requirements include:
- Conducting breeding duck pair surveys on 400-600 wetlands across Iowa each May.
- Following Four Square Mile Survey protocols and established HAPET data collection methods.
- Providing trained biological staff experienced in waterfowl identification and survey techniques.
- Collecting and delivering waterfowl abundance, pair status, wetland condition, and vegetation data.
- Submitting fully formatted datasets to FWS within 60 days of survey completion (approx. August 1 annually).
- Performing all work to the standards outlined in the PWS and QASP.
Contract & Timeline
- Opportunity Type: Sources Sought
- NAICS: 541690 (Other Scientific and Technical Consulting Services) | Size Standard: $19.0 Million
- Period of Performance: Base Year: May 1, 2026 - December 31, 2026, with up to two option years (subject to availability of funds).
- Place of Performance: Iowa, United States
- Set-Aside: None specified (market research stage)
Submission Requirements
Interested parties must submit a capability statement addressing:
- Technical Capability: Staff qualifications, biological expertise, and experience with Four Square Mile protocols or equivalent methods.
- Technical Experience: Examples of similar wildlife survey contracts within the last five years.
- Unique Capabilities: Factors enabling successful performance without disrupting long-term monitoring continuity.
Key Dates & Contact
- Responses Due: March 30, 2026, at 10:00 AM Central Time.
- Submission Method: Via E-Mail as a PDF attachment to Dana Arnold.
- Contact: Dana Arnold (dana_arnold@fws.gov)