R--Intent to Award: USGS NADP-NTN Site MT98
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) has issued an Intent to Award a sole-source contract to Montana State University for Precipitation Sample Collection at NADP-NTN Site MT98. This notice invites other vendors to challenge the sole-source determination by March 18, 2026, 1:00 PM EST.
Scope of Work
The contractor will operate the NADP/NTN wet atmospheric monitoring station designated MT98. This involves weekly site visits to collect, process, and ship precipitation samples, transmit associated data (including precipitation gage records), and perform routine instrument checks, maintenance, and repairs. All operations must adhere to the provided Operations Manuals. The contractor will also interact directly with the Wisconsin State Laboratory of Hygiene (WSLH) for site specifications, maintenance, data checking, and provision of replacement parts.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Intent to Award (Sole Source)
- Duration: 12-month base period + four (4) 12-month option periods
- Set-Aside: None (Sole Source Justification)
- Response Due: March 18, 2026, 1:00 PM EST
- Published: March 12, 2026
Sole Source Justification
The USGS requires continuous operation of the NADP/NTN wet atmospheric monitoring station MT98. Montana State University has operated this site since 1985, with its staff having exclusive access to the land owned by the Agricultural Center. The staff possesses the necessary education, technical experience, knowledge, and expertise to perform the work without additional training, ensuring no loss of critical data. The USGS states it is cost-prohibitive and impractical for them to operate this specific site due to lack of access and control, making Montana State University the only viable source. This is a 'partnership' site where the landowning and operating organization cannot be unilaterally replaced.
Additional Notes
Vendors who believe they can provide the same service are invited to contact the Contract Specialist, Miranda Blankenship, via email at miranda_blankenship@ios.doi.gov by the response deadline.