Southwest Fisheries Science Center DNA Genotyping Services

Other / Unclassified

This document is a "Single Source Determination Using Simplified Acquisition Procedures (SAP)" for an action not exceeding the Simplified Acquisition Threshold. It justifies the procurement of genotyping sequencing services from a single source, the University of Georgia.

This document is relevant to potential bidders as it explains the government's intent to sole-source a requirement. It details the specific services needed: generating mtDNA and nDNA data for Atlantic green and loggerhead turtles to fill critical knowledge gaps. The document outlines the period of performance (Base Year 2026-2027, with four option years through 2031) and specifies a Firm Fixed Price contract type. The rationale for sole-sourcing is that the University of Georgia is uniquely capable due to its developed, optimized, and routinely used customized assays for genetic stock identification, which are compatible with ongoing and future baseline datasets. Market research indicated no other vendors could perform these specific tasks.

Key details include:

• Agency: Department of Commerce, NOAA Acquisition and Grants Office (AGO), National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), Southwest Fisheries Science Center (SWFSC), Marine Mammal and Turtle Division (MMTD).
• Services: Genotyping sequencing services for Atlantic green and loggerhead turtles.
• Purpose: To generate mtDNA and nDNA data for genetic stock identification (GSI), supporting current scientific and management objectives, including critical habitat analysis and population assessments.
• Sole Source Vendor: University of Georgia.
• Contract Type: Firm Fixed Price.
• Period of Performance: Base Year 2026-2027, Option Years 2027-2031.

Statement of Work (SOW)

To generate mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) and nuclear DNA (nDNA) data to fill critical knowledge gaps for Atlantic green and loggerhead turtles, enabling Genetic Stock Identification (GSI) at a fine scale. This will support current science and management objectives, including the NMFS protected species Stock Assessment Improvement Plan (SAIP), and inform Biological Opinions and population assessments.

• Generate mtDNA and nDNA data using customized marker arrays compatible with existing studies.

• Include standard mtDNA Control Region (CR) sequences for all samples.

• Utilize additional informative mtDNA markers for green turtles.

• Employ nDNA microsatellite markers customized for each species (16 loci for loggerhead, 13 loci for green turtle).

• Produce data for GSI of loggerhead bycatch and relocation trawl samples.

• Conduct fine-scale stock structure analysis of Atlantic green turtles.

• Analyze connectivity of green turtles in critical US habitat.

• Delineate Atlantic Distinct Population Segment (DPS) boundaries.

• DNA extraction and Quality Control/assessment.

• Sequencing of standard mtDNA CR fragment (~850 bp).

• Sequencing of green turtle informative mitogenomic (mtDNA SNP) markers.

• Genotyping of loggerhead turtle samples with custom microsatellite (nDNA) array (16 loci).

• Genotyping of green turtle samples with custom microsatellite (nDNA) array (13 loci).

• Process up to 740 samples.

• Deliver sequence data as FASTQ files and genotype data as allele calls.

• Base Year: 2026 - 2027

• Option Year 1: 2027 - 2028

• Option Year 2: 2028 - 2029

• Option Year 3: 2029 - 2030

• Option Year 4: 2030 - 2031 (Note: Dates are estimates and will be solidified closer to contract award.)

Off-site at the contractor's location.

• Raw Sequences (FASTQ Files): Upon completion, delivered to TPOC.
• Genotype Data (allele calls): Upon completion, delivered to TPOC.
• NOAA Sexual Assault and Sexual Harassment Training (SASH): Within 30 Days After Award, provided to CO for all contractor employees.