***NOAA's Acquisition & Grants Office, Western Acquisition Division-Boulder, intends to negotiate, on a sole source basis, under authority of FAR 13.106-1(b)(1), brand name with Leica microsystems for the purchase of a M125 stereomicroscope.

***The sole source determination is based on the National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA) requirement for the supply of a stereomicroscope of which can only be provided by the manufacture of this type of unit. Which is a Leica microsystem. They will provide the stereomicroscope that is needed. The period of performance is Date of Award through September 20, 2016.

***This notice of intent is not a request for competitive proposals and no solicitation package is available. However, firms that believe they can fully meet the Government's requirements may submit substantiating documentation in writing to the identified point of contact within 15 days after publication of this synopsis. Such documentation will be evaluated solely for the purpose of determining whether or not to conduct this procurement on a competitive basis. A determination by the Government not to conduct a competitive procurement, based upon responses to this notice, is solely within the discretion of the government. Oral communications are not acceptable in response to this notice.