The National Marine Fisheries Services (NMFS) West Coast Region has a need to export inexpensive andpractical methods to reduce the bycatch of marine mammals (primarily small cetaceans, but also fur seals and sea lions) and sea turtles in a large mesh drift gillnet fisheries operating out of Chile to lower this threat locally and worldwide and improve the recovery of these species. The ONG Pacifico Laud have been conducting sea turtle research under the US-Chile Fisheries Cooperative Agreement with NOAA-Fisheries for the last 10 years. ONG Pacifico Laud has the approval of the Chilean government (Sub Secretaria de Pesca)and has the necessary permits to carry out this work in timely manner . Most importantly Pacifico Laud scientists have the trust and cooperation of fishermen in key areas in Chile that are essential for successful completion of this project.


This notice represents the only official notice. This notice of intent is not a request for competitive proposals and no solicitation package is available. It is the Government's belief that only ONG Pacifico Laud can complete the work and provide the deliverables under this contract. However, firms that believe they can provide the services required in this project that 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. Questions concerning this announcement must be emailed to Maria Mendoza at [email protected] or faxed at (206)527-7513. This is a simplified acquisition.