The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), Southwest Fisheries Science Center (SWFSC), National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Department of Commerce (DOC) has a need to assess the global status of sea turtles, apply genetic analysis to define units to conserve and address management needs. These include determining genetic stock structure of Pacific and Atlantic marine turtle species, nesting stock origin of turtles caught incidentally in U.S.-based fisheries in both ocean basins, stock composition of foraging populations, and of strandings along both coasts. The contractor shall: Task1: Coordinate and engage researchers and staff in Central and South America and throughout the Caribbean to collect sea turtle samples from key nesting and foraging areas (Mexico, Costa Rica, Guyana, Colombia, Panama, St. Croix and other Caribbean islands). Task 2. Produce a comprehensive baseline dataset for population genetic analysis (including mtDNA sequences and nuclear genotypes) of nesting populations in the areas listed above. This includes integrating results of analysis of samples held currently at SWFSC to develop new data for multiple sea turtle species. Task 3. Provide a comprehensive set of samples from live leatherback hatchlings for a mass tagging experiment at St. Croix, USVI for use in mark-recapture analysis and to estimate adult sex ratios. Task 4. Design and coordinate field studies and training of NMFS staff and sea turtle researchers on hatchling and female genetic sampling and nest monitoring. This includes producing training materials (protocols manual, presentation, demonstration supplies and tools).Task 5. Coordinate and train staff to collect data on female nesting leatherback turtles for the development of mark-recapture analyses. Task 6. Develop and enhance a comprehensive database on nesting female leatherbacks and hatchlings in St. Croix, including tagging data and nest information. Task 7. Write and publish articles on each research study in peer-reviewed journals, the popular press and social media outlets. The Ocean Foundation is uniquely qualified to provide these services because they are in possession of the appropriate valid permits for collecting samples at Sand Point, St.Croix, USVI and have agreements in place with network colleagues for shipment of samples under appropriate permit. The Ocean Foundation have developed partnerships and demonstrated relationships with key sea turtle researchers and genetic expert throughout the Caribbean and have expertise in shipping sea turtles samples to NOAA NMFS under CITES regulations. They have the ability, materials and knowledge to train sea turtle researchers in hatching sampling which is a novel technique in sea turtle genetic sampling.

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 The Ocean Foundation can complete the work and provide the deliverables under this contract. However, interested firms or individuals may identify their interest and capability to respond to the requirement by submitting in writing their name and information 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.