The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) intends to contract using other than full and open competition for basic explosive detection canines that have been reared and trained in accordance with the Domestic Breeding Consortium (DBC) pilot standards established by the Department of Homeland Services Science and Technology Directorate (DHS S&T) and Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL). Accordingly, the TSA intends to award contracts over the next year to the four existing breeders approved by the DBC: Auburn University, 107 Samford Hall, Auburn, AL; Aspen Creek Kennels LLC, 540 250TH ST, WOODVILLE, WI; Elite Detection K9, 1039 S Rochester Rd, Rochester Hills, MI; and Katalyst Kennels, 37 Burgess Rd, Morris, CT.  These contracts will address the requirements of TSA's Canine Training Center in Lackland, TX to provide a proof of concept and a significant first step in establishing a broader network of domestic breeding collaborators and breeders utilizing research based puppy rearing and socialization strategies that are anticipated to increase quality and acceptance rates of working canines for TSA.  

The proposed contract actions are for supplies for which the Government intends to solicit and negotiate with only one source under the authority of FAR 6.302. Interested persons may identify their interest and capability to respond to the requirement or submit proposals. This notice of intent is not a request for competitive proposals. A determination by the Government not to compete this proposed contract based upon responses to this notice is solely within the discretion of the Government. Information received will normally be considered solely for the purpose of determining whether to conduct a competitive procurement.

Interested vendors who may wish to seek subcontracting opportunities should contact the above named companies directly.