Department of the Interior, National Biological Service, OAD-BA, Procurement Staff, 4401 North Fairfax Drive, Room 710, Arlington, VA 22203

B -- TO EVALUATE THE USE OF MICROCHEMICAL ANALYSIS OF ATLANTIC STURGEON FIN RAYS AND OTOLITHS AS AN INDICATOR OF HABITAT USE Sol. 1445-ORFP-95-003. Due 042195. Contact Mary B. Noll, Contracting Officer, 703-358-2373. National Biological Service intends to negotiate a sole source contract with the University of Marylnad, Center for Estuarine and Environmental Studies (CEES) to study habitat utilization patterns of mid-Atlantic bight juvenile Atlantic Sturgeon. The objectives of the study are to evaluate the use of microchemical analysis of Atlantic sturgeon fin rays and otoliths as an indicator of salinity; to estimate the temporal precision with which changes in environmental salinity can be detected; and, to apply this technique to selected wild fish and analyze migration frequencies. CEES personnel have adapted the interpretion of otolith patterns combined with elemental microanalysis to allow detection of an individual fish's habitat use and migration patterns over time and have extensive experience in applying this technique to anadromous fish species. CEES has the only known lab which is applying this method for life history investigations of anadromous species. All responsible sources may respond to this synopsis, and all such responses will be fully considered. No contract award will be made on the basis of any responses to this notice, however, because this synopsis of intent to award a contract shall not be considered as a solicitation. No solicitation document exists and no telephone inquiries will be accepted. Written responses must be received within 30 calendar days after publication of this synopsis and must demonstrate experience with the wave length dispersive electron microprobe use in fishery research; the analytical procedures required to perform the analysis of the data and fish tissue preparation; laboratory facilities to conduct the work; and specific personnel with the education, training and experience to perform the work. If no response are received which meet the Government's needs, an award will be placed without further notice. The statutory authority applicable is 41 USC 252 (c) (1) as set forth in FAR (48 CFR) 6.302-1(b) (1) a unique capability to provide the particular service, see Numbered Note 22. (076)

Loren Data Corp. http://www.ld.com (SYN# 0016 19950321\B-0002.SOL)