BY-CATCH AND DISTRIBUTION OF STURGEONS, SOLE SOURCE The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), National Marine Fisheries Service, is issuing a notice of intent to negotiate a sole source award with the University of Massachusetts-Amherst (UMass), to evaluate the distribution of by-catch of Atlantic and shortnose sturgeon by time, space, and method, and provide an estimated by-catch rate. The UMass has long standing knowledge of the problems facing restoration efforts, and has experience in providing scientific information on sturgeon. Additionally, UMass has significant expertise in geographical information systems, and database, and are uniquely qualified to provide the scientific expertise and assistance needed to accomplish the objectives of the proposed project. The period of performance is September 30,1999 through October 01, 2000 and shall include two option years. The statutory authority for other than full and open competition is 41 USC 253(c)(1), Only One Responsible Source. Interested parties may identify their interest and must provide evidence of their capability to respond to the requirement. Any party interested in receiving a copy of the solicitation shall provide written notice to the Contracting Office. The solicitation document will be issued on or about June 4, 1999. Fax request to (757) 441-6526. Telephone requests will not be accepted. No contract award will be made on the basis of quotations received in response to this notice since this synopsis cannot be considered a Request for Quotation. All responses from reasonable sources will be considered. This is a Simplified Acquisition with a value of less than $100,000. See notes 22 and 26. WEB: EASC HOMEPAGE, www.easc.noaa.gov. E-MAIL: Contract Specialist, Annette.S.Stevenson@noaa.gov. Posted 05/13/99 (W-SN331292).

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