Region 8 Pollinator Survey Services

Background
The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, Region 8, is seeking contractors for non-personnel services to conduct Monarch butterfly habitat and adult butterfly surveys. This initiative addresses the significant decline in global pollinator populations, particularly the western monarch butterfly, which is crucial for both natural ecosystems and agriculture.

The San Joaquin Valley is identified as a vital area for monarchs during migration, necessitating habitat maintenance and restoration on public lands to prevent further decline. The project aims to assess existing habitats' quality and quantity to enhance conservation efforts and support pollinator species.

Work Details
The contractor will provide all necessary personnel, equipment, supplies, and services to perform Monarch butterfly habitat and adult butterfly surveys as outlined in the Performance Work Statement (PWS). Key tasks include: conducting surveys of Monarch butterflies and other species; assessing nectar plant and milkweed availability; following Integrated Monarch Monitoring Program (IMMP) protocols; providing data in specified formats; and producing summary reports detailing survey implementation and results.

Specific activities include: identifying the quantity and quality of Monarch habitat at priority sites; quantifying Monarch abundance; documenting other butterfly species occurrences; creating habitat quality maps; classifying survey transects by habitat quality; managing data entry and quality assurance; conducting field surveys during designated seasons; and submitting all findings within specified timelines.

Period of Performance
October 1, 2026 – September 30, 2028

Place of Performance
Field work will be conducted at the San Luis National Wildlife Refuge Complex in California, with data entry performed at the contractor's offices.

Bidder Requirements
Bidders must have training or experience in identifying plants and butterflies found in the San Joaquin Valley. Key personnel qualifications include: a contract manager with at least 5 years of project management experience for field surveys; a plant field survey lead with 3-5 years of experience conducting plant surveys in the region; a butterfly field survey lead with similar experience in non-lethal butterfly surveys; and field technicians with at least 1 year of relevant field experience.