Southeast Fisheries Observer Programs   3

Background
The Southeast Fisheries Observer Programs (SEFOP) and Platform Removal Observer Program (PROP) are managed by NOAA Fisheries, which is responsible for the conservation and protection of living marine resources within the United States Exclusive Economic Zone (USEEZ). The agency plays a supportive role in managing these resources in coastal areas under state jurisdiction, providing scientific and policy leadership internationally.

The goal of these programs is to optimize the benefits of living marine resources through sound science and management while balancing public needs and interests without compromising the long-term biological integrity of ecosystems. The observer programs are authorized by various acts including the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Management and Conservation Act, Marine Mammal Protection Act, and Endangered Species Act.

Work Details
The contractor will provide Fishery Observer Support Services and Platform Removal Observer Program services for NOAA Fisheries, Southeast Fisheries Science Center (SEFSC). Specific tasks include:
1. Deploying qualified observers to collect data on various fisheries including shrimp trawl, pelagic fisheries, shark fisheries, reef fish fisheries, and monitoring underwater explosives used in platform removals to protect marine protected species.
2. Providing travel arrangements for observers during deployments.
3. Ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements related to observer duties and standards of conduct.
4. Maintaining communication between observers, vessel owners/captains, and the contractor.
5. Implementing a Quality Control Plan to meet performance standards outlined in the Performance Work Statement (PWS).

Period of Performance
The contract will be performed over a five-year ordering period from April 1, 2026 through March 31, 2031.

Place of Performance
The services will be performed primarily in the Southeastern United States waters including the Gulf of Mexico and Atlantic Ocean.