O&M Support Services for EPA GLNPO Research Vessel   4

Background
The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Region 5 in Chicago, IL, is issuing this sources sought notice to perform market research regarding the availability and adequacy of qualified sources for operating research vessels.

This initiative supports the Great Lakes National Program Office (GLNPO) and aligns with the agency's mission to uphold the Clean Water Act, the Great Lakes Legacy Act, and the Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement between the United States and Canada.

The contract aims to ensure effective operations of research vessels used for environmental monitoring in the Great Lakes.

Work Details
The contractor will be responsible for operating and maintaining two research vessels: R/V Lake Guardian, a 180-foot monitoring vessel, and Mudpuppy II, a 30-foot Munson Packcat aluminum work boat.

Key tasks include:
1. Operating and maintaining the vessels to safely obtain samples of water, sediment, and biota in compliance with applicable regulations.
2. Arranging for maintenance, inspections, repairs, and dry docking of the vessels as per USCG regulations and ABS Rules.
3. Providing qualified personnel including Captain, Mates, Engineers, and Marine Technicians.
4. Purchasing fuel, supplies, and spare parts necessary for vessel operations.
5. Coordinating port services such as electrical power supply, sewage disposal, water filling, and security at all ports visited by the vessels.
6. Maintaining records of government property in accordance with regulations.
7. Developing Standard Operating Procedures and a Quality Management Plan tailored to environmental program requirements.
8. Creating a safety plan that meets ISM Code requirements to ensure occupational safety in the research vessel environment.

Period of Performance
The contract will have a base period from October 1, 2023, to September 30, 2024, with four additional option years extending through September 30, 2028.

Place of Performance
The contract will be performed in navigable waters of the Great Lakes.