A--Ensuring Credible Science for Science-Based Decision-Making at EPA

The U. S. EPA, Office of Research and Development (ORD), intends to negotiate on a sole source basis with the National Academy of Sciences (NAS), under the authority of FAR Part 6.302-1, for NAS to provide an objective assessment and validation of scientific and engineering excellence in EPAs mission and programs; informing the Agency of relevant scientific and technical data and related views of experts about research and science activities; and to provide support in applying the judgments of science and engineering to public policy. Under the proposed procurement, the National Research Council (NRC) of NAS will provide expert advice by convening review committees that will perform timely reviews and recommendations on a variety of issues associated with ORDs mission and programs. EPA requires the services of an expert, highly prestigious and objective organization to provide independent advice and review of the high priority, cross-Agency science issues that comprise the EPA Science Agenda. NAS is the only known source that can provide this broad range of scientific expertise at a level of objectivity and public acceptability that is critical to meet the EPAs needs under this procurement. Objectivity and unbiased judgment are imperative because of the intense interest and scrutiny of the Agencys policies and decisions by the public, Congress, the regulated and environmental communities and other stakeholders. The National Academies members are without Peers in their field, with unquestioned objectivity and independence. As the preeminent scientific organization in the nation, the NAS has the unique ability to assemble the nations most highly distinguished scholars and scientists to serve on boards and committees to address national environmental problems requiring scientific input that are of high priority and often of urgent need covering the full range of scientific and technical disciplines. An indefinite quantity type contract, with a maximum value of $25 Million, is anticipated. The ordering period will be five years. This notice is not a request for proposal. No solicitation will be issued based on this notice. However, any organizations believing itself capable of meeting EPAs needs may submit documentation to demonstrate its qualifications to meet the EPAs needs. This documentation must be submitted to the POC within 15 days of electronic posting of this notice. Information received will normally be considered solely for the purpose of determining whether to conduct a competitive procurement or to proceed on a sole source basis. A determination not to compete this proposed requirement based upon responses to this notice is solely within the discretion of the Government. This acquisition is being processed under FAR Part 15, Contracting by Negotiation. The applicable NAICS code is 541690. The anticipated award date is 12/30/08. See Numbered Note 26.