Forest Phenology

THIS IS FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY . Under the authority of FAR 13.106, the USDA FS International Institute of Tropical Forestry intends to award, on a sole source basis, a Firm Fixed Price Purchase Order (PO) for one-year. Tropical forest phenology detection with medium-resolution (10-30 m) multispectral satellite imagery is challenging in locations where cloud-free observations are relatively infrequent due to extremely persistent cloud cover and relatively small geographic overlap between adjacent images. In Puerto Rico, cloud-free observations are relatively infrequent due to extremely persistent cloud cover, relatively small geographic overlap between adjacent images, and highly heterogenous landscapes. Greenness patterns are highly variable, as multiple types of forest (mangroves, other wetlands, dry, moist, wet and cloud forests) and non-forest types of land cover are present. Tasks Research to validate greenness phenology products from specific previous investigations in Puerto Rico using ground data. The specific products to be evaluated uses a new method to characterize greenness phenology. It first partitions the landscape with supervised or unsupervised techniques before estimating phenology metrics. Products (e.g., cloud-screened image time series) from the collaboration between Humboldt State University, FS IITF, and the incumbent can be used. Data that can be used to test and validate the method include phenocam data or forest inventory data from the Caribbean Forest Inventory and Analysis program. Basis for sole source the incumbent is primary author of the methods mentioned above, to validate the new approaches with as yet unpublished data from collaborators and to build on his previous work, in collaboration with trained collaborators. THIS IS NOT A REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE PROPOSALS . This is a notice of intent to solicit and award a sole source contract under Simplified Acquisition Procedures, FAR 13.106-1(b)(1)(i). The anticipated award date is 1 Sept 2021. The North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) for this requirement is 541511 - Custom Computer Programming Services, and the size standard is $30M. However, all interested parties who believe they can meet the requirements are invited to submit in writing complete information describing their ability to provide the product/services listed above. All inquiries on this action can be submitted in writing via e-mail to Yolanda Padilla, Purchasing Agent [email protected] no later than 14 Aug 2021 at 11:59PM EST. A determination by the Government not to compete this proposed action based upon responses to this notice is solely within the discretion of the Government. Information received will be considered solely for determining whether to conduct a competitive procurement. All information shall be furnished at no cost or obligation to the Government.