B -- Notice of intent to negotiate a sole source contract

Notice of intent to negotiate a sole source contract with the SkagitSystem Cooperative (SSC) for the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS). Purpose of proposed contract is to establish an exploitation rate indicator stock to represent Skagit River fall chinook salmon run. The SSC is a consortium of three tribes involved in the salmon stocks and fisheries of the Skagit River. The SSC conducts research, promotes habitat protection and restoration and is involved in salmon enhancement in the Skagit River drainage. The SSC's fishery staff possesses an extensive history of salmon fishery management, reserach and enhancement activities in the Skagit River drainage. SSC has worked on salmon stocks of the Skagit River for 18 years. Questions concerning the proposed contract may be directed to Randall Brown. This is a simplified acquisition with an estimated value of less than $100,000.