A -- Record Blood Nitrogen Concentrations in the Deep Sea in Trained Dolphins

The US Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) intends to contract, using simplified acquisition procedures, with the University of California, Scripps Institution of Oceanography, San Diego, CA. The University of California, Scripps Institution of Oceanography is the unique single responsible source with available trained bottlenose dolphins that perform open ocean deep sea diving to allow for the monitoring of mammal blood nitrogen uptake and distribution. The purpose of this work is to better understand and research free nitrogen bubbles as a causative agent in human decompression sickness, “the bends.” The purchase is planned under the authority in 41 U.S.C. 253(1), as set forth in FAR 6.302-1. This is not a solicitation. A purchase order with a period of performance for four(4) months in accordance with the Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR) Part 13, through Federal Acquisition Circular(FAC) 2005-4 is planned. A Justification for Other than Full and Open Competition is on file. See numbered note 22.