This publication serves as notice of intent to procure services for the Department of Commerce (DOC), National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), Southwest Fisheries Science Center (SWFSC), La Jolla, CA on a sole source basis with Mr. Ernesto Vazquez. The government intends to acquire services using FAR Part 13, Simplified Acquisition Procedures. Proposed vendor collect marine mammal data using line-transect surveys methodology and SWFSC protocols for at sea data collection. The following tasks will be necessary: serve as a Marine Mammal Observer for SWFSC on the research cruise; collect distribution and abundance data; assist in the identification of species; etc. Mr. Ernesto Vazquez was identified by program office as the only source that can complete the work on this project. Mr. Ernesto Vazquez is the only known marine mammal observer who can successfully biopsy animals using a crossbow as well as being regarded in the marine mammal community as the authority in identification of marine mammal species. The government intends to negotiate a firm-fixed price contract with a period of performance that will start from date of award through December 15, 2009. This notice of intent is not a request for competitive proposals. However, all proposals received within 15 days of publication of this synopsis will be considered by the government. All responses must be in writing and may be faxed attention to Shannon McIlroy at 206-526-6025 or email at [email protected]. Questions concerning this acquisition must be directed to Shannon McIlroy by email at [email protected]. This is a small purchase action estimated value not to exceed $100,000.00. ***The Western Regional Acquisition Division requires that all contractors doing business with the Acquisition Office be registered with the Central Contractor Registry (CCR) as of October 1, 2003. After this date NO award can be made unless the vendor id registered in CCR. For additional information and to register in CCR please access the following web site: http://www.ccr.gov. In order to register with the CCR and to be eligible to receive an award from this acquisition office, all offerors must have a Dun & Bradstreet Number. A Dun & Bradstreet number may be acquired free of charge by contacting Dun & Bradstreet on-line at www.dnb.com/eupdate or by phone at 800-333-0505. All contractors are also required to complete online Representations and Certifications at http://ORCA.BPN.GOV.