The Government intends to purchase on a brand name basis under the authority of FAR 13.106-1(b)(1) No other supplies will satisfy agency requirements.

This particular brand name is essential to the requirement and market research indicates similar products do not meet or cannot be modified to meet agency needs. This instrument is the only one of its kind that measures both Phytoplankton groups and photosynthetic response, as well as abundance. It is the only brand and product that facilitates measurements of mixed algal populations for analysis of Chlorphyll content and photosynthetic performance of variously pigmented Phytoplankton groups.

However, firms that believe they can provide an instrument capable of performing all of the above functions may submit documentation in writing within five (5) days of this notice. Responses can be sent via e-mail to [email protected] and a determination will be made by the Government if a brand name restriction may be removed to allow for supplies of a different brand name.

Please follow the Offeror Instructions in the solicitation document. The NAICS code for this action is 334516. The Government intends to procure supplies using FAR Part 13, Simplified Acquisition Procedures. The Government requires all contractors doing business with The Government to be registered with the System for Award Management (SAM). For additional information and to register in SAM, please access the following website: www.sam.gov. In order to register with SAM and to be eligible to receive an award, all offerors must have a Dun & Bradstreet number, which may be acquired free of charge by contacting Dun & Bradstreet on line at http://fedgov.dnb.com/webform or by phone at 1-866-705-5711. Award will not be made to any contractor that is not registered in SAM.