Description
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is seeking to contract up to two commercial fishing vessels to conduct the West Coast Groundfish Bottom Trawl Survey from 2026 to 2030. The survey will take place from mid-August to the third week of October each year. The selected vessels will be required to meet specific requirements, including having a certain length, draft, and beam, as well as being equipped with certain gear and equipment, such as trawl winches, net reels, and cranes. The vessels will also be required to have a certain number of berths and amenities for the scientific crew. The contractor will be responsible for providing a stable and safe platform for the survey, as well as complying with all applicable laws and regulations.
• The vessel must be capable of towing a 85/104 four-panel Aberdeen trawl at 2.7 knots at a depth of 700 fathoms.
• The vessel must have a cruising speed of at least 8.0 knots in low sea states.
• The vessel must have a certain amount of deck space and storage for scientific equipment and supplies.
• The vessel must have a certain number of life rafts and emergency beacons.
• The vessel must have a certain level of communication equipment, including VHF radios and a satellite phone.
• The vessel must have a certain level of navigation equipment, including GPS and depth sounders.
• The contractor must provide a crew with certain qualifications and experience, including a captain, deckhands, and a cook.
• The contractor must comply with all applicable laws and regulations, including those related to safety, health, and environmental protection.