SWAN - WINTER MARINE BIRD SURVEY

The National Park Service (NPS) is seeking a vessel charter to support winter survey work in the Cook Inlet and coastal region of Lake Clark National Park and Preserve (LACL) in Alaska. The contractor will provide a vessel, including all equipment, materials, and labor, to support NPS scientists and collaborators in assessing the prey landscape of western lower Cook Inlet. The survey will take place over 5-7 days in November, January, and March, for a total of 15-18 days. The contractor must provide a daily vessel rate and meet specific operational specifications, including U.S. Coast Guard standards for safe operations at sea. Key aspects of the job include: * Providing a vessel with a minimum length of 65 feet * Meeting U.S. Coast Guard standards for safe operations at sea * Providing a daily vessel rate * Supporting up to 10 NPS scientists and collaborators * Conducting CTD casts, hydroacoustic surveys, and benthic beam trawl * Processing samples and providing freezer space * Conducting systematic boat surveys to visually assess winter presence of seaducks and other marine birds * Providing accommodations, including berthing areas, galley, and cooking and eating supplies * Meeting specific guidelines for safety, meals, and public affairs