R -- Vegetation Data for Mapping

The USDA Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Research Station, LANDFIRE and GAP projects require vegetation data for mapping. The map units must be delineated accurately on a map using remote sensing techniques combined with biophysical modeling. The map units must fit into the framework of landscape simulation models critical to modeling potential fire behavior and fire effects as well as historical fire regimes and their effects on landscape vegetation characteristics. Map units also must be flexible with regard to floristic scale, arranged into multiple hierarchical levels, and allow for linkage to local classifications which will enable managers to step down their maps to finer scales using the methods, tools and reference data provided by LANDFIRE. The map classes must be readily identified in the field and from compiled field data or from existing databases and must be identified by standardized terminology used in ecological classification and description. The proposed contract would be for remaining areas that border the western United States, the remaining coterminous (central and eastern) United States, Alaska and Hawaii. The proposed contract action is for services for which the Government intends to solicit and negotiate with only one source under the authority of FAR 6.302. Interested persons may identify their interest and capability to respond to the requirement or submit proposals. This notice of intent is not a request for competitive proposals. However, all proposals received within thirty days after date of publication of this synopsis will be considered by the Government. A determination by the Government not to compete with this proposed contract based upon responses to this notice is solely within the discretion of the Government. Information received will normally be considered solely for the purpose of determining whether to conduct a competitive procurement.