In this project, passive acoustic monitoring (PAM) will be used as one component of the continuation of a monitoring program to collect data for six species of large whales found in the New York Bight (NYB): North Atlantic right, fin, humpback, sei, sperm, and blue whales. The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (Department) will be coordinating this work with the other component, aerial surveys.

Collectively, researchers are beginning to record more information as patterns are becoming increasingly difficult to identify individually. Managers require a near constant flow of information in order to make sound decisions, as the frequently shifting marine environment pushes decision makers toward adaptive management. Therefore, as specified in the NYS Ocean Action Plan, monitoring of large whales in the NYB is a priority for the Department. Results from these surveys are the basis for a long-term monitoring program that synchronizes different methods and complements other local and regional monitoring.

The Department will be working closely with staff from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)’s Northeast Fisheries Science Center (NEFSC) and Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution to coordinate with their existing and planned regional efforts. This project is one of many being executed in the NYB region and will contribute collaboratively to the collective body of knowledge. Overall, this program will provide information immediately needed for management and conservation of these species at both the state and federal level.

Pursuant to the State Finance Law Sections 139-j and 139-k, this IFB, RFP, etc. includes and imposes certain restrictions on communications between a Governmental Entity and an Offerer / Proposer during the procurement process. Further information about these requirements, including a copy of the new lobbying law, can be found at: http://www.ogs.ny.gov/acpl/ .

Bidders / Proposers shall adhere to the NYS DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONSERVATION GUIDELINES REGARDING PERMISSIBLE CONTACTS DURING A PROCUREMENT AND THE PROHIBITION OF INAPPROPRIATE LOBBYING INFLUENCE.

All correspondence and/or questions relating to this IFB, RFP, etc. should be directed to the Department’s designated contact person.

Please note, telegraphic or other electronically transferred bids are not acceptable.