Vessel for At-Sea Marine Bird Surveys on the West Coast of Vancouver Island

BACKGROUND: Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC), Canadian Wildlife Service (CWS) has a requirement for a scientific survey vessel, including operational crew, for vessel-based surveys of marine birds on the west coast of Vancouver Island (from mouth of Juan de Fuca north to Brooks Peninsula and 30 km offshore, and associated Vancouver Island inlets). Project objectives are to collect quantitative information regarding marine bird distribution and abundance (i.e., baseline information) across all four seasons on the west coast of Vancouver Island. Baseline information regarding the at-sea distribution and abundance of multiple marine bird species, including species listed under the Species at Risk Act (SARA). This information will be used to inform multiple evidence-based decision making management and conservation processes, including identification of areas important to birds and enhanced emergency response and preparedness. THE WORK: The west coast Vancouver Island area includes the Canadian side of the mouth of Juan de Fuca north to Brooks Peninsula and approximately 30 kilometers offshore, and select associated Vancouver Island inlets. Vessel-based surveys involve navigation along fixed transect lines at a constant speed of 8-10 knts, with surveys to be completed during daylight hours in excellent to moderate conditions (i.e., generally < 25knts wind). Vessel operators are to take advantage of weather windows and daylight hours to complete the planned surveys. Surveys will occur from September 5, 2020 until completion of >80% survey transects, or until September 30, 2020 whichever comes first. Generally, 1-3 ECCC at-sea observers will work aboard the vessel, and where feasible, overnight on the survey vessel