The purpose of this project is to support the Response to Dead Marine Animals in the (DFO) Pacific Region.
It aims to ensure the safe examination and/or necropsy of whales or small cetaceans, or other marine animals, when deemed safe to do so, thus providing scientific information on marine species, with an emphasis on currently listed under the Species at Risk Act (SARA), and informing mitigation measures for the protection of marine species. This project is also an opportunity to collect data safely, that may contribute to scientific studies to improve our understanding of these species.
The Contractor is required to deliver the project in accordance with the Statement of Work ONLY in situations and conditions considered safe for such delivery. Under no circumstances should the Contractor attempt to respond to a marine animal if environmental/weather conditions, or the logistical circumstances are not reasonable and safe given the circumstances of the disentanglement or release activity proposed.
The Contractor shall monitor the environmental/weather conditions for changes that render the response operation no longer safe. The Contractor must adhere to SARA permit issued and any other protocols and authorizations that may be provided by the DFO.