Herring Biological Sampling

Open · Buyer: Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) · Closes: 2026-11-16 · Published: 2026-10-21

Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) requires laboratory services to process biological samples collected from British Columbia (BC) commercial herring fisheries, test fisheries, and research activities. The biological information obtained through sample processing supports annual stock assessments and the development of scientific advice regarding the status of BC herring stocks. The Contractor will be required to provide all qualified personnel, laboratory facilities, equipment, materials, and services necessary to process approximately 200 to 250 herring samples per year. Each sample typically contains approximately 100 fish, although sample sizes may vary. The Contractor must process all samples provided by DFO, including samples containing fewer than 100 fish, in accordance with DFO-approved scientific procedures. For each fish processed, the Contractor must record the fish's length, weight, sex, gonad length, gonad weight, maturity stage, and one suitable herring scale for subsequent age determination. All sample identification information and biological data must be entered into the MS Access database provided by DFO. The Contractor must also prepare herring scale slides,