Chartering of Helicopters for Migratory Bird Surveys in Eastern Canada.

Canadian Wildlife Service would like to retain air charter services (rotary-wing aircraft; hereunder, helicopter) in Ontario and Quebec. 

The work involves flying a helicopter at low altitude (± 30 m) and reduced speed (± 90 km/h) over all waterbodies and wetlands (lakes, rivers, streams, ponds, bogs, etc.) in the survey plots in order to count and identify waterfowl species and other birds (for an overview, please see Figures 1, 2 and 3 in the statement of work).  For this survey, the rear passengers identify and count birds – therefore, maximum rear seat visibility is of utmost importance.

The survey must be conducted during a specific time period: this period occurs in the spring (see province-specific details) when waterfowl species arrive in breeding pairs at their nesting sites. This period varies slightly from one year to the next, depending on the spring conditions underway. Biologists will be able to specify the dates chosen for the annual survey approximately one month before the survey commences.

Total number of minimum hours guaranteed (Ontario and Quebec) for 2014= 165 hours
Number of estimated possible hours for 2014 = 200 hours

Period of the Contract
The contract period is April 1 to June 15, 2014.
Option to extend the term of the contract from April 1, 2015 to June 15, 2015 (if required)