Acquisition of Oceanographic In Situ Data of Scientifically Controlled Quality

BACKGROUND

The Global Ice-Ocean Prediction System (GIOPS) of the Canadian Operational Network of Coupled Environmental Prediction Systems (CONCEPTS, an interdepartmental activity involving Environment Canada, Fisheries and Oceans Canada and the Department of National Defence), has been in use at Environment Canada’s Canadian Meteorological Centre in Dorval, Quebec since December 2010.

GIOPS consists of a numerical model and a data assimilation component. Assimilation is the process by which recent observations limit the evolution of a model’s results, thus improving its prediction capacity.

The framework used by GIOPS is based on the Nucleus for European Modelling of the Ocean (NEMO), which was developed and is continuously being improved by a non-profit organization in France (Mercator Océan). The system has an assimilation component that requires in situ oceanographic data on a daily basis. Given that GIOPS and Mercator Océan use the same framework, the data flow required for the former must have the same characteristics as that used by the latter.

The categories of these characteristics are format, timeliness and quality. This last characteristic is obtained through a series of scientific algorithms and tests performed on incoming data and whose results are expressed as quality indicators that are then encoded in the data files.

GIOPS produces weekly analyses and 10-day ice-ocean forecasts which are then used to initialize and provide boundary conditions for seasonal and regional forecasts. These products are used for sea ice extent forecasts, Coast Guard operations, fisheries and aquaculture management, studying biological parameters, studying regional climate change impacts, assessing risks of extreme weather events and emergency response services (search and rescue, mitigating spills at sea).

To allow GIOPS to work effectively from an operational standpoint, Fisheries and Oceans Canada must secure and ensure a supply of data of scientifically controlled quality in the format required.

OBJECTIVE

Fisheries and Ocean Canada requires a Contractor to deliver in situ data of scientifically controlled quality to support the Global Ice-Ocean Prediction System (GIOPS).

PERIOD OF STANDING OFFER

Standing Offer Period will be from date of issuance until March 31, 2023 with three (3) additional one (1) year optional periods that may be exercised by the Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO).