The objective of this project is to safely complete an aerial survey of moose, elk and deer within Wildlife Management Units 353/352/440 (Figure 1), to estimate density and age/sex composition. This work involves low-level maneuvering at low air speeds to count and classify animals in mountainous and forested landscapes. These population inventory surveys will be conducted by means of transects. Given the risk associated with working in mountainous terrain, only pilots with extensive mountain flying experience including conducting low-level wildlife surveys in the mountains will be considered for this project. Although the survey is expected to be delivered primarily from Grande Cache and Fox Creek, alternative bases include Grande Prairie, Hinton, Whitecourt or Edson. Companies are encouraged to provide wet and dry rates specific to each base from which they are able to operate.
For the survey, suitable weather conditions are a limiting factor (e.g. adequate snow cover, temperature, visibility, and precipitation and wind conditions). To ensure safe and effective delivery of projects we expect the successful applicant(s) to communicate regularly with Department staff throughout the survey season (December-February) to identify suitable opportunities to achieve project goals.
Proposals will be assessed in consideration of a combination of factors including: contractor experience, qualifications, demonstrated success in achieving project requirements in equivalent landscapes and related field conditions, appropriateness of available aircraft, availability, and service delivery approach. The allocated funding for these surveys may be modified to adjust to changing requirements. The Method of Contractor Selection has not been determined at this time.
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