Cooperative Observer Program (COOP) Network Modernization & Management Paradigm Analysis

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) National Weather Service (NWS) is conducting market research to define an acquisition strategy for the modernization, technology refresh, and operational support of the Cooperative Observer Program (COOP). The agency is evaluating the feasibility, cost-effectiveness, and data continuity risks of blending three management paradigms across approximately 6,700 distributed surface observation sites. These models include the current Government-Owned, Government-Operated (GO-GO) structure; a Government-Owned, Contractor-Operated (GO-CO) model involving outsourced maintenance and installation; and a Contractor-Owned, Contractor-Operated (CO-CO) Data-as-a-Service (DaaS) model where the agency subscribes to quality-controlled data streams from commercial or state-level operators.

This sources sought notice, solicitation number 1305M2-COOP, is classified under NAICS code 334519 Other Measuring and Controlling Device Manufacturing and PSC 6660 METEOROLOGICAL INSTRUMENTS AND APPARATUS. The research specifically targets the capabilities and competitive landscape of Small Business concerns, including 8(a), HUBZone, Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Businesses (SDVOSB), and Women-Owned Small Businesses (WOSB). The primary place of performance is Silver Spring, Maryland, and Jennifer Roesner is the designated point of contact for the requirement.

Responses to this notice must be submitted by July 13, 2026. The initial notice and two associated attachments—including NWS Standards Instruction 10-1302 and a Request for Information document—were published on June 12, 2026. This market research is intended for planning purposes only, and no contract will be awarded directly from this notice.