Title
Consider recommendation from EAA staff to approve a contract with Texas State University for a Comal Springs Riffle Beetle Genetics Study, in the amount of $73,790.
Body
STAFF RECOMMENDED MOTION:
Move the board approve Contract No. 25-025-TES between the EAA and Texas State University, for a Comal Springs Riffle Beetle Genetics Study, in the amount of $73,790, for the period November 13, 2025 through December 31, 2027 and authorize the General Manager to execute the contract.
SUMMARY:
The purpose of this agenda item is for the board to consider an EAA staff recommendation to approve a contract between the EAA and Texas State University.
Under the proposed contract, Texas State University will examine the population genetics of the Comal Springs Riffle Beetle based on genetic samples collected during multiple studies from the Comal Springs system. Through the use of temporal sampling, this comprehensive analysis will provide a deeper understanding of how this endangered species has responded to historic drought conditions and the resilience of this species to ongoing environmental change. This project is being led by Dr. Chris Nice and his post-doctoral associate, Dr. Katherine Bell.
Attached to this summary is the draft contract which have been reviewed by legal counsel.
M/WBE PARTICIPATION:
Texas State University is not an M/WBE vendor.
STRATEGIC PLAN REFERENCE:
This agenda item supports the EAA’s policy direction to sustain Federally protected aquifer dependent species.
FISCAL IMPACT:
Funding for this contract will not exceed $73,790 for the duration of the contract.