New Software Prototype is an Important Milestone in USAID Support to Peru

ARLINGTON, Virginia, MAY 3, 2013 — As subcontractor to METI, Inc., on the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Forest Service (FS) International Programs (IP) Peru Forest Sector Initiative Program, TechTrend assists in providing services for technical management consulting, software development, and implementation. This support is part of an inter-agency agreement for international humanitarian and diplomatic assistance and environmental initiatives to ensure continued operations in over 80 countries abroad. Currently TechTrend is supporting Peru. In particular, TechTrend has had a substantial role in assisting the General Directory for Forestry and Wildlife (DGFFS), under the Ministry of Agriculture of Peru, in officially launching a software prototype of the control module application of Peru’s National Forest and Wildlife Information System (SNIFF – MC). The launch of the prototype marks an important milestone in USAID support to Peru through the USDA FS IP and Chief Information Office (USFS- CIO) for improved transparency and timber chain of custody. The prototype is currently being implemented in Peru’s most complex timber corridor, from harvest in the region of Loreto, to transformation in Ucayali, transportation through Huanuco to Lima, and finally to the port of Callao for export.
The prototype entails a central application and database that will enable the Government of Peru track the origin of harvested trees to verify that they have, in fact, been harvested legally. Moreover, the prototype will equip federal and state officials with critical, timely information to make informed decisions regarding concessionaires, human resource allocations at checkpoints, and warranting administrative actions, as required. With funding from the USAID, the FS has been assisting DGFFS in the business mapping, and planning, and design of the system since 2010. TechTrend, Inc., is a minority-owned, 8(a)-certified business providing IT products and services to both the government and commercial markets. The small business was founded in 2003 and is based in Arlington, Va. With a strong focus on enterprise-wide solutions, TechTrend possesses thorough knowledge of the specific mandates and contemporary IT trends that shape government and commercial IT infrastructures. A proven track record, repeat clients, and long-lasting customer relationships demonstrate TechTrend’s commitment to client satisfaction.