1232SA26Q1122.pdf

SEE ADDENDUMIS CHECKED

CODE 18a. PAYMENT WILL BE MADE BY

CODE

FACILITYCODE

17b. CHECK IF REMITTANCE IS DIFFERENT AND PUT SUCH ADDRESS IN OFFER

OFFEROR

ARS-1232SA

BELTSVILLE MD 20705

RM 3-2102

5601 SUNNYSIDE AVENUE

USDA ARS ACQUISITION AND PROPERTY D

ARS-124329 CODE 16. ADMINISTERED BYCODE

X

X

X

333111

SIZE STANDARD:

100.00 % FOR:SET ASIDE:UNRESTRICTED ORARS-1232SA

REQUEST FOR

PROPOSAL

(RFP)

INVITATION

FOR BID (IFB)

10. THIS ACQUISITION ISCODE

REQUEST FOR

QUOTE (RFQ)

14. METHOD OF SOLICITATION

13b. RATING

NORTH AMERICAN INDUSTRY

CLASSIFICATION STANDARD

(NAICS):

SMALL BUSINESS

08/06/2026 1700 ET

07/28/2026

6626865296RICHARD HAWTHORNE

(No collect calls)

INFORMATION CALL:

FOR SOLICITATION 8. OFFER DUE DATE/LOCAL TIMEb. TELEPHONE NUMBERa. NAME

4. ORDER NUMBER3. AWARD/ 6. SOLICITATION

1232SA26Q1122

5. SOLICITATION NUMBER

SOLICITATION/CONTRACT/ORDER FOR COMMERCIAL ITEMS 1. REQUISITION NUMBER PAGE OF

1 16 1170877OFFEROR TO COMPLETE BLOCKS 12, 17, 23, 24, & 30

TELEPHONE NO.

17a. CONTRACTOR/

BYRON GA 31008

21 DUNBAR ROAD

SEA FRUIT AND NUT RESEARCH

15. DELIVER TO

BELTSVILLE MD 20705

RM 3-2102

5601 SUNNYSIDE AVENUE

9. ISSUED BY

7.

2. CONTRACT NO.

EFFECTIVE DATE

1,250

18b. SUBMIT INVOICES TO ADDRESS SHOWN IN BLOCK 18a UNLESS BLOCK BELOW

ISSUE DATE

DELIVERY FOR FREE ON BOARD

(FOB) DESTINATION UNLESS

BLOCK IS MARKED

11.

SEE SCHEDULEX

12. DISCOUNT TERMS THIS CONTRACT IS A RATED

ORDER UNDER THE DEFENSE

PRIORITIES AND ALLOCATIONS

SYSTEM - DPAS (15 CFR 700)

13a.

SERVICE-DISABLED

VETERAN-OWNED

SMALL BUSINESS

(SDVOSB)

HUBZONE SMALL

BUSINESS

8(A)

USDA ARS ACQUISITION AND PROPERTY D

WOMEN-OWNED SMALL

BUSINESS (WOSB)

ECONOMICALLY DISADVANTAGED

WOMEN-OWNED SMALL

BUSINESS (EDWOSB)

24.

AMOUNT

23.

UNIT PRICE

22.

UNIT

21.

QUANTITY

20.

SCHEDULE OF SUPPLIES/SERVICES

19.

ITEM NO.

0001 Supertrak Chopzilla, or comparable

Delivery: 30 Days After Award

(Use Reverse and/or Attach Additional Sheets as Necessary)

HEREIN, IS ACCEPTED AS TO ITEMS:

XX

DATED

AMBER M. SAMPSON

. YOUR OFFER ON SOLICITATION (BLOCK 5),

INCLUDING ANY ADDITIONS OR CHANGES WHICH ARE SET FORTH

COPIES TO ISSUING OFFICE. CONTRACTOR AGREES TO FURNISH AND DELIVER

ARE

ARE

31c. DATE SIGNED

27b. CONTRACT/PURCHASE ORDER INCORPORATES BY REFERENCE FAR 52.212-4. FAR 52.212-5 IS ATTACHED. ADDENDA

31a. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA (SIGNATURE OF CONTRACTING OFFICER)

30c. DATE SIGNED 31b. NAME OF CONTRACTING OFFICER (Type or print)

ALL ITEMS SET FORTH OR OTHERWISE IDENTIFIED ABOVE AND ON ANY ADDITIONAL

SHEETS SUBJECT TO THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS SPECIFIED.

27a. SOLICITATION INCORPORATES BY REFERENCE (FEDERAL ACQUISITION REGULATION) FAR 52.212-1, 52.212-4. FAR 52.212-3

AND 52.212-5 ARE ATTACHED. ADDENDA

26. TOTAL AWARD AMOUNT (For Government Use Only)

OFFER

STANDARD FORM 1449 (REV. 11/2021)

Prescribed by GSA - FAR (48 CFR) 53.212

ARE NOT ATTACHED.

ARE NOT ATTACHED.

AUTHORIZED FOR LOCAL REPRODUCTION

PREVIOUS EDITION IS NOT USABLE

30b. NAME AND TITLE OF SIGNER (Type or print)

30a. SIGNATURE OF OFFEROR/CONTRACTOR

28. CONTRACTOR IS REQUIRED TO SIGN THIS DOCUMENT AND RETURN

25. ACCOUNTING AND APPROPRIATION DATA

29. AWARD OF CONTRACT: REFERENCE

32e. MAILING ADDRESS OF AUTHORIZED GOVERNMENT REPRESENTATIVE

32c. DATE 32b. SIGNATURE OF AUTHORIZED GOVERNMENT REPRESENTATIVE

ACCEPTED, AND CONFORMS TO THE CONTRACT, EXCEPT AS NOTED:

32a. QUANTITY IN COLUMN 21 HAS BEEN

RECEIVED INSPECTED

40. PAID BY39. S/R VOUCHER NUMBER38. S/R ACCOUNT NUMBER

37. CHECK NUMBER

FINALPARTIAL

36. PAYMENT

FINALPARTIAL

35. AMOUNT VERIFIED

CORRECT FOR

34. VOUCHER NUMBER33. SHIP NUMBER

COMPLETE

32g. E-MAIL OF AUTHORIZED GOVERNMENT REPRESENTATIVE

42d. TOTAL CONTAINERS42c. DATE REC'D (YY/MM/DD)

42b. RECEIVED AT (Location)

42a. RECEIVED BY (Print)

41c. DATE41b. SIGNATURE AND TITLE OF CERTIFYING OFFICER

41a. I CERTIFY THIS ACCOUNT IS CORRECT AND PROPER FOR PAYMENT

STANDARD FORM 1449 (REV. 11/2021) BACK

24.

AMOUNT

23.

UNIT PRICE

22.

UNIT

21.

QUANTITY

20.

SCHEDULE OF SUPPLIES/SERVICES

19.

ITEM NO.

32f. TELEPHONE NUMBER OF AUTHORIZED GOVERNMENT REPRESENTATIVE

32d. PRINTED NAME AND TITLE OF AUTHORIZED GOVERNMENT REPRESENTATIVE

16 2 of

Description -

This is a combined synopsis/solicitation for commercial items prepared in accordance with the format in FAR Part 12. This announcement constitutes the only solicitation. Quotations are being requested and a separate written solicitation will not be issued.

Solicitation number 1232SA26Q1122 is issued as a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for a Supertrak Chopzilla, or comparable orchard hedger/topper.

This acquisition is set-aside for small business concerns. The applicable North American Industry Classification Standard Code is 333111 The small business size standard is 1250 employees This acquisition is a Total Small Business Set-Aside. All responsible sources may submit a quotation which will be considered by the agency.

The USDA, ARS, in Byron, GA has a new requirement for a Supertrak Chopzilla, or comparable commercial heavy-duty hedging and topping attachment, that meets or exceeds the following criteria and on the attached specifications sheet.

Salient Characteristics & Highlights:

• Configuration: Front-mounted system for tractors, skid steers, or loaders; maximum combined vehicle/attachment width of 8 feet with no side-mounted tanks or counterweights.

• Cutting Mechanism: Dual sharp rotating saw blades spinning at 2,400 to 2,700 RPM;

strictly no flail or shredding heads.

• Capacity: Continuous 7-foot cutting path capable of making clean agricultural cuts on limbs up to 3 to 5 inches thick.

• Reach & Articulation: 108-inch boom with fully variable cutting angles (0 to 90 degrees) and a minimum 22-inch side extension.

• Physical Specs: Maximum weight of 800 lbs; base dimensions of 25.5" H x 57" W (extends to 79" W).

• Power Requirements: Hydraulic motor driven requiring a minimum of 9.4 GPM using one set of hydraulic remotes.

Award Type

The Government intends to make one award from this solicitation. Therefore, to be considered responsive, contractors must submit pricing for all items.

Evaluation and Basis for Award

The provision at FAR 52.212-2, Evaluation—Commercial Products and Commercial Services is not applicable to this solicitation. In lieu of this provision, quotes will be evaluated in accordance with FAR 12.203 based on the criteria listed below. Award will be made on a Lowest Price Technically Acceptable (LPTA) basis.

The Government anticipates award of a firm-fixed-price contract to the responsible Contractor whose quote meets all technical requirements and offers the lowest price. In accordance with streamlined procurement procedures, the Government will evaluate quotes based on two factors:

Technical Capability and Price.

Technical Capability will be evaluated on a pass/fail (acceptable/unacceptable) basis. To be considered for award, the quote must be rated "Technically Acceptable." Award will be made to the lowest-priced quote among those determined to be technically acceptable.

Technical Evaluation Ratings

• Technically Acceptable: The quote meets or exceeds all minimum functional and performance specifications listed in this solicitation and the attached requirements.

• Technically Unacceptable: The quote fails to meet one or more minimum functional and performance specifications listed in this solicitation and the attached requirements.

Submission Requirements:

To be considered, provide a quote on company letterhead including:

• Vendor Details: SAM.gov UEI Number.

• Technical Documentation: Descriptive material, to include the make/model of products offered, and a "meets/does not meet" statement for the minimum specifications.

• Pricing: Unit price and total price (including all shipping/delivery costs).

• Timeline: Estimated lead time/delivery date.

• Validity: Quote must be valid for at least 60 days from close date of RFQ.

Offerors shall identify where the offered item meets or does not meet each of the Government's functional and performance minimum specifications listed herein.

Please ensure all email correspondence includes the solicitation number in the subject line. Emails without the RFQ number in the subject line may not be seen, read, and /or reviewed and therefore disqualified from consideration.

QUOTES REGARDING THIS RFQ ARE DUE TO RICHARD HAWTHORNE at Richard.hawthorne@usda.gov , NO LATER THAN 5:00 p. m. ET, August 7th, 2026.

Delivery Address:

USDA - SEA FRUIT AND NUT RESEARCH

21 Dunbar Road, Byron, GA 31008 mailto:Richard.hawthorne@usda.gov

STATEMENT OF WORK (SOW)

1. BACKGROUND & OBJECTIVES

The USDA Agricultural Research Service (ARS) at the Southeastern Fruit and Tree Nut Research Laboratory (SEFTNRL) requires a specialized, narrow-footprint orchard trimmer attachment capable of front-mounting to compact tractors, skid steers, or front-end loaders. The equipment must operate safely within narrow orchard rows without damaging adjacent standing trees or obstructing paths. It will manage canopy growth for sensitive peach and pecan research and clear tree intrusion along a 6.5-mile perimeter fence, roadways, and ditches across the 1,200-acre facility. The objective is to acquire a fully operational trimmer system designed specifically for front-mounted precision agricultural pruning, including hardware integration onto an existing government tractor, system validation, and staff training.

2. SCOPE OF WORK

The Contractor shall provide all labor, materials, tools, and supervision to deliver, install, test, and provide training on one (1) specialized, front-mounted orchard trimmer system matching the technical specifications below.

3. TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

The trimmer system must meet or exceed these physical and mechanical metrics:

• Mounting & Configuration: Engineered specifically for front-mount assembly on host machinery (tractors, skid steers, or loaders) to maximize operator visibility and directional control.

• Versatility & Footprint: Designed with a narrow structural footprint; must exclude bulky side-mounted auxiliary hydraulic tanks or protruding offset counterweights that obstruct tight orchard row navigation. Width of host machinery and trimmer system must not exceed 8 feet.

• Cutting Mechanism: High-precision cutting head utilizing dual sharp rotating saw blades designed to make clean, surgical agricultural cuts on limbs up to 3 to 5 inches thick; flail, shredding, or "bushhog" style mowing heads are strictly prohibited to prevent bark peeling, limb splitting and plant disease transmission.

• Weight: Maximum 800 lbs.

• Power: Hydraulic motor driven.

• Boom Length: 108 inches blade tip to blade tip.

• Cutting Path: 7 feet continuous width.

• Blade Speed: 2400 RPM to 2700 RPM.

• Cutting Angles: Fully variable from 0 to 90 degrees.

• Side Extension: Minimum 22-inch extension reach.

• Dimensions: 25.5 inches Height (excluding boom); Width 57 inches contracted to 79 inches extended.

• Cutting Height: Variable horizontally and vertically based on loader size.

• Hydraulic Flow: Minimum 9.4 GPM using one (1) set of hydraulic remotes.

4. PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS & TASKS

4.1 Equipment Delivery

• Transport and deliver the trimmer system to the SEFTNRL facility.

• Offload the equipment package at the delivery site.

• Deliver all components brand new and free of structural or cosmetic damage.

4.2 Hardware Installation

• Install and integrate the trimmer system onto the existing government-furnished tractor, a John

Deere 5075E, purchased in 2013.

• Provide all mounting brackets, hydraulic plumbing to remotes, and cab controls.

• Ensure installation preserves tractor OEM safety features and operator visibility.

4.3 Validation & Quality Assurance

• Perform a full functional check in the presence of the Technical Representative (TR).

• Verify blade speeds (2400–2700 RPM), articulation (0–90 degrees), and a leak-free 9.4 GPM hydraulic flow.

• Correct any mechanical deviations or operational faults promptly at no additional cost to the government.

4.4 Training & Documentation

• Deliver on-site, hands-on operational training for up to four (4) staff members.

• Cover safety protocols, machine limitations, preventative maintenance, and basic troubleshooting.

• Hand over complete OEM manuals and custom step-by-step Standard Operating Procedures

(SOPs).

5. DELIVERABLES & SCHEDULE

All tasks must be completed within sixty (60) calendar days from contract award:

• Deliverable 1: Trimmer Delivery o Description: Complete trimmer system delivered to SEFTNRL.

o Timeline: Within forty-five (45) calendar days from award.

• Deliverable 2: Integration & Validation o Description: Tractor installation and functional safety tests signed off by the TR.

o Timeline: Within fifty-five (55) calendar days from award.

• Deliverable 3: Training & SOP Handover o Description: Hands-on training completed for up to 4 staff; manuals and SOPs delivered.

o Timeline: Within sixty (60) calendar days from award.

Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) and United States Department of Agriculture Acquisition Regulation (AGAR) Clauses and Provisions The clauses and provisions contained herein are applicable to any order awarded as a result of this solicitation. The terms and conditions set forth herein supersede all other terms and conditions.

Acceptance of the order in accordance with (IAW) FAR 12.201-1(b)(2) constitutes acceptance of all terms and conditions contained herein.

As part of the Revolutionary FAR Overhaul (RFO), system updates may lag policy updates. The System for Award Management (SAM) may continue to require entities to complete representations based on provisions that are not included in this solicitation. Contracting officers will rely on representations from offers based on provisions in the solicitation. Entities are not required to, nor are they able to, update their entity registration to remove these representations in SAM.

52.252-2 Clauses Incorporated by Reference Feb 1998 This solicitation incorporates one or more clauses by reference, with the same force and effect as if they were given in full text. Upon request, the Contracting Officer will make their full text available. Also the full text of the clause may be accessed electronically at Internet address https://www.acquisition.gov/far-overhaul/far-part-deviation-guide/far-overhaul-part-52

52.212-4 Terms and Conditions—Commercial Products and Commercial Services (Nov 2025) ☐ Alternate I (Nov 2025) of 52.212-4 52.203-17 Contractor Employee Whistleblower Rights (Nov 2023) 52.203-19 Prohibition on Requiring Certain Internal Confidentiality Agreements or Statements (Jan 2017) 52.222-50 Combating Trafficking in Persons (Nov 2025)

☐ Alternate I (Nov 2025) of 52.222-50 52.222-90 Addressing DEI Discrimination by Federal Contractors (Apr 2026) 52.226-8 Encouraging Contractor Policies to Ban Text Messaging While Driving (May 2024) 52.232-39 Unenforceability of Unauthorized Obligations (Jun 2013) 52.232-40 Providing Accelerated Payments to Small Business Subcontractors (Mar 2023) 52.233-3 Protest After Award (Sep 2025) 52.233-4 Applicable Law for Breach of Contract Claim (Sep 2025) 52.240-91 Security Prohibitions and Exclusions (Nov 2025)

☐ Alternate I (Nov 2025) of 52.240-91 52.244-6 Subcontracts for Commercial Products and Commercial Services (Nov 2025)

The following clauses are applicable if checked:

☒ 52.204-13 System for Award Management—Maintenance (Nov 2025) ☒ 52.209-10 Prohibition on Contracting with Inverted Domestic Corporations (Sep 2025) ☒ 52.219-6 Notice of Total Small Business Aside (Nov 2025)

☐ Alternate I (Mar 2020).)

☒ 52.222-3 Convict Labor (June 2003) ☒ 52.222-19 Child Labor—Cooperation with Authorities and Remedies (Nov 2025) ☒ 52.222-36 Equal Opportunity for Workers with Disabilities (Nov 2025)

☐ Alternate I (Jul 2014) of 52.222-36 https://www.acquisition.gov/far-overhaul/far-part-deviation-guide/far-overhaul-part-52

☒ 52.223-23 Sustainable Products and Services ☒ 52.225-1 Buy American-Supplies (Nov 2025)

☐ Alternate I (Oct 2022) of 52.225-1 ☒ 52.232-33 Payment by Electronic Funds Transfer— System for Award Management (Oct 2018)

Other Applicable Clauses

52.247-34 F.O.B. Destination (Jan 1991)

AGAR Clauses

452.203-71 Anti-Discrimination and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Compliance (Dec 2025)

(a) By entering into this contract, the Contractor certifies that:

(1) It is compliant with all applicable Federal anti-discrimination laws and the Equal Protection principles of the U.S. Constitution, and it will remain compliant for the duration of the contract.

(2) Neither it nor any subcontractor or teaming partner operates or funds any program, policy, or initiative that promotes DEI in a manner that violates any applicable Federal anti-discrimination laws, including but not limited to Title VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, or the Equal Protection principles of the U.S. Constitution, and the Contractor and any subcontractor or teaming partner will not do so for the duration of the contract.

(b) If the Contractor participates in, facilitates, or funds programs that implicate Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 or Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, as amended, including but not limited to grants to or for schools, colleges, universities, 4-H programs, non-governmental organization (NGO) programs, sports programs, and education-related grants to prisons or other detention facilities, the Contractor certifies that it will remain compliant with those laws, including the requirements set forth in Executive Order 14168, Defending Women from Gender Ideology Extremism and Restoring Biological Truth to the Federal Government, and Executive Order 14173, Ending Illegal Discrimination and Restoring Merit-Based Opportunity.

(c) The Contractor affirms that the above requirements are conditions of payment that go to the essence of the contract and are therefore material terms of the contract. Payments under the contract are predicated on compliance with the above requirements, and therefore the Contractor is not eligible for funding under the contract or to retain any funding under the contract absent compliance with the above requirements.

(d) This certification reflects a change in the Government’s position regarding the materiality of the foregoing requirements and therefore any prior payment of similar claims does not reflect the materiality of the foregoing requirements to this contract.

(e) Submission of a knowing false statement relating to Contractor’s compliance with the above requirements and/or eligibility for the contract may subject the Contractor to liability under the False Claims Act, 31 U.S.C. § 3729, and/or criminal liability, including under 18 U.S.C. §§ 287 and 1001.

(f) The Contractor must include the provisions of this clause in all subcontract solicitations.

(g) Failure on the part of the Contractor or its subcontractors to comply with the terms of this clause may be grounds for the Contracting Officer to terminate this contract for default.

(End of Clause)

AGAR 452.203-72 Unenforceable Supplier Terms

(a) Definitions.

Supplier terms mean provisions customarily drafted by vendors of supplies or services and intended to create a binding legal obligation on the end user. The term applies:

1. Regardless of the format or style of the document. For example, supplier terms may appear in standard terms of sale or lease, Terms of Service (TOS), End User License Agreement (EULA), or another similar legal instrument or agreement, and may be presented as part of a proposal or quotation responding to a solicitation for a contract or order or otherwise become effective after the contract date.

2. Regardless of the media or delivery mechanism used. For example, supplier terms may be presented as one or more paper documents or may appear on a computer or other electronic device screen during a purchase, software installation, other product delivery, registration for a service, or another transaction.

(b) Applicability. When any supply or service acquired under this contract is subject to supplier terms, the supplier terms are deemed part of the contract only to the extent they are consistent with this clause. Supplier terms that conflict with any part of this clause, the contract, or Federal law are void and will not be considered incorporated into a contract, even if they are physically present in a contract documentation or systems. In the event of any inconsistency between supplier terms and this contract, this clause and the terms of the Government contract shall govern and supersede any supplier terms in all cases.

(c) Authorization Required. Notwithstanding any other provision, no supplier terms shall be binding on the Government unless the term is expressly authorized on the USDA Supplier Terms Authorization Form signed by the Contracting Officer, and the completed Authorization Form has been incorporated into the contract.

(d) Unenforceable Terms. Any supplier terms that impose obligations or restrictions inconsistent with applicable Federal law are unenforceable against the Government and deemed stricken from the agreement. This includes, but is not limited to, any clause that:

1. Requires the Government to pay future fees, penalties, interest, legal costs, earlytermination fees, cancellation fees, minimum purchase commitments, trueup payments, seatcount minimums, usage minimums, continueduse charges, or any other financial obligation not expressly authorized by the contract.

2. Requires the Government to indemnify the contractor or any other entity.

3. Restricts the Government’s ability to obtain similar supplies or services from another source.

4. Imposes any penalty, financial or otherwise, based on the Government’s decision not to exercise an option.

5. Subjects the United States Government to the laws of any U.S. state, territory, district, municipality, or foreign nation, except where Federal law expressly permits such application.

6. Requires dispute resolution in a forum or venue other than one prescribed by applicable Federal law.

7. Establishes a period of limitations for bringing an action that differs from that provided by applicable Federal law.

8. Grants the contractor rights to use, mine, access, aggregate, analyze, or otherwise exploit Government data, usage data, or metadata.

9. Deems the Government to have accepted initial or revised terms based on silence, continued performance, or failure to object.

10. Grants the supplier the right to audit Government facilities, systems, records, or use of the product or service, except as expressly authorized by the contract and applicable Federal law.

11. Requires the Government to accept supplier security requirements, network access requirements, monitoring, penetration testing, or other technical or security measures.

12. Permits the supplier to suspend, degrade, or terminate access to products or services based on alleged nonpayment, alleged breach, automated security triggers.

13. Limits the Government’s right to use, install, access, test, evaluate, or transfer the licensed product or service in any manner consistent with the contract and Federal law.

14. Requires the Government to store, process, maintain, or transmit data in a particular geographic location, or permits the supplier to transfer Government data outside the United States, except as expressly authorized by applicable Federal law.

15. Authorizes the supplier to use the Government’s name, seal, trademark, logo, or any reference to the Government as an end user or customer for marketing, publicity, promotional activities, press releases, or similar purposes.

16. Incorporates by reference, or requires the Government to accept, terms or conditions imposed by any third party, subcontractor, or upstream service provider, unless such terms are expressly incorporated into the contract by bilateral modification.

17. Limits, conditions, or negates the contractor’s performance obligations, service levels, or remedies through a supplier-provided service level agreement (SLA).

18. Uses Government data, usage data, metadata, prompts, content, or interactions to train, fine-tune, improve, or derive any artificial intelligence, machine learning, or automated decision-making model.

19. Subjects the Government to automated decision-making, automated risk scoring, automated content moderation, or any algorithmic process that may affect access, performance, or rights under the contract.

20. Utilizes artificial intelligence or algorithmic tools that produce decisions, recommendations, or outputs affecting contract performance without providing transparency, explainability, auditability, and bias-mitigation consistent with applicable Federal law and policy.

21. Profiles, tracks, or analyzes Government user behavior, preferences, communications, or interactions for personalization, marketing, or algorithmic optimization purposes.

(e) Non-binding Actions. Neither the Government nor any Government authorized end user is deemed to have consented to any term, condition, or clause by virtue of its inclusion in the supplier agreement or through the use of clickwrap, browsewrap, “I agree” mechanisms, or similar means. Execution of such mechanisms does not bind the Government or its authorized end users to any unenforceable terms.

(f) End user. The supplier agreement shall bind the ordering activity as the end user to the extent it does not conflict with the terms of this clause, but it shall not bind or impose personal liability on any Government employee or any person acting on behalf of the Government in their personal capacity.

(g) Law and disputes. The supplier agreement is governed by Federal law.

(h) Statutory exception. This clause does not apply to indemnification or any other payment by the Government that is expressly authorized by statute and specifically authorized under applicable agency regulations and procedures.

(i) Continued performance. The supplier or licensor shall not unilaterally revoke, terminate, or suspend any rights granted to the Government except as allowed by the contract. If the supplier or licensor believes the ordering activity to be in breach of the supplier agreement, it shall pursue its rights under the Contract Disputes Act or other applicable Federal statute while proceeding diligently with performance, pending final resolution of any dispute in accordance with the Disputes Clause at FAR 52.212-4(d) or FAR 52.233-1, as applicable.

(j) Arbitration. Binding arbitration shall not be used unless specifically authorized by agency guidance.

(k) Equitable or injunctive relief. Equitable or injunctive relief, including the award of attorney fees, costs, or interest, may be awarded against the United States Government only when explicitly provided by statute (e.g., the Prompt Payment Act or the Equal Access to Justice Act).

(l) Revisions to supplier agreements. Any revisions to the supplier agreement must be incorporated into the contract using a bilateral modification. Unilateral revisions are not binding on the Government.

(m) No automatic renewals. If any license or service tied to periodic payment is provided under the supplier agreement (e.g., annual software maintenance or annual lease term), such license or service shall not renew automatically upon expiration of its current term without prior express written consent from an authorized Government representative.

(n) Indemnification. Any clause of the supplier agreement requiring the supplier or licensor to defend or indemnify the end user is amended to provide that the U.S. Department of Justice has the sole right to represent the United States in any such action, in accordance with 28 U.S.C. 516.

(o) Taxes or surcharges. Any taxes or surcharges which the supplier or licensor seeks to pass along to the Government as end user will be governed by the terms of the associated Government contract or order and must be submitted to the Contracting Officer for a determination of applicability prior to invoicing unless specifically agreed otherwise.

(p) Non-assignment. The supplier agreement may not be assigned, nor may any rights or obligations thereunder be delegated, without the Government’s prior approval, except as expressly permitted by FAR 52.212-4(b) or FAR 52.232-23, as applicable.

(q) Confidential information. If the supplier agreement includes a confidentiality clause, such clause is amended to state that neither the agreement nor the contract price list, as applicable, shall be deemed “confidential information.” Issues regarding release of “unit pricing” will be resolved consistent with the Freedom of Information Act. Notwithstanding anything in the supplier agreement to the contrary, the Government may retain any confidential information as required by law, regulation, or its internal document retention procedures for legal, regulatory, or compliance purposes; provided, however, that all such retained confidential information will continue to be subject to the confidentiality obligations of the supplier agreement.

(r) Conflict with Federal law. If any other language, provision, or clause of the supplier agreement conflicts or is inconsistent with Federal law or the terms and conditions of this contract, such language, provisions, or clauses will be considered null and void and will not be binding on the United States Government.

(End of Clause)

452.204–70 Modification for Contract Closeout (Nov 2025)

(a) If unliquidated funds in the amount of $1000 or less remain on the contract, the Contracting Officer (Contracting Officer) shall issue a unilateral modification for deobligation. The contractor will receive a copy of the modification but will not be required to provide a signature. The Contracting Officer shall immediately proceed with contract closeout upon completion of the period of performance, receipt and acceptance of supplies or services, and final payment.

(b) Upon contract closeout for contracts utilizing SAP: if unliquidated funds of more than $1000 remain on the contract, the Contracting Officer shall issue a bilateral modification for deobligation.

The contractor will receive a copy of the modification and will be required to provide a signature.

(The Contracting Officer may also request a “Contractor Release of Claims” be completed by the contractor, although not required for contracts and orders using SAP.) If the bilateral modification and Release of Claims are not returned to the Contracting Officer within 60 days, the Contracting Officer shall release the modification as unilateral and proceed with contract close-out upon completion of the period of performance, receipt and acceptance of supplies or services, and final payment.

(c) Upon contract closeout for contracts utilizing anything other than cost reimbursement, if unliquidated funds of more than $1000 remain on the contract, the Contracting Officer shall issue a bilateral modification for deobligation. The contractor will receive a copy of the modification and a ‘‘Contractor Release of Claims’’ and will be required to provide a signature on both forms. If the bilateral modification and Release of Claims are not returned to the Contracting Officer within 120 days, the Contracting Officer shall release the modification as unilateral and proceed with contract closeout upon completion of the period of performance, receipt and acceptance of supplies or services, and final payment.

(End of Clause)

(END OF CLAUSES)

52.252-1 Solicitation Provisions Incorporated by Reference Feb 1998 This solicitation incorporates one or more solicitation provisions by reference, with the same force and effect as if they were given in full text. Upon request, the Contracting Officer will make their full text available. The offeror is cautioned that the listed provisions may include blocks that must be completed by the offeror and submitted with its quotation or offer. In lieu of submitting the full text of those provisions, the offeror may identify the provision by paragraph identifier and provide the appropriate information with its quotation or offer. Also, the full text of a solicitation provision may be accessed electronically at this/these address(es): https://www.acquisition.gov/far-overhaul/far-part-deviation-guide/far-overhaul-part-52

52.212-1 Instructions to Offerors - Commercial Products and Commercial Services (Nov 2025) 52.203-18 Prohibition on Contracting with Entities that Require Certain Internal Confidentiality Agreements or Statements-Representation (Jan 2017) 52.209-2 Prohibition on Contracting with Inverted Domestic Corporations - Representation (Sep 2025)

52.209-11 Representation by Corporations Regarding Delinquent Tax Liability or a Felony Conviction under any Federal Law (Sep 2025) 52.240-90 Security Prohibitions and Exclusions Representations and Certifications (Nov 2025)

The following provisions are applicable if checked:

☒ 52.204-7 System for Award Management—Registration (Nov 2025)

☐ Alternate I (Nov 2025) to 52.204-7 ☒ 52.225-2 Buy American Certificate (Oct 2022)

Other Applicable FAR Provisions

52.225-18 Place of Manufacture (Aug 2018)

AGAR Provisions

452.203-70 Anti-Discrimination and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Certification (Dec 2025)

(a) By submission of its offer, the offeror certifies that:

(3) It is compliant with all applicable Federal anti-discrimination laws and the Equal Protection principles of the U.S. Constitution.

(4) Neither it nor any proposed subcontractor or teaming partner operates or funds any program, policy, or initiative that promotes DEI in a manner that violates any applicable Federal anti-discrimination laws, including but not limited to Title VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, or the Equal Protection principles of the U.S. Constitution.

(b) If the offeror participates in, facilitates, or funds programs that implicate Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 or Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, as amended, including but not limited to grants to or for schools, colleges, universities, 4-H programs, non-governmental organization (NGO) programs, sports programs, and education-related grants to prisons or other detention facilities, by submission of its offer, the offeror certifies that it is compliant with those laws, including the requirements set forth in Executive Order 14168, Defending Women from Gender Ideology Extremism and Restoring Biological Truth to the Federal Government, and Executive Order 14173, Ending Illegal Discrimination and Restoring Merit-Based Opportunity.

(c) The offeror affirms that the above requirements are conditions of payment that go to the essence of the contract and are therefore material terms of the contract. Payments under the contract are predicated on compliance with the above requirements, and therefore the offeror will not be eligible for funding under the contract or to retain any funding under the contract absent compliance with the above requirements.

(d) This certification reflects a change in the Government’s position regarding the materiality of the foregoing requirements and therefore any prior payment of similar claims does not reflect the materiality of the foregoing requirements to this contract.

(e) Submission of a knowing false statement relating to offeror’s compliance with the above requirements and/or eligibility for the contract may subject the offeror to liability under the False Claims Act, 31 U.S.C. § 3729, and/or criminal liability, including under 18 U.S.C. §§ 287 and 1001.

(f) Failure on the part of the offeror or its subcontractors to comply with the terms of this clause may be grounds for the Contracting Officer to terminate the contract for default.

(End of Provision)

452.211-70 Brand Name or Equal (Sep 2025)

(a) If an item in this solicitation is identified as "brand name or equal," the purchase description reflects the characteristics and level of quality that will satisfy the Government’s needs. The salient physical, functional, or performance characteristics that "equal" products must meet are specified in the solicitation.

(b) To be considered for award, offers of "equal" products, including "equal" products of the brand name manufacturer, must-

(5) Meet the salient physical, functional, or performance characteristics specified in this solicitation;

(6) Clearly identify the item by-

i. Brand name, if any; and

ii. Make or model number;

(7) Include descriptive literature such as illustrations, drawings, or a clear reference to previously furnished descriptive data or information available to the Contracting Officer; and

(8) Clearly describe any modifications the offeror plans to make to a product to make it conform to the solicitation requirements. Mark any descriptive material to clearly show the modifications.

(c) The Contracting Officer will evaluate "equal" products on the basis of information furnished by the offeror or identified in the offer and reasonably available to the Contracting Officer. The Contracting Officer is not responsible for locating or obtaining any information not identified in the offer.

(d) Unless the offeror clearly indicates in its offer that the product being offered is an "equal" product, the offeror shall provide the brand name product referenced in the solicitation.

(End of provision)

(END OF PROVISIONS)

NOTICE FOR FILING AGENCY PROTESTS

United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Ombudsman Program

The USDA is committed to issuing solicitations and awarding contracts in a fair and prompt manner.

The Ombudsman Program for Agency Protests (OPAP) was established to address protest issues within the agency, providing an alternative to costly and time-consuming litigation. Operating independently, OPAP offers relief comparable to that granted by the Government Accountability

Office (GAO). Interested parties are encouraged to resolve concerns through USDA’s internal Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) process before pursuing external forums such as the GAO.

Concerns may be addressed informally or through a formal agency protest filed with either the Contracting Officer or the Ombudsman.

Informal Forum with the Ombudsman

1. Initial Point of Contact: Interested parties who believe a specific USDA procurement is unfair or otherwise defective should first direct their concerns to the applicable Contracting Officer.

2. Escalation: If the Contracting Officer is unable to address their concerns, interested parties are encouraged to contact the USDA Ombudsman for Agency Protests. Under this informal process, the agency is not required to suspend contract award performance. Utilization of the informal forum does not suspend any time requirement for filing a formal protest with the agency or other forums.

3. Required Information: To ensure a timely response, interested parties should provide the following information to the Ombudsman: solicitation/contract number, contracting office, Contracting Officer, and solicitation closing date (if applicable).

Formal Agency Protest with the Ombudsman

1. Effort to Resolve: Prior to submitting a formal agency protest, protesters must first use their best efforts to resolve their concerns with the Contracting Officer through open and frank discussions.

2. Independent Review: If the protester’s concerns remain unresolved, an Independent Review is available by the Ombudsman. The protester may file a formal agency protest with either the Contracting Officer or, alternatively, with the Ombudsman under the OPAP program. Contract awards or performance will be suspended during the protest period unless justified in writing for urgent and compelling reasons or determined in writing to be in the best interest of the Government.

3. Resolution Timeline: The agency’s goal is to resolve protests within 35 calendar days from the date of filing.

4. Required Information: Protests shall include the information set forth in FAR 33.104(a)(3).

Failure to submit the required information may result in a delay or dismissal of the protest.

5. Timeliness: Protests must be filed within the timeframes specified in FAR 33.104.

6. Submission: Formal protests under the OPAP program should be submitted electronically to SPE.inquiry@usda.gov and the Contracting Officer.

Election of Forum. By initiating a protest with the USDA, the protester agrees not to pursue the same matter with the Government Accountability Office (GAO) or any other external forum while the agency protest is pending. If a protest is filed externally, the agency protest will be dismissed.

mailto:SPE.inquiry@usda.gov