1240LU26Q0107.pdf

SOLICITATION, OFFER, 1. SOLICITATION NO. 2. TYPE OF SOLICITATION

SEALED BID (IFB) 3. DATE ISSUED PAGE OF PAGES

AND AWARD

(Construction, Alteration, or Repair)

1240LU26Q0107 INVITATION FOR BID

NEGOTIATED (RFP)

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL

07/16/2026

IMPORTANT -- The "offer" section on the reverse must be fully completed by offeror.

4. CONTRACT NO. 5. REQUISITION/PURCHASE REQUEST NO.

1171589

6. PROJECT NO.

7. ISSUED BY CODE 40LU 8. ADDRESS OFFER TO

Lisa Rakich lisa.rakich@usda.gov

USDA-FS INTERMOUNTAIN CSA 9

Lisa Rakich Dillon, MT 59725

9. FOR

INFORMATION CALL

a. NAME

LISA RAKICH

b. TELEPHONE NO. (Include area code) (NO COLLECT CALLS)

406-491-0561

SOLICITATION

NOTE: In sealed bid solicitations "offer" and "offeror" mean "bid" and "bidder."

10. THE GOVERNMENT REQUIRES PERFORMANCE OF THE WORK DESCRIBED IN THESE DOCUMENTS (Title, identifying no., date)

Solar System Install on Existing Well Townsend Ranger District, Helena Lewis & Clark National Forest.

The project consists of furnishing all labor, transportation, incidentals and materials necessary to install solar pumps on one well and converting an existing water system with a high-lifter pump and generator into a solar system in accordance with state and federal laws as well as specifications in this document.

The North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code for this work is 238210, Electrical Contractors & Other Wiring Installations with a small business size standard of $19 M This requirement is set aside 100% for small business participation.

Payment Bond will be required of the successful offeror after an award. (FAR Clause 52.228-15)

11. The Contractor shall begin performance within 10 calendar days and complete it within calendar days after receiving award, x notice to proceed. The performance period is x mandatory negotiable. (SeeStatement of work .)

12a. THE CONTRACTOR MUST FURNISH ANY REQUIRED PERFORMANCE AND PAYMENT BONDS?

(If "YES", indicate within how many calendar days after award in Item 12b.)

13. ADDITIONAL SOLICITATION REQUIREMENTS:

x YES NO 12b. CALENDAR DAYS

a. Sealed offers in original and 1 copies to perform the work required are due at the place specified in Item 8 by 1600 (hour) local time

08/06/2026 (date). If this is a sealed bid solicitation, offers will be publicly opened at that time . Sealed envelopes containing offers shall be marked to show the offeror's name and address, the solicitation number, and the date and time offers are due .

b. An offer guarantee is, X is not required.

c. All offers are subject to the (1) work requirements, and (2) other provisions and clauses incorporated in the solicitation in full text or by reference.

d. Offers providing less than 60 calendar days for Government acceptance after the date offers are due will not be considered and will be rejected .

NSN 7540-01-155-3212 STANDARD FORM 1442 (Rev. 12/2022) Prescribed by GSA FAR(48 CFR) 53.236-1(d) mailto:lisa.rakich@usda.gov

AMOUNTS

OFFER (Must be fully completed by offeror)

17. The offeror agrees to perform the work required at the prices specified below in strict accordance with the terms of this solicitation, if this offer is accepted by the Government in writing within calendar days after the date offers are due. (Insert any number equal to or greater than the minimum requirement stated in item 13d. Failure to insert any number means the offeror accepts the minimum in item 13d.)

18. The offeror agrees to furnish any required performance and payment bonds.

19. ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF AMENDMENTS

(The offeror acknowledges receipt of amendments to the solicitation -- give number and date of each)

AMENDMENT NO.

DATE.

20a. NAME AND TITLE OF PERSON AUTHORIZED TO SIGN OFFER (Type or print) 20b. SIGNATURE 20c. OFFER DATE

AWARD (To be completed by Government)

21. ITEMS ACCEPTED:

22. AMOUNT

23. ACCOUNTING AND APPROPRIATION DATA

24. SUBMIT INVOICES TO ADDRESS SHOWN IN

(4 copies unless otherwise specified)

ITEM

Block 27

25. OTHER THAN FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION PURSUANT TO THE UNITED STATES CODE AT

10 U.S.C. 3204(a) ( ) 41 U.S.C. 3304(a) ( )

26. ADMINISTERED BY CODE 40LU 27. PAYMENT WILL BE MADE BY

Invoice Payment Platform system www.IPP.gov

USDA-FS INTERMOUNTAIN CSA 9

LISA RAKICH

CONSTRUCTION & AE DIVISION

DILLON MT 59725

CONTRACTING OFFICER WILL COMPLETE ITEM 28 OR 29 AS APPLICABLE

28. NEGOTIATED AGREEMENT (Contractor is required to sign this document and return copies to issuing office.) Contractor agrees to furnish and deliver all items or perform all work requirements identified on this form and any continuation sheets for the consideration stated in this contract. The rights and obligations of the parties to this contract shall be governed by (a) this contract award, (b) the solicitation, and (c) the clauses, representations,certifications, and specifications incorporated by reference in or attached to this contract.

29. AWARD (Contractor is not required to sign this document.) Your offer on this solicitation is hereby accepted as to the items listed. This award consummates the contract, which consists of (a) the Government solicitation and your offer, and (b) this contract award. No further contractual document is necessary.

30a. NAME AND TITLE OF CONTRACTOR OR PERSON AUTHORIZED TO SIGN (Type or print) 31a. NAME OF CONTRACTING OFFICER (Type or print)

LISA RAKICH

30b. SIGNATURE 30c. DATE 31b. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

BY

31c. DATE

STANDARD FORM 1442 (REV. 12/2022) BACK

14. NAME AND ADDRESS OF OFFEROR (Include ZIP Code) 15. TELEPHONE NO. (Include area code)

16. REMITTANCE ADDRESS (Include only if different than item 14.)

CODE FACILITY CODE

http://www.ipp.gov/

CONTINUATION SHEET

REFERENCE NO. OF DOCUMENT BEING CONTINUED

1240LU26Q0107

PAGE OF

3 27

NAME OF OFFEROR OR CONTRACTOR

ITEM NO.

(A)

SUPPLIES/SERVICES

(B)

QUANTITY

(C)

UNIT

(D)

UNIT PRICE

(E)

AMOUNT

(F)

Email QUOTES as response to this solicitation are authorized and can be sent to lisa.rakich@usda.gov.

Delivery: 10/30/2026 Delivery Location Code: 03H6

USDA FOREST SERVICE

HELENA NATIONAL FOREST

Solar System Install on Existing Well on the Helena Lewis & Clark National Forest

NSN 7540-01-152-8067 OPTIONAL FORM 336 (4-86)

Sponsored by GSA

FAR (48 CFR) 53.110

mailto:lisa.rakich@usda.gov

1240LU26Q0107

SCHEDULE OF ITEMS/PRICES

2026 Livestock Water Well Solar Pump Installation Townsend Ranger District, Helena-Lewis & Clark National Forest

Broadwater County, Montana

Item A: Existing Livestock Water Well, Magpie Allotment This well is in the north portion of the Big Belts Mountain. It is in T12N, R1E, NE1/4, SW ¼ section of section 25.

Access to the well site is on Magpie Gulch Road, 425 and NFS Road #425 K-1. This includes developing the existing well with solar pumps and solar panels. Well will be operational June through October so system will have to be winterized with shut offs and drains if needed.

Specifications of the existing well:

6 inch steel casing to 25 feet, then 4-inch plastic casing to the well depth of 350 feet. *When drilled, 1.5 gallon/minute was recorded.

Pay Item Number

Description Method of Measureme nt

Pay Unit

Estimated Quantity

*Unit Price

Total Price

A.1 Mobilization LSQ LS All

A.2

Develop Existing well with Renewable energy submersible pumps with build in inverter for solar, wind and AC power source. Runs on both AC and DC voltage.

Includes pump, wiring, solar panel installation.

AQ LS All

A.3

Plumbing and installation of up to 2,400 gallon storage/livestock tank-10 gauge galvanized steel construction coated with marine paint

AQ LS All

Sub-Total

Item B: Solar Conversion of the existing Sheps water system, North Crow Allotment This water system is in the norther portion of Elkhorn Mountain in the Sheps Creek drainage. It is in T7N, R1W, NW1/4, NE ¼ section of section 24. Permission from the Townsend Ranger District is necessary to access this water system due to locked gates. The roads to access this site Indian Creek road #4031, Weasel Creek road #360 and a closed access road. This is currently a gravity fed water system with a headbox to collect water into a pipe and piped approximately 1,000 feet to the high-lifter pump. The water feeds into a 6 foot by 18-inch diameter enclosed tube where the submersible pump is, which is wired for a generator to push the water approximately 450 feet up the hill to a storage tank. This storage tank feeds two other stock tanks with continuous water. Solar water system will be operational June through October so system will have to be winterized with shut offs and drains if needed.

Pay Item Number

Description Method of Measureme nt

Pay Unit

Estimated Quantity

*Unit Price

Total Price

B.1 Mobilization LSQ LS ALL

B.2

Convert system to Solar including, Renewable energy submersible pumps with build in inverter for solar, wind and AC power source. Runs on both AC and DC voltage.

Includes pump, wiring, and solar panel installation.

Also includes installation of 6” well casing to submerge the pump.

AQ LS

Sub-Total

TOTAL COST $________________

Notes:

a) The Government intends to make one award from this solicitation. Therefore, to be considered responsive, contractors must submit pricing for all items. Round to the nearest cent.

b) Payment for bond premiums shall be included into one of the above mobilization items.

Price quotation furnished by:

Name Phone (

Address E-mail

UEI #

Technical Data - Technical data and supporting documentation associated with this solicitation are available as the following attachments:

• Attachment 1 - Statement of Work & Details 3 pages

• Attachment 2 – Specifications and Exhibits, 5 pages

• Attachment 3 – Tank Specifications

• Attachment 4 – Magpie Well Location

• Attachment 5 – Magpie Well Topo

• Attachment 6 – Sheps Road Map

• Attachment 7 – Sheps Topo Map

• Attachment 8 – DB Wage Determination, 5 pages

Definitization of Equitable Adjustments for Change Orders -

Pursuant to FAR 36.101-4(b), information regarding USDA’s definitization of equitable adjustments for change orders under construction contracts may be found at Contracting with USDA under “Federal Acquisition Regulation 36.101-4”. USDA’s procedures that apply to the definitization of equitable adjustments for change orders under construction contracts may be found in AGAR

443.304 -70.

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

This is a commercial construction acquisition. FAR 52.212-4 is amended as follows:

(b) Inspection/Acceptance. Inspection and Acceptance will be conducted in accordance with FAR 52.246-12, Inspection of Construction (Aug 1996).

(d) Changes. Changes will be handled in accordance with the following FAR clause(s):

☒ FAR 52.243-4, Changes (Nov 2025) ☐ FAR 52.243-5, Changes and Changed Conditions (Nov 2025)

52.203-17 Contractor Employee Whistleblower Rights (Nov 2023) 52.203-19 Prohibition on Requiring Certain Internal Confidentiality Agreements or Statements

52.222-50 (Jan 2017) Combating Trafficking in Persons (Nov 2025) ☐ Alternate I (Nov 2025) of 52.222-50

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:

☒ 52.203-6 Restrictions on Subcontractor Sales to the Government (Jun 2020) with Alternate I

(Nov 2021) of 52.203-6 ☐ 52.203-13 Contractor Code of Business Ethics and Conduct (Nov 2021) https://www.acquisition.gov/far-overhaul/far-part-deviation-guide/far-overhaul-part-52

☐ 52.204-9 Personal Identity Verification of Contractor Personnel Jan 2011 ☒ 52.204-13 System for Award Management—Maintenance (Nov 2025) ☐ 52.204-91 Contractor identification (Nov 2025) ☒ 52.209-6 Protecting the Government’s Interest When Subcontracting with

☐ 52.209-9 Contractors Debarred, Suspended, or Proposed for Debarment (Sep 2025) Updates of Publicly Available Information Regarding Responsibility

☒ 52.209-10 Matters (Sep 2025) Prohibition on Contracting with Inverted Domestic Corporations (Sep 2025)

☐ 52.219-4 Notice of Price Evaluation Preference for HUBZone Small Business Concerns (Nov

☒ 52.219-6 2025) Notice of Total Small Business Aside (Nov 2025) ☐ Alternate I (Mar 2020).

☒ 52.219-8 Utilization of Small Business Concerns (Nov 2025) ☐ 52.219-9 Small Business Subcontracting Plan (Nov 2025)

☐ Alternate III (Nov 2025) of 52.219-9.

☐ Alternate IV (Nov 2025) of 52.219-9

☒ 52.219-14 Limitations on Subcontracting (Nov 2025) ☐ 52.219-16 Liquidated Damages—Subcontracting Plan (Nov 2025) ☐ 52.219-33 Nonmanufacturer Rule (Nov 2025) ☒ 52.222-3 Convict Labor (June 2003) ☐ 52.222-19 Child Labor—Cooperation with Authorities and Remedies (Nov 2025) ☒ 52.222-35 Equal Opportunity for Veterans (Nov 2025)

☐ Alternate I (Jul 2014) of 52.222-35 ☒ 52.222-36 Equal Opportunity for Workers with Disabilities (Nov 2025)

☐ Alternate I (Jul 2014) of 52.222-36 ☒ 52.222-37 Employment Reports on Veterans (Nov 2025) ☐ 52.222-40 Notification of Employee Rights Under the National Labor Relations Act (Dec 2010) ☐ 52.222-41 Service Contract Labor Standards (Aug 2018) ☐ 52.222-42 Statement of Equivalent Rates for Federal Hires (May 2014)

This Statement is for Information Only:

It is not a Wage Determination

☐ 52.222-43 Fair Labor Standards Act and Service Contract Labor Standards -- Price Adjustment (Multiple Year and Option Contracts) (Aug 2018) ☐ 52.222-44 Fair Labor Standards Act and Service Contract Labor Standards -- Price Adjustment (May 2014) ☐ 52.222-51 Exemption from Application of the Service Contract Labor Standards to Contracts for Maintenance, Calibration, or Repair of Certain Equipment-Requirements (May 2014) ☐ 52.222-53 Exemption from Application of the Service Contract Labor Standards to Contracts for Certain Services-Requirements (Nov 2025) ☒ 52.222-54 Employment Eligibility Verification (Nov 2025) ☒ 52.222-62 Paid Sick Leave Under Executive Order 13706 (Jan 2022) ☒ 52.222-90 Addressing DEI Discrimination by Federal Contractors (Apr 2026)

☒ 52.223-2 Reporting of Biobased Products Under Service and Construction Contracts (Nov 2025)

☐ 52.223-9 Estimate of Percentage of Recovered Material Content for EPA-Designated Items (May 2008) ☐ Alternate I (May 2008) of 52.223-9

☐ 52.223-11 Ozone-Depleting Substances and High Global Warming Potential

52.223-12

Hydrofluorocarbons (Nov 2025) Maintenance, Service, Repair, or Disposal of Refrigeration Equipment and Air

52.223-23

Conditioners (Nov 2025) Sustainable Products and Services (Nov 2025)

☐ 52.224-3 Privacy Training (Jan 2017) ☐ Alternate I (Jan 2017) of 52.224-3 ☐ 52.225-1 Buy American-Supplies (Nov 2025) ☐ Alternate I (Oct 2022) of 52.225-1 ☐ 52.225-3 Buy American--Free Trade Agreements--Israeli Trade Act (Nov 2025) ☐ Alternate II (Nov 2025) of 52.225-3.

☐ Alternate III (Nov 2025) of 52.225-3.

☐ Alternate IV (Oct 2022) of 52.225-3 ☐ 52.225-5 Trade Agreements (Nov 2023) ☐ 52.225-19 Contractor Personnel in a Designated Operational Area or Supporting a Diplomatic

52.225-26 or Consular Mission outside the United States (May 2020) Contractors Performing Private Security Functions Outside the United States (Oct

52.226-4

2016) Notice of Disaster or Emergency Area Set-Aside (Nov 2007)

☐ 52.226-5 Restrictions on Subcontracting Outside Disaster or Emergency Area (Aug 2025) ☐ 52.229-12 Tax on Certain Foreign Procurements ☐ 52.232-29 Terms for Financing of Purchases of Commercial Products and Commercial Services

52.232-30

(Nov 2021) Installment Payments for Commercial Products and Commercial Services

52.232-33

(Nov 2021) Payment by Electronic Funds Transfer— System for Award Management (Oct 2018)

☐ 52.232-34 Payment by Electronic Funds Transfer—Other Than System for Award Management

52.232-36

(Jul 2013) Payment by Third Party (Nov 2025)

☐ 52.240-92 Security Requirements (Nov 2025) ☐ Alternate II (Nov 2025) of 52.240-92 ☐ 52.240-93 Basic Safeguarding of Covered Contractor Information Systems (Nov 2025) ☒ 52.242-13 Bankruptcy (July 1995) ☒ 52.246-21 Warranty of Construction (Mar 1994) ☐ 52.247-64 Preference for Privately Owned U.S.-Flag Commercial Vessels (Nov 2025) ☐ Alternate I (Apr 2023) of 52.247-64.

☐ Alternate II (Nov 2021) of 52.247-64

The Contractor shall comply with the following FAR Clauses for Commercial Construction.

52.222-6 Construction Wage Rate Requirements 52.222-7 Withholding of Funds 52.222-8 Payrolls and Basic Records 52.222-9 Apprentices and Trainees 52.222-10 Compliance with Copeland Act Requirements 52.222-11 Subcontracts (Labor Standards) 52.222-12 Contract Termination-Debarment 52.222-14 Disputes Concerning Labor Standards 52.222-15 Certificate of Eligibility 52.236-5 Material and Workmanship

The following clauses are applicable when checked:

☐ 52.222-30 Construction Wage Rate Requirements-Price Adjustment (None or Separately

Specified Pricing Method (Aug 2018) ☐ 52.222-31 Construction Wage Rate Requirements-Price Adjustment (Percentage Method) (Aug

2018) ☐ 52.222-32 Construction Wage Rate Requirements-Price Adjustment (Actual Method) (Nov

2025) ☒ 52.225-9 Buy American-Construction Materials (Nov 2025)

☐ Alternate I (Oct 2022) of 52.25-9 ☐ 52.225-11 Notice of Buy American Requirement-Construction Materials under Trade

Agreements (Nov 2025) ☐ Alternate I (Nov 2025) (of 52.225-11 ☐ Alternate II (Oct 2022) of 52.225-11

☒ 52.228-2 Additional Bond Security (Oct 1997) ☐ 52.228-5 Insurance-Work on Government Installation (Jan 1997) ☒ 52.228-11 Individual Surety-Pledge of Assets (Feb 2021) ☐ 52.228-13 Alternative Payment Protections (Jul 2020) ☒ 52.228-14 Irrevocable Letter of Credit (Nov 2014) ☒ 52.228-15 Performance and Payment Bonds-Construction (Jun 2020) ☒ 52.228-17 Individual Surety-Pledge of Assets (Bid Guarantee) (Feb 2021) ☒ 52.236-2 Differing Site Conditions (Jul 2025) ☒ 52.236-3 Site Investigation and Conditions Affecting the Work (Jul 2025) ☒ 52.236-6 Superintendent by the Contractor (Jul 2025) ☒ 52.236-7 Permits and Responsibilities (Jul 2025) ☒ 52.236-8 Other Contracts (Jul 2025) ☒ 52.236-9 Protection of Existing Vegetation, Structures, Equipment, Utilities, and

Improvements (Jul 2025) ☒ 52.336-10 Operations and Storage Areas (Jul 2025) ☐ 52.236-11 Use and Possession Prior to Completion (Jul 2025)

☒ 52.236-12 Cleaning Up (Jul 2025) ☒ 52.236-13 Accident Prevention (Jul 2025)

☒ Alternate I (Nov 1991) of 52.236-13 ☐ 52.236-14 Availability and Use of Utility Services (Jul 2025) ☒ 52.236-15 Schedules for Construction Contracts (Jul 2025) ☐ 52.236-16 Quantity Surveys (Jul 2025)

☐ Alternate I (Apr 1984) of 52.236-16 ☒ 52.236-17 Layout of Work (Jul 2025) ☒ 52.236-21 Specifications and Drawings for Construction (Jul 2025)

☐ Alternate I (Apr 1984) of 52.236-21 ☒ Alternate II (Apr 1984) of 52.236-21

☒ 52.242-14 Suspension of Work (Apr 1984) ☒ 52.248-3 Value Engineering (Oct 2025)

☐ Alternate I (Apr 1984) of 52.248-3

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 (MAY 2026)

(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 must govern and supersede any supplier terms in all cases.

(c) Authorization Required. Notwithstanding any other provision, no supplier terms must 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, early‑termination fees, cancellation fees, minimum purchase commitments, true‑up payments, seat‑count minimums, usage minimums, continued‑use 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 non‑payment, 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 must bind the ordering activity as the end user to the extent it does not conflict with the terms of this clause, but it must 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 must 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 must 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 must 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 must 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, must 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 (Apr 2026)

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

(b) For commercial contracts not exceeding the simplified acquisition procedure threshold under FAR 12.001(c), if more than $1,000 in unliquidated funds remain at closeout, the Contracting Officer will issue a bilateral deobligation modification. Only the modification requires the contractor’s signature, though a Release of Claims may be requested. If the required documents are not returned within 60 days, the Contracting Officer will issue a unilateral modification and proceed with closeout once performance is complete, acceptance is confirmed, and final payment is made.

(c) For all other non-commercial or non–cost‑reimbursement contracts, if more than $1,000 in unliquidated funds remain at closeout, the Contracting Officer will issue a bilateral deobligation modification and a Release of Claims, both requiring contractor signature. If these documents are not returned within 120 days, the Contracting Officer will issue a unilateral modification u and proceed with closeout upon completion of performance, acceptance, and final payment.

(End of Clause)

452.232-71 Progress Payments for Commercial Construction Contracts (May 2026)

(a) Contractor entitlement to progress payments. The contractor may request progress payments monthly as the work proceeds, or at more frequent intervals as determined by the Contracting Officer, on estimates of work accomplished that meets the standards of quality established under the contract, as approved by the Contracting Officer.

(b) Computation of amounts. Progress payments will be authorized when the payment requested is properly due in accordance with this contract; the work will be performed in accordance with the contract; and there has been no impairment or diminution of the Government’s security under this contract. The Contracting Officer may authorize consideration of:

(1) Materials delivered on site and preparatory work;

(2) Materials delivered to the contractor at locations other than the site, if:

i. Specifically authorized by the contract; and

ii. The contractor provides satisfactory evidence of title and intended use in the contract.

(c) Contractor request for progress payments. The contractor’s request for progress payments must include the following:

(1) An itemization of the amounts requested, related to the various elements of work required by the contract;

(2) A listing of the amount included for work performed by each subcontractor;

(3) A listing of the total amount of each subcontract;

(4) A listing of the amounts previously paid to each subcontractor; and

(5) Additional supporting data in a form and detail required by the Contracting Officer.

(d) Contractor Certification. Each request for progress payment must be accompanied by the following certification:

I hereby certify, to the best of my knowledge and belief, that—

(1) The amounts requested are only for performance in accordance with the specifications, terms, and conditions of the contract;

(2) All payments due to subcontractors and suppliers from previous payments received under the contract have been made, and timely payments will be made from the proceeds of the payment covered by this certification, in accordance with subcontract agreements and the requirements of Chapter 39 of Title 31, United States Code;

(3) This request for progress payments does not include any amounts which the prime contractor intends to withhold or retain from a subcontractor or supplier in accordance with the terms and conditions of the subcontract; and

(4) This certification is not to be construed as final acceptance of a subcontractor’s performance.

(name)

(title)

(date)

(e) Access for verification of payment entitlement. To verify the contractor’s entitlement to progress payments under this contract, the contractor must provide the Government, upon request and during normal business hours, access to the following:

(1) Records and Documentation:

i. Certified progress payment requests and supporting documentation;

ii. Subcontractor and supplier invoices, payment records, and lien waivers;

iii. Updated schedule of values and progress schedules;

iv. Quality assurance and inspection reports;

v. Payroll records, if applicable under labor provisions.

(2) Facilities and Worksite Access:

i. Physical access to the construction site for inspection of work progress;

ii. Access to off-site storage locations for materials billed but not yet incorporated into the work; or

iii. Access to any fabrication facilities where contract-related work is being performed.

(3) Access to electronic invoicing or project management systems used to track progress and payments, if such systems are used in contract performance.

(f) Dates for payment. A progress payment under this clause is a contract progress payment under the Prompt Payment clause of this contract, and except as provided in paragraph (g) of this clause, approved requests must be paid within 30 days of submitting a proper request for payment.

(g) Liquidation of progress payments. Progress payments must be liquidated by deducting from the payment of each item the total unliquidated amount of progress payments made for that separately priced unit of that line item. The liquidation amounts for each line item must be clearly delineated in each request for progress payment submitted by the contractor.

(h) Security for progress payments. In the event that the contractor fails to provide adequate security as required in this contract, no progress payment must be made under this contract. Upon receipt of adequate security, progress payments must be made, including all previous payments to which the contractor is entitled, in accordance with the terms of the contract. If at any time the Contracting Officer determines that the security provided by the contractor is insufficient, the contractor must promptly provide such additional security as the Contracting Officer determines necessary. In the event the contractor fails to provide such additional security, the Contracting Officer may collect or liquidate such security that has been provided, and suspend further payments to the contractor; the contractor must repay to the Government the amount of unliquidated progress payments as the Contracting Officer at his sole discretion deems repayable.

(i) Special terms regarding termination for cause. If this contract is terminated for cause, the contractor must, on demand, repay the Government the amount of unliquidated progress payments.

The Government must be liable for no payment except as provided by the Termination for Cause paragraph of the clause at Federal Acquisition Regulation 52.212-4, Contract Terms and Conditions—Commercial Products and Commercial Services.

(j) Reservation of rights.

(1) No payment, vesting of title under this clause, or other action taken by the Government under this clause must-

i. Excuse the contractor from performance of obligations under this contract; or

ii. Constitute a waiver of any of the rights or remedies of the parties under the contract.

(2) The Government’s rights and remedies under this clause-

i. Shall not be exclusive, but rather must be in addition to any other rights and remedies provided by law or this contract; and

ii. Shall not be affected by delayed, partial, or omitted exercise of any right, remedy, power, or privilege, nor must such exercise or any single exercise preclude or impair any further exercise under this clause or the exercise of any other right, power, or privilege of the Government.

(k) Refund of unearned amounts. If the contractor, after making a certified request for progress payments, discovers that a portion or all of such request constitutes a payment for performance by the contractor that fails to conform to the specifications, terms, and conditions of this contract (hereinafter referred to as the "unearned amount"), the contractor must-

(1) Notify the Contracting Officer of such performance deficiency; and

(2) Be obligated to pay the Government an amount (computed by the Contracting Officer in the manner provided in paragraph (j) of this clause) equal to interest on the unearned amount from the 8th day after the date of receipt of the unearned amount until-

i. The date the contractor notifies the Contracting Officer that the performance deficiency has been corrected; or

ii. The date the contractor reduces the amount of any subsequent certified request for progress payments by an amount equal to the unearned amount.

(l) Retainage. If the Contracting Officer finds that satisfactory progress was achieved during any period for which a progress payment is to be made, the Contracting Officer must authorize payment to be made in full. However, if satisfactory progress has not been made, the Contracting Officer may retain a maximum of 10 percent of the amount of the payment until satisfactory progress is achieved. When the work is substantially complete, the Contracting Officer may retain from previously withheld funds and future progress payments that amount the Contracting Officer considers adequate for protection of the Government and must release to the contractor all the remaining withheld funds. Also, on completion and acceptance of each separate building, public work, or other division of the contract, for which the price is stated separately in the contract, payment must be made for the completed work without retention of a percentage.

(m) Title, liability, and reservation of rights. All material and work covered by progress payments made must, at the time of payment, become the sole property of the Government, but this must not be construed as-

(1) Relieving the contractor from the sole responsibility for all material and work upon which payments have been made or the restoration of any damaged work; or

(2) Waiving the right of the Government to require the fulfillment of all the terms of the contract.

(3) The Government’s rights and remedies under this clause-

i. Shall not be exclusive, but rather must be in addition to any other rights and remedies provided by law or this contract; and

ii. Shall not be affected by delayed, partial, or omitted exercise of any right, remedy, power, or privilege, nor must such exercise or any single exercise preclude or impair any further exercise under this clause or the exercise of any other right, power, or privilege of the Government.

(n) Reimbursement for bond premiums. In making these progress payments, the Government must, upon request, reimburse the contractor for the amount of premiums paid for performance and payment bonds (including coinsurance and reinsurance agreements, when applicable) after the contractor has furnished evidence of full payment to the surety. The retainage provisions in paragraph (l) of this clause must not apply to that portion of progress payments attributable to bond premiums.

(o) Final payment. The Government must pay the amount due to the contractor under this contract after-

(1) Completion and acceptance of all work;

(2) Presentation of a properly executed voucher; and

(3) Presentation of release of all claims against the Government arising by virtue of this contract, other than claims, in stated amounts, that the contractor has specifically excepted from the operation of the release. A release may also be required of the assignee if the contractor’s claim to amounts payable under this contract has been assigned under the Assignment of Claims Act of1940 ( 31 U.S.C.3727 and 41 U.S.C. 6305).

(p) Limitation because of undefinitized work. Notwithstanding any provision of this contract, progress payments must not exceed 80 percent on work accomplished on undefinitized contract actions. A "contract action" is any action resulting in a contract, as defined in FAR subpart 2.1, including contract modifications for additional supplies or services, but not including contract modifications that are within the scope and under the terms of the contract, such as contract modifications issued pursuant to the Changes clause, or funding and other administrative changes.

(End of clause)

Solicitation Information

FAR 52.212-1 is amended as follows:

Period for acceptance of offers.

The Offeror agrees to hold the prices in its offer firm for 60 calendar days from the date specified for receipt of offers.

1. QUESTIONS DUE: Questions shall be submitted via email to the Contracting Officer, Lisa Rakich at lisa.rakich@usda.com. Questions are due no later than July 14, 2026, at 12:00 P.M.

Mountain Time(MT). This will ensure enough time to respond before the solicitation period ends. Please include the solicitation name and number as the subject line of the email.

2. QUOTES DUE: Submit quotes no later than July 21, 2026, at 4:00 P.M Mountain Time

(MT).

Submit the following documents below with your quote.

□ Schedule of Items

□ A document demonstrating recent and relevant experience and past performance in respect to the size and scope of this particular project. See pages 22-23 for specific information to include.

Acknowledge Amendments (per the instructions in Block 11 on the SF-30) if applicable.

Email addresses for submission of quote to the Contracting Officer, at lisa.rakich@usda.gov.

Award Type

It is anticipated that a firm fixed price contract will be awarded as a result of this synopsis/solicitation.

http://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?req=granuleid%3AUSC-prelim-title31-section3727&num=0&edition=prelim http://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?req=granuleid%3AUSC-prelim-title41-section6305&num=0&edition=prelim mailto:lisa.rakich@usda.com mailto:alisha.knaub@usda.gov

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 to the offeror representing the best value to the Government.

Experience - The Government will consider the extent to which the vendor demonstrates relevant experience performing work similar in scope, size, and complexity to the requirements of this solicitation. Greater consideration will be given to vendors whose experience reflects a strong alignment with the project scope.

Relevancy: The Government will assess how closely the quoter’s experience aligns with the scope, size, complexity, and type of work described in this solicitation. The Government will make an independent determination of relevancy of the data provided or obtained. Relevancy will be rated as:

• Very Relevant – Essentially the same scope and complexity.

• Relevant – Similar in scope and complexity.

• Somewhat Relevant – Some similarities in scope or complexity.

• Not Relevant – Little or no similarity.

Confidence Assessment: Based on the relevancy and quality of experience, the Government will assign one of the following confidence ratings:

• High Confidence – Government has a high expectation that the quoter understands the requirement and will be successful in performing the required work.

• Some Confidence – Government has a reasonable expectation that the quoter understands the requirement and will be successful in performing the required work.

• Low Confidence – Government has concerns that the quoter understands the requirement and will be successful in performing the required work.

Past Performance - Quoters shall provide a short narrative for five (5) relevant contracts (references) completed within the preceding five (5) year period.

If no relevant contracts are available, the five (5) most recent contracts completed in the last five (5) years shall be used. Contracts listed may include those with the Federal Government, State and Local Governments or their agencies, and Commercial Customers. If a quoter has no relevant past performance history, the quoter must affirmatively state that it possesses no relevant past performance history.

The Government will evaluate the quoter’s past performance to assess the degree of confidence that the quoter will successfully perform the required effort.