12444526Q0008

1. REQUEST NO.

5a. ISSUED BY

NAME

a. NAME

c. STREET ADDRESS

d. CITY

10. PLEASE FURNISH QUOTATIONS TO

THE ISSUING OFFICE IN BLOCK 5a ON

OR BEFORE CLOSE OF BUSINESS (Date)

2. DATE ISSUED 3. REQUISITION/PURCHASE REQUEST NO. 4. CERT. FOR NAT. DEF.

UNDER BDSA REG. 2

AND/OR DMS REG.1

RATING

6. DELIVERY BY (Date)

7. DELIVERY

9. DESTINATION

a. NAME OF CONSIGNEE

b. STREET ADDRESS

PAGE OF PAGES

5b. FOR INFORMATION CALL: (No collect calls)

TELEPHONE NUMBER

AREA CODE NUMBER

8. TO:

b. COMPANY

e. STATE f. ZIP CODE

c. CITY

d. STATE e. ZIP CODE

IMPORTANT: This is a request for information, and quotations furnished are not offers. If you are unable to quote, please so indicate on this form and return it to the address in Block 5a. This request does not commit the Government to pay any costs incurred in the preparation of the submission of this quotation or to contract for supplies or services. Supplies are of domestic origin unless otherwise indicated by quoter. Any representations and/or certifications attached to this Request for Quotations must be completed by the quoter.

11. SCHEDULE (Include applicable Federal, State and local taxes)

THIS RFQ

REQUEST FOR QUOTATION

(THIS IS NOT AN ORDER)

IS IS NOT A SMALL BUSINESS SET ASIDEX

02/18/2026 1162325

1 15

1720 PEACHTREE ST NW

STE 876S

ATLANTA GA 30309-2449

USDA-FS CSA EAST 6

03/15/2026

J W TOUMEY NURSERY

USDA FOREST SVC

E23985 OID US 2 EAST

WATERSMEET

MI 49969

530 214-0154JOSHUA FRANKS

03/01/2026 2300 ES

FOB DESTINATION

OTHER

(See Schedule)X

ITEM NO.

(a)

SUPPLIES/SERVICES

(b)

QUANTITY

(c)

UNIT

(d)

UNIT PRICE

(e)

AMOUNT

(f)

Solicitation number 12444526Q0008 is issued as a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for JW Toumey R9 Seedling Shipment Delivery of 24-28 truckloads of seedlings from JW Toumey Nursery to National Forests located in Michigan, Wisconsin, and Minnesota.

Period of Performance: 03/15/2026 to 03/14/2027

0001 Delivery of 24-28 truckloads of seedlings from JW Toumey Nursery to National Forests located in Michigan, Wisconsin, and Minnesota.

Product/Service Code: 8145 Product/Service Description: SPECIALIZED SHIPPING

AND STORAGE CONTAINERS

Delivery: 03/15/2026 Continued ...

12. DISCOUNT FOR PROMPT PAYMENT

a. 10 CALENDAR DAYS (%) b. 20 CALENDAR DAYS (%) c. 30 CALENDAR DAYS (%) d. CALENDAR DAYS

NUMBER PERCENTAGE

NOTE: Additional provisions and representations

13. NAME AND ADDRESS OF QUOTER

b. STREET ADDRESS

c. COUNTY

d. CITY e. STATE f. ZIP CODE

14. SIGNATURE OF PERSON AUTHORIZED TO

SIGN QUOTATION

16. SIGNER

a. NAME (Type or print)

c. TITLE (Type or print)

a. NAME OF QUOTER

AREA CODE

NUMBER

15. DATE OF QUOTATION

b. TELEPHONE are are not attached

AUTHORIZED FOR LOCAL REPRODUCTION

Previous edition not usable

STANDARD FORM 18 (REV. 6-95)

Prescribed by GSA - FAR (48 CFR) 53.215-1(a)

ITEM NO. SUPPLIES/SERVICES QUANTITY UNIT UNIT PRICE AMOUNT

NAME OF OFFEROR OR CONTRACTOR

2 15

CONTINUATION SHEET

REFERENCE NO. OF DOCUMENT BEING CONTINUED PAGE OF

(A) (B) (C) (D) (E) (F)

12444526Q0008

Drop trailers. QTY2. Each trailer for 2 weeks.

0002 Drop Trailers, 2 locations for 2 weeks each 4 WK

Product/Service Code: 8145

Product/Service Description: SPECIALIZED SHIPPING

AND STORAGE CONTAINERS

Delivery: 03/15/2026

Additional Funding for excess wait time, drop trailers. As needed.

0003 Additional Funding for excess wait time, drop trailers

Product/Service Code: 8145

Product/Service Description: SPECIALIZED SHIPPING

AND STORAGE CONTAINERS

Delivery: 03/15/2026

FY2027 Deliver truckloads of seedlings, Drop

Trailers Option Yr1

0004 FY2027 Deliver truckloads of seedlings, Drop 28 TC

Trailers Option Yr1

(Option Line Item)

Product/Service Code: 8145

Product/Service Description: SPECIALIZED SHIPPING

AND STORAGE CONTAINERS

Delivery: 03/15/2026

0005 FY2028 Deliver truckloads of seedlings, Drop 28 TC

Trailers Option Yr2

(Option Line Item)

Product/Service Code: 8145

Product/Service Description: SPECIALIZED SHIPPING

AND STORAGE CONTAINERS

Delivery: 03/15/2026

0006 FY2029 Deliver truckloads of seedlings, Drop 28 TC

Trailers Option Yr3

(Option Line Item)

Product/Service Code: 8145

Product/Service Description: SPECIALIZED SHIPPING

AND STORAGE CONTAINERS

Delivery: 03/15/2026

Continued ...

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

ITEM NO. SUPPLIES/SERVICES QUANTITY UNIT UNIT PRICE AMOUNT

NAME OF OFFEROR OR CONTRACTOR

3 15

CONTINUATION SHEET

REFERENCE NO. OF DOCUMENT BEING CONTINUED PAGE OF

(A) (B) (C) (D) (E) (F)

12444526Q0008

0007 FY2030 Deliver truckloads of seedlings, Drop 28 TC

Trailers Option Yr4

(Option Line Item)

Product/Service Code: 8145

Product/Service Description: SPECIALIZED SHIPPING

AND STORAGE CONTAINERS

Delivery: 03/15/2026

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

JW Toumey R9 Seedling Shipment

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; offers are being requested, and a separate written solicitation will not be issued.

Solicitation number 12444526Q0008 is issued as a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for JW Toumey R9 Seedling Shipment Delivery of 24-28 truckloads of seedlings from JW Toumey Nursery to National Forests located in Michigan, Wisconsin, and Minnesota.

This acquisition is set-aside for small business concerns. This solicitation incorporates provisions and clauses by reference. The full text of provisions and clauses may be accessed electronically at www.acquisition.gov.

The applicable North American Industry Classification Standard Code is 488510 The small business size standard is $20 Million This acquisition is a Total Small Business Set-Aside. All responsible sources may submit a quotation which will be considered by the agency.

Statement of Requirement JW Toumey R9 Seedling Shipment, delivery of 24-28 truckloads of seedlings from JW Toumey Nursery to National Forests located in Michigan, Wisconsin, and Minnesota.

Attachment 1 – Statement of Work Attachment 2 - Schedule of Items Attachment 3 - Experience Questionnaire Attachment 4 - Wage Determination 1981-0136 12.03.2025 Attachment 5 - FAR Part 13 Deviation

**Due to likely weather variations, flexibility in the delivery schedules listed below will be an important factor in evaluating bid proposals, in addition to price.

If you are interested in bidding on this work, please provide:

1. A quote to cover costs associated for each truck load.

o Include costs for excess wait times o Include cost for drop-trailers (include any additional information on cost breakdown or available options or requirements in technical proposal)

2. A statement on the flexibility that you can provide in the delivery schedule along with carrier(s) that may be used. Preference will be given to proposals that can show they can provide flexibility and guarantee trucks will be available to meet determined timelines.

Technical Data -

Technical data and supporting documentation associated with this solicitation are available through the following sources:

http://www.acquisition.gov/

1. Solicitation Attachments The following documents are included as attachments to this solicitation and can be accessed via the “Attachments/Links” section of the posting.

• Attachment 1 – Statement of Work

• Attachment 2 - Schedule of Items

• Attachment 3 - Experience Questionnaire

• Attachment 4 - Wage Determination 1981-0136 12.03.2025

• Attachment 5 - FAR Part 13 Deviation

Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) and United States Department of Aquiculture 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)

(o) FAR 52.246-21, Warranty of Construction is applicable to this contract.

52.203-17 Contractor Employee Whistleblower Rights (Nov 2023) 52.203-19 Prohibition on Requiring Certain Internal Confidentiality Agreements or Statements (Jan 2017) https://www.acquisition.gov/far-overhaul/far-part-deviation-guide/far-overhaul-part-52

52.222-50 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) 52.232-40 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) ☒ 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 Contractors Debarred, Suspended, or Proposed for Debarment (Sep 2025) ☐ 52.209-9 Updates of Publicly Available Information Regarding Responsibility Matters (Sep 2025) ☒ 52.209-10 Prohibition on Contracting with Inverted Domestic Corporations (Sep 2025) ☐ 52.219-4 Notice of Price Evaluation Preference for HUBZone Small Business Concerns (Nov 2025) ☒ 52.219-6 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) ☒ 52.222-54 Employment Eligibility Verification (Nov 2025)

☒ 52.222-62 Paid Sick Leave Under Executive Order 13706 (Jan 2022) ☐ 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 Hydrofluorocarbons (Nov 2025) ☐ 52.223-12 Maintenance, Service, Repair, or Disposal of Refrigeration Equipment and Air Conditioners (Nov 2025) ☒ 52.223-23 Sustainable Products and Services ☐ 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 or Consular Mission outside the United States (May 2020) ☐ 52.225-26 Contractors Performing Private Security Functions Outside the United States (Oct 2016) ☐ 52.226-4 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 (Nov 2021) ☐ 52.232-30 Installment Payments for Commercial Products and Commercial Services (Nov 2021) ☒ 52.232-33 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 (Jul 2013) ☐ 52.232-36 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 (No 2025) ☐ 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 Services.

☒ 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

Employee Class Monetary Wage -- Fringe Benefits Forestry Truck Driver $29.19

☒ 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)

Other Applicable Clauses 52.217-8 Option to Extend Services (Nov 1999)

30 calendar days prior to contract expiration 52.217-9 Option to Extend the Term of the Contract (Mar 2000)

(a) 30 Calendar days prior to contract expiration and 60 days (c) five years and 6 months.

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

AGAR Clauses

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 closeout 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)

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)

Solicitation Information

Award Type

It is anticipated that a Firm-Fixed Price will be awarded as a result of this synopsis/solicitation. It is anticipated that a firm-fixed price requirements contract consisting of one (1) one-year base period and four (4) one-year option periods shall be awarded as a result of this synopsis/solicitation. The total duration of this contract shall not exceed five (5) years.

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

FAR 52.212-1 Instructions to Offerors – Commercial Products and Commercial Services (SEP 2023)

1. Offerors must have an active entity registration in the System for Award Management in order to submit an offer. https://www.sam.gov/SAM/

2. Offers submitted in response to this solicitation shall include a firm-firm fixed price quote valid for no less than 90 days, and contractor representations and certifications.

3. Address questions about this solicitation to Joshua Franks joshua.franks@usda.gov no later than February 22, 2026, at 11:00 PM Eastern. Questions will be consolidated, and answers provided by issuance of an amendment directly thereafter. 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.

4. Submit offer by email to Joshua Franks joshua.franks@usda.gov so that it is delivered into this inbox by March 1, at 11:00 PM Eastern. Be aware that large attachments may increase the time required to deliver an email.

(End of provision

FAR 52.212-2 Evaluation – Commercial Products and Commercial Services (NOV 2021) 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.

(a) The Government will award a contract resulting from this solicitation to the responsible offeror whose offer conforming to the solicitation will be most advantageous to the Government, price and other factors considered. The following factors shall be used to evaluate offers:

Relevant Experience https://www.sam.gov/SAM/ mailto:joshua.franks@usda.gov mailto:joshua.franks@usda.gov

Past Performance

Cost/Price

Technical and past performance, when combined, are significantly more important than cost or price.

Relevant Experience - The Government will consider the extent to which the vendor demonstrates 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 Government’s needs. Due to likely weather variations, flexibility in the delivery schedules listed below will be an important factor in evaluating bid proposals, in addition to price. A statement on the flexibility that you can provide in the delivery schedule along with carrier(s) that may be used. Preference will be given to proposals that can show they can provide flexibility and guarantee trucks will be available to meet determined timelines.

Past Performance - Offerors shall provide completed Past Performance Information Sheets (see Attachment 3) for five (5) relevant contracts (references) completed within the preceding five (5) year period.

Offerors shall also provide Past Performance Information Sheets for all teaming partners and critical subcontractors to include five (5) relevant contracts (references) completed within the preceding five (5) year period. A critical subcontractor is defined as an entity (subcontractor, teaming Contractor) other than the offeror itself that will perform at least 20% or more of the total proposed contract. In addition to the Past Performance Information Sheet for each teaming partner and critical subcontractor, the offeror shall also provide a consent letter executed by each of its proposed partners and critical subcontractors authorizing the release of adverse past performance information to the prime Contractor to allow the prime Contractor an opportunity to respond. A sample Subcontracting/Teaming Partner Consent Form is provided as Attachment 7 to the solicitation.

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 an offeror has no relevant past performance history, the offeror must affirmatively state that it possesses no relevant past performance history.

The Government will evaluate the offeror’s past performance to assess the degree of confidence that the offeror will successfully perform the required effort. The evaluation will consider recency, relevancy, and quality of past performance.

Price: Total price evaluation will be for the base period, all option periods and in accordance with FAR 52.217-8, up to a six-month extension period. Failure to propose pricing for the base period and all option periods on individual line items may result in a quotation being excluded from further consideration. The offeror’s quotation will be evaluated in accordance with FAR 12.204, to determine if it is fair and reasonable.

(b) Options. The Government will evaluate offers for award purposes by adding the total price for all options to the total price for the basic requirement. The Government may determine that an offer is unacceptable if the option prices are significantly unbalanced. Evaluation of options shall not obligate the Government to exercise the option(s).

(c) A written notice of award or acceptance of an offer, mailed or otherwise furnished to the successful offeror within the time for acceptance specified in the offer, shall result in a binding contract without further action by either party. Before the offer’s specified expiration time, the Government may accept an offer (or part of an offer), whether or not there are negotiations after its receipt, unless a written notice of withdrawal is received before award.

Qualification Requirements **Due to likely weather variations, flexibility in the delivery schedules listed below will be an important factor in evaluating bid proposals, in addition to price.

If you are interested in bidding on this work, please provide:

• A quote to cover costs associated for each truck load.

• Include costs for excess wait times

• Include cost for drop-trailers (include any additional information on cost breakdown or available options or requirements in technical proposal)

• A statement on the flexibility that you can provide in the delivery schedule along with carrier(s) that may be used. Preference will be given to proposals that can show they can provide flexibility and guarantee trucks will be available to meet determined timelines.

(End of provision)

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

52.203-18 Prohibition on Contracting with Entities that Require Certain Internal Confidentiality Agreements or Statements-Representation (Jan 2017) 52.240-90 Security Prohibitions and Exclusions Representations and Certifications (Nov 2025)

The following provisions are applicable if checked:

☒ 52.203-11 Certification and Disclosure Regarding Payments to Influence Certain Federal Transactions (Sep 2024) ☒ 52.204-7 System for Award Management—Registration (Nov 2025)

☐ Alternate I (Nov 2025) to 52.204-7 ☐ 52.204-90 Offeror Identification (Nov 2025) ☐ 52.207-6 Solicitation of Offers from Small Business Concerns and Small Business Teaming Arrangements or Joint Ventures (Multiple-Award Contracts) (Aug 2024) ☐ 52.209-12 Certification Regarding Tax Matters (Oct 2025) ☐ 52.219-2 Equal Low Bids (Nov 2025) ☐ 52.222-18 Certification Regarding Knowledge of Child Labor for Listed End Products (Feb 2021) ☐ 52.222-48 Exemption from Application of the Service Contract Labor Standards for Maintenance, Calibration, or Repair of Certain Equipment–Certification (Nov 2025) ☐ 52.222-52 Exemption from Application of the Service Contract Labor Standards for Certain Services-Certification (Nov 2025) ☐ 52.222-56 Certification Regarding Trafficking in Persons Compliance Plan (Oct 2020) ☐ 52.223-4 Recovered Material Certification (May 2008) ☐ 52.225-2 Buy American Certificate (Oct 2022) ☐ 52.225-4 Buy American-Free Trade Agreements-Israeli Trade Act Certificate (Nov 2025) ☐ 52.225-6 Trade Agreements-Certificate (Feb 2021) ☐ 52.226-3 Disaster or Emergency Area Representation (Nov 2007) ☐ 52.229-11 Tax on Certain Foreign Procurements—Notice and Representation (Jul 2025)

Other Applicable FAR Provisions

52.217-5 Evaluation of Options (Nov 2025)

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:

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

(2) 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)

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

JW Toumey Nursery Seedling Shipment for R9 Forests

Description/Specifications/Statement of Work

The JW Toumey Nursery (“the Nursery”) is seeking quotes for the pick-up, transportation, and delivery of tree seedlings from the nursery in Watersmeet, MI to various tree cooler sites throughout Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Michigan during March 15-November 15. The majority, if not all the loads are currently planned to take place from April-June. However, loads outside of that timeframe are possible.

The first four truckloads are estimated to be transported early April 2026, prior to seedling lifting operations. The remaining loads are estimated to begin mid to late April, 2026, but could be sooner or later, depending on weather events.

Unless cancelled by the nursery, one trailer must be ready for loading each morning once seedling lifting has begun (estimated April 15, 2026). The Nursery’s preference is to have one truck and two trailers used for the majority of this project. This way there is always an empty trailer at the Nursery so that it can be loaded and ready for the driver when they return from a load. This year an additional truck/trailer will likely be requested to keep up with timelines and additional deliveries that will be needed. This means that multiple trucks will need to be in rotation at certain times to service all the stops once lifting begins.

The use of drop-trailers has been included in the schedule of items. This is intended to either enhance cooler capacity at drop locations or to be used in emergency situations at drop locations and/or the Nursery in the situation of cooler breakdowns. Some years this is not needed. We are anticipating, at this time, that two will likely be needed. Please ensure that in your bid and proposal, that you are accounting to have additional refrigerated trailers available if requested. It will also be the responsibility of awarded contractor to include in their bid to be able to refuel drop-trailers that are requested during use.

As the season approaches, tentative dates, truckloads, and drop points will be adjusted depending on the availability of the tree seedlings and the planting crew needs at the different cooler locations. The schedule of truckloads and drop points will all become firm once these factors are known. A variation of one day in either direction from the final date that the Nursery requests the seedlings be delivered may sometimes be negotiable.

Bidder must supply information about carrier(s) they plan to use in bid proposal. Truck and driver must be determined 3 days prior to arrival, and this information must be supplied to the nursery at this time.

Due to likely weather variations, flexibility in the delivery schedules will be an important factor in evaluating bid proposals, in addition to price.

This contract is for one year with the possibility of 4 option year renewals

Trailer Specifications/Conditions:

The seedlings must be transported in refrigerated trailers with the capability of maintaining constant internal temperatures between 33 to 37 degrees Fahrenheit. Refrigerated trailers must operate within this temperature range prior to loading seedlings, during the entire transportation route, and maintained until all the seedlings have been unloaded.

The trailers must be a full 53’ long refrigerated trailer, capable of hauling up to 800,000 seedlings per load in bags/boxes. One heavy-duty bag/box holds between 100 to 1,000 seedlings, depending on species and seedling size class. Seedlings are typically packed in either paper bags: 32”x33”x10”, or cardboard boxes: 27”x17.5”x11”. Average weight per bag/box typically varies from 30 to 60 pounds.

Total weight of seedlings per truckload will not exceed 42,000 pounds.

In addition, trailers must not have been previously used to transport chemicals or other hazardous substances that would contaminate the seedlings and must be free of debris from previous shipments.

Loading/Unloading:

Government personnel will be available to load seedlings at the nursery and unload seedlings at delivery locations. Loading at the Nurseries will be with loading dock and forklift and unloading at cooler locations will be by hand.

Loading of the tree seedlings at the nursery must begin between 0400 – 1000 CT for the morning truckload, and between 1100 – 1300 CT for any requested afternoon truckloads. It is likely there will be stand-by time at the Nursery of 2 – 5 hours per trip, as the driver waits to have the truck loaded. Having an empty trailer at the Nursery will help to reduce this stand-by time.

Unloading of the tree seedlings at District sites must begin and conclude during office hours: 0800 – 1630 local time. Changes to the above requirement may be granted if arranged in advance with contract person(s) (e.g. weekend deliveries or after hour deliveries). 24 hours prior to delivery, notify the Forests so they can prepare for the delivery. It is likely there will be stand-by time during the unloading process of 2 – 3 hours per drop.

NOTE: In order to meet the loading, delivery, and unloading during office hours, most trailers may need to be loaded the day before at the nursery and parked overnight near or at the first stop location. Be sure this is included in your cost proposal. Trailer temperature must be monitored to ensure temperatures are always within the specified range.

Truckload Details:

Approximately 24-28 separate one-way truckloads are anticipated with 1 day (or less) intervals between the majority of those deliveries. Weather delays and weekends will spread out the deliveries. The schedule of deliveries will vary based on individual Forest’s needs but will likely rotate between each of the 5 Forests. Actual number of deliveries will vary based on number of seedlings packaged, but a good estimate is listed below.

ESTIMATED Truckload List:

Below is the tentative list of truckloads for the Base Year for your consideration. There are 7 extra loads in the Base Year compared to the option years to account for additional anticipated needs only to be expected in the Base Year. Pease NOTE: the number of truckloads, drop-off order and locations below are just estimates and are subject to change.:

Base Year ESTIMATED Truckloads (NOT in order by delivery dates):

**Pick up all loads from the JW Toumey Nursery EXCEPT see below:

J.W. Toumey Nursery E23985 Old U.S. Highway 2 Watersmeet, MI 49969 906-358-4523 or 906-367-2238

***One load may be picked up or dropped off at Badoura State Nursery:

Badoura State Nursery

13885 MN-64

Akeley, MN 56433 612-393-2192

****Deliver loads to the following drop point locations:

CHIPPEWA NF: Eric Taylor (Eric.S.Taylor@usda.gov; 423-241-5826)

Deer River Ranger District 1235 Division Street Deer River, MN 56636 218-244-0537 – office number (Travis Jones)

Blackduck Ranger District 417 Forestry Drive Blackduck, MN 56630 218-308-4236 office number (Audrey Gustafson)

Walker Ranger District (cooler not located at the District Office) 08097 Sautbine Rd NW Walker, MN 56484 218-308-4236 office number (Audrey Gustafson)

SUPERIOR NF: Kathy McTighe (Kathleen.McTighe@usda.gov)

Laurentian Ranger Station 318 Forestry Road Aurora, MN 55705 (Kelvin Tryon)

Sand Lake Guard Station 7362 Hwy 53 Britt, MN 55710 (Kelvin Tryon)

LaCroix Ranger Station

320 US 53

Cook, MN 55723 218-343-0322 (Paul Valento) mailto:Eric.S.Taylor@usda.gov mailto:Kathleen.McTighe@usda.gov

Kawishiwi Ranger Station 1393 Hwy 169 Ely, MN 55731 763-360-3887 (Scott Swanson)

Tofte Ranger Station

7355 MN 61

Tofte, MN 55615 218-370-0140 (Isaac Heruth)

Isabella Workstation 3989 Forest Service Drive Isabella, MN 55607 218-370-0140 (Isaac Heruth)

Gunflint Ranger Station 2020 W. Highway 61 Grand Marais, MN 55604 218-370-8410 (Patrick Carlson)

Lake County Forestry 419 Airport Rd Two Harbors, MN 55616 218-370-8410 (Patrick Carlson)

HURON-MANISTEE NF: TBD; 231-942-4945)

Glennie tree cooler M-65 Glennie, MI 48737 **0.25 miles north of Glennie on the east side of M-65

CHEQUAMEGON-NICOLET NF: Dan Hinson (daniel.hinson@usda.gov; 715-292-8672)

Washburn Ranger District 113 East Bayfield Street Washburn, WI 54891

Guard Station (USFS) 61770 State Hwy 77 Clam Lake, WI 54517

Laona Ranger District 4978 US Hwy 8 Laona, WI 54541 mailto:daniel.hinson@usda.gov

Lakewood Ranger District 15085 State Hwy 32 Lakewood, WI 5413

HIAWATHA NF: TBD; 906-428-5854)

Rapid River Tree Cooler 8181 US Hwy 2 Rapid River, MI 49878

Raco Tree Cooler 9200 South Ranger Rd.

Brimley, MI 49715

If you are interested in bidding on this work, please provide:

1. A bid to cover costs associated for each truck load.

o Include costs for excess wait times o Include cost for drop-trailers (include any additional information on cost breakdown or available options or requirements in technical proposal)

2. A statement on the flexibility that you can provide in the delivery schedule along with carrier(s) that may be used. Preference will be given to proposals that can show they can provide flexibility and guarantee trucks will be available to meet determined timelines.

Line Item

Drop #1 Drop #2 Drop #3 Drop #4

0001A Chippewa 1 Deer River Blackduck 308 0001B Chippewa 2 Deer River Walker 315 0001C Chippewa 3 Deer River Blackduck 308 0001D Chippewa 4 Deer River Walker 315 0001E Chippewa 5 Deer River Blackduck 308 0001F Chippewa 6 Deer River Walker 315 0001G Chippewa 7 Deer River Blackduck 308 0001H Chippewa 8 Deer River Walker 315 0001I Chippewa 9 Deer River Blackduck 308 0001J Chippewa 10 Deer River Walker 315

Total Chippewa $0.00 0002 Superior NF - First two(2) truckloads early April (before lifting begins); Remaining truckloads in 5-7 day intervals (after lifting begins).

0002A Superior 1 Laurentian Sand Lake LaCroix Kawishiwi 315 0002B Superior 2 Isabella Tofte Gunflint 308 0002C Superior 3 Laurentian LaCroix Kawishiwi 315 0002D Superior 4 Isabella Tofte Gunflint 308 0002E Superior 5 Laurentian 221 0002F Superior 6 Laurentian 221

Total Superior $0.00 0003 Huron-Manistee NF - Truckloads will occur 8-10 day intervals (after lifting begins).

0003A Huron-Manistee 1 Glennie 391 0003B Huron-Manistee 2 Glennie 391

Project Title: FY2026-2030 JW Toumey R9 Seedling Shipping Contract

Vendor Name: Vendor Email:

Vendor DUNS:

Est One-Way Mileage per Truckload

Forest / Truckload ESTIMATED Drop-off Points Cost per

Truckload

Chippewa NF - First Truckload early April (before lifting begins); Remaining truckloads at 2-4 day intervals (after lifting

Period of Performance Base Year: 03/15/2026-11/15/2026

0003C Huron-Manistee 3 Glennie 391 0003D Huron-Manistee 4 Glennie 391 0003E Huron-Manistee 5 Glennie 391

Total H-M $0.00 0004 Hiawatha NF - Truckloads will occur every 4-6 days (after lifting begins).

0004A Hiawatha 1 Rapid River Raco 268 0004B Hiawatha 2 Raco 246 0004C Hiawatha 3 Rapid River Raco 268

Total Hiawatha $0.00 0005 Chequamegon-Nicolet NF - Truckloads will occur every 6-8 days (after lifting begins).

0005A Chequamegon-Nicolet 1 Lakewood Guard Station Washburn 306 0005B Chequamegon-Nicolet 2 Lakewood 94 0005C Chequamegon-Nicolet 3 Washburn Guard Station Lakewood 306 0005D Chequamegon-Nicolet 4 Lakewood 94

Total C-N $0.00 0006 Baboura State Nursery - Truckload timming will be determined after Lift and Pack begins.

0006A Badoura 1 Badoura (Akeley, 310 Total Badoura $0.00

Est Wait time in Excess of amount shown in

SOW

Hourly Cost 1 hour

Drop-Trailer:

Refridgerated Trailers left at delivery locations or Nursery

Weekly Cost 1 week

Total of Items 1-6 $0.00 Mileages are estimated, vendors are responsible to verify mileage prior to providing per truckload price.

Estimated wait times (as shown in Statement of Work) should be factored into your total bid price for each load.

An hourly cost for wait times in excess of what is shown in the SOW is to be included on line item 0007 in the schedule above.

A weekly cost for refrigerated trailers to be left on site. This need would be to enhance existing cooler capicity at delivery locations and/or Nursery or as backup for cooler breakdowns. Be sure to cover any details on this in your technical proposal (line item 008 in schedule ab Be sure to include a technical proposal with your offer.

1001A Chippewa 1 Deer River Blackduck 308 1001B Chippewa 2 Deer River Walker 315 1001C Chippewa 3 Deer River Blackduck 308 1001D Chippewa 4 Deer River Walker 315 1001E Chippewa 5 Deer River Blackduck 308 1001F Chippewa 6 Deer River Walker 315 1001G Chippewa 7 Deer River Blackduck 308 1001H Chippewa 8 Deer River Walker 315 1001I Chippewa 9 Deer River Blackduck 308 1001J Chippewa 10 Deer River Walker 315

1002 Superior NF - First two(2) truckloads early April (before lifting begins); Remaining truckloads in 5-7 day intervals (after lifting begins).

1002A Superior 1 Laurentian Sand Lake LaCroix Kawishiwi 315 1002B Superior 2 Isabella Tofte Gunflint 308 1002C Superior 3 Laurentian LaCroix Kawishiwi 315 1002D Superior 4 Isabella Tofte Gunflint 308

1003 Huron-Manistee NF - Truckloads will occur 8-10 day intervals (after lifting begins).

1003A Huron-Manistee 1 Glennie 391 1003B Huron-Manistee 2 Glennie 391 1003C Huron-Manistee 3 Glennie 391

1004 Hiawatha NF - Truckloads will occur every 4-6 days (after lifting begins).

1004A Hiawatha 1 Rapid River Raco 268 1004B Hiawatha 2 Raco 246

1005 Chequamegon-Nicolet NF - Truckloads will occur every 6-8 days (after lifting begins).

1005A Chequamegon-Nicolet 1 Lakewood Guard Station Washburn 306 1005B Chequamegon-Nicolet 2 Lakewood 94

ESTIMATED Drop-off Points Est One-Way Mileage

Cost per

Chippewa NF - First Truckload early April (before lifting begins); Remaining truckloads at 2-4 day intervals (after lifting

Period of Performance Option Year 1: 03/15/2027-11/15/2027

1006 Baboura State Nursery - Truckload timming will be determined after Lift and Pack begins.

1006A Badoura 1 Badoura (Akeley, 310

Mileages are estimated, vendors are responsible to verify mileage prior to providing per truckload price.

Estimated wait times (as shown in Statement of Work) should be factored into your total bid price for each load.

An hourly cost for wait times in excess of what is shown in the SOW is to be included on line item 0007 in the schedule above.

A weekly cost for refrigerated trailers to be left on site. This need would be to enhance existing cooler capicity at delivery locations and/or Nursery or as backup for cooler breakdowns. Be sure to cover any details on this in your technical proposal (line item 008 in schedule above).

2001A Chippewa 1 Deer River Blackduck 308 2001B Chippewa 2 Deer River Walker 315 2001C Chippewa 3 Deer River Blackduck 308 2001D Chippewa 4 Deer River…