QA.pdf

Q1) We are outside of wheel to outside of wheel 93” so more than your minimum allowance, we really cannot change this, from how I read your width I cannot exceed 88" wide. Is this true or 93" is not going to be a problem?

A1) It would not work, I have included pictures to illustrate. The 4” on either side of the wheel is so the driver doesn’t have to be perfect and can stay out of the Formed Beds. Max from outside to outside is 88”.

Q2) You need a minimum of 4.2 yards of capacity; our smallest trailer is 13 yards of material that I would suggest you use. Do you have a layout design or is their tight turns that you need to make with this tractor trailer combo?

A2) 13 would be acceptable. However, a maximum loading height of 84 inches and a maximum overall length of 17 feet must be met.

Q3) We build 4-yard bucket side shooter that goes on the front of a loader, would that be a better option?

A3) A side shooter would not spread it in the formed bed as needed.

Q4) The SF 1449 lists offers due August 23, 2026 at 5:00 PM ET, while the solicitation text and SAM notice state 11:00 PM ET. Which deadline controls?

A4) Clerical Error, Quotes due 8.23.26 @ 11PM ET

Q5) The SF 1449 lists September 1, 2026 in the delivery section and a September 1– November 30, 2026 period of performance, while the specifications require delivery within 90 calendar days after receipt of order. Please confirm that delivery within 90 days ARO is acceptable.

A5) Preference is for delivery before November 2026, but delivery could be pushed out no later than April 30, 2027

Q6) SAM lists NAICS 336390 with a 1,000-employee size standard, while the SF 1449 lists NAICS 333111 with a 1,250-employee size standard. Which NAICS code applies?

A6) NAICS 336390 1,000 employees

Q7) FAR 52.219-33, Nonmanufacturer Rule, is not checked in the solicitation. Please confirm whether a small-business reseller may offer equipment manufactured by an other-than-small manufacturer, or identify any applicable waiver/manufacturer restriction.

A7) 52.219-33 doesn’t apply to this req. Small business reseller may offer equipment manufactured by an other-than-small business manufacturer.

Q8) Is the minimum 4.2-cubic-yard hopper capacity measured as struck/level capacity or heaped capacity?

A8) Heaped Capacity

Q9) Please confirm the diagrammed wheel dimensions are hard.

A9) Yes, (see pictures below) Requirements: at least 56 inches between the inside tire edges and no more than 88 inches across the outside tire edges. Yes

Q10) Is a customized or manufacturer-modified commercial spreader acceptable if the finished unit meets every salient characteristic?

A10) Yes

Q11) If the nursery has an incumbent or reference make/model, please identify it.

A11) JBS, Whatcom, Artex/NTech, and Millcreek are all believed to have suitable models that would work. There are probably others as well.

Q12) Must the unit deposit sawdust directly behind the spreader in a 48-inch-wide strip, rather than use a broadcast or side-discharge mechanism?

A12) Yes, broadcast or side discharge will not work. The sawdust will need to be laid over the bed not to displace the freshly sowing seed.

Q13) Is there a minimum vertical frame/axle clearance needed above the formed seedling bed?

A13) Yes, freshly formed bed height is about 6 inches. So vertical frame/axil height would need to be able to safely clear that.

Q14) Should the sawdust spreader use a side-belt discharge to place material in a row, or a rear-spinner discharge to broadcast spread the material?

A14) The sawdust will need to be gently and evenly spread/ laid over the bed in a manner that will not displace the freshly sown seed.

Q15) One manufacturer that can modify its unit toward the required dimensions/configuration has advised a 120–150 calendar day production lead time.

Please confirm whether the Government can accept delivery in that range, or whether the stated delivery requirement remains firm.

A15) Preference is for delivery before November 2026, but delivery could be pushed out no later than April 30, 2027.

Q16) Regarding the adjustable sawdust depth, is the intent for the application rate to adjust automatically based on ground speed?

A16) No, there should be a standalone way to adjust sawdust depth, however, ground speed can play a role in fine tuning sawdust depth but should not be the only way.

Q17) I also wanted to better understand the scope of the project and the procurement process. Is there an existing machine or commercially available product that currently performs this application and serves as the basis for the specification, or is the intent to develop a new solution?

A17) Current equipment that performs this function is a modified manure spreader with live floor. The spreading attachment at the rear has been removed and an adjustable lift gate installed. (see pictures below) The current style of equipment does adequately perform this requirement, but there is likely newer technology out there that can perform as good or better and with less maintenance.

Q18) How long is the warranty required to be?

A18) Warranty for parts and labor is 12 months. This will be from the time that the equipment is delivered and can be tested. NOTE: Due to winter weather constraints, equipment testing and training generally cannot take place from November through April.

Formed Bed With Sawdust

Formed Bed Without Sawdust