1284LM26Q0052.pdf

SEE ADDENDUMIS CHECKED

CODE 18a. PAYMENT WILL BE MADE BY

CODE

FACILITYCODE

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

OFFEROR

84LM

OGDEN UT 84401-2310

324 25TH ST

USDA-FS CSA INTERMOUNTAIN 2

82X9 CODE 16. ADMINISTERED BYCODE

X

X

X

541370

SIZE STANDARD:

100.00 % FOR:SET ASIDE:UNRESTRICTED OR84LM

REQUEST FOR

PROPOSAL

(RFP)

INVITATION

FOR BID (IFB)

10. THIS ACQUISITION ISCODE

REQUEST FOR

QUOTE (RFQ)

14. METHOD OF SOLICITATION

13b. RATING

NORTH AMERICAN INDUSTRY

CLASSIFICATION STANDARD

(NAICS):

SMALL BUSINESS

04/15/2026

SARAH COTTON

(No collect calls)

INFORMATION CALL:

FOR SOLICITATION 8. OFFER DUE DATE/LOCAL TIME

05/18/2026 1700 ED

b. TELEPHONE NUMBERa. NAME

4. ORDER NUMBER3. AWARD/ 6. SOLICITATION

1284LM26Q0052

5. SOLICITATION NUMBER

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

1 151166910OFFEROR TO COMPLETE BLOCKS 12, 17, 23, 24, & 30

TELEPHONE NO.

17a. CONTRACTOR/

LAKEWOOD CO 80401

1617 COLE BLVD

ROCKY MOUNTAIN REGIONAL OFFICE

USDA FOREST SERVICE

15. DELIVER TO

OGDEN UT 84401-2310

324 25TH ST

9. ISSUED BY

7.

2. CONTRACT NO.

EFFECTIVE DATE

$19

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

ISSUE DATE

DELIVERY FOR FREE ON BOARD

(FOB) DESTINATION UNLESS

BLOCK IS MARKED

11.

SEE SCHEDULEX

12. DISCOUNT TERMS THIS CONTRACT IS A RATED

ORDER UNDER THE DEFENSE

PRIORITIES AND ALLOCATIONS

SYSTEM - DPAS (15 CFR 700)

13a.

SERVICE-DISABLED

VETERAN-OWNED

SMALL BUSINESS

(SDVOSB)

HUBZONE SMALL

BUSINESS

8(A)

USDA-FS CSA INTERMOUNTAIN 2

WOMEN-OWNED SMALL

BUSINESS (WOSB)

ECONOMICALLY DISADVANTAGED

WOMEN-OWNED SMALL

BUSINESS (EDWOSB)

24.

AMOUNT

23.

UNIT PRICE

22.

UNIT

21.

QUANTITY

20.

SCHEDULE OF SUPPLIES/SERVICES

19.

ITEM NO.

The Rocky Mountain Region currently has a need for aerial surveyors for the 2026 survey season with specialized expertise in western forest pests, forest types, GPS and GIS technology as well as aviation experience. The contractor(s) will aerially map tree mortality and damage using a provided tablet computer with the digital mobile sketch mapping system (DMSM) application.

Survey work will be conducted in a government provided aircraft either alongside a Forest Service representative or independently depending

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

HEREIN, IS ACCEPTED AS TO ITEMS:

X

XX

DATED

SARAH W. COTTON

. YOUR OFFER ON SOLICITATION (BLOCK 5),

INCLUDING ANY ADDITIONS OR CHANGES WHICH ARE SET FORTH

COPIES TO ISSUING OFFICE. CONTRACTOR AGREES TO FURNISH AND DELIVER

ARE

ARE

31c. DATE SIGNED

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

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

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

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

SHEETS SUBJECT TO THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS SPECIFIED.

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

AND 52.212-5 ARE ATTACHED. ADDENDA

26. TOTAL AWARD AMOUNT (For Government Use Only)

OFFER

STANDARD FORM 1449 (REV. 11/2021)

Prescribed by GSA - FAR (48 CFR) 53.212

ARE NOT ATTACHED.

ARE NOT ATTACHED.

AUTHORIZED FOR LOCAL REPRODUCTION

PREVIOUS EDITION IS NOT USABLE

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

30a. SIGNATURE OF OFFEROR/CONTRACTOR

28. CONTRACTOR IS REQUIRED TO SIGN THIS DOCUMENT AND RETURN

25. ACCOUNTING AND APPROPRIATION DATA

29. AWARD OF CONTRACT: REFERENCE

32e. MAILING ADDRESS OF AUTHORIZED GOVERNMENT REPRESENTATIVE

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

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

32a. QUANTITY IN COLUMN 21 HAS BEEN

RECEIVED INSPECTED

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

37. CHECK NUMBER

FINALPARTIAL

36. PAYMENT

FINALPARTIAL

35. AMOUNT VERIFIED

CORRECT FOR

34. VOUCHER NUMBER33. SHIP NUMBER

COMPLETE

32g. E-MAIL OF AUTHORIZED GOVERNMENT REPRESENTATIVE

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

42b. RECEIVED AT (Location)

42a. RECEIVED BY (Print)

41c. DATE41b. SIGNATURE AND TITLE OF CERTIFYING OFFICER

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

STANDARD FORM 1449 (REV. 11/2021) BACK

24.

AMOUNT

23.

UNIT PRICE

22.

UNIT

21.

QUANTITY

20.

SCHEDULE OF SUPPLIES/SERVICES

19.

ITEM NO.

on the contractor's qualifications as a Fixed

Wing Flight Manager Special Use.

Period of Performance: 06/01/2026 to 05/31/2027

0001 Aerial Surveyor Base Year 240 HR

Delivery: 05/31/2027

1001 Aerial Surveyor Option Year One 240 HR

(Option Line Item)

Delivery: 05/31/2028

Period of Performance: 06/01/2027 to 05/31/2028

2001 Aerial Surveyor Option Year Two 240 HR

(Option Line Item)

Delivery: 05/31/2029

Period of Performance: 06/01/2028 to 05/31/2029

3001 Aerial Surveyor Option Year Three 240 HR

(Option Line Item)

Delivery: 05/31/2030

Period of Performance: 06/01/2029 to 05/31/2030

4001 Aerial Surveyor Option Year Four 240 HR

(Option Line Item)

Continued ...

32f. TELEPHONE NUMBER OF AUTHORIZED GOVERNMENT REPRESENTATIVE

32d. PRINTED NAME AND TITLE OF AUTHORIZED GOVERNMENT REPRESENTATIVE

15 2 of

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)

1284LM26Q0052

Delivery: 05/31/2031

Period of Performance: 06/01/2030 to 05/31/2031

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

Sponsored by GSA

FAR (48 CFR) 53.110

Health Aerial Surveyor

1284LM26Q0052

Description - The Rocky Mountain Region currently has a need for aerial surveyors for the 2026 survey season with specialized expertise in western forest pests, forest types, GPS and GIS technology as well as aviation experience. The contractor(s) will aerially map tree mortality and damage using a provided tablet computer with the digital mobile sketch mapping system (DMSM) application. Survey work will be conducted in a government provided aircraft either alongside a Forest Service representative or independently depending on the contractor’s qualifications as a Fixed Wing Flight Manager Special Use.

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

Solicitation number 1284LM26Q0052 is issued as a Request for Quotation (RFQ)

This acquisition is set-aside for small business concerns. The applicable North American Industry Classification Standard Code is 541370 The small business size standard is $19 M 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 The Rocky Mountain Region currently has a need for aerial surveyors for the 2026 survey season with specialized expertise in western forest pests, forest types, GPS and GIS technology as well as aviation experience. The contractor(s) will aerially map tree mortality and damage using a provided tablet computer with the digital mobile sketch mapping system (DMSM) application. Survey work will be conducted in a government provided aircraft either alongside a Forest Service representative or independently depending on the contractor’s qualifications as a Fixed Wing Flight Manager Special Use.

Technical Data –

Attachment 1: R2 ADS 2026 Statement of Work_AerialSurveyors

Travel per diem will only be paid at the published GSA federal travel regulations. Regulations and amount can be found at https://www.gsa.gov/travel/plan-book/per-diem-rates

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.

Pg 4 of 15 https://www.gsa.gov/travel/plan-book/per-diem-rates

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

The following clauses are mandatory in all solicitations and contracts - Do not delete these.

52.212-4 Terms and Conditions—Commercial Products and Commercial Services (Nov 2025) ☒ Alternate I (Nov 2025) of 52.212-4

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

(Jan 2017) 52.222-50 Combating Trafficking in Persons (Nov 2025)

☐ Alternate I (Nov 2025) of 52.222-50 52.226-8 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)

Additional Far Clauses:

52.204-13 System for Award Management—Maintenance (Nov 2025) 52.209-6 Protecting the Government’s Interest When Subcontracting with

Contractors Debarred, Suspended, or Proposed for Debarment (Sep 2025) 52.209-10 Prohibition on Contracting with Inverted Domestic Corporations (Sep 2025) 52.219-6 Notice of Total Small Business Aside (Nov 2025)

☐ Alternate I (Mar 2020).

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

☐ Alternate I (Jul 2014) of 52.222-36 52.222-41 Service Contract Labor Standards (Aug 2018) 52.222-42 Statement of Equivalent Rates for Federal Hires (May 2014) 52.222-43 Fair Labor Standards Act and Service Contract Labor Standards -- Price Adjustment (Multiple Year and Option Contracts) (Aug 2018)

Pg 5 of 15 https://www.acquisition.gov/far-overhaul/far-part-deviation-guide/far-overhaul-part-52

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) 52.222-62 Paid Sick Leave Under Executive Order 13706 (Jan 2022) 52.223-23 Sustainable Products and Services 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) 52.232-33 Payment by Electronic Funds Transfer— System for Award Management (Oct 2018) 52.237-2 Protection of Government Buildings, Equipment, and Vegetation (Apr 1984)

Other Applicable Clauses

52.217-8 Option to Extend Services (Nov 1999) 10 calendar days prior to contract expiration

52.217-9 Option to Extend the Term of the Contract (Mar 2000)

(a) 10 Calendar days prior to contract expiration and 10 days

(c) five years.

52.245-1 Government Property (Sep 2021) ☐ Alternate I (Sep 2021) of 52.245-1

Government Property: Tablet of laptop computer Forest Pest and tree identification material A mapping system (DMSM) Aviation Headset Camera GPS transmitter Government motor vehicle

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.

Pg 6 of 15

(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)

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

Pg 7 of 15 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)

452.204-72 Use of Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) or Other Automation Technologies (Apr 2026)

(a) In the event that Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) functionality or other automation technologies such as Robotics Process Automation is utilized to facilitate electronic transactions between USDA and its contractors, it is the sole responsibility of the Contractor to ensure accuracy of the electronically transferred data. The Government’s electronic system shall serve as the system of record for all data exchanged or retrieved.

(b) The Government shall not be liable to the Contractor for any delay or failure associated with EDI or other automation technologies. The Contractor’s use of this service is at the Contractor’s sole risk. For electronic or automated services provided by USDA to the contractor, the services are provided on an “as is” and “as available” basis. For electronic or automated services provided by the contractor that interact with the USDA electronic systems, the USDA is not responsible for any costs incurred by the contractor related to the development, test, or support of the services. The Contractor shall be responsible for all fees associated with EDI. The Contractor is responsible for the confidentiality and security of its systems, interfaces, interconnections, and any documents that the customer receives from The Government pursuant to the contract.

(c) The Government reserves the right to restrict, refuse, or cancel any participation in EDI services.

(End of clause)

Solicitation Information

Award Type

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.

Pg 8 of 15

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.

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.

Past Performance - Offerors shall provide completed Past Performance Information Sheets (see Attachment 6) 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.

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.

Recency: Past performance information must be from efforts performed within the last five (5) years from the date of solicitation issuance. More recent performance may be given greater weight.

Relevancy: The Government will assess how closely the offeror’s past performance 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.

Pg 9 of 15

Quality of Performance: The Government will evaluate the quality of the offeror’s performance on prior contracts, including:

· Timeliness of performance

· Technical quality

· Cost control (if applicable)

· Business relations

· Customer satisfaction

Sources may include CPARS, past performance questionnaires, and other verifiable references. The Government reserves the right to limit or expand the number of references it decides to contact and to contact references other than those provided by the offeror.

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

· High Confidence – Government has a high expectation of successful performance.

· Some Confidence – Government has a reasonable expectation of success.

· Low Confidence – Government has concerns about successful performance.

· Neutral Confidence – No relevant past performance available; no positive or negative inference will be made.

Note: Offerors without relevant past performance will not be rated favorably or unfavorably but will receive a Neutral Confidence rating.

Price: The offeror shall provide pricing as requested in the SF 1449 for labor hours only. Travel cost will be reimbursed at the price of the Federal Travel Regulations posted to Sam.gov.

https://www.gsa.gov/travel/plan-book/per-diem-rates/per-diem-rates-results?action=perdiems_report&fiscal_year=2026&state=SD&city=buffalo&zip= 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.

For purposes of evaluation, the potential need to exercise the option under FAR 52.217-8 to extend a period of performance for a maximum period of six (6) months beyond any period of performance will be considered the same for all offerors. The Government will consider that if the extension of service clause (FAR 52.217-8) is exercised, it will be on the exact same rates and terms, other than length of performance, as the period of performance being extended. For purposes of evaluation only, the Government will use the rates specified in the last option period and add the cost of six months to the prices proposed for the base period and all option periods to determine total evaluated price of the contract. The Government will determine whether the price, including the options available under FAR 52.217-8, is fair and reasonable.

Evaluation Method:

Pg 10 of 15 https://www.gsa.gov/travel/plan-book/per-diem-rates/per-diem-rates-results?action=perdiems_report&fiscal_year=2026&state=SD&city=buffalo&zip= https://www.gsa.gov/travel/plan-book/per-diem-rates/per-diem-rates-results?action=perdiems_report&fiscal_year=2026&state=SD&city=buffalo&zip=

The Government intends to evaluate quotations using a comparative evaluation methodology. This means quotations will be compared against one another to determine which provides the best value to the Government, based on the evaluation factors outlined in this solicitation.

The Government may consider quotations that exceed minimum requirements and offer additional value or benefits, even if they are not the lowest priced. However, formal tradeoff procedures will not be conducted.

Evaluation factors. 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 will be used to evaluate offers:

Experience in aerial survey work Past Performance in Government Contracting Price- SF 1449

• Experience in Forest Health related aerial survey work will be rated higher.

• Current or past qualifications as a Fixed Wing Flight Manager- Special Use according to the

IAT.gov compliance matrix will be rated higher.

• Hours of aerial survey work in Mountainous terrain, and greater number of hours flown in mountainous terrain work will be rated higher.

• Demonstrated knowledge of Rocky Mountain tree species and/or forest damage agents will be rated higher

(b) Options (if applicable). 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. The evaluation of options does not obligate the Government to exercise the option(s).

(c) Notice of award. A written notice of award or acceptance of an offer 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.

(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

Pg 11 of 15 text of those provisions, the offeror may identify the provision by paragraph identifier and provide the appropriate information with its quotation or offer. Also, the full text of a solicitation provision may be accessed electronically at this/these address(es): https://www.acquisition.gov/far-overhaul/far-part-deviation-guide/far-overhaul-part-52

52.212-1 Instructions to Offerors - Commercial Products and Commercial Services (Nov 2025)

Add any items at FAR 52.212-1 not already stated and any other applicable instructions such as page limits, font size, document type required for submission (PDF, Excel). Remember to keep things simple under simplified acquisitions. In most cases there is no need for explicit instructions for page limits, font size, volumes, etc. This should be limited to more complex acquisitions. Some examples of what would be routinely used for simplified acquisitions are:

Limit experience, and past performance information to a combined maximum 8 pages.

Pricing is for labor hours only. Travel will be reimbursed at the Federal Travel rates found on GSA.

https://www.gsa.gov/travel/plan-book/per-diem-rates/per-diem-rates-results?action=perdiems_report&fiscal_year=2026&state=SD&city=buffalo&zip=

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.

Questions Questions shall be submitted via email to Sarah.cotton@usda.gov and are due no later than May 11th, 2026, at 12:00 PM Mountain Standard Time. 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.

Solicitation Provisions

52.203-18 Prohibition on Contracting with Entities that Require Certain Internal Confidentiality Agreements or Statements-Representation (Jan 2017)

52.209-2 Prohibition on Contracting with Inverted Domestic Corporations - Representation (Sep 2025)

52.209-11 Representation by Corporations Regarding Delinquent Tax Liability or a Felony Conviction under any Federal Law (Sep 2025)

52.240-90 Security Prohibitions and Exclusions Representations and Certifications (Nov 2025)

52.204-7 System for Award Management—Registration (Nov 2025) ☐ Alternate I (Nov 2025) to 52.204-7

Pg 12 of 15 https://www.acquisition.gov/far-overhaul/far-part-deviation-guide/far-overhaul-part-52 https://www.acquisition.gov/far-overhaul/far-part-deviation-guide/far-overhaul-part-52 https://www.gsa.gov/travel/plan-book/per-diem-rates/per-diem-rates-results?action=perdiems_report&fiscal_year=2026&state=SD&city=buffalo&zip= https://www.gsa.gov/travel/plan-book/per-diem-rates/per-diem-rates-results?action=perdiems_report&fiscal_year=2026&state=SD&city=buffalo&zip= mailto:Sarah.cotton@usda.gov

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)

52.225-2 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)

Other Applicable FAR Provisions

52.216-31 Time and Materials/Labor Hour Proposal Requirements - Commercial Acquisition (Nov 2021)

52.217-5 Evaluation of Options (Nov 2025) 52.233-2 Service of Protest (Sep 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:

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

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

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

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

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(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

Pg 14 of 15 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.

Pg 15 of 15 mailto:SPE.inquiry@usda.gov