B09_Q_and_A_for_140F0S26Q0012_0001.docx

Solicitation 140F0S26Q0012 March 5, 2026 Pre-Bid Site Visit Questions and Answers

Exhibit Questions

1. Is there a desire to reuse the existing taxidermy?

There is the potential to reuse some if desired, but it is not necessary. Taxidermy could be used to fill in areas if 3D modelworks are too expensive to use exclusively.

2. If the taxidermy is not being reused, is there a desire to replace it with 3D modelwork, or are you open to other means to depict the wildlife on the refuge?

Modelwork is great, but we are open to other media as well. We prefer not to use taxidermy or freeze-dried specimens for new items.

3. Are there existing multimedia programs that you'd like to incorporate into the exhibit?

Nothing we currently have, but we are open to new ideas. We currently have an exhibit along the large window wall on moist soil management with audio and push buttons that will likely remain as it is not part of the scope of this project; however, we are open to new ideas, such as incorporating natural sounds of species that use the moist soil units or other low technology ideas.

4. Do you anticipate needing custom-shot multimedia footage, or would this exceed the target budget?

Depending on what the exhibits entail, custom footage may be required, but we could gather on our own if we know the format and resolution that is required.

5. Do we envision any particular concept?

We want to bring the entirety of Blackwater NWR to the visitor in an engaging, easy-to-understand, and visually appealing exhibit, and provide context for what they will see on the Wildlife Drive when they leave. This likely can be best conveyed through the transition of habitats seen on Blackwater (forest, marsh, open water) and the species that use them. For instance, we would like to show the gradient of habitats that range from mature forest, dying ghost forest, high marsh, low marsh, and then the open water of the Blackwater River. This can easily be seen from the Observation Platform if the visitor can learn why that is important, what species use each, and how the landscape changes with time. We are open to options, though.

The optional wall could focus on the birds-of-prey at Blackwater (bald eagles, golden eagles, short-eared owls, harriers, screech owls, great-horned owls), or a children’s-focused area. However, we are open to any ideas for this small area.

6. Do we want to focus on any particular wildlife species, such as waterfowl or others?

Yes, we would like to focus on migratory birds and a few other non-bird species that are a popular draw for visitors. Waterfowl in late fall and winter are the main attraction that can be seen along Wildlife Drive in the impoundments, and bald eagles can be seen year-round, both nesting and migrating through. These species will also reflect seasonality. Waterfowl are most common in the flooded impoundments in winter, whereas shorebirds use the mud flats caused by our drawn-down impoundments during spring and fall to hunt for invertebrates. Summer visitors will see species such as rails, terns, turtles, owls, and forest-dwelling songbirds. The Delmarva fox squirrel, muskrat, and sika are the most iconic Blackwater mammals. If the seasonal sounds of a few of these common species can be incorporated, that would enhance the sensory experience (i.e., chorus frogs in spring, eagles in summer, sika bugling in fall, and Tundra swans in winter).

7. Is there WiFi for the public?

Yes, the Friends of Blackwater provides free, open access to WiFi.

8. How much technology do we want?

We prefer minimal technology, although some is acceptable, but it should not be proprietary or too high tech, so that it is easy to maintain by the staff.

9. Do visitors go outside from the door upstairs?

Occasionally, and usually its children who go out the door. The outdoor stairwell leads you to the butterfly garden out back.

10. What is our typical visitor?

The latest Visitor Survey contains a detailed analysis of our visitors and can be provided upon request. In general, they are middle-aged, six-figure income individuals who visit for a day or two. Blackwater is extremely popular for both birders and photographers. We also have hunters (sika is a popular draw) and anglers (snakeheads in particular), as well as bikers and walkers.

11. Do you run formal school programs here?

Yes.

12 How much is budgeted for this project??

Between $200,000.00 - $350,000.00, To allow vendors to provide different price points (low cost, moderate cost, and highest cost)

13. Is there a source of images that can be accessed?

Once a list of needed images and videos has been compiled, refuge staff and volunteers may be able to obtain the necessary materials. Additionally, stock images may be obtained from the sources listed below. In addition, there are other local sources that may be able to provide the images and footage you need. However, we would prefer to refrain from providing specific names at this time. Staff can reach out to these individuals if the need arises during the exhibit contract period.

Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge The refuge has a large file of images that have been captured by USFWS employees and volunteers over the years. They can be used for exhibit purposes.

National Conservation Training Center Image Library at https://www.fws.gov/library/categories Facebook Blackwater NWR Photography

Structure Questions

1. The roof will be replaced this year.

2. Are CAD files available?

A digital version of the blueprints is available upon request.

3. What is the load-bearing limit for the floor?

The second-floor live loads are 70 PSF (50 PSF + 20 PSF (Partitions))

4. What is the electrical capacity on the second floor?

The electrical units being used for the current display area will be available, plus any open spots in the electrical panel box for that location. The 200-amp panel is currently at full capacity, but any of the breakers currently running to the lighting and receptacles can be used. A certified electrician will need to make a determination if our current panel has sufficient capacity for any proposed display. If another visit is required for the bid to make the determination, an additional visit may be accommodated.

5. Is there any UV treatment on the windows?

There is no tint on the windows currently, so fading is a concern. The refuge may be able to purchase and install a product if one is suggested. The specs on the windows are: ¼ Solarban 60VT Clear TP ½ Mill (SIL) ¼ Clear TP

6. Can the lighting be replaced?

Yes, track lighting might be most appropriate. The awarded contractor can sub-contract to remove and install new lighting and the electricity needed.

7. Can the carpet and walls be replaced, and is that part of this bid?

There is potential if specifications are provided for the refuge to replace carpet and paint or wallpaper in a separate contract. This would be done once the roof is replaced and either before or after the exhibits are installed, and is outside the scope of this contract.

8. Does this scope include demolition?

No, this contract does not. The refuge will handle the needed demolition.

9. Can the exhibits be extended past current footprint?

Yes, as long as ADA requirements are met.

10. Are the graphic files for color available?

They are available for the downstairs exhibits, which is what we would prefer to match colors and graphics to. The window exhibit file is also available.

11. Any humidity issues?

Yes, it is also dependent on the season.

12. Is the window south-facing?

Yes

13. Do you get a lot of glare?

Yes

14. Worst time of glare?

Noon to 2:00 P.M., but it is also seasonally based

Process Questions

1. Based on the desired expectations of our firm’s proposal, could the submittal date of our proposal be pushed back 2 weeks?

Yes, I will extend the end date of the solicitation to March 27, 2026.

2. Is it possible to create our own schedule of milestones and deliverables that do not adhere to the schedule of durations outlined in the solicitation?

Yes, the contractor creates its own schedule of milestones and deliverables that do not adhere to the schedule of durations outlined in the solicitation, but the Government CO or Program Manager shall approve it (if not approved, it shall revert to the government schedule of milestones and deliverables). The end completion date is 8/1/20208.

3. Would a design narrative be acceptable to present our planning and design thoughts related to our price proposal?

Yes, a design narrative or design concept is acceptable.