A21_Sources_Sought.pdf

THIS IS A SOURCES SOUGHT NOTICE ONLY.

This is NOT a Request for Quote/Proposal

Subject: Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve (CRMO) packing mules for back country expedition for cave mapping.

As part of market research, the Contracting Operations West is seeking qualified contractors to provide 4 pack mules, 2 riding mules, and 2 personnel. Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve (CRMO) has the need to employ a mule packer in order to facilitate a back country expedition of the Cave Research Foundation (CRF) which will be exploring/ assessing and mapping caves for/ in coordination with CRMO from Sept 16th-19th 2024.

CRMO needs to map caves and assess resources within caves (geological, hydrological, biological, cultural, archeological etc.). They produce high quality maps and reports which allow CRMO resource staff to target caves for protection, further study, and research.

This year it is the intent of CRF to begin much needed work in the backcountry. This brings challenges with regards to how to transport gear, supplies and drinking water into the backcountry in order for a crew of four to stay and camp in backcountry, primitive conditions for 4 days. Detailed supplies and gear lists have been drawn up and without some type of mule or horse assistance each member of the crew would need carry approximately 130 lbs. on their back. This is not reasonable or safe. In order to do this efficiently and safely CRMO wishes to employ a mule packer which can haul the needed supplies (water, camping gear, caving gear etc.) approximately 3 miles (one-way) into the back country and retrieve the gear at the trip’s end.

PACKING REQUIREMENTS:

Timing:

The packer would haul gear 3 miles into the back country/ wilderness of Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve using mules or horses on or before Sept 16th and retrieve the gear on or after Sept 19th.

Gear/ Supplies to haul:

Camping gear, caving gear and personal gear for 4 person CRF crew: approximately 250 lbs A minimum of 32 gallons of water (2 gallons per day per person): 266 lbs.

This is strictly market research to determine availability and adequacy of potential contractors with the capabilities and experience to perform the required work. Response to this announcement is strictly voluntary; no reimbursement will be made for any costs associated with providing information in response to this Sources Sought notice or any follow-up information requests. No solicitation is associated with this announcement.

Small Business Set-Aside

NACIS Code: 112920 - Mule production

Small Business Size Standard: $2.75 Million

Acquisition Type: Firm Fixed Price

Contract Type: Purchase Order

Contractors who are interested should respond electronically to Mickey Chisolm via email at Mickey_Chisolm@nps.gov by Friday July 5, 2024 at 1700 hrs EST.

Include the following information in your response:

a. Company name and address

b. Physical location of company

c. Point of contact with name, title, phone, and email

d. CAGE code and SAM UEI number

e. Capability Statement or Past Performance record

f. Business Size - If small business, indicate any and all small business programs applicable to your firm (HUBZone, Service-Disabled Veteran Owned, or Women-Owned).

g. Any comments, concerns, etc.

Note:

This notice is for information and planning purposes only. This sources sought should not be construed as a commitment by the Government, nor will the Government pay for any information submitted in response. Respondents will not be notified of the results of any government assessments. No awards will be issued as a result of this Sources Sought. The Contracting Operations West does not intend to award a contract on the basis of responses nor otherwise pay for the preparation of any information submitted. As a result of this Sources Sought the Contracting Operations West may issue a Request for Proposal (RFP) or Request for Quote (RFQ).

mailto:Mickey_Chisolm@nps.gov