24-00010 Range Riders_2024 v2.docx

STATE OF WASHINGTON DEPARTMENT OF FISH AND WILDLIFE REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS 24-00010

PROJECT: Range Riders for Statewide Performance of Wolf-Livestock Interaction Mitigation EXPECTED DURATION OF CONTRACT: Through April 30, 2025

ESTIMATED PROCUREMENT SCHEDULE:

RFQ Release: April 1, 2024 Proposals will be accepted by WDFW (email only) not later than: December 31, 2024 at 4:00 p.m. local time to Deanne.Ryan@dfw.wa.gov

Apparent Successful Proposer(s) Announced: The final apparent successful proposers will be announced once the procurement period closes.

Notes: The procurement schedule and contract duration may be adjusted if necessary and if funding availability changes. Proposals that do not address all requirements of this RFQ may be rejected as non- responsive. A list identifying all required elements of the proposal appears in Exhibit B (Checklist for Responsiveness).

PROPOSER ELIGIBILITY: This procurement is open to proposers who satisfy the minimum qualifications listed in Section 2 and who are available for work in Washington State. Applications are encouraged from businesses certified in Washington State by the Office of Minority and Women’s Business Enterprises and/or the Department of Veterans Affairs.

CONTENTS OF THIS RFQ:

1. Project Overview

2. Minimum Qualifications

3. RFQ Coordinator

4. Instructions to Proposers

5. Evaluation and Award Procedures

6. General Provisions Exhibits:

A. Checklist for Responsiveness B. Certifications and Assurances C. Vendor Certification Executive Order 18-03 D. Proposer Questionnaire E. Range Rider Questionnaire F. Proposer Profile G. Job Requirements H. General Terms and Conditions

RFQ 24-00010

I. WDFW Regional Map J. Background Check Authorization

1. PROJECT OVERVIEW

1.1 Purpose and Scope. The purpose of this Request for Qualifications (RFQ) is to establish a pool of contractors that will provide reliable and credible range riding service in areas of known wolf pack occupancy and possibly in areas where proactive measures are being implemented.

The intent of this procurement is to award a contract to all responsive and responsible proposers who meet the minimum qualifications as stated in this RFQ. WDFW will evaluate proposals as they are received and will award contracts to qualified proposers on the completion of the evaluation. Proposers are encouraged to submit proposals as soon as possible in order to allow WDFW to enter into contracts as soon as evaluations of proposed range riders are completed.

The wolf population in Washington State has steadily grown since the first pack was documented in 2008. The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) established a wolf management program to facilitate recovery while minimizing negative interactions of wolves with livestock. In areas where wolves overlap with livestock, or the potential for overlap exists, appropriate deterrents are used as proactive measures to minimize wolf-livestock interactions.

WDFW encourages livestock operators to engage in proactive deterrent measures. Proactive measures used to minimize wolf-livestock conflict can include, but are not limited to, removal of sick/injured/dead livestock; the use of fladry or turbo-fladry around calving/lambing areas and/or carcasses until removal; and range riders (particularly on large grazing allotments).

Range riding is one of the principal tools WDFW uses to assist livestock operators in areas where wolves are present or possibly for areas adjacent to known/suspected wolf areas where proactive measures are being implemented. Range riders provide a consistent human presence, have knowledge of livestock handling/husbandry techniques, and can identify potential wolf activity near/around livestock. Their other tasks include monitoring livestock health and deterring carnivore activity while tending to livestock. Under Section 77.36.030 of the Revised Code of Washington (RCW) and the Washington State Wolf Conservation and Management Plan (Wolf Plan), WDFW may implement depredation management actions to abate damage. These actions may involve the use of range riders to help mitigate wolf related livestock losses.

A range rider’s job is to actively assess potential for wolf-livestock conflict, communicate with WDFW staff and the associated producer on appropriate uses of deterrence measures, and take action to reduce the predation risk to a livestock herd. In some cases, the range rider may also assist the producer with livestock management responsibilities.

Under the direction of WDFW staff, and in coordination with the producer, the expected duties of a range rider may include, but are not limited to:

· Monitoring the health and behavior of livestock;

· Identifying signs of wolf or other carnivore activity near livestock;

· Implementing tools and techniques that minimize predation risk;

· Deploying non-lethal hazing techniques;

· Implementing more intensive livestock management, or any number of other techniques or combination of techniques;

· Frequent communication with the livestock producer regarding planned livestock movements and grazing plans;

· Based on information gathered, increasing surveillance (riding given route as much as possible); and

· Working extended hours, including nights Please see Exhibit G, Job Requirements, for a more detailed description of the work to be performed by range riders.

1.2 Contract Term. The anticipated original term of any contract resulting from this RFQ is one year and may be amended at any time to address the needs of WDFW. New range riders that have not previously held a range-riding contract with WDFW are subject to a one-time, six-month probationary period to evaluate the quality of services provided. WDFW may extend this contract for up to two additional one-year periods at WDFW’s sole discretion.

WDFW may terminate a contract immediately on written notice to a contractor if WDFW determines range rider services are no longer warranted or necessary; if there is a violation of the probationary period; or if there is a violation of contract terms that may include, but are not limited to: failure to perform the services in a satisfactory manner, as agreed in the contract; violation of state fish and wildlife laws and regulations, local laws, or other applicable state or federal laws.

1.3 Reimbursement of Costs. Range riders will be assigned work by WDFW and reimbursed at the rates for services indicated below. Any contracts awarded as a result of this RFQ are contingent upon availability of funds. Contractor activities that have not been previously approved by WDFW are not eligible for payment. WDFW will reimburse the Contractor at the following rates for each range rider:

· Reimbursement rates will not be dependent on the mode of transportation.

· The reimbursement rate for time worked between 1-7 hours will be an hourly rate of $26.25. Any additional time worked for 8 or more hours will be reimbursed as a full day flat rate of $250.00. Shifts can be split within a one-day period.

· Individual range riders are limited to a maximum of 22 working days per month unless additional work is authorized by the WDFW Conflict Section Manager or WDFW Game Division Manager prior to work accomplishment.

· Reimbursement eligibility begins when a range rider arrives at the allotment or assigned area and begins conducting activities as stated in Exhibit G, Job Requirements.

· If a range rider accepts an assignment by WDFW outside of the of the counties proposed for work in the Contractor’s response to this RFQ, WDFW may reimburse the range rider for travel costs at current State of Washington travel reimbursement rates. The current travel rate as determined by the Office of Financial Management is $0.67 per mile and this is subject to change over time.

· An hourly rate of $26.25 will be paid to a range rider for the following:

· Attending a meeting or training when required by WDFW. Attendance of regularly scheduled meetings requested by WDFW will be reimbursed. Brief communications less than 30 minutes (quick check-ins, phone calls) or optional informational meetings will not be considered for reimbursement. If a meeting goes beyond 30 minutes, the contractor will be reimbursed at the hourly rate.

· Individual range riders will record all activities as an entry in the Range Rider /Livestock Monitoring Activity Log with a description of the activity noted in the observations field.

· The range rider is solely responsible for legible and accurate recording and submission of any records required under the contract. WDFW staff will return incomplete, or inaccurate records and reports for correction, and WDFW staff are not responsible for corrections. (Incomplete or inaccurate submissions can cause delays in payment—so accuracy and completeness is essential).

· Travel costs and travel time will not be reimbursed for meetings and/or trainings, specialized work, or additional duties as assigned by WDFW.

· Records submitted are public records and are used in WDFW management decisions, in addition to processing payments. They may also be used in formal proceedings related to deterrence effectiveness, including any future litigation regarding wolf management.

· Poor record keeping, untimely submission, or repeat submissions of illegible or inaccurate records may be grounds for contract termination.

· All Contractors must have a current Statewide Vendor Payment Number prior to submitting invoices to WDFW for reimbursement. The Vendor/Payee Registration Form must be filled out and returned to Office of Financial Management (OFM). To receive direct deposit, the Vendor/Payee Direct Deposit Authorization Form may also be filled out and returned to OFM. These forms can be found of OFM’s website here: https://ofm.wa.gov/it-systems/accounting-systems/statewide-vendorpayee-services

1.4 Restrictions.

· Livestock producers, their family members, and/or their employees will not be paid to perform range rider work in protection of their own livestock or property.

· WDFW staff may not hire, direct, supervise, or otherwise be involved in any range rider activities that involve an immediate family member or significant other of the WDFW staff; or otherwise violate WDFW ethics policies.

· If selected for a contract, the Contractor may not commence work prior to receiving the fully signed contract and being provided an assignment from the local WDFW Wildlife Conflict staff responsible for monitoring range riding services provided by the Contractor.

· The Contractor, Contractor employees or subcontractors may not be under contract or any contractual agreement for range rider services through any other party for the days documented on their invoice. WDFW will not reimburse the Contractor for any costs the Contractor, Contractor employees or subcontractors have charged or will charge the Washington Department of Agriculture, or any other party under any other contract or agreement, for the same services or expenses.

· Contractor cannot provide services for a producer or allotment already covered under a contract administered by RCW 16.76.020 (1) – Northeast Washington wolf-livestock management grant.

2. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

2.1 Company Qualifications. Proposers must provide information to demonstrate that their company and proposed range riders meet the following minimum qualifications:

a. Business License: All proposers selected for contracts, including sole proprietors, are required to have a license to conduct business in Washington State. Proposers can apply for a business license online through the Department of Revenue’s Master License Service located at http:// www.bls.dor.wa.gov/.

b. Insurance: Upon notice of the awarded contract, Contractors must promptly provide industrial insurance and meet the insurance requirements identified in the general terms and conditions contained in Exhibit H (General Terms and Conditions) of this RFQ prior to contract approval.

2.2 Range Rider Qualifications. All individuals proposed as range riders must meet the following qualifications:

a. Be at least 18 years old at the time of the due date for proposals for this RFQ;

b. Have not been convicted of any violent criminal offense and submit to a background check;

· Be legally eligible to possess a firearm and without a felony or domestic violence conviction including, but not limited to, convictions under chapter 9.41 RCW, unless firearm possession rights have been restored;

· Not have within the last three years:

· More than one finding of paid or committed as a final disposition for an infraction under chapter 77.15 RCW; or

· A conviction for a fish and wildlife crime under chapter 77.15 RCW.

c. Have the ability to navigate and travel across assigned terrains and physically able to ride ATV’s and/or horses, and hike steep, brushy terrain, for extended hours each day;

d. Knowledge of livestock behavior, handling and husbandry, as this is the primary focus of the range rider while in the field;

e. Knowledge of carnivore biology and ecology, as well as the ability to identify carnivore sign; ability to learn and take direction from WDFW subject matter experts;

f. Familiarity with the use of proactive and reactive nonlethal deterrent measures;

g. Knowledge of Microsoft Office, Adobe, and working with the interface of GPS data and computers;

h. Has the capability to track movements, provide waypoints, and download GPS data to a computer on either their own or a WDFW-issued device;

i. Is willing to provide services for the full duration of the grazing season (May – October) and possibly during the off season (November – April); and

j. Be responsive to WDFW assignments for range riding services within 24 hours, to include assistance with multiple producers on different allotments.

2.3 WDFW is not responsible for providing range riders with essential equipment including, but not limited to, automobiles, trucks, ATVs, horses, trailers, and spare batteries to perform work duties.

2.4 All proposed range riders must be willing and able to work with and accept assignments from WDFW Wildlife Conflict staff to determine where effort is needed.

2.6 WDFW reserves the right to require any newly hired range rider to undergo a probationary period not to exceed six (6) months.

3. RFQ COORDINATOR

The RFQ Coordinator is the sole point of contact at WDFW for this procurement.

Any other communication will be considered unofficial and non-binding on WDFW. Proposers are to rely on written statements issued by the RFQ Coordinator. Communication directed to parties other than the RFQ Coordinator may result in disqualification of the Proposer.

4. INSTRUCTIONS TO PROPOSERS

A list of the documents which must be submitted in response to this RFQ appears in Section 4.1. below. Proposers must ensure all required documents reach the RFQ Coordinator by the deadlines stated in the procurement schedule on Page 1. Incomplete proposals will be rejected as non- responsive.

4.1 Required Documents. Proposals submitted in response to this RFQ must include the following documents:

· A signed copy of the Certifications and Assurances document (Exhibit B), signed by a person authorized to bind you or your company to a contract.

· A signed and completed copy of the Vendor Certification Executive Order 18-03 document (Exhibit C), signed by a person authorized to bind you or your company to a contract.

· The proposer’s response to the Proposer Questionnaire (Exhibit D)

· A Range Rider Questionnaire (Exhibit E) completed and signed by each individual proposed as a range rider.

· A completed Proposer Profile (Exhibit F), including information about all subcontractors.

· A Background Check Authorization document (Exhibit J), completed and signed by each individual proposed as a range rider.

4.2 Proposal Format. One copy of the complete proposal must be submitted by the Proposer via e- mail to the RFQ Coordinator electronically using Microsoft Word or portable document format (PDF).

4.3 Proprietary Information. Proposers should clearly identify portions of their proposals that contain proprietary information. However, a proposer may not designate the entire proposal as proprietary. If the proposal is successful and WDFW receives a request to release it, WDFW shall respond according to the provisions of the state’s public records law, which is summarized in this RFQ. However, WDFW shall not release portions of the proposal identified as proprietary without giving the proposer an opportunity to seek a court order preventing disclosure.

4.4 Pre-Bid Conference and Vendor Questions. Bidders wishing to submit a proposal for this procurement may attend an optional Pre-Bid Conference on Friday May 10, 2024 from 11:00 am to 11:30 am, local Olympia WA time.

Join on your computer, mobile app or room device Join the meeting now Meeting ID: 282 984 592 808 Passcode: pUFGH4

Dial-in by phone +1 564-999-2000,,735764858# United States, Olympia (833) 322-1218,,735764858# United States (Toll-free) Find a local number Phone conference ID: 735 764 858#

Specific questions concerning the procurement should be submitted in writing to the Procurement Coordinator not later than May 6, 2024 by 4:00 pm local Olympia WA time, so that representatives of WDFW may prepare preliminary answers in advance of the conference.

Additional questions will be entertained at the conference; however, responses may be deferred and provided later. Any oral answer given at the conference is to be considered as tentative. All questions submitted prior to or discussed during the conference will be researched and the official answers published to the WEBS as an amendment to this procurement by noon on May 17, 2024. This will assure accurate and consistent responses to all Bidders. Only the written answers will be considered official.

4.5 Delivery of Proposals. Send complete proposal to the RFQ Coordinator at the email address specified on Page 1 and in Section 3 of this RFQ. Email transmission is required.

Proposals will be accepted up to 4 p.m. local time on December 31, 2024. Late proposals will not be accepted.

WDFW assumes no responsibility for delay in transmission of proposals. WDFW will use the “time stamp” on the email as the official time of receipt.

4.6 Procurement Complaint Process. Proposers considering submitting a bid or proposal in response to any request for bids, request for qualifications, Request for Qualifications or any solicitation for goods and services under RCW 39.26 may submit complaints regarding a particular solicitation to the RFQ coordinator. Proposers may submit a complaint on the following for any solicitation:

· The solicitation unnecessarily restricts competition;

· The solicitation evaluation or scoring process is unfair or flawed; or

· The solicitation requirements are inadequate or insufficient to prepare a response. All complaints under this process must:

· Be submitted by email to the RFQ coordinator no later than five (5) business days before the Proposer’s response to a solicitation is required to be submitted to WDFW.

· Clearly articulate the basis for the complaint; and

· Include a proposed remedy.

WDFW will respond to complaints in writing and post the response (and any changes to the solicitation required by the response) on Washington’s Electronic Business Solution (WEBS). Proposers may not appeal the response or raise the same complaint during any protest period.

4.7 Procurement Protest Procedure. RCW 39.26.170 requires WDFW to have a clear and transparent complaint process that allows proposers to submit protests after the announcement of the apparent successful proposer (ASP). The purpose of this process is to allow WDFW to correct evaluation process errors and problems before a contract is executed. After the announcement of the ASP, the WDFW solicitation point of contact must offer a debriefing conference to any proposer upon request. Proposers must request a debriefing conference within three (3) business days after the ASP is announced.

In order to submit a protest for a solicitation:

· The proposer must have submitted a response for that solicitation;

· The proposer must have participated in a debriefing conference for that solicitation;

· The protest must be received by the WDFW solicitation point of contact by e-mail or letter within five (5) business days after the proposer’s debriefing conference; and

· The protest must be in writing and clearly articulate the basis for the protest. Proposers may submit a protest on the following issues for a solicitation:

· A matter of bias, discrimination, or conflict of interest on the part of an evaluator;

· Errors in computing the scores; or

· Non-compliance with procedures described in the procurement document or agency protest process.

The WDFW Chief Financial Officer will act as the Protest Officer for as long as he/she has no involvement in the evaluation and award process; if he/she has such involvement the WDFW Deputy Director will select another neutral party to act as Protest Officer The Protest Officer is responsible for investigating and responding to the protest in writing within 10 business days from receipt of the protest, unless additional time is needed. If additional time is needed the Protest Officer will notify the protesting bidder within 10 business days from receipt of the protest. The Protest Officer’s decision regarding a protest is final.

At the time that the protest response is issued, the WDFW Director and Department of Enterprise Service Director will be provided a copy of the original protest and the agency’s protest response.

4.7 Washington’s Electronic Business Solution (WEBS). This RFQ and all amendments and answers to questions about the RFQ will be published through the Washington Electronic Business Solution (WEBS) system. All proposers must register with WEBS at www.des.wa.gov and maintain an accurate proposer profile. Proposers are also responsible for downloading this RFQ and all other documents related to the RFQ, including amendments.

Notification of amendments to the RFQ will be provided only to those proposers who have registered with WEBS and have downloaded the RFQ from WEBS. Failure to do so may result in a proposer having incomplete, inaccurate, or otherwise inadequate information about the project and proposal requirements.

Note: Persons with disabilities who are unable to utilize the WEBS system and/or need to receive the RFQ and related information in an alternative format should contact the RFQ Coordinator, whose contact information appears in Section 3.

5. EVALUATION AND AWARD PROCEDURES

5.1 General. The objective of the evaluation is to identify a qualified pool of range riders available for work statewide. The intent of WDFW is to award multiple contracts to qualified proposers that meet the requirements of this RFQ. WDFW reserves the right to award no contract at all, depending on the quality of the proposals submitted.

5.2 Qualification of Proposers. Proposals will be considered only from responsible firms/individuals currently or recently engaged in the performance of services comparable to those being requested. Proposers must satisfy WDFW of their proposed staff’s ability to do this work and should, upon request, promptly furnish any additional satisfactory evidence of their experience, organization, personnel staffing, equipment and supply sources available for the performance of contract as requested by WDFW. Range riders will be evaluated individually for qualifications. WDFW reserves the right to reject any proposed range rider who do not meet WDFW’s standards as expressed in this RFQ.

5.3 Evaluation Process. The WDFW evaluation team will review the proposals through the following process:

a. Preliminary screening. WDFW contract management staff will review proposers’ submissions and determine whether they are responsive to the procedural instructions in this RFQ. Non- responsive proposals will be eliminated from further consideration.

b. Review of mandatory requirements and qualifications. The evaluation team will evaluate the required documents listed in Section 4.1 for all proposals that are deemed to be responsive.

c. Reference checks. In addition to contacting the references provided by proposers, WDFW may contact additional professional references to determine the proposers’ experience and past performance. Proposers whose references cannot be verified will be contacted and allowed one business day to arrange for reference verification.

d. Interviews. WDFW may interview any proposer or proposed range rider before making the determination to award a contract.

5.4 Notice of Award. WDFW will notify all Proposers via email of the selection of Apparently Successful Proposer(s).

6. GENERAL PROVISIONS

6.1 Public Disclosure. Proposals shall become the property of WDFW. All public records of WDFW are available for disclosure under the provisions of the state Public Records Act, RCW 42.56. WDFW will not disclose RFQ records until a contract or contracts are executed. At that time, all information about the competitive procurement is subject to disclosure with the exception of the portion(s) of the any proposal designated proprietary until the respondent/Proposer has an adequate opportunity to take the legal steps necessary to prevent disclosure. To inspect proposals submitted in response to this RFQ, please contact the RFQ Coordinator.

6.2 Costs for Proposal Preparation. WDFW will not be liable for any costs or liabilities incurred by the Proposer associated with the preparation of the proposal in response to this RFQ.

6.3 Waiver of Minor Irregularities. WDFW reserves the right to waive minor irregularities contained in any proposals submitted in response to this RFQ.

6.4 Right to Reject All Proposals. WDFW may, at any time at its sole discretion and without penalty, reject any and all proposals and issue no contract as a result of this RFQ.

6.5 Authority to Bind WDFW. Only the Director of WDFW and his/her designated representatives may legally commit WDFW to contracts. The Proposer shall not incur, and WDFW shall not pay, any costs incurred before a contract is fully executed.

6.6 Contract Terms. The Apparently Successful Proposer will be required to sign a contract which contains general terms and conditions substantially the same as those included with this RFQ as Exhibit H.

Exhibits:

A. Checklist for Responsiveness B. Certifications and Assurances C. Vendor Certification Executive Order 18-03 D. Proposer Questionnaire E. Range Rider Questionnaire F. Proposer Profile G. Job Requirements H. General Terms and Conditions I. WDFW Regional Map J. Background Check Authorization

Exhibit A

CHECKLIST FOR RESPONSIVENESS

· A signed copy of the Certifications and Assurances document (Exhibit B), signed by a person authorized to bind you or your company to a contract.

· A signed and completed copy of the Vendor Certification Executive Order 18-03 document (Exhibit C), signed by a person authorized to bind you or your company to a contract.

· The proposer’s response to the Proposer Questionnaire (Exhibit D)

· A Range Rider Questionnaire (Exhibit E) completed and signed by each individual proposed as a range rider.

· A completed Proposer Profile (Exhibit F), including information about all subcontractors.

· A Background Check Authorization document (Exhibit J), completed and signed by each individual proposed as a range rider.

Exhibit B

CERTIFICATIONS AND ASSURANCES

I make the following certifications and assurances as a required element of submitting this Proposal, affirming the truthfulness of the facts declared here and acknowledging that the continuing compliance with these statements and all requirements of the RFQ are conditions precedent to the award or continuation of the resulting Contract.

1. I have read, understand, and agree to abide by all information contained in the RFQ, all Exhibits, and incorporated documents.

2. The attached Proposal is a firm offer for a period of 90 days following the Proposal Due Date specified in the RFQ, and it may be accepted by WDFW without further negotiation (except where obviously required by lack of certainty in key terms) at any time within the 90-day period. In the case of a protest, my Proposal will remain valid for 90 days or until the protest and any related court action is resolved, whichever is later.

3. In preparing this Proposal, I have not been assisted by any current or former employee of the state of Washington whose duties relate (or did relate) to the state's RFQ, or prospective Contract, and who was assisting in other than his or her official, public capacity. Neither does such a person nor any member of his or her immediate family have any financial interest in the outcome of this Proposal. (Any exceptions to these assurances are described in full detail on a separate page and attached to this document.)

4. I understand that the state of Washington will not reimburse me for any costs incurred in the preparation of this Proposal. All Proposals become the property of the state, and I claim no proprietary right to the ideas, writings, items, or samples unless so stated in the Proposal. Submittal of the attached Proposal constitutes an acceptance of the evaluation criteria and an agreement to abide by the procedures and all other administrative requirements described in the RFQ.

5. I understand that any Contract awarded as a result of this Proposal will incorporate all RFQ requirements. Submittal of a Proposal and execution of this Certifications and Assurances document certify my willingness to comply with the Contract terms and conditions appearing in the RFQ, all Exhibits, and incorporated documents if selected as a Contractor. It is further understood that my standard Contract will not be allowed as a replacement for the terms and conditions appearing in the RFQ, all Appendices, and incorporated documents of this RFQ.

6. I understand that if I am a successful bidder and awarded a contract, I may not commence or be paid for work that has been completed prior to receiving the fully signed contract and being provided an assignment from the local WDFW Wildlife Conflict staff responsible for monitoring range riding services.

7. I understand that all subcontractors proposed as part of this RFQ, or at a later date as an amendment after a contract has been awarded, must provide individual responses under the Proposer Questionnaire and each be vetted and approved by a designated review committee and the RFQ Coordinator or their designee before work may commence under any awarded contract. It is further understood that no subcontractor may commence work or be paid for work that has been completed prior to the successful bidder/contractor receiving written confirmation from the

Wildlife Conflict Section Manager in Olympia, or their designee, stating the subcontractor has a complete and active contract and may proceed. No other permissions - written, verbal, or otherwise -are valid.

8. By submitting this Proposal, Proposer hereby offers to furnish materials, supplies, services and/or equipment in compliance with all terms, conditions, and specifications contained in this RFQ.

9. We are not submitting any exceptions.

10. That neither the Proposer nor its “principals” (as defined in 49 CFR 29.105) are presently debarred, suspended, proposed for debarment, declared ineligible, or voluntarily excluded from participation in this transaction by any Federal department or agency.

11. That we have NOT been determined by a final and binding citation and notice of assessment issued by the Washington Department of Labor and Industries or through a civil judgment entered by a court of limited or general jurisdiction to have willfully violated, as defined in RCW 49.48.082, any provision of RCW chapters 49.46, 49.48, or 49.52 within three (3) years prior to the date of the solicitation date.

Signature of Proposer

Title Date

Exhibit C VENDOR CERTIFICATION EXECUTIVE ORDER 18-03 – WORKERS’ RIGHTS WASHINGTON STATE GOODS & SERVICES CONTRACTS Pursuant to RCW 39.26.160(3) (best value criteria) and consistent with Executive Order 1803 – Supporting Workers’ Rights to Effectively Address Workplace Violations (dated June 12, 2018), the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife will evaluate bids for best value and provide a bid preference in the amount of 3% to any bidder who certifies, pursuant to the certification below that their firm does NOT require its employees, as a condition of employment, to sign or agree to mandatory individual arbitration clauses or class or collective action waiver.

I hereby certify, on behalf of the firm identified below, as follows (check one):

· NO MANDATORY INDIVIDUAL ARBITRATION CLAUSES AND CLASS OR COLLECTIVE ACTION WAIVERS FOR EMPLOYEES. This firm does NOT require its employees, as a condition of employment, to sign or agree to mandatory individual arbitration clauses or class or collective action waivers.

OR

· MANDATORY INDIVIDUAL ARBITRATION CLAUSES AND CLASS OR COLLECTIVE ACTION WAIVERS FOR EMPLOYEES. This firm requires its employees, as a condition of employment, to sign or agree to mandatory individual arbitration clauses or class or collective action waivers.

I HEREBY CERTIFY, UNDER PENALTY OF PERJURY UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON, THAT THE CERTIFICATIONS HEREIN ARE TRUE AND CORRECT AND THAT I AM AUTHORIZED TO MAKE THESE CERTIFICATIONS ON BEHALF OF THE FIRM LISTED HEREIN.

FIRM NAME:

Name of Vendor – Print full legal entity name of firm

Date:

Print Name of person making certifications for firm Place:

Print city and state

Exhibit D

PROPOSER QUESTIONNAIRE

1. Individuals Proposed for Services. Identify all staff proposed as range riders under this RFQ. This includes contractors and any subcontractor. For each proposed range rider provide the following information:

a. Name

b. Date of birth

c. Physical Address

d. Mailing Address

e. Cell Phone Number

f. Relationship to the Proposer (self, employee, subcontractor, etc.)

g. WDFW Region(s) where available for work (see Exhibit G, WDFW Regional Map)

h. Indicate if the proposed range rider will be utilizing vehicles, horses, or both to provide services.

i. Indicate if the Proposer or any of their prospective subcontractors or employees are or will be involved in any grants approved by WA Department of Agriculture forWolf-Cattle management.

2. Range Rider Qualifications/Experience. Please have each proposed range rider (and any proposed employee or subcontractor) complete and sign the Range Rider Questionnaire (Exhibit E); and the Background Check Authorization (Exhibit J). Each range rider will be evaluated individually. Incomplete or duplicated responses will not be considered.

3. Related Information

a. If the Proposer or any subcontractor contracted with the state of Washington during the past 24 months, indicate the name of the agency, the contract number, and project description and/or other information available to identify the contract.

b. If the Proposer or their proposed staff was/were an employee of the state of Washington during the past 24 months, or is currently a Washington State employee, identify the individual by name, the agency previously or currently employed by, job title or position held, and separation date.

c. If the Proposer has had a contract terminated for default in the last five (5) years, describe such incident. Termination for default is defined as notice to stop performance due to the Applicant’s non-performance or poor performance and the issue of performance was either (a) not litigated due to inaction on the part of the Proposer, or (b) litigated and such litigation determined that the Proposer was in default.

d. Submit full details of the terms for default including the other party's name, address, and phone number. Present the Proposer’s position on the matter. WDFW will evaluate the facts andmay, at its sole discretion, reject the proposal on the grounds of the past experience. If no such termination for default has been experienced by the Proposer in the past five (5) years, so indicate.

Exhibit E

RANGE RIDER QUESTIONNAIRE

See inserted document below

Exhibit E - range rider questionnaire.pdf

Exhibit F

PROPOSER PROFILE

COMPANY INFORMATION (for Contract administration purposes)

Phone:

Personal Cell Phone:

Email:

WA Dept. of Revenue Registration Number (UBI)

WA Statewide Vendor Payment Number

SUBCONTRACTORS

If applicable, on a separate sheet, identify any subcontractors who will perform services in fulfillment of contract requirements; the nature of services to be performed and include federal tax identification (TIN) number for each subcontractor. If a subcontractor is a minority or women owned business, please include their OMWBE Certification Number (if certified). If necessary, attach additional sheets (please stamp or mark each page with a company name, mark, or initial). Do not include any Social Security Numbers.

The contractor, by including subcontractor(s) as part of your signed Proposal is your agreement to take complete responsibility, contract obligations, and liability for all actions of such subcontractors. All subcontractors are subject to DES approval. DES reserves the right to approve or disapprove any subcontractor.

SALES/CUSTOMER SERVICE

Purchasing Cards Accepted:

Visa Master Card American Express Discover Other:

MINORITY/WOMEN OWNED BUSINESS STATUS

Is your firm a Minority/Women Owned Business? Yes No Office of Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprises MWBE certification #

VETERAN OWNED BUSINESS STATUS

Is your firm a Veteran Owned Business? Yes No Washington State Department of Veterans Affairs certification #

Exhibit G

JOB REQUIREMENTS

1. Description of Duties.

Range riders provide a consistent human presence, have knowledge of livestock handling/husbandry techniques, and can identify potential wolf activity near/around livestock. Their other tasks include monitoring livestock health and deterring carnivore activity while tending to livestock.

As used in this document, the term “range rider” means any sole proprietor providing range rider services to WDFW; or any company or partnership providing range riders as company employees or subcontractors to WDFW.

A range rider’s job is to actively assess potential for wolf-livestock conflict, communicate with WDFW staff on appropriate uses of deterrent measures, and take action to reduce the predation risk to a livestock herd. In some cases, the range rider may assist the producer with livestock management responsibilities.

As outlined in WDFW’s Wolf-Livestock Interaction Protocol, under the direction of WDFW staff, and in coordination with livestock producers, the expected duties of a range rider include, but are not limited to:

· Before livestock are turned out, monitor, scout for and identify (near daily**) signs of wolf activity in areas where livestock will graze.

· Once livestock are turned out, observe livestock health and behavior (near daily**), to look for signs of stress that may indicate wolves are nearby and testing livestock vulnerability and identify potential wolf (and other carnivore) activity around livestock. Notify Wildlife Conflict Specialist as needed in a timely manner.

· If wolves are seen in close proximity to livestock, range riders should opportunistically haze the wolves (in the federally delisted portion of the state).

· Locate any livestock carcasses and secure them if the cause of death is suspected to be from a carnivore. Notify the Wildlife Conflict Specialist of the location for an investigation of the cause of death and disposal (when possible).

· Assist with sanitation measures outlined in this protocol. Notify the livestock producer and the WDFW Wildlife Conflict Specialist to coordinate disposal if possible and desirable.

· Work extended hours (may include nightly) during periods or in areas of significant or increasing wolf activity. Staying on site may be necessary for multiple days as work areas can be remote.

· Manage livestock consistent with the requirements of the lessor's grazing permit and grazing plan on either public or private ground. Livestock management and movement is the sole responsibility of the livestock producer. A range rider may assist with livestock management when authorized by a livestock producer. *May assist when authorized by livestock producer.*

· If sick or injured livestock are discovered, consult with the livestock producer to provide care and/or remove (if necessary and possible). * May assist when authorized by livestock producer.*

· When available and if desired, use wolf location data as a tool to help identify that wolves are in the area (to avoid potential areas of conflict such as den and rendezvous sites).

· If negative interactions between wolves and livestock occur, range riders will work with the livestock producer and WDFW Conflict Specialist on feasible strategies to mitigate conflict.

· Required to accurately complete daily logs and turn them into the WDFW Wildlife Conflict Specialist monthly or more frequently, as requested by WDFW. Incomplete, or inaccurate records will be returned for correction.

· Use GPS waypoints, geo-referenced photos, or another locating tool to document daily activities.

* Near daily is generally 4-5 days per week but allows the rider or riders to remain adaptable to the situation and needs. Range riding presence depends on the number of people assigned to areas, and individuals’ time may be allotted to priority areas or specific times of day. Provided resources are available, the intent of this expectation implies that there will be an adequate number of range riders to allow all portions of grazing allotments with livestock presence to be checked on a near- daily basis during times of concurrent overlap with wolf activity. With location-based range rider data, WDFW can determine the extent to which this expectation is being met. Having an exact definition of “near daily” in the protocol may not accurately reflect the dynamic nature of a range rider’s job or priority areas.

Upon request by the WDFW Conflict Specialist, a contractor/subcontractor may be required to attend a one-day basic training provided by WDFW. This training will demonstrate the basic proficiencies required in the field.

2. Reporting.

Each range rider/subcontractor must maintain and submit a Range Rider/Livestock Activity Log provided by WDFW that identifies the following information:

a. Time spent on herd monitoring/supervision (used to document herd supervision rates during the period of greatest risk).

b. Time spent working collaboratively to implement/monitor wolf-related deterrents with the livestock operator/owner(s), with specific tasks identified.

c. Details of any observed carnivore presence/activity on monitored pasture(s) - may include photographs.

d. Livestock herd condition and behaviors (e.g., resting, eating, stressed, non-stressed, bunched, etc.).

e. Any precautionary measures taken to minimize livestock depredation risk (e.g., injured/sick/dead livestock detected and removed).

f. Location of any high wolf use areas.

3. Performance of Duties.

a. Range riders may only be used as stated in their contract with WDFW. All range riders must adhere to the performance duties stated in those contracts.

b. The local WDFW Wildlife Conflict Specialist will assign and approve all range rider work prior to work being performed. This work may involve extended hours to include overnight. As a contractor for WDFW, the range rider is expected to be responsive to the direction of work planning, and work activities provided to them by the WDFW Wildlife Conflict Specialist.

c. Range riders will maintain livestock handling and husbandry knowledge, as this is the primary focus of Contracted Range Riders while in the field.

d. Range riders will detect, record in logs, and communicate injury and disease information with livestock producers. When practical, range riders will work with livestock producers to remove or doctor sick or injured livestock.

e. Range riders will maintain knowledge and document conditions of the assigned terrain as well as which carnivores are observed interacting with livestock in the area.

f. Range riders will detect and record potentially chronic interactions with wolves and livestock.

g. Range riders will facilitate communication among neighboring ranches and WDFW personnel.

h. Range riders will assist livestock producers with deterrent measures, such as hazing with loud noises, carcass sanitation, temporary fencing, removal of attractants, (where possible or necessary), and fladry construction to discourage carnivores from approaching areas with livestock.

i. Range riders may assist with implementation of management-intensive grazing methods (bunching and moving) when authorized by the livestock producer and the Wildlife Conflict Specialist. When doing so, range riders will record these actions.

j. Range riders are responsible for accurately completing reports by using the Range Rider/Livestock Monitoring Activity Logs, invoices, and datasheets provided by WDFW, capturing any data deemed essential by WDFW for both electronically and written forms, and working with the interfaces of GPS data and computers. Range riders will return these forms in a legible and complete format, and any other required reports and data upon completion of work during each billing period.

k. Range riders will provide all GPS track logs to WDFW Wildlife Conflict Specialist during each billing period in order to receive reimbursement. If technical difficulties occur, notify the Wildlife Conflict Specialist as soon as possible. InReach units may be utilized in coordination with the Wildlife Conflict Specialist.

l. Range riders will attend any provided trainings for GPS tracking process, proper documentation, billing, and invoicing conducted by WDFW staff when authorized by the WDFW Wildlife Conflict Specialist.

m. Range riders will communicate with WDFW through use of computers, phones, and radios. Additionally, range riders may be required to meet in-person with WDFW personnel to submit invoices, logs, etc.

n. Range riders will be familiar with local, state, and federal laws and regulations regarding wolf- livestock mitigation and must be familiar with the Washington Wolf Conservation and Management Plan as well as WDFW’s Wolf-Livestock Interaction Protocol.

o. Range riders will return WDFW equipment at the end of the contract period and upon termination of the contract.

p. Range riders are responsible for completion of other duties and responsibilities as deemed necessary and agreed upon between WDFW and the contracted range rider and/or their employee.

NOTE: Regional specifications may require an agreement between livestock producers and WDFW governing these services. Additional documentation regarding such agreements will be provided by WDFW if the range rider is providing services for those areas.

4. Equipment

a. Range riders must provide and or secure vehicles/stock including but not limited to ATV, trailer, horse(s), truck, smart phones with a tracking application and/or a GPS with sufficient batteries, etc., as well as lodging, food, fuel, and other necessities to perform their duties.

b. Range riders must have the capability/equipment to maintain daily georeferenced track logs of their activities, map areas of interest, and record critical location(s).

5. Reimbursement, Invoicing, and Travel Costs

a. Reimbursement of Costs. Each range rider will be reimbursed for range riding services as indicated below. Activities that have not been previously approved by WDFW are not eligible for reimbursement.

· Reimbursement rates will not be dependent on the mode of transportation.

· The reimbursement rate for time worked between 1-7 hours will be an hourly rate of $26.25. Any additional time worked for 8 or more hours will be reimbursed as a full day flat rate of $250.00. Shifts can be split within a one-day period.

· Individual Range Riders are limited to a maximum of 22 working days per month unless additional work is authorized by the WDFW Conflict Section Manager or WDFW Game Division Manager prior to work accomplishment.

· Reimbursement eligibility begins when a range rider arrives at the allotment or assigned area and begins conducting activities as stated in Exhibit G, Job Requirements.

· If a range rider accepts an assignment by WDFW outside of the of the counties proposed for work in the Contractor’s response to this RFQ, WDFW may reimburse the range rider for travel costs at current State of Washington travel reimbursement rates. The current travel rate as determined by the Office of Financial Management is $0.67 per mile and this is subject to change over time.

· An hourly rate of $26.25 will be paid to a range rider for the following:

· Attending a meeting or training when required by WDFW. Attendance of regularly scheduled meetings requested by WDFW will be reimbursed. Brief communications less than 30 minutes (quick check-ins, phone calls) or optional informational meetings will not be considered for reimbursement. If a meeting goes beyond 30 minutes, the contractor will be reimbursed at the hourly rate.

· Individual range riders will record all activities as an entry in the Range Rider /Livestock Monitoring Activity Log with a description of the activity noted in the observations field. Travel costs and travel time will not be reimbursed for meetings and/or trainings, specialized work, or additional duties as assigned by WDFW.

· The range rider is solely responsible for legible and accurate recording and submission of any records required under the contract. WDFW staff will return incomplete, or inaccurate records and reports for correction, and WDFW staff are not responsible for corrections. (Incomplete or inaccurate submissions can cause delays in payment—so accuracy and completeness is essential).

· Travel costs and travel…