24STC011_RFP_FINAL.pdf

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL (SECONDARY METHOD)

Notice to Prospective Proposers RFP No. 24STC011

January 21, 2025

You are invited to review and respond to this Request for Proposal (RFP) No. 24STC011, titled, “Assessing and Calibrating Data Sources for the California Climate Investments Quantification Methodology for Forest Restoration & Management.” In submitting your proposal, you must comply with the instructions found herein.

This RFP is published online in the California State Contracts Register (CSCR) at https://caleprocure.ca.gov/pages/index.aspx. To ensure receipt of any addenda to this RFP that may be issued, interested parties are encouraged to register online at:

https://caleprocure.ca.gov.

The California Air Resources Board’s (CARB) deadline for receipt of proposals is February 18, 2025, no later than 3:00 p.m. (PST). All proposals received late will be rejected. File size cannot exceed 50 Mega Bytes (MB). The naming convention of the proposal must be in the following format: “RFP 24STC011 [Insert vendor name] Proposal”. Proposals must be received on or before the date and time specified herein at email addresses provided below:

EMAIL RFP Proposal to:

Purchasing@arb.ca.gov CC: joshua.giacchino@arb.ca.gov CC: adam.zettel@arb.ca.gov

You are advised that you are responsible for ensuring that your proposal is received by the above listed contact person by the time and date required. Any proposal reaching the contact person after the deadline date and time will be rejected.

In the opinion of CARB, this RFP is complete and without need of explanation. However, if you have questions, notice any discrepancies or inconsistencies, or need any clarifying information, contact the person listed below. All questions must be submitted in accordance with the RFP instructions contained herein and sent via email directly to the below listed contact person and not through the Cal eProcure system.

Contact: Joshua Giacchino Email: joshua.giacchino@arb.ca.gov

We appreciate your interest in this Project and hope to receive a proposal from you if this is within your area of expertise.

https://caleprocure.ca.gov/pages/index.aspx https://caleprocure.ca.gov/ mailto:Purchasing@arb.ca.gov mailto:joshua.giacchino@arb.ca.gov mailto:adam.zettel@arb.ca.gov mailto:joshua.giacchino@arb.ca.gov mailto:adam.zettel@arb.ca.gov

California Air Resources Board

Table of Contents

SECTION PAGE

I. PURPOSE / BACKGROUND / SCOPE OF WORK 4

A) Purpose 4 B) Background 4 C) Scope of Work 4

II. PROPOSAL REQUIREMENTS (GENERAL) AND

INFORMATION

A) RFP Key Action Dates 5 B) Questions Regarding RFP Requirements 5 C) General Proposal Requirements 6 D) Submission of Proposals 6 E) Modification and/or Withdrawal of Proposals 7 F) Proposer Responsibilities 7 G) Signature 10 H) Disposition of Proposals 10 I) Socio-Economic and Preference Programs 10

III. PROPOSAL REQUIREMENTS (TECHNICAL) 13

A) Technical Proposal Requirements 13

1) Minimum Qualifications 13

2) Title Page 14

3) Cover Letter / Letter of Commitment 14

4) Table of Contents 14

5) Summary 14

6) Minimum Qualifications Response 14

7) Required Attachments 15

8) References 15

9) Conflict of Interest and Confidentiality Statement 15

10) Subcontracts / Subcontractors 15

11) Technical Portion 15

a. Management Plan 15

b. Methodology (Approach to Work) 16

c. Work Plan and Work Schedule 16

d. Personnel / Experience 17

e. Page Headers and Page Numbering 17

B) Cost Proposal Requirements 17

1) Cost Detail 18

2) Page Headers and Page Numbering 18

IV. EVALUATION, SELECTION, AND AWARD 18

A) Administrative Evaluation (Phase 1) 18 B) Technical Evaluation (Phase 2) 19

1) Scoring Criterion Guidelines 19

2) Cost Points 19

3) Proposal Evaluation Form 21 C) Proposal Rejection 23 D) Selection 24 E) Notice of Proposed Award 24 F) Standard Conditions of Service 25

G) Post Award Requirements 25

ATTACHMENTS

1. Required Attachment Checklist 26

2. Draft Standard Agreement (STD 213) 27

Exhibit A, Scope of Work 28 Exhibit A, Attachment 1 – Technical Proposal 34 Exhibit A, Attachment 2 – Quarterly Progress Report

Template

Exhibit B, Budget Detail and Payment Provisions 36 Exhibit B, Attachment 1 – Contractor Cost Sheet 37 Exhibit C, General Terms and Conditions (GTC 04/2017) 38 Exhibit D, Special Terms and Conditions 39 Exhibit E, Additional Provisions 46

Exhibit F, Final Report Format 49

3. Proposer References Form 54

4. Payee Data Record (STD 204) 55

5. Payee Data Record Supplement (STD 205) 57

6. Contractor Certification Clauses (CCC 04/2017) 59

7. California Civil Rights Laws Certification (DGS OLS 04) 63

8. Darfur Contracting Act Certification (DGS PD 1) 64

9. Bidder Declaration Form (GSPD-05-105) 65

10. California Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise (DVBE) Bid Incentive Instructions CA DVBE Bid Incentive Instructions

11. Contractor Cost Sheet 70

12. Detailed Response for Minimum Qualifications 71

13. COVID-19 Prevention Contractor Self-Certification 72

14. Conflict of Interest & Confidentiality Statement 73

15. Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) Reporting and

Factsheet (STD 1000)

I. PURPOSE / BACKGROUND / SCOPE OF WORK

A. Purpose

This Request for Proposal (RFP) is to solicit competitive proposals from experienced and qualified Contractors to update and improve the input data used in California Air Resources Board’s (CARB) Quantification Methodology (QM) for Forest Restoration & Management.

The Proposer shall explore potentially new data sources, assess and validate them, and recommend QM improvements and/or calibrations using novel data. These steps will improve the accuracy of greenhouse gas (GHG) estimates from forest restoration California Climate Investments projects.

For a detailed description of the work to be performed, please refer to Attachment 2, Draft Standard Agreement (STD 213). No work shall begin until all required signatures and approvals are obtained and CARB’s Contract Manager provides direction.

The Contract term shall be for twenty-four (24) months from the actual start date of the Agreement. The total budget for the entire Contract is Four Hundred Fifty Thousand Dollars and Zero Cents ($450,000.00). Proposals exceeding this amount may be deemed non-responsive and ineligible for award.

The State reserves the option to renew the Contract for one (1) additional twelve (12) month period (i.e., one (1) year) and for an additional Three Hundred Thousand Dollars and Zero Cents ($300,000.00). If at the State’s sole discretion, the optional year extension is granted, the State may amend the Agreement to include the additional year of services and increase funds as appropriate.

B. Background

Under California’s Cap-and-Trade program, the State’s portion of the proceeds from Cap-and-Trade Auctions is deposited into the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund (GGRF). The Legislature and Governor enact budget appropriations from the GGRF for State agencies to invest in projects that help achieve the State’s climate goals. These investments are collectively called California Climate Investments. Senate Bill (SB) 862 (Committee on Budget and Fiscal Review, Chapter 36, Statutes of 2014) requires CARB to develop guidance on reporting and Quantification Methodologies (QM) for all State agencies that receive appropriations from the GGRF. These QMs are designed to estimate the greenhouse gas benefits of projects using information available at the time of project selection.

C. Scope of Work

CARB is responsible for developing QMs for estimating Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emission reductions and other benefits from projects funded by the GGRF. The goal of this Project is to update and improve the input data used in the CARB’s QM for Forest Restoration & Management. The Proposer shall explore potential new data sources, assess and validate them, and recommend QM improvements and/or calibrations using novel data. These steps will improve the accuracy of GHG estimates from forest restoration California Climate Investments projects.

For a detailed description of the work to be performed, please refer to Attachment 2, Draft Standard Agreement (STD 213).

II. PROPOSAL REQUIREMENTS (GENERAL) AND INFORMATION

This section contains instructions for the submission of your proposal. It is the responsibility of the Proposer to carefully read and follow all proposal requirements within this RFP.

Compliance with the RFP instructions is mandatory for your proposal to be considered for award. Failure to comply with the RFP instructions may cause your proposal to be deemed non-compliant and non-responsive, thus ineligible for award.

A. RFP Key Action Dates

Below is the tentative time schedule for this RFP. CARB reserves the right to modify the RFP and/or change dates and times at its sole discretion, prior to the date fixed for submission of proposals, by the issuance of an addendum that will be posted on the California State Contracts Register (CSCR) at: https://caleprocure.ca.gov.

1. CARB reserves the right to modify or cancel in whole or any part of this solicitation.

2. Clarifications to the solicitation will only be provided in the form of a written addendum to all Proposers.

RFP Key Actions Dates Time (PST) RFP available to prospective Proposers 01/21/2025 N/A Written Questions Submittal Deadline 01/28/2025 5:00 p.m.

Question and Answers Addendum Posted 02/03/2025 5:00 p.m.

Final Date for Proposal Submission/Receipt by CARB 02/18/2025 3:00 p.m.

Complete Evaluation of Proposals 02/28/2025 N/A Posting of Intent to Award Notice(s) (Notice is posted for five [5] business days) 03/03/2025 N/A

Agreement sent to successful Proposer 03/10/2025 N/A Signed Agreement returned to CARB for counter-signature 03/17/2025 N/A Agreement Approved and Executed – work begins 04/01/2025 N/A

RFP Key Action Dates listed above are estimates only, and subject to change at CARB’s sole discretion. No work shall begin until all required approvals and signatures, including the Department of General Services (DGS) Office of Legal Services, if applicable, are obtained.

B. Questions Regarding RFP Requirements

All questions or concerns related to the RFP requirements must be directed electronically to:

Fiscal Services Division Acquisitions Branch Contact: Joshua Giacchino Email: joshua.giacchino@arb.ca.gov https://caleprocure.ca.gov/ mailto:joshua.giacchino@arb.ca.gov mailto:adam.zettel@arb.ca.gov

Questions must be received by the date and time specified under Section II, A. Key Action Dates. Answers to all questions submitted will be in the form of an addendum posted to the DGS California State Contracts Register (CSCR) website https://caleprocure.ca.gov/pages/index.aspx by the date and time specified under Section II, A. Key Action Dates. Please note that no verbal information given will be binding upon the State unless such information is issued in writing as an official addendum to all parties/participants. All questions must be submitted referencing the RFP number in the subject line, directly to the above listed contact person and not through the Cal eProcure system.

C. General Proposal Requirements

1. Proposals should provide straightforward and concise descriptions of the Proposer’s ability to satisfy the requirements of this RFP. The proposal must be complete and accurate. Omissions, inaccuracies or misstatements will be sufficient cause for rejection of a proposal.

2. Proposals must be submitted for the performance of all services described herein. Any deviation from the work specifications (Section Ill, Proposal Requirements, and Attachment 2, Draft Standard Agreement [STD 213]) may cause a proposal to be rejected.

D. Submission of Proposals

1. Proposals must be submitted no later than the date and time indicated in Section II.A.

Key Action Dates and must be addressed as follows in Item 2.

Proposals received after this date and time will not be considered and will be

2. Delivery Instructions

Responses to this RFP shall be submitted to CARB at the following email addresses provided in Section 2.b. below in PDF format, cannot exceed 50 Mega Bytes (MB) and include:

a. One (1) copy containing the Technical Proposal and all other required elements along with the Cost Proposal.

b. Submit to the following email addresses and reference the RFP number in the subject line.

Purchasing@arb.ca.gov CC: joshua.giacchino@arb.ca.gov CC: adam.zettel@arb.@arb.ca.gov

3. Each proposal will be reviewed to determine if it meets the proposal requirements contained in Section lII, Proposal Requirements (Technical). Failure to meet the requirements for the RFP may be cause for rejection of the proposal.

https://caleprocure.ca.gov/pages/index.aspx mailto:Purchasing@arb.ca.gov mailto:name@arb.ca.gov mailto:adam.zettel@arb.@arb.ca.gov

4. A proposal may be rejected if it is conditional or incomplete, or if it contains any alterations of form or other irregularities of any kind. The State may reject any or all proposals and may waive any immaterial deviation in a proposal. The State’s waiver of immaterial defect shall in no way modify the RFP document or excuse the Proposer from full compliance with all requirements if the Proposer is awarded the Agreement.

5. CARB may modify the RFP up to the specified time of the date fixed listed for submission of proposals by the issuance of an addendum to all parties who received a proposal package. Any addendum(s) will be issued through the Cal eProcure system.

6. The State reserves the right to reject all proposals.

7. More than one (1) proposal from an individual, firm, partnership, corporation or association under the same or different names, will not be considered. Reasonable grounds for believing that any Proposer has submitted more than one (1) proposal for the work contemplated herein will cause the rejection of all proposals submitted by that Proposer. If there is reason to believe that collusion exists among the Proposers, none of the participants in such collusion will be considered, in this or future procurements.

E. Modification and/or Withdrawal of Proposals

1. A Proposer may modify a proposal after its submission by withdrawing its original proposal and resubmitting a new proposal prior to the proposal submission deadline.

The Proposer’s modifications offered in any other manner, oral or written, will not be considered.

2. A Proposer may withdraw its proposal by submitting a written withdrawal request to

CARB signed by the Proposer or an agent authorized in accordance with Section II.G., titled “Signature”. A Proposer may thereafter submit a new proposal prior to the proposal submission deadline. Proposals may not be withdrawn without cause subsequent to proposal submission deadline.

F. Proposer Responsibilities

1. Proposers should carefully examine the entire RFP, with special attention to the tasks and deliverables found in Attachment 2, Draft Standard Agreement (STD 213).

Proposers shall investigate obstacles that might be encountered. No additions or increases to the Agreement amount will be made due to a lack of careful examination of the requirements.

2. Before submitting a response to this RFP, Proposer(s) should review their response, correct all errors, and confirm compliance with the RFP requirements. It is the Proposer’s responsibility to complete and submit all required attachments as listed on Attachment 1, Required Attachment Checklist.

3. Costs incurred for developing proposals and in anticipation of award of the Agreement are entirely the responsibility of the Proposer and shall not be charged to CARB.

4. It is the Proposer’s responsibility to promptly notify CARB’s Contract Analyst identified in the solicitation, in writing, by e-mail, if the Proposer believes that the solicitation is unfairly restrictive, contains errors or discrepancies, or is otherwise unclear. Notification must be done immediately upon receipt of the solicitation in order that the matter may be fully considered and appropriate action taken by CARB prior to the closing time set to receive solicitation responses. Such notification shall be submitted no later than the question and answer period referenced in Section II.A., Key Action Dates. All such correspondence received after the question and answer deadline will not be considered.

5. Proposer is responsible for reviewing, reading, understanding, and complying in full with the State’s General Terms and Conditions along with the Contractor’s Certification Clauses (CCC) as listed at: https://www.dgs.ca.gov/OLS/Resources/Page- Content/Office-of-Legal-Services-Resources-List-Folder/Standard-Contract-Language.

6. Each proposal must constitute an irrevocable offer for a period of at least one hundred eighty (180) working days after proposal submission.

7. The Proposer must provide evidence to show that members of the team possess the specific qualifications, competence, experience, resources, and business integrity necessary to carry out the work under the Contract as expected. Examples of evidence include, but are not limited to resumes, letters of reference, and project summaries that highlight the team’s experience. Proposers must complete Attachment 3, Proposer References Form.

8. The Proposer must own and operate a legitimate business. If required by law, the

Proposer must be registered and in good standing with the California Secretary of State.

All businesses that are required to be registered with the California Secretary of State must be registered prior to the date of the Agreement award. Evidence of registration shall be submitted with the proposal.

9. In the event that any license(s) and/or permit(s) expire at any time during the term of this

Agreement, Proposer agrees to provide agency a copy of the renewed license(s) and/or permit(s) within thirty (30) days following the expiration date. In the event the Proposer fails to keep in effect at all times all required license(s) and permit(s), the State may, in addition to any other remedies it may have, terminate this Agreement upon occurrence of such event.

10. It is unlawful for any person engaged in business within this State to sell or use any article or product as a “loss leader” as defined in Section 17030 of the Business and Professions Code.

11. The Proposer must complete and submit to CARB, Attachment 4, Payee Data Record

(STD 204), to determine if the selected proposer is subject to State income tax withholding, pursuant to California Revenue and Taxation Code, Section 18662. This form can be found on the Internet at http://www.documents.dgs.ca.gov/dgs/fm c/pdf/std204.pdf. No payment shall be made unless a completed STD 204 and/or Attachment 5, Payee Data Record Supplemental (STD 205), (if applicable) has been returned to CARB. This form can be found on the Internet at https://www.documents.dgs.ca.gov/dgs/fmc/pdf/std205.pdf

12. The Proposer must sign and submit to CARB, page one (1) of the Attachment 6, Contractor Certification Clauses (CCC 04/2017) or the form can be obtained via the Internet at: https://www.dgs.ca.gov/OLS/Resources/Page-Content/Office-of-Legal- Services-Resources-List-Folder/Standard-Contract-Language.

https://www.dgs.ca.gov/OLS/Resources/Page-Content/Office-of-Legal-Services-Resources-List-Folder/Standard-Contract-Language https://www.dgs.ca.gov/OLS/Resources/Page-Content/Office-of-Legal-Services-Resources-List-Folder/Standard-Contract-Language http://www.documents.dgs.ca.gov/dgs/fmc/pdf/std204.pdf http://www.documents.dgs.ca.gov/dgs/fmc/pdf/std204.pdf https://www.documents.dgs.ca.gov/dgs/fmc/pdf/std205.pdf https://www.dgs.ca.gov/OLS/Resources/Page-Content/Office-of-Legal-Services-Resources-List-Folder/Standard-Contract-Language https://www.dgs.ca.gov/OLS/Resources/Page-Content/Office-of-Legal-Services-Resources-List-Folder/Standard-Contract-Language

13. The Proposer must sign and submit to CARB, Attachment 7, California Civil Rights

Laws Certification (DGS OLS 04).

14. The Proposer must sign and submit to CARB, Attachment 8 Darfur Contracting Act

Certification (DGS PD 1).

15. The Proposer must sign and submit to CARB, Attachment 9, Bidder Declaration

(GSPD-05-105).

16. The Proposer must complete and submit to CARB, Attachment 11, Contractor Cost

Sheet. Failure to fully complete and return this attachment with your proposal shall cause your bid to be rejected and deemed non-responsive.

17. The Proposer must complete and submit to CARB, Attachment 12, Detailed Response for Minimum Qualifications. Failure to fully complete and return this attachment with your proposal will cause your bid to be rejected and deemed non-responsive.

18. As part of CARB’s ongoing efforts to protect the health and safety of its employees, CARB is requesting all Vendors / Contractors who perform work in person or on site to provide certification that the Vendor’s / Contractor’s employees and subcontractors have provided documentation to the Vendor / Contractor that the employees are either fully vaccinated against COVID-19 (as defined by the CDC), or have obtained a negative COVID-19 test result within seventy-two (72) hours of in-person or on-site work. The Contractor does not need to provide the documentation of employees’ or subcontractors’ vaccination status or negative test result to CARB. If no employees or subcontractors of the Vendor /Contractor shall interact with any CARB employees or perform work on site, CARB requests the Vendor / Contractor certify to this effect.

Additionally, all Contractors who perform services under a Contract with CARB are expected to, at their own expense, comply with all applicable health and safety laws and regulations. This includes, but is not limited to, all laws, regulations, and public health orders related to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Proposer must sign and submit to CARB, the COVID-19 Prevention Contractor Self-Certification, Attachment 13, COVID-19 Prevention Contractor Self-Certification.

19. The Proposer must sign and submit to CARB, Attachment 14, Conflict of Interest and

Confidentiality Statement. The Proposer shall require each of its employees or officers who will be involved in the performance of this Agreement to agree to the terms and the terms of the Conflict of Interest and Confidentiality Statement.

20. The Proposer must sign and submit to CARB, Attachment 15, Generative Artificial

Intelligence (GenAI) Reporting and Factsheet (STD 1000).

The State of California seeks to realize the potential benefits of GenAI, through the development and deployment of GenAI tools, while balancing the risks of these new technologies.

Bidders/Offerors/Contractor must notify the State in writing if their solution or service includes, or makes available, any GenAI, including GenAI from third parties or subcontractors.

The State has developed a GenAI Reporting and Factsheet (STD 1000), to be completed by the Bidder/ Offeror / Contractor

Failure to submit the GenAI Reporting and Factsheet (STD 1000) will result in disqualification of the Bidder / Offeror / Contractor.

Failure to report GenAI to the State may void any resulting contract. The State reserves its right to seek any and all relief it may be entitled to as a result of such non-disclosure.

Upon receipt of a Bidder / Offeror / Contractor GenAI Reporting and Factsheet (STD 1000), the State reserves the right to incorporate GenAI Special Provisions into the final Contract or reject bids/offers that present an unacceptable level of risk to the State.

G. Signature

1. All documents requiring signatures contained in the original proposal package must have original or electronic signatures.

2. Only an individual who is authorized to bind the proposing firm contractually shall sign the required Cover Letter for the proposal. The signature must indicate the title or position that the individual holds in the firm. An unsigned proposal may be rejected.

H. Disposition of Proposals

Upon proposal opening, all documents submitted in response to this RFP shall become the property of the State of California and shall be regarded as public records under the California Public Records Act (Government Code Section 6250 et seq.) and subject to review by the public. The State cannot prevent the disclosure of public documents.

I. Socio-Economic and Preference Programs

1. Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise (DVBE) Incentive – Optional

This solicitation does not require a minimum amount of DVBE participation. However, you are strongly encouraged to either become certified, if eligible, or to subcontract a portion of the work to a certified DVBE. If a prime proposer is a certified DVBE or commits to subcontracting with DVBE(s), the proposal may be eligible to receive a proposal preference provided that the DVBE provides a commercially useful function as defined in California Code of Regulations, Title 2, Section 1896.61(l). For evaluation purposes only, the State shall apply an incentive to proposals that propose California certified DVBE participation as identified on Attachment 10, California Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise (DVBE) Bid Incentive Instructions and confirmed by the State.

Proposers claiming the DVBE incentive must complete and return the Disabled Veteran Business Declarations form found at:

http://www.documents.dgs.ca.gov/dgs/fmc/gs/pd/pd_843.pdf

The incentive amount varies in conjunction with the percentage of DVBE participation offered. The minimum requirement is one percent (1%) with a maximum of five percent (5%) DVBE participation and the incentive will be equal to the participation offered as defined below:

https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.documents.dgs.ca.gov%2Fdgs%2Ffmc%2Fpdf%2Fstd1000.pdf&data=05%7C02%7CKaty.Sullivan%40arb.ca.gov%7Cebda5e04e3e94126fac008dc9a01b857%7C9de5aaee778840b1a438c0ccc98c87cc%7C0%7C1%7C638554579399457885%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=OTrQnUbiPqKJnlmZIoiU%2Buv6OUnVtjwt7iOBYc4wIyI%3D&reserved=0 http://www.documents.dgs.ca.gov/dgs/fmc/gs/pd/pd_843.pdf

Confirmed DVBE Participation of:

DVBE

Incentive:

1% to 1.99% inclusive 1% 2% to 2.99% inclusive 2% 3% to 3.99% inclusive 3% 4% to 4.99% inclusive 4%

5% or Over 5%

2. Small Business (SB) or Microbusiness (MB) Preference – Optional

If Proposer is claiming the five percent (5%) certified SB or MB preference or is committing to subcontract twenty-five percent (25%) or more of their net bid price to one

(1) or more certified SB or MB (Non-small business preference [NSB]), list firm names on Attachment 9, Bidder Declaration (GSPD-05-105) and attach a copy of the certification. Additional References: http://www.dgs.ca.gov/PD/.

Questions regarding the certification approval process or the SB program should be directed to the Department of General Services, Procurement Division at (800) 559-5529 or (916) 375-4940. For the 24-Hour Recording & Mail Request call (916) 322-5060.

SB, MB or NSB bidders or proposers using the SB preference shall be granted a preference consisting of five percent (5%) of the highest responsible bidder’s total score.

3. Target Area Contract Preference Act (TACPA) - Optional

a. Government Code (GC) Section 4530 (TACPA) provides that California based companies shall be granted a five percent (5%) preference whenever a State agency prepares a solicitation for services in excess of $100,000.00. The preference(s) shall apply if the worksite is not fixed by the government agency and the Proposer can demonstrate and certify, under the penalty of perjury, that at least ninety percent (90%) of the total labor hours required to perform the services shall be performed at an identified worksite located in a distressed area (TACPA). TACPA preferences will only be applied if this procurement results in more than one (1) responsive proposal receiving a passing narrative proposal score.

b. Additional work force preferences ranging from one percent (1%) to four percent

(4%) can be earned by eligible Proposers that agree to hire five percent (5%) to twenty percent (20%) of persons with a high risk of unemployment or those living in a targeted employment area or that are enterprise zone eligible to perform a specified percentage of the contract work.

c. The granting of TACPA preference cannot displace an award to a certified small business.

d. Proposers seeking TACPA preference must submit a completed STD 830 -

Target Area Contract Preference Act Request https://www.documents.dgs.ca.gov/dgs/fmc/pdf/std830.pdf. Preference Request https://www.documents.dgs.ca.gov/dgs/fmc/gs/pd/gspd0525.pdf https://www.documents.dgs.ca.gov/dgs/fmc/gs/pd/gspd0526.pdf with their proposal. The applicable preference request form must include the following:

http://www.dgs.ca.gov/PD/ https://www.documents.dgs.ca.gov/dgs/fmc/pdf/std830.pdf https://www.documents.dgs.ca.gov/dgs/fmc/gs/pd/gspd0525.pdf https://www.documents.dgs.ca.gov/dgs/fmc/gs/pd/gspd0526.pdf

i. All appropriate certifications (TACPA). The proposing firm’s name and the name of all suppliers and subcontractors that will work with the Proposer to fulfill the terms of the Contract along with the addresses of each of the worksite(s) and estimated labor hours;

ii. County census tract number and block group number;

iii. Proposer’s original signature; and

iv. A checkbox marked to identify the additional one percent (1%) to four percent

(4%) preference sought for hiring persons with a high risk of unemployment.

e. TACPA preference cannot be granted if:

i. The lowest proposed cost does not equal or exceed $100,000.00 for the entire term;

ii. The work site or any part thereof is fixed or preset by the State;

iii. The services involve construction or a public works project; or

iv. A Proposer who has claimed a TACPA preference and is awarded the Contract shall be obligated to perform in accordance with the preference(s) requested, provided the preference was granted in obtaining the Contract.

f. Firms receiving preference must:

i. Report their labor hours to the State and reference the State Contract on which the award is based for the specific reporting requirements.

g. Proposers wishing to learn more about TACPA requirements, designated work site(s) or enterprise zones in California should contact the appropriate office of the Department of General Services at (916) 375-4940. DGS will attempt to determine TACPA eligibility within two (2) working days.

4. Preference and Incentive Application – Optional

a. DVBE Incentive Points are factored by multiplying a Proposer’s DVBE participation commitment percentage (%) by the total possible points that could be awarded (see Table 1 below). This amount is then added to the proposer’s total points. In the Table 2 sample below, Proposer B received a 60-point incentive (.05% commitment x 1200 total points available), which was added to its total points resulting in its proposal ranking as first in line for award. Proposer C’s two percent (2%) commitment resulted in its receiving twenty-four (24) incentive points, and making its proposal rank as second in line for award.

b. Preference is calculated by multiplying five percent (5%) of the highest scoring NSB

Proposer, and adding those points to SB proposers and NSBs subcontracting twenty-five percent (25%) or more to a SB. In the Table 2 sample below, the calculation is based on Proposer B’s 1155 points x .05 resulting in 57.75 additional points added to the certified SBs (A and C).

c. Under the High Score Method, it is possible to displace a high point certified SB with the application of the DVBE Incentive.

TABLE 1: HIGH SCORE METHOD SAMPLE

Available points example using sliding scale:

Administrative: 200 points Technical: 400 points

Cost: 600 points Total: 1200 points

Possible Maximum 60 points DVBE incentive calculated as follows:

Confirmed DVBE Participation Possible Points Calculation:

1% - 1.99% inclusive 1% X 1200 = 12 2% - 2.99% inclusive 2% X 1200 = 24 3% - 3.99% inclusive 3% X 1200 = 36 4% - 4.99% inclusive 4% X 1200 = 48

5% and Higher 5% X 1200 = 60

TABLE 2: HIGH SCORE METHOD SAMPLE RESULTS

Proposer A B C Responsive/Responsible Yes Yes Yes

Total Points 1050 1155 1125 Eligible Preference SB None SB

SB Preference Points Applied

57.75 0 57.75

Subtotal 1107.75 1155 1182.75 Rank 3 2 1

Confirmed DVBE Participation

No (0%) Yes (5%) Yes (2%)

Incentive Points Applied None 60 24 Adjusted Points 1107.75 1215 1206.75

New Rank 3 1 2

III. PROPOSAL REQUIREMENTS (TECHNICAL)

A. Technical Proposal Requirements

The proposal must contain the following components, information and documents outlined below. Each requirement’s location must be listed in the Proposal’s Table of Contents. Also see Section II. D. Submission of Proposal, for general submittal details.

1. Proposer Minimum Qualifications

The Proposer must provide a detailed response, outlining information as to how the Proposer meets each of the minimum qualifications listed below. The Proposer must provide their detailed response on Attachment 12, Detailed Response for Minimum Qualifications. Proposals that do not meet the minimum qualifications shall be determined non-responsive and ineligible for award.

a. Proven knowledge and experience using wildfire behavior models, fuel maps, the

Forest Vegetation Simulator, forest structure maps, and/or forest carbon quantification.

b. Proven knowledge and experience with geographic information system (GIS) and remote sensing data.

2. Title Page

The purpose of this page is to provide information needed by CARB administrative staff.

It must contain the following items:

a. The title of the proposal, which must be the same as the title of the RFP;

b. The number of the RFP, 24STC011; and

c. The date of proposal.

3. Cover Letter / Letter of Commitment

The cover letter must not be more than two (2) pages, in Arial size 11-point font or similar, and must include the following paragraph and the signature of the representative authorized to make the proposal on behalf of the firm:

“The enclosed proposal is submitted in response to the above referenced Request for Proposal 24STC011, including any addenda. Through submission of this proposal, we agree to all of the terms and conditions of the Request for Proposal and agree that any inconsistent provisions in our proposal may result in a lower score, up to and including disqualification. We have carefully read and examined the Request for Proposal and have conducted such other investigations as were prudent and reasonable in preparing the proposal. We agree to be bound by statements and representations in our proposal.”

The cover letter must be provided on the company’s letterhead and include the following information and statements:

a. The name and address of your company [NOTE: You may use a Post Office box, but please provide your company's street address]; and

b. The name, title, and signature of a company official authorized to bind the proposal.

c. Name, email and/or phone number for the Proposer’s contact for CARB inquiries related to the proposal.

4. Table of Contents

5. Summary

The abstract shall be no longer than one (1) page. Include a brief description of the proposed project briefly summarizing the main point of the various sections of the proposal, including the features and benefits of the proposal.

6. Minimum Qualifications Response

Provide a response, outlining detailed information demonstrating how the Proposer meets each of the minimum qualifications listed in Section III.A. Submit applicable documentation on Attachment 12, Detailed Response for Minimum Qualifications.

7. Required Attachments

The Technical Proposal must include all of the completed attachments listed in Attachment 1, Required Attachment checklist.

8. References

Each proposer must provide at least two (2) references detailing previous experience related to the goals and objectives outlined in the RFP.

References must be provided using Attachment 3, Proposer References Form.

Submission of this attachment is mandatory. Failure to fully complete and return this attachment with your proposal may cause your proposal to be rejected and deemed non-responsive. Attachment 3, Proposer References Form may be copied for additional references.

9. Conflict of Interest and Confidentiality Statement

Proposer and each member of Proposer’s technical staff proposed to work on this Project must sign and submit Attachment 14, Conflict of Interest and Confidentiality Statement with your proposal.

10. Subcontracts/Subcontractors

If subcontractors are to be used, the Proposer must include in the Technical Proposal, a description of each person or firm and the work to be done by each subcontractor.

Please use Attachment 9, Bidder Declaration Form (GSPD 05-105), to list all subcontractors used for this Project. All subcontracts must be approved by CARB, and no work shall be subcontracted without the prior written approval of the State. The cost of the subcontract work is to be itemized in the Cost Proposal as described below in the section entitled Cost Proposal Requirements, and not in the Technical Proposal.

11. Technical Portion

Proposer shall demonstrate their understanding of the questions, or needs, that CARB is seeking to have addressed. The technical approach and work plan are considered the heart of the proposal and will receive a high level of scrutiny. This part of the proposal will be evaluated to ensure all tasks and deliverables, listed in the Scope of Work, are included and responsive. The technical portion of the Proposal must include a written response to all scoring elements listed in the sample Proposal Evaluation form, Section IV.B.3, and must include the following:

a. Management Plan

The Proposer shall provide a project management plan including the management structure and project organization. The Proposer shall designate, by name, the Contract Manager to be employed. The selected Proposer shall not cause the substitution of the Contract Manager without prior written approval of the State. The Proposers should include methods to measure Project progress against the Project Management Plan to maintain Project schedule.

b. Methodology (Approach to Work)

The Proposer shall describe their methodology and approach to the work, identify specific techniques and methodologies that will be used, and specific administrative and operational management expertise that will be employed to accomplish the tasks listed in this RFP under Attachment 2, Draft Standard Agreement (STD 213). The Proposer shall indicate how skills developed in previous related work will be applied to the work described in this RFP.

The Proposer shall demonstrate their knowledge of forest structure, wildfire, and fuel modeling, the subject of the RFP, and lay the groundwork for the actual work to be performed for this Project. The Proposer shall provide a detailed description of the overall approach and methodologies utilized to accomplish the tasks listed in Attachment 2, Draft Standard Agreement (STD 213).

c. Work Plan and Work Schedule

The Proposer shall develop a Work Plan and Work Schedule that allows all tasks and deliverables to be completed within the timeframes outlined in the Scope of Work. The Work Plan and Work Schedule shall identify each major task, necessary subtasks, and milestones by which progress can be measured and payments made.

The Work Plan shall specify the estimated hours to accomplish each task and the Work Schedule shall provide the responsible party for performing the task, and anticipated dates of completion.

The Work Plan and Work Schedule must reflect the total Project timeline of twenty-four (24) months.

The Work Plan shall indicate how the supervision and oversight will be conducted to ensure that the Project will remain on schedule and that the distribution of workload is appropriate.

See Attachment 2, Draft Standard Agreement (STD 213), for details on the tasks and deliverables required. A work plan schedule format is provided below:

TASK

RESPONSIBLE

PARTY (PRIME OR

SUBCONTRACTOR)

DATE OF

COMPLETION

Task 1a: Review available data sources Quarter 1, 2026

Task 1b: Generate fuel models Quarter 3, 2026

Task 1c: Compare generated fuel models to FCCS and validation data Quarter 3, 2026

Task 1d: Identify calibration opportunities Quarter 4, 2026

Task 1e: Draft final report Quarter 4, 2026

Task 2a: Summarize relevant high-resolution remote sensing products Prior to start of Tasks

2b and 2c

Task 2b: Compare remote sensing products to forest structure maps Quarter 1, 2027

Task 2c: Develop a workflow that calibrates the QM forest structure inputs using remote sensing products

Quarter 1, 2027

Task 2d: Final Report Two (2) weeks before the Contract end date

Task 2e Seminar: Virtual presentation summarizing findings Two (2) weeks before the Contract end date

d. Personnel / Experience

For this criterion, reviewers will rate the Proposer’s experience in conducting similar or related work described in the Scope of Work, and how skills developed in previous related work will be applied to this Project as outlined in Attachment 2, Draft Standard Agreement (STD 213). The Proposer shall indicate how previous experience will be applied to the development of this Project.

The Proposer shall list technical staff (specify staff name) who will be working on the Project. Include their titles, qualifications, a summary of similar work or studies performed, a resume for each technical staff person, a statement indicating how many hours each professional will be assigned to the Agreement and what tasks each professional will perform. The selected Proposer shall not cause key members of the project team to be substituted without prior written approval of the State.

The Proposer shall demonstrate experience and breadth of knowledge in forest structure maps, wildfire behavior models, the Forest Vegetation Simulator, fuel maps and modeling and/or forest carbon quantification as described in Attachment 2, Draft Standard Agreement (STD 213).

e. Page Headers and Page Numbering

All pages of the Technical Proposal, including cover pages, Table of Contents, references and resumes, and Attachment 9, Bidder Declaration Form (GSPD-05-

105) shall have the following header and page numbering format in the upper right-hand corner:

Technical Proposal

Exhibit A, Attachment 1 Page ## of ##

B. Cost Proposal Requirements

The cost breakdown (Cost Proposal) shall be included in the Technical Proposal. Cost Proposals shall include the following required information: Budget, and Preference Program Documents (See Section lI. Socio-Economic and Preference Programs) and at a minimum, all information listed in Cost Detail (below). Proposers must use the Attachment 11, Contractor Cost Sheet.

All costs must be provided for each task and deliverable. The proposed costs should be broken down into the outline in the Work Plan and Work Schedule for the purpose of this cost proposal submittal.

CARB’s budget for the proposed contract is limited to $450,000.00. Any cost proposals exceeding this amount will be disqualified and ineligible for award. Proposers shall submit a cost proposal for all tasks described in Attachment 2, Draft Standard Agreement (STD 213).

1. Cost Detail

a. Itemized Tasks – Using Attachment 11, Contractor Cost Sheet, provide firm-fixed costs for specific tasks listed in Attachment 2, Draft Standard Agreement (STD 213).

For all tasks, the Proposer must include all items such as labor, personnel, subcontractors, travel, meetings, materials, reports, and tax, if applicable, as necessary to perform and complete the tasks on Attachments 11, Contractor Cost Sheet.

b. Subcontracts / Subcontractors – If subcontractors are to be used, the Proposer must include in the Technical Proposal, a description of each person or firm and the work to be done by each subcontractor. Additionally, all subcontractors proposed to be used for this Project must be identified in Attachment 9, Bidder Declaration Form

(GSPD-05-105).

2. Page Headers and Page Numbering

All pages of the Cost Proposal; Attachment 9, Bidder Declaration Form (GSPD-05-105);

and, if applicable, any forms pertaining to socio-economic preferences (SB, MB, or DVBE), shall have the following header and page numbering format in the upper right-hand corner:

Cost Proposal

Exhibit B, Attachment 1 Page # of ##

IV. EVALUATION, SELECTION, AND AWARD

A. Administrative Evaluation (Phase 1)

CARB will conduct an administrative evaluation in accordance with the RFP requirements to determine a Proposer’s responsiveness and responsibility. Each proposal will be checked for completeness and/or absence of all required information and to ensure that the Proposer meets the minimum qualifications in conformance with the submission requirements. During the evaluation period, if an item is unclear, or needs further clarification, Proposers may be requested to provide additional documentation.

B. Technical Evaluation (Phase 2)

CARB will also conduct an evaluation of the Technical Proposal by an evaluation panel consisting of CARB employees. If deemed necessary, independent academic, technical, or policy experts may be called upon to answer any specific questions regarding the responses to the RFP. These individuals will not participate in the scoring process.

1. Scoring Criterion Guidelines

Note: There will be no individual sheets, no written scores, and no written notes.

There will be one final score for each Proposer. Proposer must score a minimum of 70 points (combined score of technical evaluation and cost points) to be eligible for award.

The Proposal Evaluation Form in Section IV.B.3 contains the scoring criteria that will be used by reviewers evaluating proposals submitted in response to this RFP. The evaluation team shall determine a consensus score for each item, based on the team's verbal discussion of each Proposer's responses. To determine the consensus score, evaluators will meet either in person or by teleconference to discuss in detail the strengths, weaknesses, and ratings of each proposal to determine scores. The evaluation team will carefully review and discuss the completeness of the Proposer's response, as well as the clarity of documentation presented in the proposals submitted in response to this RFP.

2. Cost Points (30 points)

Proposers may achieve a maximum of thirty (30) cost points. This criterion allows staff to evaluate and compare the budgets of each proposal relative to those of its competitors.

The budgeted amount is the maximum allowable amount by CARB for this Agreement (Section III.B). Any proposals submitted that are over the expected expenditure / budgeted amount will be disqualified.

The technically qualified proposal that has the lowest cost will be given a maximum score of thirty (30) for this criterion.

All other technically qualified proposals will be calculated based on the ratio of the lowest cost proposal to the proposer’s cost, multiplied by the maximum number of cost points available thirty (30), as shown in the example below:

Lowest Total Cost Proposal X Total Cost Points Available Proposer Total Cost

Example: To help illustrate this process, refer to the Cost Evaluation Methodology Example table below for the cost score calculation process. Cost figures in this example explain the cost calculations and have no other significance.

Cost Evaluation Methodology Example

Proposer Grand Total Cost Calculation Cost Points

Awarded

A $350,000 $300,000 X 30 $350,000 26

B $325,000 $300,000 X 30 $325,000 28

C $300,000 $300,000 X 30 $300,000 30

Final Scoring Methodology Example

Proposer Technical Score Cost Score Total Points Awarded

A 81 26 107 B 86 28 114 C 92 30 122

In this case, the highest-scored proposal from Proposer C would be the intended awardee.

Preferences will be applied as required to eligible proposals. Please see Section II.I., Socio-Economic and Preference Programs.

The evaluation team will abide by the following Scoring Criterion Guidelines for the Technical Evaluation Scoring Criteria below:

Possible Points Interpretation Explanation for Percentage Points

0% Inadequate

Response does not include or fails to address the requirements being scored. The omission(s), flaw(s), or defect(s) are significant and unacceptable.

30% Barely Adequate

Response addresses the requirements being scored, but there are one (1) or more omissions, flaws, or defects or the requirements are addressed in such a limited way that it results in a low degree of confidence in the proposed solution.

80% Good

Response fully addresses the requirements being scored with a good degree of confidence in the Applicant’s response or proposed solution.

No identified omission(s), flaw(s), or defect(s).

Any identified weaknesses are minimal, inconsequential, and acceptable.

100% Excellent or Outstanding

Response fully addresses the requirements being scored with a high degree of confidence in the Applicant’s response or proposed solution.

Applicant offers one (1) or more enhancing features, methods or approaches exceeding basic expectations.

The Proposal Evaluation criteria listed specifies the total number of points available for each requirement. Using the Scoring Criterion Guidelines, the evaluation team will determine the percentage of points to be awarded to each requirement and multiply that percentage by the total number of points available for that requirement to determine the score.

3. Proposal Evaluation Form

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS Yes No

Proven knowledge and experience using wildfire behavior models, fuel maps, the Forest Vegetation Simulator, forest structure maps, and/or forest carbon quantification.

Proven knowledge and experience with GIS and remote sensing data.

If any minimum qualifications are NOT met, STOP HERE

1. CLARITY AND ORGANIZATION OF PROPOSAL

Points

Available

Points Awarded

The proposal is presented in a clear, organized manner. 5

2. MANAGEMENT PLAN

Points

Available

The Proposer shall provide a clear project management plan including the management structure and project organization.

Proposer shall designate, by name, the Contract Manager to be employed. The selected Proposer shall not cause the substitution of the Contract Manager without prior written approval of the State.

The Proposer should include methods to measure Project progress against the Project Management Plan to maintain Project schedule.

3. METHODOLOGY (APPROACH TO WORK)

Available

The Proposer shall describe their methodology and approach to the work, identify specific techniques…