25-054 NCS and Metrics RFP~2.pdf

Oregon Buys Bid Solicitation No. S-33000-00014253; Agency RFP No. 25-054 Natural Climate Solutions and Metrics Analysis in Oregon

Level 3 - Restricted

STATE OF OREGON

COVER PAGE

Oregon Department of Energy is issuing this Intermediate Procurement (“RFP”) under

Oregon Buys Bid Solicitation No. S-33000-00014253;

Agency RFP No. 25-054

For Natural Climate Solutions and Metrics Analysis in Oregon.

Date of Issue: July 9, 2025; 11:00am

Opening Date: August 1, 2025: 12:00pm

Single Point of Contact (“SPC”): P. Gail Sullivan

Address: 550 Capitol St. NE City, State, Zip Salem, OR 97301 Phone 971-240-1657 Phone 800-221-8035 E-mail: Gail.SULLIVAN@energy.oregon.gov mailto:Gail.SULLIVAN@energy.oregon.gov

Oregon Buys Bid Solicitation No. S-33000-00014253; Agency RFP No. 25-054 Natural Climate Solutions and Metrics Analysis in Oregon

Level 3 - Restricted

TABLE OF CONTENTS

SECTION 1: GENERAL INFORMATION

1.1 INTRODUCTION

1.2 SCHEDULE

1.3 SINGLE POINT OF CONTACT (SPC)

SECTION 2: AUTHORITY, OVERVIEW, AND SCOPE

2.1 AUTHORITY AND METHOD

2.2 DEFINITION OF TERMS

2.3 OVERVIEW AND PURPOSE

2.4 SCOPE OF WORK

SECTION 3: PROCUREMENT REQUIREMENTS AND EVALUATION

3.1 MINIMUM OFFER OR REQUIREMENTS

3.2 MINIMUM SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS

3.3 OFFER CONTENT REQUIREMENTS

3.4 PROCUREMENT PROCESS

3.5 EVALUATION PROCESS

3.6 RESERVED

3.7 NEXT STEP DETERMINATION

3.8 PREFERENCES

3.9 RANKING OF OFFERS

SECTION 4: AWARD AND NEGOTIATION

4.1 AWARD NOTIFICATION PROCESS

4.2 SUCCESSFUL OFFEROR SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS

4.3 CONTRACT NEGOTIATION

SECTION 5: ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

5.1 COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY, EQUITY, AND INCLUSION………………………………………………………………….24

5.2 CERTIFIED FIRM PARTICIPATION

5.3 GOVERNING LAWS AND REGULATIONS

5.4 OWNERSHIP/PERMISSION TO USE MATERIALS

5.5 CANCELLATION OF SOLICITATION; REJECTION OF OFFER NO DAMAGES

5.6 COST OF SUBMITTING AN OFFER

5.7 STATEWIDE E-WASTE/RECOVERY PROCEDURE

5.8 RECYCLABLE PRODUCTS

SECTION 6: LIST OF ATTACHMENTS

ATTACHMENT A SAMPLE CONTRACT

ATTACHMENT B DISCLOSURE EXEMPTION AFFIDAVIT

ATTACHMENT C OFFEROR INFORMATION AND CERTIFICATION SHEET

ATTACHMENT D REFERENCE CHECK FORM

ATTACHMENT E PRICE AND COST OFFER FORM - Price Resource Allocation and Cost-Effectiveness

ATTACHMENT F CERTIFIED DISADVANTAGED BUSINESS OUTREACH PLAN

ATTACHMENT G RESPONSIBILITY INQUIRY

ATTACHMENT H AGENCY EXAMPLE LIST OF NATURAL CLIMATE SOLUTIONS……………………………………………25

https://www.oregon.gov/das/Procurement/Tutorials/TOC.mp4 https://www.oregon.gov/das/Procurement/Tutorials/TOC.mp4

Oregon Buys Bid Solicitation No. S-33000-00014253; Agency RFP No. 25-054 Natural Climate Solutions and Metrics

Level 3 - Restricted

SECTION 1: GENERAL INFORMATION

1.1 INTRODUCTION.

The State of Oregon, acting by and through its Department of Energy (Agency), is issuing this Intermediate Procurement (RFP) for a Natural Climate Solutions and Metrics Analysis in Oregon (Analysis)

Agency anticipates the award of one Contract from this RFP. The Contract will be a one-time award and all services must be completed by March 31, 2026. The Budget for this contract is estimated at a not-to-exceed amount of $250,000. A detailed Statement of Work is set forth within Attachment A, Sample Contract, to this RFP.

1.2 SCHEDULE.

The table below represents a tentative schedule of events. All times are listed in Pacific Time. All dates listed are subject to change.

Event Date Time

RFP Posted in Oregon Buys July 9, 2025 11:00am

Pre-Offer Conference July 17, 2025 11:30am

Written Questions / Requests for Clarification Due

July 18, 2025 4:00pm

Answers to Questions / Requests for Clarification Issued

July 23, 2025 Approximately

Not applicable

Offer Opening August 1, 2025 12:00pm

Evaluation Period Week of August 4th, 2025 Approximately

Not applicable

Notice of Award August 8, 2025 Approximately

Not applicable

Contract Negotiation Week of August 11th, 2025 Not applicable

1.3 SINGLE POINT OF CONTACT (SPC).

The SPC for this solicitation is identified on the Cover Page, along with the SPC’s contact information. Offeror shall direct all communications related to any provision of the solicitation, whether about the technical requirements of the solicitation, contractual requirements, the solicitation process, or any other provision only to the SPC.

Oregon Buys Bid Solicitation No. S-33000-00014253; Agency RFP No. 25-054 Natural Climate Solutions and Metrics

Level 3 - Restricted

SECTION 2: AUTHORITY, OVERVIEW, AND SCOPE .

2.1 AUTHORITY AND METHOD.

Agency is issuing this solicitation pursuant to its authority under ORS 279A.050 and ORS 279A.140.

Agency is using the Intermediate Procurement solicitation method set forth in ORS 279B.070 and

OAR 125-247-0270.

2.2 DEFINITION OF TERMS.

For the purposes of this solicitation, capitalized words will refer to the following definitions.

2.2.1 General Definitions.

Capitalized terms not specifically defined in this document are defined in OAR 125-246-0110.

Terminology specific to the OregonBuys system may be found at https://www.oregon.gov/das/ORBuys/Pages/Index.aspx.

2.2.2 Project Specific Definitions.

“Activity-based metric” means a metric that can be used to evaluate progress toward increasing net biological carbon sequestration and storage in natural and working lands, and can be converted to a carbon dioxide equivalent metric through a chosen method or calculation.

Activity-based metrics may include, but need not be limited to, acres of lands for which certain management practices have been adopted. ORS 468A.193 (3)

“Biological carbon sequestration” means the removal of carbon from the atmosphere by plants and microorganisms and storage of carbon dioxide in vegetation, such as grasslands, marshes or forests, or in soils and oceans.

“Community impact metric” Community impact metrics track the positive and negative effects, over time, of natural climate solution implementation on landowners, land managers and communities.

Community impact metrics may include, but need not be limited to, metrics to measure effects on jobs, local economies, environmental integrity and public health; and metrics that evaluate the accessibility of a diverse range of landowners to natural climate solutions programs ORS 468A.193 (4)

“Climate resilience” means the capability to anticipate, prepare for, respond to and recover from significant climate-related threats while minimizing damage to social wellbeing, the economy and ecosystem functions.

http://arcweb.sos.state.or.us/pages/rules/oars_100/oar_125/125_246.html https://www.oregon.gov/das/ORBuys/Pages/Index.aspx

Oregon Buys Bid Solicitation No. S-33000-00014253; Agency RFP No. 25-054 Natural Climate Solutions and Metrics

“Environmental justice” The equal protection from environmental and health risks, fair treatment and meaningful involvement in decision making of all people regardless of race, color, national origin, immigration status, income or other identities with respect to the development, implementation and enforcement of environmental laws, regulations and policies that affect the environment in which people live, work, learn and practice spirituality and culture. (ORS 182.535(3))

“Environmental justice community” Communities of color, communities experiencing lower incomes, tribal communities, rural communities, communities with limited infrastructure, and other communities traditionally underrepresented in public processes and adversely harmed by environmental and health hazards, including seniors, youth and persons with disabilities.

(ORS 469A.400(5))

• “Natural and working lands” (ORS 468A.183(4)) means:

Lands:

• Actively used by an agricultural owner or operator for an agricultural operation, including but not limited to active engagement in farming or ranching;

• Producing forest products;

• Consisting of forests, woodlands, grasslands, sagebrush steppes, deserts, freshwater and riparian systems, wetlands, coastal and estuarine areas or the submerged and submersible lands within Oregon's territorial sea and marine habitats associated with those lands;

• That are privately owned and that are eligible for special assessment under ORS chapter 308A;

• Used for recreational purposes, including, but not limited to, parks, trails, greenbelts and other similar open space lands; or

• Consisting of trees, other vegetation and soils in urban and near-urban areas, including, but not limited to, urban watersheds, street trees, park trees, residential trees and riparian habitats; and

Lands that are:

• Held in trust by the United States for the benefit of any of the nine federally recognized Indian tribes in this state;

• Held in trust by the United States for the benefit of individual members of any of the nine federally recognized Indian tribes in this state;

• Within the boundaries of the reservation of any of the nine federally recognized Indian tribes in this state; or

• Otherwise owned or controlled by any of the nine federally recognized Indian tribes in this state.

“Nature-based solutions” Projects, including green or natural infrastructure projects, that utilize or mimic nature or natural processes and functions and that may also offer environmental, economic, and social benefits while increasing climate resilience.

Oregon Buys Bid Solicitation No. S-33000-00014253; Agency RFP No. 25-054 Natural Climate Solutions and Metrics

“Natural climate solution” An activity that enhances or protects net biological carbon sequestration on natural and working lands, while maintaining or increasing ecosystem resilience and human well-being. (ORS 468A.183(5))

2.3 OVERVIEW AND PURPOSE.

2.3.1 Agency Overview.

Agency is a critical participant in the management of greenhouse gas (“GHG”) emissions in the state of Oregon. These emissions derive from direct burning of fuel sources and the management of natural and working lands (“N&WL”). Agency also plays a key role in understanding the past, present, and future state of carbon sequestration natural and working lands, and in advancing land management practices that help to achieve the state’s climate action goals.

On behalf of Oregonians, Agency serves as a central repository of carbon sequestration data, information, and analysis; a venue for problem-solving Oregon’s energy and climate challenges;

energy education and technical assistance; regulation and oversight; and energy programs and activities.

In 2023, the Oregon State Legislature, by way of HB 3409, directed Agency and the Oregon Climate Action Commission (“OCAC”), along with an interagency working group of state agencies (Interagency Working Group or “IWG”]) to develop a Natural Climate Solutions and Metrics Analysis. The Analysis will be used to support OCAC recommendations for deployment of natural climate solutions and on N&WL.

2.3.2 Project Overview and Background.

In 2021, OCAC adopted a Natural and Working Lands Proposal that established goals for carbon capture and storage on Oregon’s N&WL . OCAC recommended that these carbon capture and storage goals should be separate from, and in addition to, Oregon’s sector-based emissions reduction goals as established by Oregon state legislature and modified by Executive Order 20-04.

In 2023, the Oregon Legislature passed House Bill 3409, which acts on the Natural and Working Lands proposal adopted by OCAC. The bill directs Agency and OCAC, in coordination with OCAC and an inter-agency working group (“IWG”), to establish and maintain:

1. Activity-based metrics to track carbon sequestration and storage in Oregon’s natural and working lands resulting from the implementation of natural climate solutions; and

2. Community impact metrics to track community impacts resulting from the implementation of natural climate solutions on Oregon’s N&WL. .

HB 3409 defines a “natural climate solution” (“NCS”) as “an activity that enhances or protects net biological carbon sequestration on N&WL, while maintaining or increasing ecosystem resilience and human well-being.” HB 3409 states that activity-based metrics (“ABMs”) “…shall be used to evaluate progress [of NCS] toward increasing net biological carbon sequestration and storage in N&WL , as measured against the net carbon sequestration and storage baseline.” Avoiding

Oregon Buys Bid Solicitation No. S-33000-00014253; Agency RFP No. 25-054 Natural Climate Solutions and Metrics conversion of N&WL, conserving and restoring habitats, and modifying land management practices to increase net carbon removal and storage across the landscape are examples of NCS.

Additionally, per HB 3409, community impact metrics (“CIMs”) “…shall be used to evaluate the positive and negative effects, over time, of strategies for net biological carbon sequestration and storage in N&WL on landowners, land managers, and communities.” Achieving the aims established by HB 3409 requires the ability to track the contributions of NCS toward net carbon removal and storage, community-wellbeing, climate adaptation, air quality, and other priorities for the state of Oregon. To achieve an analysis of NCS contributions, Agency is seeking a contractor to conduct a Natural Climate Solutions and Metrics Analysis in Oregon.

The Analysis will identify Oregon-specific NCS and recommend ABMs for NCS currently being implemented or that could be implemented in Oregon to track implementation progress and, with an applied methodology, quantify their contributions toward net carbon removal goals. Further, it will establish CIMs (and associated co-benefits) of NCS implementation to holistically characterize the contributions of NCS.

2.3.3 Relevant Documents.

House Bill 3409 (2023) https://olis.oregonlegislature.gov/liz/2023R1/Downloads/MeasureDocument/HB3409

Agency Example List of Natural Climate Solutions For purposes of responding to this RFP, Agency has supplied an example list of NCS compiled from published literature. See Attachment H to this RFP.

2.3.4 Purpose.

HB 3409 (Oregon Laws 2023) authorizes Agency to contract with third parties for assistance in studying NCS , ABMs, and CIMs. The purpose of this RFP and subsequent award is to provide the foundational information needed for tracking contributions of NCS across the N&WL sectors toward Oregon meeting its goals related to carbon sequestration and storage, among others. This Analysis, in combination with other Agency work will help provide a basis for setting non-binding goals for Oregon related to carbon sequestration and storage on N&WL and to track progress toward those goals by April 2026.

2.4 SCOPE OF WORK/SPECIFICATIONS.

The successful Offeror will develop an approach for and conduct a Natural Climate Solutions and Metrics Analysis. The Analysis will involve working with state agencies and other relevant groups to gather and centralize information on programs and activities related to NCS that are or can be applied in Oregon. It will also involve building knowledge and understanding of how programs are or may be tracked in order to meet state goals related to climate change and community health and wellbeing. The Analysis will establish and make recommendations for tracking activity-based metrics to track net carbon removal and storage in Oregon’s N&WL resulting from the implementation of NCS. It will also establish and make recommendations for tracking community impact metrics to qualify or quantify impacts to Oregon communities resulting from the https://olis.oregonlegislature.gov/liz/2023R1/Downloads/MeasureDocument/HB3409

Oregon Buys Bid Solicitation No. S-33000-00014253; Agency RFP No. 25-054 Natural Climate Solutions and Metrics implementation of natural climate solutions on N&WL. The Analysis will produce a feasibility assessment to determine NCS that can be included in Oregon’s land-based net carbon inventory and produce estimates of carbon benefits and community impacts of NCS, where possible, for recent years. The Analysis will also make recommendations for actions and metrics that would allow agencies to track NCS in future years.

ABMs must be designed to assist Oregon with its efforts to track carbon storage and flux for its Land-based Net Carbon Inventory (Inventory). An ABM may be expressed in units such as acres or number of properties to which an NCS is applied, or other units deemed appropriate by Agency, OCAC, N&WL-AC, and IWG. ABMs should prioritize information about NCS that the state is already tracking while also allowing for estimating carbon benefits of NCS based on appropriate, peer-reviewed science.

CIMs are used to track the positive or negative effects of NCS implementation on communities. CIMs may include, but need not be limited to:

a) Metrics to measure the effects of NCS on jobs, local economies, environmental integrity, and public health; and

b) Metrics to evaluate the accessibility of a diverse range of landowners to net biological carbon sequestration and storage programs.

CIMs may track co-benefits, which, by definition, should have positive effects on communities. Co-benefits, as listed in HB 3409, may include, but are not limited to:

1. Reducing heat island effect;

2. Improving air quality;

3. Improving flood control;

4. Improving soil health and productivity;

5. Improving wildfire resilience and community protection;

6. Improving drought resilience and response;

7. Improving stream health, wetland recovery, and riparian functionality;

8. Protecting and recovering drinking watersheds for enhanced water quality and quantity;

9. Maintaining or increasing short-term, mid-term, and long-term fiber supplies;

10. Maintaining or increasing food supplies;

11. Increasing the climate resilience of fish, wildlife, and their habitats;

12. Improving protection for coastal communities from the impacts of storm surge; and

13. Improving public health.

In 2023, the Institute of Natural Resources at Oregon State University produced a Natural & Working Lands Report. The report recommended possible ABMs and CIMs to track the contributions of NCS toward net carbon removal and community well-being. The successful Offeror shall consult these ABMs and CIMs as part of their work and if they diverge from recommendations, describe a rational for divergence.

The Analysis will be organized by N&WL sectors or landscapes where possible: forest/shrubland (including working forests), cropland, grassland/rangeland, wetland (including freshwater and tidally influenced wetlands), urban (including open space), and other land cover (desert, barren).

See Attachment H for example list of NCS to help respond to the RFP.

Oregon Buys Bid Solicitation No. S-33000-00014253; Agency RFP No. 25-054 Natural Climate Solutions and Metrics

The Analysis should result in a library of data and methods to be used to estimate the contributions of NCS in N&WL sectors toward carbon sequestration and storage as well as their other impacts on communities. The Analysis should also include a NCS feasibility assessment. These tasks are described in more detail in Exhibit A, Statement of Work, to Attachment A, Sample Contract of this RFP. The Statement of Work is expected to serve as the basis for Offers made in response to this

RFP.

The successful Offeror will work closely with Agency and other contractors to produce successful deliverables for this project.

The successful Offeror’s final deliverables will include a NCS Data and Methods Library, NCS Profiles, Feasibility Assessment, Carbon removal and storage estimates, and Final Report. This is not an exhaustive list of deliverables. A full list of anticipated deliverables is presented in Attachment A, Sample Contract, Exhibit A, Statement of Work, of this RFP.

Throughout this process, the successful Offeror will work closely with Agency making course corrections as needed to deliver a process that fairly and equitably engages with stakeholders, uses the best available data, is transparent, and helps deliver a final report by the deadline of March 2, 2026. Following publication of the Natural Climate Solutions and Metrics Analysis, the successful Offeror will complete all deliverables by the end of the contract, March 31, 2026.

SECTION 3: PROCUREMENT REQUIREMENTS AND EVALUATION.

3.1 MINIMUM OFFEROR QUALIFICATIONS.

To be considered for evaluation, Offeror must demonstrate how Offeror meets all requirements in this section.

3.1.1 Offeror Requirements.

3.1.1.1 Offeror must have 3+ years of experience providing consulting services to municipal, state, or federal bodies on natural climate solutions and related analyses.

3.1.1.2 Offeror must have 3+ years of experience providing the management, planning, and implementation of projects of similar scope and complexity as detailed in this RFP.

3.1.1.3 Offeror must have experience conducting nature-based metrics work that has included selecting social, economic, and community impact metrics. If the Offeror does not have direct experience in these areas, they must subcontract.

3.1.2 Key Person Requirements.

3.1.2.1 Offeror must specify all, but no less than two (2), Key Person(s) who will provide the Services detailed in this RFP.

3.1.2.2 Key Persons must have 3+ years’ experience providing consulting services to municipal, state, or federal bodies on natural climate solutions and related analyses.

Oregon Buys Bid Solicitation No. S-33000-00014253; Agency RFP No. 25-054 Natural Climate Solutions and Metrics

3.1.2.3 At least one Key Person must have 3+ years of experience providing consulting services to municipal, state, or federal bodies on carbon stock inventories, particularly as they relate to net biological carbon stocks and natural climate solution activities for N&WL .

3.1.2.4 At least one Key Person must have 3+ years’ experience in the management, planning, and implementation of projects of similar scope and complexity.

3.2 MINIMUM SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS.

3.2.1 Submission, Format and Quantity.

Offeror should follow the format and reference the sections listed in Section 3.3 Offeror Content Requirements of this RFP. Responses to each section and subsection should be labeled to indicate the item being addressed. Offeror must describe in detail how requirements of this solicitation will be met and may provide additional related information.

OregonBuys Electronic Response. Offeror should submit one copy of its Offer electronically through OregonBuys. Offeror should follow the procedures outlined in OregonBuys at:

https://www.oregon.gov/das/ORBuys/Documents/OregonBuys%20Vendor%20Formal%20 Solicitation%20Response.pdf) for electronic submission.

Offeror must also submit a completed Price and Cost Offer Form- Price Resource Allocation and Cost-Effectiveness (“Price and Cost Offer”) (Attachment E) as a separate electronic response file in OregonBuys.

Portions of Offeror’s Offer might be exempt from disclosure under Oregon Public Records Law (ORS 192.311 through 192.478). Offeror shall complete and submit the Disclosure Exemption Affidavit (Attachment B), clearly indicating whether or not Offeror believes any of its Offer is exempt, and Offeror shall submit a fully redacted version of its Offer, clearly identified as the redacted version should Offeror want to exempt any portion of their Offer.

Offeror shall submit its Offer, and all other submittal requirements, with Attachment C – Offeror Information and Certification Sheet bearing the Offeror’s authorized representative’s Signature, in one of the following formats: Adobe Acrobat (pdf), Microsoft Word (docx), or Microsoft Excel (xlsx).

3.2.2 Authorized Representative.

A representative authorized to bind the Offeror shall sign the Offer. Failure of the authorized representative to sign the Offer may subject the offer to rejection by Agency.

3.2.3 Offer Submissions.

To be considered for evaluation, the Offer must contain each of the following elements.

• Administrative Proposal Demonstrated Understanding of the Project Project Approach including:

Project Management Approach and Schedule https://www.oregon.gov/das/ORBuys/Documents/OregonBuys%20Vendor%20Formal%20Solicitation%20Response.pdf https://www.oregon.gov/das/ORBuys/Documents/OregonBuys%20Vendor%20Formal%20Solicitation%20Response.pdf

Oregon Buys Bid Solicitation No. S-33000-00014253; Agency RFP No. 25-054 Natural Climate Solutions and Metrics

• Project Team Experience:

Project Team Overview Project Team Member Expertise and Experience Conducting NCS and Nature-based Metrics Analyses including Economic and Social Metrics Key Persons and Resumes

• Demonstrated Experience

• Disclosure Exemption Affidavit (Attachment B)

• Offeror Information and Certification Sheet (Attachment C)

• Reference Check Form (Attachment D)

• Price and Cost Offer Form - Resource Allocation and Cost Effectiveness Cost Sheet

(Attachment E)

• COBID Certification / Outreach Plan (Attachment F)

• Responsibility Inquiry (Attachment G)

3.2.4 Offer Page Limits.

Offer is limited to 25 pages. Recommended page limits are described next to each element.

• Administrative Proposal Demonstrated Understanding of the Project (3 Page Limit) Project Approach (7 Page Limit) including:

Project Management Approach and Schedule (5 Page Limit)

• Project Team Experience:

Project Team Overview (2 Page Limit) Project Team Member Expertise and Experience Conducting NCS analysis on N&WL (3 Page Limit ) Demonstrated Experience (5 Page Limit, 1 Page each Project)

The following required elements do not have overall page limit restrictions:

• Key Persons and Resumes (2 Page Limit Per Person)

• Disclosure Exemption Affidavit (Attachment B)

• Offeror Information and Certification Sheet (Attachment C)

• Reference Check forms (Attachment D)

• Price and Cost Offer Form - Resource Allocation and Cost Effectiveness Cost Sheet

(Attachment E)

• COBID Certification / Outreach Plan (Attachment F)

• Responsibility Inquiry (Attachment G)

3.3 OFFER CONTENT REQUIREMENTS.

Offer must address each of the items listed in this section and all other requirements set forth in this RFP. Offeror shall describe the Goods to be provided or the Services to be performed or both. An Offer that merely offers to provide the Goods or Services as stated in this RFP may be considered non-Responsive to this RFP and will not be considered further.

Offer should not include extensive artwork, unusual printing or other materials not essential to the utility and clarity of the Offer. Do not include marketing or advertising material in the Offer, unless

Oregon Buys Bid Solicitation No. S-33000-00014253; Agency RFP No. 25-054 Natural Climate Solutions and Metrics requested. Offer should be straightforward and address the requests of the RFP. Offers containing unsolicited marketing or advertising material may receive a lower evaluation score if required information is difficult to locate.

Failure to submit the items listed in this section and all other requirements set forth in this RFP may result in a non-Responsive submission.

3.3.1 Administrative Proposal (Scored).

3.3.1.1 Demonstrated Understanding of the Project. Offeror should demonstrate a clear understanding of the requested project by describing our goals and desired outcomes.

The Offeror should describe what they believe to be the outcomes and deliverables of this project and their metrics for a successful project. Offeror should describe any proven systematic approach to getting this type of work done.

3.3.1.2 Project Approach. The Project Approach shall describe the overall approach to delivering the analysis work presented in this RFP. Offeror shall describe their approach to establishing and Oregon-specific list of NCS and associated ABMs and CIMs. The Approach should include information on how Contractor will conduct the feasibility tracking of each identified NCS. Further, the Approach will describe how the uncertainties (e.g., in data or methodologies) will be managed. It will also describe, to the extent possible, an approach for incorporating existing land managing agency programs. It shall also describe how Offeror will incorporate feedback from all engagement conducted.

3.3.1.3 Project Management Approach and Schedule. Offeror should describe their project management approach, with appropriate schedule and cost controls, to ensure a project is done on time and on budget, including plans to complete the deliverables set forth in Tasks 3-12 of the Statement of Work, Exhibit A to Attachment A, Sample Contract of this RFP, and any suggested changes to the process. Offeror should include the one-page summary schedule template from the Statement of Work, a detailed schedule with deliverable due dates, and the Schedule Template from the Statement of Work.

3.3.2 Project Team, Key Persons, and Resumes (Scored).

3.3.2.1 Project Team Overview. Offeror should provide summary of all team members and their roles, including subcontractors and senior management advisors. Offeror should demonstrate that the proposed team members and sub-contractors have the expertise, past performance, and qualifications to handle all aspects of the Statement of Work as set forth in Exhibit A to Attachment A, Sample Contract of this RFP to successfully implement the project. Offeror should demonstrate that the Project Manager has sufficient and similar experience to ensure the project will be well managed.

3.3.2.2 Project Team Member Expertise and Experience Conducting Natural Climate Solutions and Metrics Analyses. Offeror should provide a complete profile for each project team member, including role on this project by Task, relevant qualifications, areas of expertise, relevant work experience on similar projects, and any experience in

Oregon Buys Bid Solicitation No. S-33000-00014253; Agency RFP No. 25-054 Natural Climate Solutions and Metrics quantifying NCS or conducting feasibility assessments, particularly related to implementing and tracking NCS.

3.3.3 Demonstrated Experience (Scored).

Offeror shall provide five (5) relevant experiences on similarly complex projects carried out within the past 5 years, including a description of the project and final deliverable, when it was started and completed, project budget, key project team members, project website if available, and contact information of client/recipient of final work product.

3.3.4 Offeror Information and Certification Sheet- Attachment C (Required, Not Scored).

Offeror shall complete and submit the Offeror Information and Certification Sheet (Attachment C).

Failure to demonstrate compliance with Oregon Tax Laws and sign the Offeror Information and Certification Sheet may result in a finding of non-Responsibility.

3.3.5 Reference Check Form(s)- Attachment D (Required, Not Scored).

Provide 3 references from current or former clients for similar projects performed within the last 5 years. References must be able to verify the quality of previous, related work.

Failure to submit may result in a non-Responsive submission.

Offeror shall send a copy of Reference Check Form (Attachment D) to each of its 3 references.

Each Reference Check Form must be completed by the reference, returned to the Offeror and submitted with the Offer.

Agency SPC may check to determine if the references provided support Offeror’s ability to comply with the requirements of this RFP. Agency SPC may use references to obtain additional information, or verify any information needed. Agency SPC may contact any reference (submitted or not) to verify Offeror’s qualifications.

3.3.6 Price and Cost Offer Form - Price Resource Allocation and Cost-Effectiveness, Attachment E (Scored).

Offeror shall submit a completed Price and Cost Offer Form, Attachment E to this RFP.

Offeror shall submit the form using Microsoft Excel (xlsx). Total Cost per Task shall be considered a not-to-exceed amount. Total Cost per Task may be shifted between tasks with permission of Agency, but in no case should the total Project Cost exceed $250,000 without written permission of Agency.

Prices submitted by Offeror are considered firm offers and remain in effect for a period of 180 days from the RFP opening date.

For each activity described in Exhibit A, Statement of Work, to Attachment A, Sample Contract of this RFP, the Price and Cost Offer must include team member name/title; their identifiable fully loaded hourly rate; their time estimates for completing each Task, Subtask, and Deliverable; a Total Cost per Task; an overall total project cost; a summary of all proposed costs by Task; and an overall average hourly rate (total cost divided by total project hours).

Oregon Buys Bid Solicitation No. S-33000-00014253; Agency RFP No. 25-054 Natural Climate Solutions and Metrics

For all fully loaded personnel costs, the Price and Cost Offer must include the name and title of all positions for each individual staff person or sub-contractor who will perform work on the project and list their fully loaded hourly rate separately for each individual.

In addition to project team costs, the Price and Cost Offer must include separate totals for other costs, including travel, administrative and overhead charges. These totals may be included in a format of the Offeror’s choosing.

3.3.7 Disclosure Exemption Affidavit- Attachment B (Required, Not Scored). Offeror shall complete and submit the Disclosure Exemption Affidavit (Attachment B).

3.3.8 Certified Disadvantaged Business Outreach Plan - Attachment F (Required, Not Scored).

Offeror shall complete and submit the Certified Disadvantaged Business Outreach Plan (Attachment F).

3.3.9 Responsibility Inquiry – Attachment G (Required, Not Scored). Offeror shall complete and submit the Responsibility Inquiry (Attachment G).

3.4 PROCUREMENT PROCESS.

3.4.1 Public Notice.

The solicitation, including all Amendments and attachments, are published in the OregonBuys e-procurement system. Solicitation documents will not be mailed to prospective Offerors.

Agency shall advertise all Amendments on OregonBuys e-procurement system. Prospective Offeror is solely responsible for checking OregonBuys to determine whether or not any Amendments have been issued. Amendments are incorporated into the solicitation by this reference.

3.4.2 Questions / Requests for Clarification.

All inquiries, whether relating to the solicitation process, administration, deadline or method of award, or to the intent or technical aspects of the solicitation must:

• Be emailed to the SPC;

• Reference the OregonBuys bid number;

• Identify Offeror’s name and contact information;

• Be sent by an authorized representative;

• Refer to the specific area of the solicitation being questioned (i.e. page, section and paragraph number) and;

• Be received by the due date and time for Questions/Requests for Clarification identified in the Schedule.

3.4.3 Pre-Offer Conference.

A pre-submittal conference will be held at the date and time listed in the Schedule. Prospective Offerors’ participation in this conference is highly encouraged but not mandatory.

The purpose of the pre-submittal conference is to:

https://oregonbuys.gov/bso https://oregonbuys.gov/bso

Oregon Buys Bid Solicitation No. S-33000-00014253; Agency RFP No. 25-054 Natural Climate Solutions and Metrics

• Provide additional description of the project;

• Explain the solicitation process; and

• Answer any questions Offerors may have related to the project or the process.

Statements made at the pre-submittal conference are not binding upon Agency. Offerors may be asked to submit questions in Writing.

Interested parties may participate in the Pre-Offer Conference scheduled for July 17, 2025 at 11:30am via Microsoft Teams meeting as provided below.

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Join the meeting now Meeting ID: 261 512 345 584 4 Passcode: Gv7iL7Td

Dial in by phone +1 503-446-4951,,713590333# United States, Portland Find a local number Phone conference ID: 713 590 333# For organizers: Meeting options | Reset dial-in PIN

3.4.4 Offer Submission.

Offeror is solely responsible for ensuring its Offer is received by the SPC in accordance with the solicitation requirements before Opening. Agency is not responsible for any delays in mail or by common carriers or by transmission errors or delays or mistaken delivery. Offers submitted by any means not authorized may be rejected. See also RFP Section 3. 2.1 above.

3.4.5 Modification or Withdrawal of Quotes or Offers.

Any Offeror who wishes to make modifications to an Offer already received by Agency shall submit its modification within Oregon Buys as required in RFP Section 3.2.1 and must denote the specific change(s) to the offer submission.

If an Offeror wishes to withdraw a submitted Offer, it shall do so prior to Opening. The Offeror shall submit a Written notice Signed by an authorized representative of its intent to withdraw its Offer in accordance with OAR 125-247-0440. The notice must include the OregonBuys Bid number and be submitted to the SPC.

3.4.6 Offer Opening Date.

Offer and all required submittal items must be received by the SPC on or before Opening. All Offer modifications or withdrawals must be completed prior to Opening.

Offers received after Opening are considered LATE and will NOT be accepted for evaluation.

Late Offers will be returned to the respective Offeror or destroyed.

3.4.7 Offer Rejection.

Agency may reject an Offer for any of the following reasons:

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Oregon Buys Bid Solicitation No. S-33000-00014253; Agency RFP No. 25-054 Natural Climate Solutions and Metrics

• Offeror fails to substantially comply with all prescribed solicitation procedures and requirements, including but not limited to the requirement that Offeror’s authorized representative sign the offer.

• Offeror fails to meet the responsibility requirements of ORS 279B.110.

• Offeror has undisclosed liquidated and delinquent debt owed to the State of Oregon or any of its agencies, boards, commissions, departments or divisions.

• Offeror makes any contact regarding this solicitation with State representatives such as

State employees or officials other than the SPC or those the SPC authorizes, or inappropriate contact with the SPC.

• Offeror attempts to inappropriately influence a member of the Evaluation Committee.

• Offeror is conditioned on Agency’s acceptance of any other terms and conditions or rights to negotiate any alternative terms and conditions that are not reasonably related to those expressly authorized for negotiation in the solicitation or Amendment.

3.4.8 Opening of Offers.

There will be no public Opening of Offers. Offers received will not be available for inspection until after the evaluation process has been completed and the Notice Award is issued. However, Agency will record and make available the identity of all Offerors after Opening.

3.4.9 Public Record/Confidential or Proprietary Information.

All Offers are public record and are subject to public inspection after Agency issues the Notice of the Intent to Award. If an Offeror believes that any portion of its Offer contains any information that is a trade secret under ORS Chapter 192.345(2) or otherwise is exempt from disclosure under the Oregon Public Records Law (ORS 192.311 through 192.478), Offeror shall complete and submit the Disclosure Exemption Affidavit (Attachment B) and a fully redacted version of its Offer.

Offeror is cautioned that cost information generally is not considered a trade secret under Oregon Public Records Law (ORS 192.311 through 192.478) and identifying the Offer, in whole, as exempt from disclosure is not acceptable. Agency advises each Offeror to consult with its own legal counsel regarding disclosure issues.

If Offeror fails to identify the portions of the Offer that Offeror claims are exempt from disclosure, Offeror has waived any future claim of non-disclosure of that information.

3.5 EVALUATION PROCESS.

3.5.1 Responsiveness and Responsibility Determination.

Offers received prior to Opening will be reviewed for Responsiveness to all solicitation requirements including compliance with Minimum Requirements section and Offer Content Requirements section. If the Offer is unclear, the SPC may request clarification from Offeror.

However, clarifications may not be used to rehabilitate a non-Responsive Offer. If the SPC finds the Offer non-Responsive, the Offer may be rejected, however, Agency may waive mistakes in accordance with OAR 125-247-0470.

Oregon Buys Bid Solicitation No. S-33000-00014253; Agency RFP No. 25-054 Natural Climate Solutions and Metrics

In accordance with OAR 137-047-0261(6)(a)(A), Agency may establish a Competitive Range of all Offerors who have made a good faith effort in submitting an offer in response to this solicitation for the purpose of correcting deficiencies in Offers for determining responsiveness during Round 1.

At any time prior to award, Agency may reject an Offeror found to be not Responsible.

3.5.2 Evaluation Criteria and Scoring.

Offers meeting the requirements outlined in the Offer Content Requirements section will be evaluated by an Evaluation Committee. Evaluators will assign points for each evaluation criterion listed below in this section.

SPC may request further clarification to assist the Evaluation Committee in gaining additional understanding of offers. A response to a clarification request must be to clarify or explain portions of the already submitted Offer and may not contain new information not included in the original Offer.

3.5.2.1 Evaluation - Maximum Total Points Available: 100

Offer sections listed below will be evaluated and scored based upon Offeror’s response to the requirements of the RFP and whether they meet Agency need.

3.5.2.1.1 Demonstrated Understanding (5 Point Maximum). To receive the maximum possible points, Offeror must demonstrate:

A clear understanding of the ask and project requested. Did the Offeror clearly and reasonably articulate, in their own words, what the project’s goals and desired outcomes are? Did their descriptions of the outcomes and deliverables demonstrate that the Offeror knows how to successfully complete this project? Did the Offeror provide a clear vision for what would make this project successful? Is the description strong and convincing? Does the Offeror describe metrics for a successful project?

Demonstrated Understanding – Rating Scale (5 Point Maximum)

Point Range

Explanation

0 Response of no value

1 – 2 Fair. Limited applicability – The Offeror has demonstrated adequate knowledge of the subject matter.

3 – 4 Good. Applicable – Response meets all requirements in a satisfactory manner.

5 Very Good. Substantial applicability – Response shows a high level of sophistication and understanding, is detailed, backed by relevant knowledge and experience, and goes beyond the minimum requirements.

Demonstrated Understanding will be evaluated, and a score will be assigned by each member of the Evaluation Committee. The evaluation and score will be based upon

Oregon Buys Bid Solicitation No. S-33000-00014253; Agency RFP No. 25-054 Natural Climate Solutions and Metrics

Offeror’s Demonstrated Understanding submission that meets the requirements specified in the RFP. A maximum total score of five (5) points is available for this section.

3.5.2.1.2 Project Approach (15 Point Maximum). To receive the maximum possible points, Offeror must provide:

An explanation of its Project Approach. How well does the Offeror explain its Project Approach on how they intend to undertake compiling baseline information, developing NCS ABMs, CIMs, and structuring the feasibility assessment? Did the Offeror adequately think through these tasks? Is their explanation or description of the tasks thorough and detailed enough so that it is clear exactly how they will successfully execute this project and that they understand what deliverables are being asked for? Did they lay out a step-by-step plan for accomplishing the work in a manner that is clear and understandable?

Did the Offeror describe a proven systematic approach to getting this type of work done.

Did they include all the required tasks, deliverables, and milestones?

Project Approach – Rating Scale (15 Point Maximum)

Range

Explanation

0 Response of no value

1 – 5 Fair. Limited applicability – The Offeror has demonstrated adequate knowledge of the subject matter.

6 – 10 Good. Applicable – Response meets all requirements in a satisfactory manner.

11 – 15 Very Good. Substantial applicability – Response shows a high level of sophistication and understanding, is detailed, backed by relevant knowledge and experience, and goes beyond the

The Project Approach will be evaluated and then a score assigned by each member of the Evaluation Committee. The evaluation and score will be based upon Offeror’s Project Approach submission that meets the requirements that are specified in the RFP. A maximum total score of fifteen (15) points is available for this section.

3.5.2.1.3 Project Management Approach and Schedule (10 Point Maximum).

To receive the maximum possible points, Offeror must provide:

A description of Project Management Approach and Schedule. Does the Offeror show the ability to complete the project within the proposed time frame? Is the schedule clear and does it allocate enough/appropriate time to each task? Does their Project Management Approach demonstrate appropriate schedule and cost controls to ensure a project on time and on budget? Does the Project Manager have sufficient and similar experience to ensure the project will be well managed?

Oregon Buys Bid Solicitation No. S-33000-00014253; Agency RFP No. 25-054 Natural Climate Solutions and Metrics

Project Management Approach and Schedule – Rating Scale (10 Point Maximum)

Point Range

Explanation

0 Response of no value

1 – 3 Fair. Limited applicability – The Offeror has demonstrated adequate knowledge of the subject matter.

4 – 7 Good. Applicable – Response meets all requirements in a satisfactory manner.

8 – 10 Very Good. Substantial applicability – Response shows a high level of sophistication and understanding, is detailed, backed

Project Management Approach and Schedule will be evaluated and then a score assigned by each member of the Evaluation Committee. The evaluation and score will be based upon Offeror’s Project Management Approach and Schedule submission that meets the requirements that are specified in the RFP. A maximum total score of ten

(10) points is available for this section.

3.5.2.1.4 Project Team Member Expertise and Experience Conducting Analysis on Natural Climate Solutions on N&WL Sectors – (30 Point Maximum). To receive the maximum possible points, Offeror must provide:

Details on Project Team Member Expertise and Experience. How much experience and knowledge does the Offeror’s team have in NCS in N&WL sectors in Oregon and the Pacific Northwest? How much experience and knowledge does Offeror's team have in nature-based solutions in N&WL sectors in Oregon and the Pacific Northwest? Do the proposed team members and sub-contractors have the expertise, past performance, and qualifications to handle all aspects of the work? Do they provide sufficient staff capacity to accomplish all the tasks in the project? Are there experienced senior advisors on the team that can contribute their expertise and experience that can help guide the project and the Project Manager toward successful completion?

Project Team Expertise and Experience and Knowledge in NCS Analysis on N&WL– Rating Scale (30 Point Maximum)

Point Range

Explanation

0 Response of no value

1 – 10 Fair. Limited applicability – The Offeror has demonstrated adequate knowledge of the subject matter.

11 - 20 Good. Applicable – Response meets all requirements in a satisfactory manner.

Oregon Buys Bid Solicitation No. S-33000-00014253; Agency RFP No.