ADVERTISEMENT - FY26 SPAT IFB.pdf

This is an Invitation for Bids (IFB) document from the Mississippi Department of Marine Resources (MDMR) for oyster spat-on-cultch production and deployment services. The MDMR seeks sealed bids to furnish and deploy a minimum of 200,000,000 qualifying spat-on-cultch oysters across state-owned reefs in Mississippi Sound, with deployment required across a minimum of 4,000 cubic yards at a required density of 30,000 to 80,000 qualifying spat per cubic yard. Oysters must average 5mm or larger and be produced using broodstock sourced from Mississippi Sound waters. Sealed bids are due by 2:00 p.m. CST on October 13, 2026, with the bid opening occurring at the same time. Questions from bidders are due by September 22, 2026, with answers posted by September 23, 2026. Contract award is anticipated for October 15, 2026, subject to Public Procurement Review Board approval if necessary. The contract commences on the date of execution and remains in effect for two years, with possible extension at MDMR's sole discretion under the same pricing, terms, and conditions. Bidders must meet documented minimum qualifications in oyster hatchery operations, remote setting, or spat-on-cultch production; cultch material access and processing capability; equipment and logistical capacity for deployment; and ability to source broodstock from Mississippi Sound waters. MDMR staff must have on-site access for inspection and verification at all phases, with a minimum of two MDMR staff present at every deployment.

Payment will be made within 45 days of receipt of an approved invoice, based only on qualifying product delivered at each deployment. MDMR will award to the lowest responsive, responsible bidder meeting all specifications. The contract is partially funded by a grant from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and GOMESA, requiring compliance with all applicable federal laws and regulations. Insurance requirements include workers' compensation coverage and general liability insurance with a minimum aggregate of $1,000,000; no bonds are required. Contractors must be registered in Mississippi's MAGIC system prior to bid submission and must provide two professional references. Bids may be submitted by hand delivery, mail, or through the MAGIC Portal to Rick Kinnard, Procurement Director, MDMR, 1141 Bayview Ave., Biloxi, MS 39530.