State of California -The Natural Resources Agency GAVIN NEWSOM, Governor DEPARTMENT OF FISH AND WILDLIFE CHARLTON H. BONHAM, Director Northern Region 601 Locust Street Redding, CA 96001 www.wildlife.ca.gov

(Rev. 8/20/2025) Conserving California’s Wildlife Since 1870 Page 1

October 10, 2025

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL

Tehama Wildlife Area – Hogsback Allotment Permit for Excess Vegetation

Disposal (Grazing) P2025109

Legal Basis of Authority

Pursuant to Fish and Game Code Sections 1010 and 1745.1(a), the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW), serving as an agent of the State of California (STATE), offers this Request for Proposal (RFP) to issue a Permit for Excess Vegetation Disposal (Grazing). The proposed vegetation disposal activity will be conducted with non-exclusive rights on approximately 3,206 acres of real property known as the Hogsback allotment, referred to as the Premises, on the Tehama Wildlife Area (TWA), in Tehama County.

A successful proposal will convey flexibility, innovative ideas, and an understanding of the unique aspects of operating on a publicly owned property with the overall goals of managing deer winter range. The CDFW is requesting proposals from livestock owners and operators who have experience working on public or conservation easement protected lands, and can address the specific wildlife habitat goals found within this RFP, stated generally on page nine and more specifically in Exhibit B, the Site Operation Plan. One candidate will be selected to enter into a four-year and seven-month Permit agreement.

Proposals must be received no later than October 31, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. A minimum of one original and three copies of the proposal must be submitted.

In the opinion of the CDFW, this RFP is complete and without need of explanation.

However, if you have questions, or need clarifying information, you may submit your inquiry in writing to the following Administrative Contact person. You may also ask questions at the site inspection.

CDFW Administrative Contact: CDFW Site Manager:

Name: Debbie Alexander Name: Tony Welch Title: Administrative Officer III Title: Wildlife Habitat Supervisor I Address: 601 Locust Street

Redding, CA 96001 Address: P.O. Box 188

Paynes Creek, CA 96075 Phone: 530-768-7405 Phone: 530-200-1953 Email: Debbie.Alexander@wildlife.ca.gov Email: Tony.Welch@wildlife.ca.gov

California Department of Fish and Wildlife Request for Proposal – P2025109

Site Inspection Location 30490 Plum Creek Road Paynes Creek, CA 96075 It is mandatory that you inspect the site before submitting a proposal. Site inspection(s) will be held on October 17, 2025, at 1:00pm.

NOTE: No verbal information given will be binding upon the STATE or the CDFW, unless such information is issued in writing as an official addendum.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

SECTION PAGE

A. Objectives for Permit…………………………………………….………………..…5

B. Property Description and Vegetation Disposal Overview……….……………5

C. Bidder’s Minimum Qualifications………………………………………………….5

D. Proposals………………………………………………………………………………5

E. Permit Term and Fee ……………………………..…………………………..……..6

F. Proposal Requirements and Information………………………………………...7

1. Key Action Dates

2. Mandatory Pre-Proposal Conference and Site Inspection

3. Questions and Answers

4. Proposal Format Requirements

5. Submission of Proposal

6. Evaluation and Ranking

7. Interviews (If Needed)

8. Basis of Award

9. Disposition of Proposal

10. Protest

11. Finalization of Site Operation Plan (Exhibit B)

12. Permit for Excess Vegetation Disposal Award

13. Permit Execution and Performance

14. Sample Permit for Excess Vegetation Disposal

15. Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) Requirement ……………………..20

16. Exhibit A: Map ............................................................................................... i

17. Exhibit A-1: Legal Description of Site ............................................................ ii

18. Exhibit B: Site Operation Plan ...................................................................... iii

G. Required Attachments………………………………………………………………vii

Attachment 1 – Required Attachment Check List .............................................vii Attachment 2 – Transmittal Letter ..................................................................... ix Attachment 3 – Statement of Qualifications ....................................................... x Attachment 4 – Proposal for Goal 1 .................................................................. xi Attachment 5 – Proposal for Goal 2 .................................................................. xi Attachment 6 – Proposal for Goal 3 ................................................................. xi Attachment 7 – Proposal for Goal 4 ................................................................. xi Attachment 8 – Proposal for Goal 5 ................................................................. xi Attachment 9 – Proposal for Goal 6 ................................................................. xi

Attachment 10 – Proposal for Goal 7 ................................................................ xi Attachment 11 – Proposal for Goal 8 ................................................................ xi Attachment 12 – Disclosure Statements ...........................................................xii Attachment 13 – Fee Proposal Form ............................................................... xiii Attachment 14 – Bidder Reference(s) and Reference Letter(s) .......................xiv Attachment 15 – Site Inspection Certification ...................................................xvi Attachment 16 – Proposal Certification Sheet ................................................. xvii Attachment 17 – Authorization Document ........................................................xix

A. Objectives for Permit

The CDFW seeks a Permittee who can conduct a vegetation disposal operation on the Premises that will be consistent with the overall goals of managing deer winter range while meeting the specific objectives of residual dry matter (RDM) and protecting existing sensitive habitat types. Vegetation disposal on the Premises will be expected to follow the general guidelines described in the draft Grazing Plan for the TWA which can be provided upon request. A long-term objective of the CDFW is to use vegetation disposal activities to encourage and support wildlife on the

TWA.

B. Property Description and Vegetation Disposal Overview

The Premises is located in Tehama County and is part of the CDFW Northern Region and is composed of approximately 3,206 acres. Refer to Exhibit B – Site Operation Plan for full details.

C. Bidder’s Minimum Qualifications

1. Bidders will be required to submit a statement of qualifications that describes how they meet each of the following minimum qualifications:

a. Ten or more years of experience of wildlife-friendly grazing operations on public or conservation easement protected lands; and

b. Ability to respond to emergencies on the Premises within two hours during the annual grazing period.

2. Bidders will be required to submit a minimum of one reference and one reference letter (see Attachment 14).

D. Proposals

All proposals must conform to the following parameters:

1. Vegetation disposal activities may not begin prior to January 15, 2026, and may not continue past May 15, 2030.

2. Only cattle may be used for grazing.

3. A minimum of 446 lbs./acre of RDM, and a maximum for 800 lbs./acre of RDM, will remain on the Premises at the end of the annual grazing period.

Proposal packages must be prepared in accordance with the Proposal Format Requirements identified in Section F-4 of this RFP. Written proposals must contain sufficient information for the CDFW to determine which potential Permittee will be the best suited to enter into a Permit agreement with the CDFW on terms most advantageous to the CDFW. Proposals may include information that is not specifically requested in this RFP if such information is pertinent to the proposal.

In ranking proposals, the CDFW will consider how the proposed activities may further or conflict with the CDFW goals for the TWA.

E. Permit Term and Fee

If awarded, the term of this Permit shall be four years and seven months, commencing December 1, 2025, or upon approval of the STATE, whichever is later (Commencement Date) and terminating on June 30, 2030, with such rights of termination as are set forth in the Permit. The STATE shall have the right to delay the Commencement Date if the STATE determines that the condition of the Premises warrant such a delay.

The annual grazing period will be four months, starting January 15 each year of the permit term, and ending May 15 each year of the permit term.

The annual fee will be calculated as the product of the proposed fee amount times 3,206 acres per year, times the number of months in the grazing period (proposed fee amount x 3,206 acres x four months = annual fee).

If an award is made, the following terms are expected to be included in the Permit:

The fee shall be due and payable in lawful United States funds, without demand, offset or deduction, as shown in the payment schedule below. If the commencement date is delayed, the STATE may adjust the fee for the first year of the term as provided in the Permit.

PAYMENT SCHEDULE

No. PAYMENT DUE AMOUNT GRAZING PERIOD COVERED 1 November 15, 2025, or upon permit execution, whichever is later

Annual Fee January 15, 2026 – May 15, 2026

2 December 31, 2026 Annual Fee January 15, 2027 – May 15, 2027 3 December 31, 2027 Annual Fee January 15, 2028 – May 15, 2028 4 December 31, 2028 Annual Fee January 15, 2029 – May 15, 2029 5 December 31, 2029 Annual Fee January 15, 2030 – May 15, 2030

No credit against the fee or any other sums payable under the Permit shall be provided to the Permittee for any contributions (including, without limitation, work done or materials or supplies furnished) by the Permittee.

F. Proposal Requirements and Information

1. Key Action Dates

EVENT DATE

RFP Available October 10, 2025 – October 31, 2025 Mandatory Site Inspection October 17, 2025, at 1:00 p.m.

Proposal Submission Deadline (Proposals must be received by this date and time.)

October 31, 2025, 5:00 p.m.

Proposal Evaluation and Ranking November 3, 2025 Interviews, If Necessary November 4, 2025 Final Selection/Notice of Intent to Award November 7, 2025 Proposed Award Date November 12, 2025 Finalize Exhibit B November 14, 2025 Proposed Commencement Date December 1, 2025

2. Mandatory Pre-Proposal Conference and Site Inspection

a. A mandatory site inspection is scheduled at 1:00 p.m. on October 17, 2025, at 30490 Plum Creek Road, Paynes Creek, CA 96075 for the purpose of discussing questions regarding this RFP and touring the site. No verbal information given will be binding upon the STATE unless such information is issued in writing as an official addendum, so the site inspection questions and original or corrected answers will be compiled and posted either separately, or in combination with the questions and answers addressed in Section 3, below.

b. In the event a bidder is unable to attend the mandatory pre-proposal site inspection, an authorized representative may attend in their behalf. The representative may only sign in for one bidder. No proposal will be accepted unless the bidder or bidder’s authorized representative was in attendance.

c. For bidders who need assistance due to a disability, reasonable accommodations will be provided by the CDFW upon request for the mandatory site inspection. The bidder must contact the CDFW Administrative Contact person listed on page one no later than the fifth working day prior to the scheduled date and time of the site inspection to arrange for a reasonable accommodation.

3. Questions and Answers

Bidders requiring clarification of the intent or content of this RFP, or on procedural matters regarding the competitive Proposal process, may request clarification by submitting questions in an email, or envelope clearly marked, "Questions Relating to RFP P2025109 to the CDFW Administrative Contact person listed on page one. To ensure a response, questions must be received by the CDFW no less than seven business days prior to the proposal submission deadline. At the sole discretion of the CDFW, questions may be paraphrased by the CDFW for clarity.

Written responses to all questions will be collectively compiled and posted on caleprocure.ca.gov no later than five days prior to the submission deadline. It is the responsibility of the bidder to check for the list of questions and answers associated with this RFP.

4. Proposal Format Requirements

For each of the required items listed below, the bidder’s name and page number should be placed in the upper right corner of each page. All written responses must be submitted on 8.5 x 11-inch paper using ¾” margins, 12-point Arial font, single spaced, and avoid non-standard abbreviations. Each attachment shall not exceed two single-sided 8.5”x11” pages. Hand-written attachments are not prohibited but must be legible or they will be rejected. A minimum of one original and three (3) copies of the proposal must be submitted. Proposals should be organized as follows:

Attachment 1 – Required Attachment Checklist Form provided in this RFP. A checklist to be included with the submission of proposals to ensure that the proposal is complete.

Attachment 2 – Transmittal Letter

1. List the bidder’s name, mailing address, phone, and e-mail. The bidder must sign the transmittal letter in ink and be authorized to bind the proposing firm.

The name and title of the person signing the proposal must be typed below the signature.

2. The transmittal letter must state whether the bidder, or any individual who will perform work under the Permit, has a possible conflict of interest (e.g., employment by the CDFW) and, if so, the nature of that conflict. The CDFW reserves the right to cancel an award if any interest disclosed from any source could either give the appearance of a conflict of interest, or cause speculation as to the objectivity of the bidder. Such determination regarding any questions of conflict of interest shall be solely within the discretion of the

CDFW.

Attachment 3 – Statement of Qualifications The statement of qualifications will describe the knowledge, education, experience, and abilities leading to the bidder in meeting or exceeding each of the minimum qualifications.

Bidders must include sufficient detail for the evaluation panel to confirm the Bidder meets the Minimum Qualifications listed in Section C. Responses to each item below must be submitted enumerated with the corresponding Item Number 1–4.

Item Number:

1. Brief description of the bidder’s background, education, organizational history, and years in business.

2. Describe the bidder’s 10 or more years’ experience conducting grazing operations on public or conservation easement protected land. Include the dates, landowner, approximate acreage, and a brief description of the grazing operation.

3. List all personnel who will be working on the Permit, their titles and a brief description of the activities they will perform under this Permit.

4. Describe the bidder’s resources and personnel that is sufficient to respond to emergencies at the Premises within two hours.

Attachments 4 through 11 - Proposals for Each Goal (1-8) Provide one written proposal of how you or your firm would operate to accomplish each of the eight goals listed below. Each proposal must be submitted on separate sheet(s) of paper. Proposals must contain enough detail for the CDFW to score each proposal according to the established criteria. A sample proposal evaluation and scoring sheet is included herein.

Permit Goals:

1. The goal is to have a minimum of 446 pounds per acre and a maximum of 800 pounds per acre of RDM by May 15 annually through the term of the permit. Describe the plan to graze the Premises based on the parameters listed in Section D to achieve the RDM goal. Include the duration, livestock (i.e. yearlings, calf and cow, etc.) and the proposed number of AUMs to meet this goal.

2. Negative impacts to riparian areas due to livestock will be avoided.

Describe the plan to avoid negative impacts on riparian areas.

3. Negative impacts to wetlands (e.g., streams, vernal pools, and seeps and springs) due to livestock will be avoided. Describe the plan to avoid negative impacts to wetlands.

4. Describe how the bidder will measure RDM to meet the objective of a minimum of 446 pounds per acre and a maximum of 800 pounds per acre by May 15 annually.

5. Describe the plan for even distribution of livestock throughout the allotment.

6. Describe the plan for ingress and egress of livestock.

7. During the term of this Permit, the State may determine that conditions warrant a change in the grazing term which could result in a reduction of AUMs. Describe the resources you have in place to implement the required change within the given timelines in the Sample Excess Vegetation Removal Permit.

8. Describe the plan to minimize and address livestock trespass onto adjoining properties.

Attachment 12 – Disclosure Statements

1. Description of any/all claims or legal actions that have been asserted or prosecuted against the bidder within the last five years arising out of acts or omissions of the bidder in connection with Permits or grazing operations or agreements otherwise similar to those proposed under this RFP. State the status of each claim and legal action. Claims should be fully disclosed regardless of whether they involved litigation, arbitration, or other formal or informal dispute resolution processes. The disclosures required under this provision also apply to any of the individuals who will be a part of the agreement.

2. A statement as to whether, in the last ten years, the bidder has filed (or had filed against him/her/them) any bankruptcy or insolvency proceeding, whether voluntary or involuntary, or undergone the appointment of a receiver, trustee, or assignee for the benefit of creditors; and if so, an explanation providing relevant details.

Attachment 13 – Fee Proposal Form Form provided in this RFP. Provide a proposed fee per acre per year. All costs associated with the proposed performance of the Permit activities and complying with the provisions of the Permit should be considered by the bidder when submitting the fee proposal.

Attachment 14 – Bidder Reference(s) and Reference Letter(s) Form provided in this RFP. Provide the applicable references and reference letters as detailed in the Minimum Qualifications section.

Attachment 15 – Site Inspection Certification Form provided in this RFP. This form must be signed by the bidder, or an authorized representative, and co-signed by the Site Manager on the day of the mandatory site inspection to certify attendance.

Attachment 16 – Proposal Certification Form Form provided in this RFP. (Instructions on page 2 of this form).

Attachment 17 – Authorization Document Attach the appropriate document to the provided check-form as described. See page xix below.

5. Submission of Proposal

a. All proposals must be submitted under sealed cover and received by the CDFW at the location indicated below on or before the date and time identified above in Section F, Proposal Requirements and Information, Item (1) Key Action Dates. The sealed cover must be plainly marked with the RFP number and title, must show the complete bidder name and address, and must be marked with "DO NOT OPEN," as shown in the following example:

Tehama Wildlife Area – Hogsback Allotment Permit for Excess Vegetation Disposal P2025109 California Department of Fish and Wildlife Bidder Name Bidder Address Bidder City, State Zip

DO NOT OPEN

Proposals not submitted under sealed cover will be rejected and returned unopened to the bidder.

Any proposal received at the above address after the proposal submission date and time specified in Section F-1 (Key Action Dates) will NOT be considered. It is the CDFW's policy to make every effort to ensure that all proposals have been received and properly time stamped; however, bidders are ultimately responsible for ensuring timely receipt of their proposal.

Bidders may verify receipt of their proposal by contacting the Administrative Contact identified in this RFP prior to the proposal evaluation and ranking.

A minimum of one original and three (3) copies of the proposal must be submitted.

b. Bidders assume the risk of the method of dispatch chosen. The CDFW assumes no responsibility for delays caused by any delivery service.

Postmarking by the due date shall not substitute for actual proposal receipt by the CDFW. The time of delivery will be determined by the clock in the CDFW’s office. Late proposals will not be accepted, and no additional time will be granted to any bidder. Proposals may not be delivered orally, by facsimile transmission, or by other telecommunication, or electronic means.

c. All proposals shall include the documents identified in Section G-4, Required Attachment Checklist (Attachment 1). Proposals not including the proper required attachments shall be deemed non-responsive. A non-responsive proposal is one that does not meet the basic proposal requirements.

d. All documents requiring a signature must bear an original signature of a person authorized to bind the bidder.

e. Mail proposals to the following address:

Debbie Alexander

California Department of Fish and Wildlife Bidder Name 601 Locust Street Redding, CA 96001

DO NOT OPEN

f. 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 CDFW may reject any or all proposals and may waive an immaterial deviation in a proposal. The CDFW's waiver of an immaterial deviation shall in no way modify this RFP or excuse the bidder from full compliance with all requirements, if awarded the Permit.

g. Costs incurred by the bidder for developing proposals, participation in mandatory site inspection and/or interviews, and any other costs incurred in connection with this RFP, and in anticipation of a Permit award, are entirely the responsibility of the bidder and shall not be charged to the STATE or the

h. An individual who is authorized to bind the bidder shall sign the Proposal

Certification Form. If the bidder is a corporation, partnership, or other legal entity, the signature should indicate the title or position that the individual holds in the entity. Any unsigned proposal will be rejected.

i. A bidder may modify a proposal after its submission only by withdrawing the original proposal and resubmitting a new proposal prior to the proposal submission deadline. Bidder modifications offered in any other manner, oral or written, will not be considered.

j. A bidder may withdraw a proposal by submitting a written withdrawal request to the CDFW, signed by the bidder or an authorized agent. A bidder may thereafter submit a new proposal prior to the proposal submission deadline. Proposals may not be withdrawn without cause after the proposal submission deadline.

k. The CDFW may modify this RFP prior to the time fixed for submission of proposals by issuing an addendum to all parties who received a proposal package.

l. The CDFW reserves the right to reject all proposals. The CDFW is not required to award a Permit.

m. Before submitting a response to this solicitation, bidders should review the response, correct all errors, and confirm compliance with the RFP requirements.

n. The bidder is required only upon the date and time specified for the site inspection identified in this RFP to inspect the Premises and investigate the conditions, character, and quality of the site. The Premises will be made available in As-Is condition. The CDFW makes no representations, warranties, or guarantees, express or implied, regarding the Premises, including its fitness or suitability for bidders’ purposes; the condition or quality of soils; organic certification of any pasture or field; existence, adequacy, or condition of fencing; or availability of water or electric power, none of which are guaranteed. No changes to the fee amount will be made due to a lack of careful examination of the site.

o. Questions on this RFP must be presented in writing to the Administrative

Contact no later than seven business days before the proposal submission deadline.

p. The Permit will be an agreement between the CDFW and only one

Permittee, which must be an individual or a legal entity, such as a corporation or partnership. Proposals submitted by any informal association of persons or entities will be rejected. If the bidder is a partnership (General Partnership or Limited Partnership), a copy of the partnership agreement must be provided. The date of such an agreement must pre-date the proposal submission deadline date.

q. The provisions of the CDFW’s Permit are not negotiable.

r. No oral understanding or agreement shall be binding on either party.

s. By submitting a proposal, the bidder acknowledges that the bidder has read and understands this RFP and is in agreement to the provisions of the sample Permit included as part of this RFP package.

t. If any provision of this RFP is declared by a court to be illegal or in conflict with any law, the validity of the remaining terms and provisions shall not be affected, and the rights and obligations of the CDFW and the bidder shall be construed and enforced as if this RFP did not contain the particular provision held to be invalid.

6. Evaluation and Ranking

a. All proposals received by the submission deadline will be reviewed by the

CDFW to determine compliance with mandatory proposal requirements as specified in this RFP. If the CDFW determines that a proposal is not considered fully responsive and it is material to the RFP requirements, the proposal may be rejected.

b. Proposals accepted under the terms of this RFP will be evaluated and ranked by an evaluation team which may consist of a CDFW Wildlife Area Manager and a regional CDFW representative. Composition of the evaluation team is subject to change at the sole discretion of the CDFW.

c. At least one reference and reference letter is required. The CDFW will review each reference letter and may contact each reference by phone. If contacted, references may be asked to describe the prior vegetation disposal agreement transaction they had with the bidder, and/or to clarify their answers to the following questions in their reference letter:

1. Describe the terms of the permit including approximate number of acres, duration of the permit and the geographic area.

2. Did the firm/individual satisfactorily complete the obligations within the terms of the agreement? (Yes or No)

3. Did the firm/individual pay the fee on time? (Yes or No)

4. Did the firm/individual respond promptly to requests or emergency situations? (Yes or No)

d. Proposals that contain false or misleading statements, or which provide references that do not support an attribute or condition claimed by the bidder, may be rejected.

e. The CDFW reserves the right, at its sole discretion, to request clarifications of proposals or to conduct discussions for the purpose of clarification with any or all bidders. The purpose of any such discussions shall be to ensure full understanding of the proposal. If clarifications are made as a result of such discussion, the bidder shall put such clarifications in writing. Bidders may not submit supplemental information without the approval of the

f. The evaluation team may consider information that is pertinent to the bidders’ qualifications, regardless of whether such information is specifically requested or included in the criteria listed in this RFP.

g. Proposals will be ranked based on the criteria set forth below:

Rating/Scoring Criteria Points Bidder Submitted all Required Attachments Pass/Fail Statement of Qualifications (SOQ) Pass/Fail Reference and Reference Letter Pass/Fail Disclosure Statement Pass/Fail Proposal for Goal 1 15 points

Proposal for Goal 2 20 points Proposal for Goal 3 20 points Proposal for Goal 4 20 points Proposal for Goal 5 20 points Proposal for Goal 6 15 points Proposal for Goal 7 10 points Proposal for Goal 8 10 points Proposed Fee 10 points

Total Possible Points: 140 Points

The method of evaluation and scoring is as follows:

Bidder Submitted All Required Attachments

Pass Bidder submitted all required attachments.

Fail Bidder did not submit all required attachments.

Statement of Qualifications

Pass Meets minimum qualifications.

Fail Did not provide a SOQ; or did not meet minimum qualifications.

Reference Letter

Pass Provided at least one reference and associated reference letter that confirms the bidder conducted a wildlife-friendly grazing operation on public or conservation easement protected land.

Fail Did not provide a reference letter; or, reference letter did not confirm the bidder conducted a grazing operation on public or conservation easement protected land.

Disclosure Statement

Pass The bidder did not disclose any claims of legal actions within the last five years or bankruptcy or insolvency proceedings within the past ten years.

Fail The bidder did disclose claims of legal actions within the last five years or bankruptcy or insolvency proceedings within the past ten years.

Goal 1

The goal is to have a minimum of 446 pounds per acre and a maximum of 800 pounds per acre of RDM by May 15 annually through the term of the permit. Describe the plan to graze the Premises based on the parameters listed in Section D to achieve the RDM goal. Include the duration, livestock (i.e. yearlings, calf and cow, etc.) and the proposed number of AUMs to meet this goal (15 points possible).

0 Did not answer.

5 Plan not sufficient, does not fit in the parameters, or requires multiple changes.

10 Sufficient (meets parameters) but lacked details.

15 Detailed plan that exceeds expectations

Goal 2 Negative impacts to riparian areas due to livestock will be avoided. Describe the plan to avoid negative impacts on riparian areas (20 points possible).

0 Did not answer.

5 Bidder did not demonstrate knowledge of avoiding impacts to riparian areas.

10 Bidder demonstrated basic knowledge of avoiding impacts to riparian areas.

20 Bidder demonstrated command of subject matter relevant to avoiding impacts to riparian areas.

Goal 3 Negative impacts to wetlands (e.g., streams, vernal pools, and seeps and springs) due to livestock will be avoided. Describe the plan to avoid negative impacts to wetlands (20 points possible).

0 Did not answer.

5 Bidder did not demonstrate knowledge of avoiding impacts to wetlands.

10 Bidder did demonstrate knowledge of avoiding impacts to wetlands.

20 Bidder demonstrated command of subject matter relevant to avoiding impacts to wetlands.

Goal 4 Describe how the bidder will measure RDM to meet the objective of a minimum of 446 pounds per acre and a maximum of 800 pounds per acre by May 15 annually (20 points possible).

0 Did not answer.

5 Bidder did not demonstrate knowledge of measuring RDM.

10 Bidder demonstrated basic knowledge of measuring RDM across the allotment to meet RDM retention goals.

20 Bidder demonstrated command of subject matter relevant to measuring RDM across the allotment to meet RFM retention goals.

Goal 5 Describe the plan for even distribution of livestock throughout the Premises (20 points possible).

0 Did not answer.

5 Plan is not sufficient to achieve even distribution.

10 Plan is sufficient to provide even distribution.

20 Plan contains extensive detail on how even distribution would be achieved.

Goal 6 Describe the plan for ingress and egress of livestock (15 points possible).

0 Did not answer.

5 Plan is not sufficient; did not clearly demonstrate knowledge of location and/or challenges of allotment.

10 Plan was sufficient but lacked detail.

15 Plan is sufficient; demonstrated clear knowledge of challenges presented.

Goal 7

During the term of the Permit, the State may determine that conditions warrant a change in the grazing term which could result in a reduction of AUMs. Describe the resources you have in place to implement the required change within the given timelines in the Sample Excess Vegetation Removal Permit (10 points possible).

0 Did not answer.

5 Contingency plan lacked detail.

10 Detailed contingency plan that included resources

Goal 8 Describe the plan to minimize and address livestock trespass onto adjoining properties (10 points possible).

0 Did not answer.

5 Contingency plan lacked detail.

10 Detailed contingency plan that included resources

Cost (10 points possible):

The highest price offered receives the maximum of 10 points. All other proposals will receive a score based on the following formula:

Cost proposal divided by the highest cost proposal x 10 points = Score

Example:

Highest bid is $35.00/AUM……………………………….…………...10 points Next highest bid is $32.50/AUM…($32.50 divided by $35.00) times 10 = 9.3 points Next bid is $25.00/AUM……($25.00 divided by $35.00) times 10 = 7.1 points

= TOTAL POINTS SCORED TOTAL POINTS POSSIBLE: 140

7. Interviews (If Needed)

At the CDFW’s discretion, interviews may be held with bidders that ranked closely in the evaluation scoring, if any clarifications in the proposals are needed or as the method to break a tie. The interviews will be conducted by the evaluation team.

8. Basis of Award

The Permit award, if made, will be to the responsive, responsible bidder with the highest ranking based upon the evaluation criteria (and any interview results). The evaluation process is designed to award the Permit not necessarily to the bidder offering the highest fee, but rather to the bidder with the best combination of attributes based upon the evaluation criteria and that which presents the most advantageous proposal to the CDFW.

Proposal responses must comply with all RFP requirements. Failure to do so will disqualify the proposal. If it is determined not to be in the best interest of the STATE, the CDFW reserves the right to not award a Permit in response to this

RFP.

9. Disposition of Proposal

a. Upon proposal opening, all documents submitted in response to this RFP will become the property of the STATE. Selection or rejection of a proposal does not affect its ownership by the CDFW.

b. All proposal information, including detailed price and cost information, shall be held in confidence during the evaluation process. Upon the completion of the evaluation of proposal, indicated by a notice of intent to award the Permit, the proposals and associated materials shall be open for review by the public to the extent allowed by the California Public Records Act (Government Code sections 6250-6270 and 6275-6276.48). By submitting a proposal, the bidder acknowledges and accepts that the contents of the proposal and associated documents shall become open to public inspection. The guidelines for making CDFW-related Public Records Act requests are available on the CDFW/Fish and Game Commission Guidelines for Public Records Act Requests internet page, here:

https://www.wildlife.ca.gov/General-Counsel/Public-Records-Requests

10. Protest

a. In Accordance with Public Contract Code Section 10345, if any bidder, prior to the award of an agreement, files a written protest with the Department of General Services (DGS) – Office of Legal Services and CDFW on the grounds that the (protesting) bidder is the lowest responsive responsible bidder, the agreement will not be awarded until either the protest has been withdrawn or the DGS has decided the matter. The protest must be sent to:

Department of General Services Office of Legal Services

California Department of Fish and Wildlife

Attn: Bid Protest Coordinator Attn: State Owned Properties Management Unit

Address: 707 3rd Street, 7th Floor, Suite 7-330 West Sacramento, CA 95605

Address: P.O. Box 944209 Sacramento, CA 94244-

Email: OLSProtests@dgs.ca.g ov

Email: BMBstateownedproperti es@wildlife.ca.gov

Within five days after filing the initial protest, the protesting bidder must file with the DGS and the CDFW a detailed written statement specifying the grounds for the protest. Protests may be submitted by regular mail, courier, or personal delivery.

11. Finalization of Site Operation Plan (Exhibit B)

The CDFW, in agreement with the awardee, may include the awardee’s proposals as addenda to the Site Operation Plan – Exhibit B. The CDFW reserves the option to strike-out or modify any portion of the winning proposal that conflicts with the Permit and/or Site Operations Plan. Revision to the standard language of the Permit is prohibited.

If the CDFW and the awardee initially selected by the CDFW are unable to agree on the provisions of the Site Operation Plan within a reasonable time, the Permit will be offered to the bidder ranked second by the evaluation team.

The negotiation process described in Sections F-6 through F-9 and F-11 will be repeated until an agreement is executed.

12. Permit for Excess Vegetation Disposal Award

a. Following the award, the CDFW will request insurance documentation from the awardee that will comply with Section 21 of this Agreement. These documents must be provided on or before the requested date. STATE execution of the Permit is contingent upon the verification of the insurance by the DGS – Office of Risk and Insurance Management. (The awardee should provide the Sample Permit and the “Land Use Agreements: Guide to Insurance Documentation Requirements” to their insurance broker when requesting the coverage and required documents.)

b. The awardee will be required to provide a completed Payee Data Record form (STD. 204) with the documents described above.

c. The CDFW reserves the right to rescind the award if any requested documentation is not provided by the awardee on or before the requested due date. The awardee is solely responsible for ensuring timely responses by any individual or firm they choose to create and provide the requested documents.

d. The CDFW reserves the right to offer the award to the next responsive, highest scoring bidder, or to issue a new RFP if the award is rescinded.

e. Upon receipt, the awardee will sign the original copy of the Permit for Excess Vegetation Disposal, provided by CDFW electronically within ten business days after receipt from the CDFW.

f. This RFP and the Permittee selection processes do not obligate the CDFW and do not create rights, interests, or claims of entitlement in the apparent best evaluated potential Permittee or any vendor.

13. Permit Execution and Performance

a. Activities (including any pre-season preparation work) shall start no sooner than the Commencement Date indicated upon the Permit or upon delivery of a fully signed and executed Permit to the Permittee and the CDFW receipt of the first Fee, whichever occurs later.

b. All activities and obligations under the Permit shall be completed on or before the termination date of the Permit.

14. Sample Permit for Excess Vegetation Disposal

This RFP includes, as a separate document, a sample Permit for Excess Vegetation Disposal (Sample DFW 587) for review. The sample DFW 587 contains language that the CDFW expects to utilize for this Permit. Following award of the Permit, the CDFW will prepare a Permit for Excess Vegetation Disposal including exhibits for execution. By submitting a proposal, the successful bidder acknowledges that they have read and understand the provisions of the Permit and agree to sign and return the DFW 587 within ten business days of receipt if awarded.

15. Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) Requirements

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.

Bidder / Offeror must notify the State in writing if it: (1) intends to provide GenAI as a deliverable to the State; or (2), intends to utilize GenAI, including GenAI from third parties, to complete all or a portion of any deliverable that materially impacts: (i) functionality of a State system, (ii) risk to the State, or (iii) Contract performance. For avoidance of doubt, the term “materially impacts” shall have the meaning set forth in State Administrative Manual (SAM) § 4986.2 Definitions for GenAI.

Failure to report GenAI to the State may result in disqualification. The State reserves the right to seek any and all relief to which it may be entitled to as a result of such non-disclosure.

Upon notification by a Bidder / Offeror of GenAI as required, 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.

Government Code 11549.64 defines “Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI)” as an artificial intelligence system that can generate derived synthetic content, including text, images, video, and audio that emulates the structure and characteristics of the system’s training data.

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16. Exhibit A: Map ii

Exhibit A-1: Legal Description of Site iii

18. Exhibit B: Site Operation Plan

Site Description

The Tehama Wildlife Area (TWA) is the largest state-owned wildlife area in California encompassing some 46,904 acres. The area is located in Tehama County approximately 20 miles east of Red Bluff in the Sierra Nevada foothills.

The Hogsback allotment (Premises) encompasses the majority of the eastern and center portion of the TWA. The Premises is approximately 3,206 acres.

The Premises are a broad, sloping bench of grass, woodland and chaparral rising from 1,000 feet above sea level near the Sacramento Valley floor to 2,500 feet to the east. East-west oriented streams have cut steep, rugged canyons through horizontal stratification of lava flow bedrock, leaving broken slopes with many cliffs and benches. Riparian corridors are interspaced with barren areas, grassland, woodland grass and chaparral community types.

Soils on the Premises are brown to reddish-brown loams that in many places are less than 15 inches deep and are very rocky. Normally, rocks and boulders are scattered over the surface of this soil underlain by a large volcanic mud and lava flow. All soil types are very low on the erosion scale and low on the compaction scale. The vegetation is primarily grasses and forbs, but sometimes includes blue oak, interior live oak, buckbrush, manzanita and gray pine.

The management of the TWA focuses on creating habitat for the wintering Eastern Tehama deer herd. It is home to many mammal species including bears, mountain lions, bobcats, wild pig along with other mammals. Hogsback and Mill creek’s contain chinook salmon, rainbow and brown trout, smallmouth bass, green sunfish, tule perch, riffle sculpin among others. Several bird species such as roadrunners, woodpeckers, turkeys, turkey vultures, many raptor species bald eagles and peregrine falcon, golden eagles, Cooper’s hawk and prairie falcons are present throughout the year while some waterfowl migrate through and visit the Premises. There are no sensitive or listed species that will be affected by cattle grazing activities.

The use of the Premises are to be accepted in its existing AS-IS condition. The CDFW does not warrant or guarantee the actual size of the Premises.

Infrastructure and Access

The Premises is fenced on all sides. The fencing will be accepted as is, and it is the responsibility of the Permittee to maintain the fence and keep their livestock in the Premises. There is no infrastructure for loading/unloading or corralling.

There are 60 acres of private land within the Hogsback allotment (APN: 011- 300-002). This area is not fenced on the north and east sides. The permittee shall make a good faith effort to keep cattle from entering this parcel and to include the landowners as additionally insured.

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Water

Water availability on the Premises varies and is not guaranteed. It is the responsibility of the Permittee to secure water for their stock, if needed.

Generally, good quality water is available in most low spots and small drainages throughout the spring. Some potholes in volcanic bedrock may hold water late into the dry season.

Ingress/Egress

Access to the Premises is available via Hogsback Rd., which is not maintained past the intersection with Ishi Rd.

Public Use

The Premises is open to the public for both consumptive and non-consumptive uses which may include hunting, fishing, wildlife viewing, photography, education and research. These activities cannot be hindered during any grazing operations.

No special right to access the Premises for the purposes of hunting, fishing, camping or any other purpose other than as specified in the Permit is granted nor implied. The Permittee may not take (as defined in FGC 86) wildlife (including rodent and predator control) unless prior written authorization is obtained from the CDFW. The Permittee may not grant special access to any persons not associated with the implementation or management of vegetation control activities under the Permit.

Habitat Objectives

Grazing is used to remove the new and decadent grasses to encourage the growth of forbs, shrubs and trees, the preferred food for deer. The timing and duration of grazing on the Premises will allow native grasses a chance to recover and avoid impacts to riparian areas from cattle sheltering from the summer heat. This duration also helps to increase the diversity of plants for all wildlife species. In addition, grazing also helps maintain nutrient cycles, watershed functions, soil stability, and energy flows.

Grazing Prescription

Cattle grazing will be allowed during the annual grazing period only, from January 15 through May 15 each year during the permit term and in compliance with this Site Operations Plan. Residual Dry Matter (RDM) Target: Based on the recommendations outlined in The Effects of Cattle Grazing on Black-Tailed Deer During Winter on the Tehama Wildlife Management Area by Kie and v

Boroski (1995) and Guidelines for RDM on Coastal and Foothill Rangelands in CA. publication 8092, the goal is to leave a minimum of 446 Ibs/acre and maximum of 800 lbs/acre of RDM within the Premises the end of the annual grazing period. The Animal Unit Months (AUMs) shall be based on a starting point of 80 AUMs per 640 acres, but this number can be adjusted based on habitat goal needs. The Permit will be for four years and seven months only, without an option to extend.

For the purposes of this Permit, an AUM is defined as any of the following: cow-calf pair = 1 Animal Unit (AU), dry cow = 1 AU, mature bull 1.35 AU, yearling cow 0.6 AU. The Permittee is required to meet with CDFW staff or their designee before the annual grazing period to discuss the stocking regime.

One of the key issues relating to the annual grazing period is to avoid impacts to riparian and wetland areas from cattle seeking forage, water, and shade.

Even distribution of cattle on the Premises is critical to the success of the grazing program at TWA. The CDFW must be notified, in writing, of brands which identify the Permittee’s cattle.

Monitoring Requirements

The Permittee is required to measure RDM and provide data, results and the locations for any monitoring sites used for RDM measurements. The CDFW will periodically monitor the Premises to obtain or verify RDM levels.

If requested, the Permittee will adjust stocking rates and/or move livestock as requested to ensure habitat conditions are met. The Permittee is required to meet with CDFW staff or their designee after the annual grazing period to discuss any issues.

Emergency Response

The Permittee must be able to respond to an emergency on the Premises within two hours.

Contact Information

Mike Sandahl Senior Fish and Wildlife Habitat Supervisor 1724 Ball Mountain Rd.

Montague, CA. 96064 530-200-1952

Tony Welch Wildlife Habitat Supervisor 1 Tehama Wildlife Area P.O. Box 188 vi

Paynes Creek, CA. 96075 530-200-1953

Pat Sater Environmental Scientist 601 Locust St.

Redding, CA. 96001 530-510-3663 vii

G. Required Attachments

ATTACHMENT 1 – DIRECTIONS

Required Attachment Check List

A complete proposal or proposal package will include all of the items identified below.

Complete this checklist to confirm the items are in your proposal. Place a check mark or “X” next to each item that you are submitting to the STATE. For your proposal to be responsive, all required attachments must be returned. This checklist should be returned with your proposal package.

Attachment Name/Description

☐ Attachment 1 Required Attachment Check List

☐ Attachment 2 Transmittal Letter

☐ Attachment 3 Statement of Qualifications

☐ Attachment 4 Proposal for Goal 1

☐ Attachment 5 Proposal for Goal 2

☐ Attachment 6 Proposal for Goal 3

☐ Attachment 7 Proposal for Goal 4

☐ Attachment 8 Proposal for Goal 5

☐ Attachment 9 Proposal for Goal 6

☐ Attachment 10 Proposal for Goal 7

☐ Attachment 11 Proposal for Goal 8

☐ Attachment 12 Disclosure Statements viii

☐ Attachment 13 Fee Proposal Form

☐ Attachment 14 Bidder Reference(s) and Reference Letter(s)

☐ Attachment 15 Site Inspection Certification

☐ Attachment 16 Proposal Certification Sheet

☐ Attachment 17 Authorization Document ix

ATTACHMENT 2

TRANSMITTAL LETTER

Directions: List the bidder’s name, mailing address, phone, and e-mail. The submitter must sign the transmittal letter in ink and be authorized to bind the proposing firm. The name and title of the person signing the proposal must be typed below the signature.

The transmittal letter must state whether the bidder or any individual who will perform work under the Permit has a possible conflict of interest (e.g., employment by the CDFW) and, if so, the nature of that conflict. The CDFW reserves the right to cancel an award if any interest disclosed from any source could either give the appearance of a conflict of interest or cause speculation as to the objectivity of the bidder. Such determination regarding any questions of conflict of interest shall be solely within the discretion of the CDFW.

Guide

Bidder’s Name Page 1 of ?

Attachment 2 Transmittal Letter

Firm Name Mailing Address Phone E-mail

Transmittal Letter Text

Signature Printed Name Title x

ATTACHMENT 3

STATEMENT OF QUALIFICATIONS

Directions: This attachment will describe the knowledge, education, experience, and abilities that lead to the…