P2025401_RFP_NCER__FINAL_003_.pdf

State of California -The Natural Resources Agency GAVIN NEWSOM, Governor DEPARTMENT OF FISH AND WILDLIFE MEGHAN HERTEL, Director Central Region 1234 E. Shaw Ave.

Fresno, CA 93710 www.wildlife.ca.gov

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

May 4, 2026

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL

North Carrizo Ecological Reserve Permit for Excess Vegetation Disposal

(Grazing) P2025401

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 (grazing) activity will be conducted with non-exclusive rights on approximately 9,402 acres of real property known as the Bitterwater, Narrows, Red House, Section 35, Cooper, and Hayes Units, collectively referred to as the Premises, within the North Carrizo Ecological Reserve (NCER) in the County of San Luis Obispo.

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 using livestock grazing to promote conditions suitable for San Joaquin kit fox (SJKF) and other wildlife. 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 five and more specifically in Exhibit B, the Site Operation Plan on page 27. One candidate will be selected to enter into a five year permit agreement.

Proposals must be received no later than June 16, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. A minimum of one original and five 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.

California Department of Fish and Wildlife Request for Proposal – P2025401

CDFW Administrative Contact: CDFW Site Manager:

Name: Miriam Rodriguez Name: Craig Fiehler Title: AGPA Title: Environmental Scientist Address: 1234 E. Shaw Avenue

Fresno, CA 93710 Address: 1234 E. Shaw Avenue

Fresno, CA 93710 Phone: (559) 243-4005 Ext. 150 Phone: (661) 335-2380 Email: miriam.rodriguez@wildlife.ca.gov Email: craig.fiehler@wildlife.ca.gov

Site Inspection Location CalFire Station 42 13050 Soda Lake Road Santa Margarita, CA 93453 It is mandatory that you inspect the site before submitting a proposal. Site inspection(s) will be held on May 11, 2026, at 10:00 am.

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………………………………………………….6

D. Proposals………………………………………………………………………………6

E. Permit Term and Fee

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

Key Action Dates Mandatory Pre-Proposal Conference and Site Inspection Questions and Answers Proposal Format Requirements Submission of Proposal Evaluation and Ranking Interviews (If Needed) Basis of Award Disposition of Proposal Protest Finalization of Site Operation Plan (Exhibit B) Permit for Excess Vegetation Disposal Award Permit Execution and Performance Sample Permit for Excess Vegetation Disposal Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) Requirement Exhibit A: Map Exhibit A-1: Legal Description of Site Exhibit B: Site Operation Plan

G. Required Attachments……………………………………………………………...32

Attachment 1 – Required Attachment Check List Attachment 2 – Transmittal Letter Attachment 3 – Statement of Qualifications Attachment 4 – Description of Personnel and Organizational Structure Attachment 5 – Proposal for Goal 1 Attachment 6 – Proposal for Goal 2 Attachment 7 – Proposal for Goal 3 Attachment 8 – Proposal for Goal 4 Attachment 9 – Proposal for Goal 5

Attachment 10 – Disclosure Statements Attachment 11 – Fee Proposal Form Attachment 12 – Bidder References and Reference Letters Attachment 13 – Site Inspection Certification Attachment 14 – Proposal Certification Sheet Attachment 15 – Authorization Document

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 maintaining low vegetation structure for the federally endangered San Joaquin kit fox. Vegetation disposal on the Premises will be expected to follow the general guidelines described in the Grazing Plan for the NCER which can be provided upon request. A long-term objective of the CDFW is to use vegetation disposal activities to encourage and support San Joaquin kit fox and other special status species on the NCER. The overall objective is to keep vegetation biomass levels low on the Premises, thereby facilitating movement, prey acquisition, and predator avoidance by San Joaquin kit foxes. Keeping vegetation biomass and structure low is also thought to benefit resident small mammal species and, in turn, to benefit San Joaquin kit fox who rely on these small mammals as a large portion of their prey.

B. Property Description and Vegetation Disposal Overview

The Premises is located approximately 30 miles east of the town of Santa Margarita, in San Luis Obispo County, California and is part of the CDFW’s Central Region.

The Premises, being 9,402 acres, is the portion of NCER available for grazing, most of which lies primarily north of State Highway 58 and between Bitterwater and Soda Lake roads. The Premises has been historically grazed with cattle and dryland farmed.

1. The Premises is primarily annual grassland habitat that was formerly dryland farmed. The topography on the Premises is primarily flat with a small proportion of rolling hills. There is only one naturally occurring spring on the Premises which offers surface water year-round but there are 22 water troughs distributed across the Premises at a density of roughly one trough per square mile. The premise’s native flora is somewhat limited due to its agricultural history; however, these plants have shown resilience and have increased in number since disking has ceased.

2. The boundaries of the Premises are fenced with a 4-strand wildlife friendly fence and signed with NCER boundary signs. There are multiple points of ingress on the premises with five along Highway 58 and four along Bitterwater road.

3. There are no notable natural occurring events that may affect operations.

4. Three inches of stubble height should be left on the ground by the end of the dry season (October).

5. Grazing operations will be allowed year round.

6. CDFW will be monitoring resulting rangeland conditions annually in the Fall.

7. Water will be provided by CDFW in the form of 22 water troughs and 6 solar pumps. Ingress and egress will be controlled via locked gates and there is no public access to the premises.

Bidder’s Minimum Qualifications

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

1. Two references and reference letters in the past five years or one reference in the past two years that can attest to the potential Permittee’s experience in the implementation of a vegetation disposal agreement performed on public or conservation easement protected lands.

2. Five or more years of experience of wildlife-friendly grazing practices.

3. Five or more years of experience conducting a grazing operation within arid grassland habitats.

4. Ability to respond to emergencies on the Premises within two hours.

5. Bidders must be in possession of the appropriate number of livestock needed to accomplish the objectives of the Permit.

C. Proposals

All proposals must conform to the following parameters:

1. Vegetation disposal activities may not begin prior to August 1, 2026, and may not continue past July 31, 2031.

2. Only cattle may be used for vegetation removal.

3. An average of 500 lbs./acre of Residual Dry Matter (RDM) will remain on the premises at the end of the dry season (October).

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 NCER.

D. Permit Term and Fee

If awarded, the term of this Permit shall be five years commencing August 1, 2026, or upon approval of the STATE, whichever is later (Commencement Date) and terminating on July 31, 2031, 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 12 months, starting August 1, and ending July 31, each year of the permit term.

The annual fee will be calculated as the product of the proposed fee amount per acre per year, times 9,402 acres.

PAYMENT SCHEDULE

No. PAYMENT DUE AMOUNT PERIOD COVERED 1 July 15, 2026, or upon Permit execution, whichever is later

Total Annual Fee August 1, 2026 – July 31, 2027

2 July 15, 2027 Total Annual Fee August 1, 2027 – July 31, 2028 3 July 15, 2028 Total Annual Fee August 1, 2028 – July 31, 2029 4 July 15, 2029 Total Annual Fee August 1, 2029 – July 31, 2030 5 July 15, 2030 Total Annual Fee August 1, 2030 – July 31, 2031

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

F. Proposal Requirements and Information

1. Key Action Dates

EVENT DATE

RFP Available May 4, 2026 – June 15, 2026 Mandatory Site Inspection May 11, 2026, at 10:00am Proposal Submission Deadline June 16, 2026, at 5:00pm Proposal Evaluation and Ranking June 22, 2026 Final Selection/Notice of Intent to Award June 25, 2026 Proposed Award Date June 29, 2026 Finalize Exhibit B July 13, 2026 Proposed Commencement Date August 1, 2026

2. Mandatory Pre-Proposal Conference and Site Inspection

a. A mandatory site inspection is scheduled at 10:00am on May 11, 2026, at the CalFire Station 42, 13050 Soda Lake Road (44 miles east of Santa Margarita), Santa Margarita, CA 93453 (the fire station is located in California Valley) 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 Permit Number P2025401” 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 five 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. The statement of qualifications will also include the number of reference letters required in Section C, minimum qualifications, above.

Attachment 4 – Description of Personnel and Organizational Structure

1. List all personnel who will be working on the Permit and their titles;

2. Brief, descriptive statement indicating the bidder’s credentials to perform the activities sought under this RFP;

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

4. Brief statement of how long the bidder has been performing the activities required by this RFP;

5. Location of office(s).

Attachments 5 through 9 – Proposals for Each Goal (1-5) Provide one written proposal of how you or your firm would operate to accomplish each of the five 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. Describe your plan to maintain three inches of grass height in the spring and above the minimum of 500 lbs RDM in the Fall. Include duration, livestock (e.g., yearlings, cow and calf, etc.) you propose to use.

2. Describe how your plan would prevent overgrazing of individual management units.

3. Describe what precautions you would take to avoid negative impacts to wetlands (e.g., vernal pools).

4. What resources do you have in place to be able to provide a rapid response to any request by CDFW to reduce, increase or move livestock on the Premises due to condition changes during the year? Describe in general terms your plan to respond.

5. Describe your plan to minimize livestock trespass onto adjoining properties.

Attachment 10 – 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 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 11 – Fee Proposal Form Form provided in this RFP. Provide a proposed fee per acre per year. All costs associated with the proposed performance of grazing 9,402 acres of the NCER to the required specifications and complying with the provisions of the Permit should be considered by the bidder when submitting this fee proposal.

Attachment 12 - Bidder References and Reference Letters Form provided in this RFP. Provide the applicable references and reference letters as detailed in the Minimum Qualifications section.

Attachment 13 - 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 14 – Proposal Certification Form Form provided in this RFP. (Instructions on page 2 of this form).

Attachment 15 – Authorization Document Attach the appropriate document to the provided check-form as described. See page 58 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:

North Carrizo Ecological Reserve P2025401 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 five 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 or deliver proposals to the following address:

Miriam Rodriguez and Joshua Shadle Permit Number P2025401 California Department of Fish and Wildlife Central Region Bidder Name 1234 E. Shaw Avenue

Fresno, California 93710

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

CDFW.

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 environmental scientist, regional CDFW representative, and a CDFW senior supervisor. Composition of the evaluation team is subject to change at the sole discretion of the CDFW.

c. At least two references are required. The CDFW will review each reference letter and attempt to contact each reference by phone. References will be asked to describe the prior vegetation disposal agreement transaction they had with the bidder, and to answer the following questions:

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

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

3. Was the firm/individual knowledgeable in best grazing practices to avoid negative impacts to the Premises? (Yes or No)

If any reference provided by the bidder answers “No” to any of the questions, the proposal will be disqualified on the grounds that the bidder did not meet the minimum qualifications, and the proposal is therefore non-responsive.

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 CDFW.

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 Required Attachment Checklist Pass/Fail Qualifications (SOQ), References and Disclosure Pass/Fail Transmittal Letter Pass/Fail Proposal for Goal 1 20 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 Proposed Fee 5 points Total Possible Points: 105 Points

The method of evaluation and scoring is as follows:

Required Attachment Checklist Present

Pass Meets minimum qualifications

Fail Did not provide Checklist; or did not meet minimum qualifications

Statement of Qualifications

Pass Meets minimum qualifications

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

Reference Check

Pass Reference provided a “Yes” response to each question.

Fail A “No” response to any question will be grounds to deem proposal non-responsive.

Disclosure Statement

Pass Little to no risk to CDFW of any real or perceived conflict-of-interest or inability to pay fee.

Fail A clear risk exists for a real or perceived conflict-of-interest or inability to pay fee

Transmittal Letter

Pass Meets minimum qualifications

Fail Did not provide Transmittal Letter; or did not meet minimum qualifications

Goal 1

Describe your plan to maintain three inches of grass height in the Spring and above the minimum of 500 lbs RDM in the Fall. Include duration, livestock (e.g., yearlings, cow and calf, etc.) you propose to use.

Did not respond or proposal indicates an apparent lack of desired skill set and knowledge.

Proposal indicates some knowledge, but not enough information provided to determine if goal could be met.

10 Proposal would meet the goal with no negative impacts.

Proposal would meet the goal with no negative impacts and was innovative in approach and/or showed best grazing practices.

Goal 2 Describe how your plan would prevent overgrazing of individual management units.

Did not respond or proposal indicates an apparent lack of desired skill set and knowledge.

Proposal indicates some knowledge, but not enough information provided to determine if goal could be met.

10 Proposal would meet the goal with no negative impacts.

Proposal would meet the goal with no negative impacts and was innovative in approach and/or showed best grazing practices.

Goal 3 Describe what precautions you would take to avoid negative impacts to wetlands(e.g., vernal pools)

Did not respond or proposal indicates an apparent lack of desired skill set and knowledge.

Proposal indicates some knowledge, but not enough information provided to determine if goal could be met.

10 Proposal would meet the goal with no negative impacts.

Proposal would meet the goal with no negative impacts and was innovative in approach and/or showed best grazing practices.

Goal 4

What resources do you have in place to be able to provide a rapid response to any request by CDFW to reduce, increase or move livestock on the Premises due to condition changes during the year?

Describe in general terms your plan to respond.

Did not respond or proposal indicates an apparent lack of desired skill set and knowledge.

Proposal indicates some knowledge, but not enough information provided to determine if goal could be met.

10 Proposal would meet the goal with no negative impacts.

Proposal would meet the goal with no negative impacts and was innovative in approach and/or showed best grazing practices.

Goal 5 Describe your plan to minimize livestock trespass onto adjoining properties.

Did not respond or proposal indicates an apparent lack of desired skill set and knowledge.

Proposal indicates some knowledge, but not enough information provided to determine if goal could be met.

10 Proposal would meet the goal with no negative impacts.

Proposal would meet the goal with no negative impacts and was innovative in approach and/or showed best grazing practices.

Cost (5 points possible):

The highest price offered receives the maximum of 5 points. All other proposals will receive a score based on the following formula:

Cost proposal divided by the highest cost proposal x 5 points = Score

Example:

Highest bid is $35.00/acre 5 points Next highest bid is $32.50/acre ($32.50 divided by $35.00) times 5 = 4.6 points

Next bid is $25.00/acre ($25.00 divided by $35.00) times 5 = 3.57 points

= TOTAL POINTS SCORED TOTAL POINTS POSSIBLE: 105

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.

16. Exhibit A: Map

NORTH CARRIZO ECOLOGICAL RESERVE

17. Exhibit A-1: Legal Description of Site

Exhibit A-1: Legal Description of Site (Cont’d)

18. Exhibit B: Site Operation Plan

Property Description and Vegetation Removal Overview

The North Carrizo Ecological Reserve (NCER) is situated in eastern San Luis Obispo County, approximately 35 air miles east of the town of Santa Margarita. This specific area lies in the northern Carrizo Plain ecoregion, primarily north of State Highway 58 and between Soda Lake and Bitterwater Roads. The grazing pastures for this permit, referred to as the Premises, are approximately 9,402 acres within the NCER, and include the Bitterwater, Narrows, Red House, Section 35, Cooper, and Hayes Units (Exhibit A).

Topography:

Most of the NCER is composed of former dryland agricultural lands. The Premises consist of mostly flat terrain with some rolling hills from approximately 2,000 feet above mean sea level (MSL) to over 2,430 MSL.

Soils:

The Premises is underlain by Pleistocene aged alluvium called the Paso Robles Formation, which is covered in most areas by a younger alluvial layer. The valley floors are characterized by broad, flat floodplains. The soils on the Premises are predominantly in the Yeguas-Pinspring complex, a clay loam associated with alluvial deposits. There is a long history of discing and grazing on the Premises, and there are no compaction or erosion concerns.

Pastures:

The 9,402 acres of the Premises contain little cross fencing. The perimeter fencing is complete and intact and features a 4-strand wildlife friendly specification (Figure 1).

Temporary cross fencing is the responsibility of the Permittee. Fencing enhancement and maintenance is the responsibility of the Permittee. Fencing must be installed or repaired following the wildlife-friendly specifications in Figure 1.

Figure 1. 4-strand wildlife friendly livestock fencing specifications.

Currently there are seven existing wells on the Premises, six of which have a solar pump. The remaining well consists of just the well itself and no pump. Extensive water infrastructure of tanks, livestock troughs etc. was implemented by the CDFW in 2022.

At this time, the existing water infrastructure will support cattle grazing operations and any additional water provision is the responsibility of the Permittee within the remaining infrastructure (Figure 2).

Figure 2. Existing water infrastructure on the NCER. Boundary lines represent the 4-strand livestock fencing.

The pastures of the Premises are not certified organic. The CDFW will not participate in the process of certifying any pasture as organic and does not guarantee any pasture would be eligible during the term of the permit for organic status.

The Permittee is required to meet with CDFW staff, or their designee, when requested during each annual grazing period to discuss pasture management regime. If requested, the Permittee will adjust stocking rates and/or move livestock as requested to ensure habitat conditions are met. The CDFW must be notified, in writing, of brands that identify the Permittee’s cattle and to schedule dates and times prior to turnout.

The CDFW must be contacted to schedule turn in dates and times. CDFW staff may be present at turnout to count the number of animals entering the Premises and to verify brands.

Vegetation:

Vegetation of the Premises within the NCER consists of grasses and forbs such as wild oats, ripgut brome, filaree, foxtail fescue, fiddleneck, lupine, clover, tidytips, clarkia, turkey mullein and vinegarweed. Invasive plants present on the Premises include yellow starthistle, skeletonweed, and Russian thistle. The vegetation in the Premises contains several rare plants including the diamond-petaled poppy and pale yellow layia.

Wildlife:

A variety of wildlife species have been observed on the Premises. These include avian species such as burrowing owl, short-eared owl, golden eagle, northern harrier, American kestrel, prairie falcon, red-tailed hawk, barn owl, turkey vulture, savannah sparrow, white-crowned sparrow and lark sparrow, western meadowlark, and horned lark. Mammal species include the federally endangered San Joaquin kit fox, coyote, bobcat, American badger, striped skunk, tule elk, and pronghorn.

Public Use:

At this time, the NCER, including the Premises, is open seasonally on a limited basis for hunting of tule elk.

Ingress/Egress:

There are multiple points of ingress on the Premises, with five along Highway 58 and four along Bitterwater road.

Habitat Objectives:

The primary habitat objective for the short grass management units of the NCER, including the Premises, is to maintain and enhance habitat for the San Joaquin kit fox.

Tall grass and excessive thatch reduce San Joaquin kit fox hunting efficiency and exposes them to increased predation risk. Further, grasslands with high levels of thatch reduce the densities of giant kangaroo rats, a primary food source for the San Joaquin kit fox. A target of three inches will assist in clearing the thatch away, opening up the habitat for rodents such as kangaroo rats and pocket mice, as well as allowing kit foxes to see predators more clearly in the absence of taller vegetation.

A secondary habitat management goal is to remove non-native grass that compete with native plant species.

Grazing Prescription:

Grazing will be permitted from August 1 through July 31 each year during the Permit Term. There is no minimum or maximum Animal Unit Months (AUM) quota. The goals of the grazing program on the Premises are to maintain the following conditions:

1. Have standing annual vegetation under three inches across >75% of each management unit in the Premises (Bitterwater, Narrows, Red House, Section 35, Cooper, and Hayes) by May 1 each year of the Permit Term, burrowing owl nesting season.

2. Maintain grass height at three inches to enhance San Joaquin kit fox habitat.

3. No management unit will have >25% of the management unit with less than 300 lbs/acre RDM as a result of grazing, although this condition could occur in the absence of grazing under drought conditions.

4. The goal of monitoring is to detect if the utilization of each management unit is consistent with overall biomass/RDM objectives. Each management unit within the Premises will be monitored to determine if it meets specific RDM objectives. If RDM objectives are not met, it may indicate the need for adjustments in management of overall numbers and/or distribution of cattle within and between management units within the Premises. For each management unit that does not meet RDM objectives, adjustments to management will occur, and subsequent spring biomass monitoring will be conducted to assist with early identification that RDM objectives will be met.

Monitoring Requirements

The Permittee will provide use reports at least annually and certification of a healthy herd from a veterinarian. The Permittee will also provide use records (turn out and pull off dates, stocking rate in a pasture etc.) to the CDFW site manager on a consistent seasonal basis.

CDFW staff will perform both quantitative RDM measurements and qualitative rangeland monitoring using photopoints and photoplots at least once per year in the Fall before the first significant rain. At the end of each annual grazing season, the CDFW site manager will compile a report summarizing the use of the Premises and the habitat conditions of the Premises.

Concurrent with this Permit, CDFW staff will conduct population and habitat use surveys of San Joaquin Kit Fox in and adjacent to the Premises to evaluate the effects of grazing on kit fox. Monitoring is described in detail in the NCER Grazing Plan.

The goal of monitoring is to detect if the utilization of each management unit is consistent with overall biomass/RDM objectives. Each management unit within the Premises will be monitored to determine if it meets specific RDM objectives. If RDM objectives are not met, it may indicate the need for adjustments in management of overall numbers and/or distribution of cattle within and between management units.

For each management unit that does not meet RDM objectives, adjustments to management will occur, and subsequent spring biomass monitoring will be conducted to assist with early identification that RDM objectives will be met.

Emergency Response Time The Permittee must be able to respond to emergencies within two hours.

Emergency Contacts:

CDFW Site Manager CDFW Alternate Contact Name: Craig Fiehler Name: Dave Hacker Title: Environmental Scientist Title: Sr. Environmental Scientist Address: 1234 E. Shaw Ave.

Fresno, CA 93710 Address: 3196 South Higuera St. Suite

A, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401

Phone: (661) 335-2380 Phone: (805) 594-6152 Email: craig.fiehler@wildlife.ca.gov Email: david.hacker@wildlife.ca.gov

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 Description of Personnel and Organizational Structure

☐ Attachment 5 Proposal for Goal 1

☐ Attachment 6 Proposal for Goal 2

☐ Attachment 7 Proposal for Goal 3

☐ Attachment 8 Proposal for Goal 4

☐ Attachment 9 Proposal for Goal 5

☐ Attachment 10 Disclosure Statements

☐ Attachment 11 Fee Proposal Form

☐ Attachment 12 Bidder References

☐ Attachment 13 Site Inspection Certification

☐ Attachment 14 Proposal Certification Form

☐ Attachment 15 Authorization Document

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.