Response to Offeror Questions document.docx

Questions

1. Could you share if, in your view, there are specific strengths or weaknesses in the current film that you would like to keep or avoid? What do you think it does well, and what do you feel you would like to be different in a new film?

The current film does an excellent job of showcasing the beauty and scale of Custer State Park, particularly the annual Buffalo Roundup. It also highlights many of the recreational opportunities available throughout the park and begins to introduce the role of state management. The film’s beautiful cinematography, sweeping landscapes, natural sounds and sense of excitement are all strengths we would like to carry into the new production.

When the current film was created 11 years ago, its primary purpose was to wow visitors and showcase the Buffalo Roundup. Since then, the park has added new facilities and expanded the ways we share its stories. With the new film, we would like to provide a more complete picture of Custer State Park—one that incorporates its history, ongoing management, people and visitor experiences while preserving the memorable “wow” moments that make the current film so successful.

2. On page 9, there is a note about the desire “to ensure the interpretive content continues to resonate with modern audiences”. Is there anything you think is missing from the current film in this regard?

The current film was created to showcase the park through its biggest moments and most dramatic scenery, and it accomplishes that very well. However, our interpretive team would like the new film to go a step further by providing a stronger story and helping visitors better understand why Custer State Park is special.

We would like to add greater context about the park’s history, resources, people and ongoing management while keeping the content engaging and accessible. The goal is not to make the film feel overly educational or heavy, but to weave meaningful interpretation naturally into the visual experience.

3. Conversely, is there anything in the current film that feels specifically out of sync with modern audiences? Is there any visitor feedback you’ve received that has influenced your thinking?

Visitor feedback about the current film is overwhelmingly positive. Guests often describe it as a “wow” experience, and they especially enjoy the sweeping landscapes, wildlife footage and scenes from the Buffalo Roundup. Those elements allow visitors to experience parts of the park they may not otherwise see, and we want to retain that sense of wonder.

Rather than feeling specifically out of sync with modern audiences, the current film is limited in the depth of the park’s story that it tells. We want visitors to leave the theater excited to explore the park, but we would also like them to leave with a better understanding of its history, management and significance. That additional context should be presented in an engaging way that enhances the experience without becoming too heavy or instructional.

4. You ask that the new film deliver “a deeper, more immersive story” - can you expand on this and speak more to what this means to your team, and what you’re looking for in this regard?

We are looking for a film with a clear narrative thread—one that carries visitors through the experience rather than presenting history, management, recreation and scenery as separate topics.

We would like these elements to be woven together into one cohesive story that explores how the park began, how it has evolved, how it is managed today and how people continue to experience and care for it. The story should include the people who manage and visit the park, the natural and cultural resources that shape it, and the unforgettable moments that distinguish Custer State Park from other state parks.

Ultimately, we want the film to feel immersive and emotionally engaging while also helping visitors understand that the park they enjoy today is the result of its history, thoughtful management and continued stewardship.

5. Are there specific locations in the park already identified (other than the Cathedral Spires) that are expected to be included in the film? If so, are any of the locations not accessible by car/ require backcountry travel and permits?

We would like the film to capture the park’s geographic and ecological diversity—from its open prairie and wildlife areas to its forests, mountains, lakes, streams and the granite formations of the northern portion of the park. Specific filming locations will be determined in collaboration with the selected production team based on the final story and visual approach.

Some locations may not be directly accessible by vehicle. When off-road or backcountry access is necessary, filming will be coordinated with park staff. Any required access permissions or permits will be addressed as part of the contract and production-planning process.

6. It is noted that several seasons are expected to be covered during the film. In addition to summer, what are your priority seasons to cover with filming in the park?

Although summer is the park’s busiest season, the film will be shown throughout the year, and we want it to reflect Custer State Park as a year-round destination. We do not currently have one specific season or seasonal scene prioritized over another.

Rather than treating the seasons as separate segments, we would like seasonal changes to be incorporated naturally throughout the story. The film should help visitors experience the park’s changing landscapes, wildlife, recreation and management across the year.

7. Are there any specific events that are expected to be covered, such as the Buffalo Roundup & Arts Festival or the Buffalo Auction?

The Buffalo Roundup is one of the park’s signature events and an important part of its story, so we do expect it to be included. However, we do not want the Roundup to dominate the film as it does in the current production. It should support the broader story of the park, including wildlife management, history, tradition and public engagement.

8. In the detailed response on page 12, 5.2.3.2 asks for a point-by-point response to each requirement listed in the RFP. To clarify, is this referring to the production requirements listed on pages 9-10? Or the numbered evaluation criteria (6.1.1-6.1.8) on page 13?

This section refers to any requirements in the RFP which do include the production requirements listed on pages 9-10 in the Scope of Work.

9. Are you able to share how the evaluations of proposals will be weighted per the criteria listed on page 13?

The State will evaluate written proposals using a maximum score of 20 points. Offerors selected for an oral presentation may receive up to 10 additional points. Value-added options are not required but may receive up to one additional point when they provide a clear and meaningful benefit to the project.

The evaluation committee will include representatives from the South Dakota Department of Game, Fish and Parks and the South Dakota Department of Tourism. Proposals will be evaluated according to the criteria and weights identified in this addendum.

10. One of the listed evaluation criteria on page 13 is “Ability and proven history in handling special project constraints.” Can you clarify what is meant by ‘special project constraints’ and perhaps provide some examples?

“Special project constraints” refers to the logistical and environmental challenges associated with completing the project within the required timeline and filming throughout Custer State Park. Examples may include seasonal weather conditions, dust, changing light and landscape conditions, wildlife behavior and unpredictability, visitor traffic, and the remote or difficult-to-access nature of filming locations such as bison range areas, the Needles, lakes and other backcountry locations. Respondents should demonstrate an ability to plan for and adapt to these types of conditions while maintaining the project schedule, safety and production quality.

11. Are you open to re-using any of the existing footage (such as some of the bison footage for example) that was shot for the current film (assuming it was shot in 4K or better), or do you want to start completely fresh for this new production?

Yes. The Park would be open to reusing select clips from the current film, provided they meet the required technical standards and can be incorporated seamlessly into the new production. However, the Park is looking for the new film to have a fresh and distinct feel, so reused material should be limited to individual clips rather than extended segments. Any reused footage should be consistent with the new film’s overall visual style, color grading, tone and quality.

12. Are there historic archival images or footage that the park owns that could be used by the contractor?

Yes. The Park has access to archival photographs and footage that may be made available to the selected contractor for use in the film. Available materials will be reviewed with the contractor during the project to determine their relevance, quality and suitability for inclusion.

13. If oral presentations/ discussions are necessary, would those be expected to be in person or over Zoom?

If oral presentations or discussions are required, the Department will allow them to be conducted remotely through Zoom, Microsoft Teams or another approved video-conferencing platform. In-person presentations are not required.

14. There are attachments listed on the last page of the RFP; however, they are not provided on the procurement site. Could those attachments be shared?

Yes. The referenced attachments have now been added to the procurement site and are available for review.

1. To confirm, you want one hard copy of the proposal, with a wet signature, and one copy on a USB flash drive?

Yes, that is correct. Offerors must submit one hard copy of the proposal containing an original wet signature, along with one electronic copy provided on a USB flash drive.

1. You want the proposal tabbed with the four categories, correct?

Yes, that is correct. The proposal should be organized with separate tabs for the following four sections:

1. RFP Form

2. Executive Summary

3. Detailed Response

4. Cost Proposal

1. You do not want any kind of links to previous works or visual references of any kind?

Offerors may include links to previous work or other visual references if they believe those materials will help demonstrate their qualifications and creative approach. The inclusion of these materials is optional and left to the discretion of each offeror.

1. Do you have an estimate on how many other languages you may want the final product in?

The Department is not currently requesting additional language versions. The final film should be produced in English and include closed captioning. It must also be formatted for compatibility with the Visitor Center theater’s assisted-listening system.

1. In section 8.0 (Attachments), it mentions theatrical specs. Will those be provided to us?

Yes. The Visitor Center theater specifications referenced in Section 8.0 have now been attached and are available for review.

1. Is there a way to see your current video to get a feel of what you presently have?

Yes. The current Visitor Center film has been included as an attachment for offerors to review as a creative reference.

Contract and cost

1. Section 2.4 provides for payment upon satisfactory completion. Given the roughly 14-month term and the multi-season travel the project requires, would the State consider milestone-based progress payments tied to deliverables (for example, script approval, each seasonal capture, and picture lock)?

Yes. The Department is open to negotiating milestone-based progress payments tied to agreed-upon project deliverables, such as script approval, seasonal filming milestones, rough-cut approval and picture lock. The specific milestones, payment amounts and acceptance requirements will be negotiated with the selected contractor and incorporated into the final contract.

1. Should proposed value-added options be priced within the $500,000 not-to-exceed amount, or listed separately for the State to select during negotiation?

Proposed value-added options should be listed and priced separately from the $500,000 not-to-exceed base proposal. Each option should clearly identify its scope, cost and anticipated benefit so the Department can evaluate and select any desired additions during contract negotiations.

1. How will cost be weighted relative to the technical evaluation criteria in Section 6.1?

Cost and overall value will account for 1.5 points of the 20-point written proposal score, or 7.5% of the written evaluation. If oral presentations are required, the written score will be combined with the 10-point interview score, making cost 5% of the 30-point total score.

The remaining points will focus on technical qualifications, creative vision, relevant experience, production approach, proposed personnel and the ability to complete the project successfully. Award will not be based solely on the lowest price; the Department will evaluate the relationship between the proposed cost, production quality, project approach and overall value.

Value-added options should be listed and priced separately and will not be included in the base cost score.

Scope and access

1. Is the current 2016 visitor center film available for offerors to view, or can the Department share its runtime and structure?

Yes. The 2016 Visitor Center film has been provided as an attachment for offerors to review. The new film should have a similar runtime so it can be shown at the top and bottom of each hour while allowing adequate time between showings for visitors to enter and exit the theater.

The current theater presentation also includes a three-minute countdown before the film begins; however, that countdown is not included in the attached version.

1. Are drone operations permitted within the park for this production, and are there restricted zones or seasonal limits (for example, wildlife closures or the Buffalo Roundup)?

Yes. Drone use will be permitted for this production when approved in advance and coordinated with Department staff. Specific locations and times will be determined based on wildlife activity, seasonal conditions, visitor safety, Park operations and other applicable restrictions. Drone operations will not be permitted during the actual Buffalo Roundup. The Department will work with the selected contractor to identify appropriate alternatives for capturing imagery that supports the film’s overall story and visual needs.

1. Will the selected production crew be granted dedicated access and positioning at the 2027 Buffalo Roundup?

Yes. The selected production crew will work closely with Park staff to coordinate special access and designated positioning during the 2027 Buffalo Roundup to capture the necessary footage. All access and positioning will be planned in advance and will remain subject to safety requirements, wildlife-management activities and event operations.

1. Are park entrance fees, filming permit fees, and location fees waived for the selected contractor? Is in-park lodging available for the crew during capture trips?

Yes. Park entrance fees, filming permit fees and location fees will be waived for the selected contractor when conducting work related to this project. In-Park lodging will not be provided, and the contractor will be responsible for arranging and covering all lodging expenses for the production crew.

1. Does the Department have established tribal consultation relationships for reviewing depictions of Lakota history and culture, or is the contractor expected to arrange cultural review?

The Department has established Tribal consultation relationships and will coordinate the review of any Indigenous history, culture or representation included in the film. The selected contractor will be expected to work with the Department throughout this process rather than independently arranging cultural review.

The film should recognize that the Black Hills hold longstanding historical, cultural and spiritual significance for numerous Tribal Nations. While the Lakota maintain a particularly strong connection to this landscape, they are not the only Indigenous people with ties to the area now known as Custer State Park.

1. For on-screen participants, does the Department prefer real visitors and park staff, or professional talent?

For any on-screen segments featuring Park staff, the Department prefers to use actual Custer State Park employees. For visitor scenes, the selected contractor may use real visitors or professional talent based on its creative approach, production needs and available budget. Any on-screen participants and filming arrangements will be coordinated with and approved by the Department.

Technical and process

1. Attachments A and B (theater AV specs and layout diagram) are referenced in Section 8.0 but were not included in the RFP package we received. Could you provide these? Relatedly, can the Department confirm the required final delivery format (codec, container, frame rate, loudness spec) and whether the theater system supports audio beyond 5.1?

The Attachments A and B are now available.

1. How many Department stakeholders will review cuts, and how many revision rounds are anticipated before picture lock?

The number of Department stakeholders involved in reviewing the film has not yet been finalized. The anticipated review process and number of revision rounds will be discussed and negotiated with the selected contractor during project planning and contract development.

1. If oral presentations are required on October 20 to 21, will they be held at Custer State Park or in Pierre?

If oral presentations are required and conducted in person, they will be held at Custer State Park. The Department will also allow presentations to be conducted remotely through Zoom, Microsoft Teams or another approved video-conferencing platform. Scheduling and participation details will be provided to the selected offerors.

1 — Beyond the broad themes listed, what specific interpretive messages or emotional beats are most important for the film to communicate? Are there any non‑negotiable story elements you want included?

The film should leave visitors with the feeling that Custer State Park offers something for everyone and inspire them to explore beyond the places or experiences they may already know. One of the most important emotional beats is capturing the Park’s dramatic scale and diversity—from towering granite spires and forested hills to lakes, streams and wide-open prairie. The finished film should retain the sense of wonder and visual impact of the current film, using powerful imagery, sound and storytelling to make visitors excited to experience the Park for themselves.

The Department would also like the film to provide greater context about why Custer State Park was established, how it has evolved and how its unique management practices support conservation and public recreation. This should include an introduction to South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks and its role in managing the Park. These messages should be woven naturally into the story rather than presented as a formal history lesson or educational documentary.

Bison should remain an important part of the film, but they should not become the entire story. The goal is to present a broader picture of Custer State Park—its history, landscapes, wildlife, recreation and ongoing stewardship—while highlighting the many ways visitors can experience it, including camping, lodging, hiking, fishing, swimming, scenic driving and wildlife viewing.

There are no specific story elements considered entirely non-negotiable. The Department welcomes the contractor’s creative approach, provided the finished film remains accurate, visually compelling and emotionally engaging while reflecting these priorities.

2 — Should the film incorporate Indigenous history, settler history, or conservation policy? If so, what level of depth or framing is appropriate for the visitor‑center context?

Yes. The Department would like the film to incorporate Indigenous history, settler history and the development of the Park’s conservation and management practices. However, these topics should be presented at a level appropriate for a general visitor-center audience and balanced with the film’s other themes, including landscapes, wildlife, recreation and the visitor experience.

The film is approximately 20 minutes long and must cover a broad range of subjects. No single historical or management story should overshadow the overall film. The intent is to provide meaningful context and encourage further exploration, rather than offer a comprehensive account of every topic. These elements should be woven naturally into the larger story of Custer State Park while maintaining the film’s visual impact, pace and sense of wonder.

3 — The RFP mentions a desire for “broadened representation of park experiences.” Could you share which experiences or visitor groups you feel were underrepresented in the current film? And can a link or file of the existing film be provided? Additionally, is there any documented feedback or critique of the current film that would help us understand what you hope to improve?

The current film does an excellent job of showcasing the bison, scenery and “wow” moments of Custer State Park, which reflects the direction provided when it was produced. Visitor feedback has also been largely positive, with many guests responding to its strong visual and emotional impact.

In the years since the film was created, the Park has added visitor facilities and expanded its interpretive story. The new film should continue delivering those memorable moments while presenting a more complete picture of Custer State Park. This includes the Park’s history and management, the role of South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks, and the variety of experiences available to visitors, such as hiking, camping, fishing, swimming, scenic driving, lodging and wildlife viewing.

The intent of “broadened representation” is not necessarily to identify one particular visitor group that was excluded. Rather, it is to expand the range of stories, settings and experiences shown so more visitors can see a meaningful way to connect with the Park.

The 2016 Visitor Center film has been provided as an attachment for offerors to review. The Department does not have a formal collection of documented critiques beyond the general visitor and staff feedback described above.

4 — Since filming across multiple seasons is desired, are there particular seasonal differences you want emphasized — wildlife cycles, visitor activities, weather conditions, or other interpretive themes?

The Department would like the film to clearly communicate that Custer State Park is a year-round destination, with meaningful visitor experiences and wildlife-viewing opportunities in every season. Seasonal changes should help demonstrate the variety and changing character of the Park rather than simply serving as scenic transitions.

This may include spring wildlife activity and new growth; summer hiking, camping, fishing, swimming and other recreation; fall colors, changing wildlife behavior and traditional Park activities; and the quieter landscapes and recreation opportunities of winter. The film should also show how wildlife, weather, vegetation and visitor experiences change throughout the year.

The Department is open to the contractor’s creative approach and does not expect every season to receive equal screen time or follow a prescribed checklist. However, the finished film should leave visitors understanding that the Park’s story continues beyond the traditional summer season and that each time of year offers a different way to experience it. Any seasonal services or activities shown should be represented accurately, as access and facility availability may vary throughout the year.

5 — If you had to define one core takeaway or emotional impression visitors should leave the theater with, what would that be?

The core emotional takeaway should be: “I can make my own memories here, and I am ready to go explore.”

Visitors should leave the theater feeling inspired, welcomed and excited to experience Custer State Park for themselves. The film should help them see that the Park is more than a single landscape, animal or attraction—it is a place where each visitor can discover an experience that feels personal and meaningful.

Whether that connection is found while watching bison cross the prairie, hiking among the granite spires, spending time beside a lake, camping with family, exploring the Park’s history or simply taking in a quiet view, visitors should be able to picture themselves as part of the story.

Ultimately, the film should create an emotional connection to Custer State Park while building anticipation for what comes next. When the theater doors open, visitors should feel that they have not finished their experience—they are just beginning it.

● What are the primary goals of the video, and what balance are you envisioning between historical, promotional, informational, and educational storytelling? What overall tone and key messages should the film convey?

The primary goal of the film is to inspire visitors to explore Custer State Park while giving them a stronger understanding of the landscape, history and management that make the Park unique.

As a general guide, the Department envisions a balanced approach consisting of approximately:

· One-third historical and informational storytelling, including the origins and evolution of the Park, its varied landscapes and the role of South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks.

· One-third promotional storytelling that showcases the Park’s scenery, wildlife and year-round recreational opportunities.

· One-third educational storytelling that introduces conservation, wildlife and resource-management practices in an engaging and accessible way.

These proportions are intended as general guidance rather than a required formula. The topics should be woven together into one cohesive story instead of presented as separate chapters.

The overall tone should be visually powerful, emotionally engaging, welcoming and adventurous. While the new film should provide more historical and educational context than the current production, it should not feel like a lecture or traditional documentary. It should retain the current film’s “wow” factor through dynamic imagery, sound and storytelling.

The key message is that Custer State Park offers something for everyone. Visitors should leave with a better appreciation for the Park’s history, landscapes, wildlife and ongoing management—and feel ready to step outside, explore and create their own memories.

● How much emphasis should be placed on the park's history versus the visitor experience, current-day recreation, conservation, and tourism? Are there any key messages or takeaways every visitor should leave with?

The Park’s history should be woven throughout the film, but it should not overshadow the visitor experience, recreation, conservation or current management story. Historical context should help audiences understand how Custer State Park came to be, why it matters and how its past continues to influence the way the Park is managed and experienced today.

A key takeaway should be that Custer State Park has its own distinct identity. As South Dakota’s first state park, it played an important role in shaping what would become South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks. Today, it continues to bring conservation, wildlife management, recreation and tourism together across a remarkably diverse landscape.

Visitors should leave understanding that there is something here for everyone—whether they come to hike, camp, fish, hunt, learn about history, watch wildlife, enjoy the scenery or simply get away. Most importantly, the film should help each visitor see a place for themselves within the Custer State Park story and feel ready to go explore it.

● Who is the primary audience for the film? Is it intended primarily for first-time visitors, or should it also resonate with returning visitors and South Dakota residents?

The primary audience is first-time visitors who may have limited knowledge of Custer State Park. The film should orient and inspire them, introduce the range of experiences available, and help them understand what makes the Park unique.

At the same time, the film should continue to resonate with returning visitors and South Dakota residents. The current film has become a meaningful part of the Park experience, with many local and repeat visitors bringing family and friends back to see it. The Department would like the new film to preserve that sense of connection and tradition while offering enough depth, fresh perspectives and memorable imagery to remain engaging through multiple viewings.

● Should the film include visitor guidance, park etiquette, best practices, or safety messaging? If so, to what extent?

The film may include limited visitor guidance, Park etiquette, best practices and safety messaging where those elements fit naturally within the story. However, they should not become a primary focus or interrupt the film’s pace, emotional impact or sense of wonder.

The Park’s visitor centers, exhibits, publications and staff provide more detailed guidance and safety information. The film should complement those resources by subtly reinforcing responsible behavior—particularly around wildlife, natural resources and shared visitor spaces—without feeling instructional or lecture-driven. Any guidance included should be concise, accurate and integrated visually or narratively into the broader visitor experience.

● The RFP references the previous visitor center film. Can that film be shared as a creative reference, and are there elements you'd like preserved, or are you seeking an entirely fresh creative approach?

The current Visitor Center film has been provided as an attachment and may be used as a creative reference. The Department values the film’s strong visual impact, high-quality cinematography and ability to capture the scale, beauty and “wow” moments of Custer State Park. We would like the new production to create that same sense of wonder and excitement.

However, the Department is also open to an entirely fresh creative approach. Offerors should not feel obligated to replicate the existing film’s structure, style or storytelling methods. The goal is to preserve its emotional and visual impact while expanding the story to include more of the Park’s history, management, landscapes and visitor experiences.

● Does the Department have an archive of existing video footage or photography available to the selected production team, or should we assume all content will be captured new?

The Department has access to existing video footage and photography that may be made available to the selected production team. The Park is open to using select archival materials and clips from the current film, provided they meet the project’s technical requirements and can be incorporated seamlessly into the new production.

However, the Park is seeking a fresh and distinct feel for the new film. Existing footage should supplement newly captured content rather than serve as the foundation of the production, and reused material should generally be limited to individual clips rather than extended segments. Any existing footage selected for use must be consistent with the new film’s visual style, color grading, tone and overall production quality.

● Are there specific locations, landmarks, stories, events, seasonal experiences, wildlife moments (such as the Buffalo Roundup, elk rut, or spring calving), or activities that should be considered must-have inclusions? Are there any areas or topics that should be avoided?

The Buffalo Roundup should be included as an important part of the Custer State Park story. However, it should be presented within the broader context of bison and grassland management rather than becoming the primary focus of the film.

The Department would also like offerors to consider capturing spring in the Park. New growth, changing landscapes and seasonal wildlife activity provide strong opportunities to show that Custer State Park is a year-round destination. Beyond these priorities, the Department welcomes creative recommendations for locations, wildlife moments, seasonal experiences and recreational activities that support the film’s overall story and demonstrate the Park’s diversity.

The begging burros may be included, but they should not serve as a major storyline or receive disproportionate emphasis. Any proposed locations, events or wildlife scenes will be reviewed with the selected contractor to ensure they are accurate, appropriate and consistent with Park operations and management messages.

● The project spans multiple seasons. Is the Department open to maintaining a flexible production schedule to maximize weather conditions, seasonal changes, and wildlife activity, or are there fixed production windows we should plan around?

The Department is open to a flexible production schedule that allows the selected contractor to take advantage of favorable weather, seasonal changes, wildlife activity and other filming opportunities throughout the project. The production schedule should be developed in coordination with Park staff to account for access, visitor use, wildlife-management activities and major Park events. Flexibility within that schedule is encouraged, provided the final completion deadline of January 3, 2028, is met.

● Will the production team be able to access park areas outside normal visitor hours for sunrise, sunset, and wildlife filming? Are there any filming restrictions, access limitations, operational considerations, or sensitive wildlife areas we should be aware of?

The selected contractor will work with Park staff to coordinate access outside normal visitor hours when needed for sunrise, sunset or wildlife filming. Park staff may also assist with access to remote, difficult-to-reach or sensitive locations when appropriate.

All access will require advance coordination and will remain subject to visitor safety, wildlife activity, resource protection, seasonal closures, road and weather conditions, and ongoing Park operations. Access to sensitive areas cannot be guaranteed and will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. The selected contractor will be expected to follow all instructions and restrictions established by Park staff throughout production.

● Are any permits or special approvals required for drone operations within the park, and are there park-specific flight restrictions we should account for during production planning?

Yes. Drone operations will require advance approval and coordination with Department staff. Specific flight locations, dates and times will be evaluated based on wildlife activity, seasonal conditions, visitor safety, resource protection, Park operations and other applicable restrictions.

Drone operations will not be permitted during the actual Buffalo Roundup. The Department will work with the selected contractor to identify appropriate alternatives for capturing imagery that supports the film’s story and visual needs. All drone use must comply with applicable federal, state and Park requirements.

● Given the park's visitor volume, do you prefer authentic guest interactions to be featured naturally, or will there be opportunities to briefly control select locations for more cinematic filming?

The Department would like the film to capture Custer State Park and its visitors as authentically as possible. Natural guest interactions are encouraged when they support the story and all necessary permissions and releases have been obtained.

At the same time, the Department is willing to coordinate brief, limited control of select locations when necessary to capture more cinematic footage. Any such arrangements must be planned in advance with Park staff and will depend on the location, season, visitor volume, safety considerations and Park operations. Efforts should be made to minimize disruptions to visitors and normal Park use.

● Should we anticipate incorporating interviews with park staff, historians, conservation experts, or tribal representatives, or is the preference for a fully cinematic, narration-driven experience?

The Department is primarily interested in a cinematic, narration-driven experience. However, we are open to incorporating interviews with Park staff, historians, conservation experts, Tribal representatives or others when they meaningfully support the story.

The appropriate use and extent of interviews can be determined collaboratively during the creative-development process. Interviews should complement the film’s visual storytelling and overall pace rather than shift the production toward a traditional documentary format

● Will park staff primarily assist with access and logistics, or should the production team plan to provide specialized support for remote locations, wildlife filming, or challenging terrain?

The production team should anticipate coordinating closely with and being accompanied by Park staff during most filming conducted within Custer State Park. Park staff will assist with location access, scheduling, operational coordination, wildlife awareness and general knowledge of the Park.

However, the selected contractor will remain responsible for providing the personnel, equipment and specialized production support necessary for remote locations, wildlife filming and challenging terrain. The specific level of Park staff involvement will be determined during production planning based on the location, activity and filming needs.

● Before final delivery, will there be an opportunity to review the completed film in the Visitor Center theater to optimize color, brightness, audio levels, and overall presentation for the installed system?

Yes. The selected contractor will have an opportunity to review and test the completed film in the Custer State Park Visitor Center theater before final acceptance. The Department strongly encourages this review to evaluate color, brightness, image framing, audio levels and overall presentation using the theater’s installed projection and sound systems. Any necessary adjustments identified during the review should be completed before final delivery and acceptance.

1. Example Projects and Media

Per your request, we intend to share a number of past projects that will showcase our skills and experience. In each of those cases, we can provide a link where you and the team can watch the films we created for those projects. Is it ok to provide such links? And for the “USB Flash Drive” version of the proposal (1.4), are the links sufficient, or are you hoping that the same film media is directly on the flash drive?

Yes. Offerors may provide links to previous projects for the Department’s review. For the electronic proposal submitted on the USB flash drive, those links may be included within the proposal documents; the film files themselves do not need to be saved directly to the flash drive.

2. Cost Information for Sample Projects

We wanted to confirm that you were seeking cost/pricing information for each of the example projects that we will be sharing with you. If so, that information is proprietary, and we want to make sure it does not become part of the public record. Is it possible to designate that cost information as such?

Offerors may clearly designate cost or pricing information from previous projects as proprietary or confidential. The Department will handle any such information in accordance with applicable South Dakota public-records laws and State procurement requirements. Offerors should clearly identify the specific information for which confidential treatment is requested and provide the basis for that designation.

3. Attachments A and B

We noticed in Section 8 that there were two attachments related to the theater space and its AV specs. We unfortunately could not locate those attachments. Could you send those items to us?

Yes. Attachments A and B, containing information about the theater space and audiovisual specifications, have now been provided and are available for review.

1. Pg 9-10, 3.0 SOW:

0. Can you provide more specifics on park’s “the evolving story” that you would like to be covered? Does this refer to the historical evolution of the park or to a more contemporary evolution?

“The evolving story” refers to both the historical development of Custer State Park and its continued evolution as a modern state park.

Historically, the Department would like the film to provide context about why the Park was established, its role as South Dakota’s first state park and how it helped shape what is now South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks.

The contemporary story includes Custer State Park’s growth into a world-class destination and the opportunities and challenges that have come with increased visitation. The film should help visitors understand how the Park balances a high-quality visitor experience with wildlife and habitat management, public recreation, tourism, resource protection and the long-term care of this landscape.

The film should also showcase the variety of ways visitors can experience the Park, including hiking, camping, fishing, swimming, scenic driving, wildlife viewing, lodging and exploring its history. Visitors should leave with a stronger understanding of Custer State Park, the role they play in caring for and responsibly experiencing it, and a sense of excitement about what they can discover.

The intent is not to provide a comprehensive timeline or formal history lesson. These elements should be woven naturally into a cohesive, visually compelling story that shows Custer State Park as both a place shaped by its past and a living landscape that continues to change and be actively managed. Most importantly, visitors should leave the theater ready to explore the Park and create memories of their own

What are the “expanded recreational opportunities” to be highlighted?

“Expanded recreational opportunities” refers to the broad range of ways visitors can experience Custer State Park, rather than only newly added activities. The central message is that there is something here for nearly everyone—they simply need to discover the experience that fits them.

These opportunities range from camping to full-service lodging, and from hiking and fishing to scenic drives, wildlife viewing and guided Jeep tours. Visitors may spend the day exploring a trail, relaxing beside a lake, learning about Park history or simply finding a quiet place to enjoy the landscape.

The film does not need to feature every available activity equally. Instead, it should demonstrate the variety of experiences the Park offers and help visitors picture themselves taking part. The goal is for audiences to leave the theater excited to explore Custer State Park and create memories of their own.

0. Are there any drone restrictions in place at the park?

Yes. All drone operations must comply with the [South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks drone policy](https://gfp.sd.gov/userdocs/docs/Drone_Policy_12-17-18.pdf), applicable FAA requirements and State law.

Among other requirements, drones may not:

* Harass, disturb, locate, drive or rally wildlife.

* Fly over people or groups in areas such as occupied campgrounds, beaches, playgrounds, festivals or gatherings.

* Interfere with visitor use, vehicular or pedestrian traffic, Park management or emergency operations.

* Operate near accidents, fires or other emergency incidents.

Commercial drone filming must be approved in advance and coordinated with Park staff. Specific locations and times will be evaluated based on wildlife activity, visitor safety, resource protection and Park operations. Drone operations will not be permitted during the actual Buffalo Roundup. [SDGFP regulations](https://gfp.sd.gov/camping-regulations/)

0. Can you clarify the “Seasonal alternative versions”? Is this a shorter version of the film that can play during peak visitation? Or is this lan alternate version that would include more content specific to a season when the visitor is present? If so, which seasons would be desired for alternative versions?

· The Department is considering seasonal alternative versions as an opportunity to adapt the theater experience to changing visitor volume and seasonal use. One possibility is a 15–20-minute peak-season version that allows the film to be shown at the top and bottom of each hour, maximizing the number of visitors able to experience it during the busy summer season.

An off-season or winter version could potentially run approximately 20–27 minutes and provide additional time to feature winter recreation, seasonal wildlife activity, Park management or other stories that cannot be fully developed in the shorter version.

These examples are intended to illustrate possible approaches, not prescribe the final format or content. The Department is interested in the offeror’s creative recommendations for using seasonal or alternate versions effectively. Offerors should propose an approach that maintains a cohesive, visually compelling experience while adding meaningful value beyond simply extending or shortening the primary film.

1. Pg11, 4.3 Qualifications: How should we provide past performance video samples? As links to youtube/vimeo?

· Past-performance video samples may be provided through links to YouTube, Vimeo or other accessible media platforms. Offerors should ensure that all links are active and that any required passwords or viewing instructions are clearly included in the proposal.

1. Pg13, 6.0 Proposal Evaluation:

2. Can you provide the scoring rubric that will be used to rank offerors?

The State will evaluate written proposals using a maximum score of 20 points. Offerors selected for an oral presentation may receive up to 10 additional points. Value-added options are not required but may receive up to one additional point when they provide a clear and meaningful benefit to the project.

The evaluation committee will include representatives from the South Dakota Department of Game, Fish and Parks and the South Dakota Department of Tourism. Proposals will be evaluated according to the criteria and weights identified in this addendum.