RFP_C26554004_Bird_Banding_Services__Bid_Packet_.pdf

CALIFORNIA STATE PARKS

Request for Proposals for

Bird Banding Services

Contract Number: C26554004

September 2026

State of California - The Resources Agency Department of Parks and Recreation

Oceano Dunes District

State of California Natural Resources Agency

DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION

Oceano Dunes District

Gavin Newsom, Governor

Armando Quintero, Director

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL

Secondary Method (High-Score) Notice to Prospective Proposers

September 16, 2026

You are invited to review and respond to this Request for Proposal (RFP), entitled: Oceano Dunes SVRA Bird Banding Services, C26554004. In submitting your proposal, you must comply with these instructions.

The DVBE Participation Requirement for this solicitation has been waived however the DVBE incentive still applies. There is no minimum DVBE participation Requirement for this solicitation.

Note that all agreements entered into with the State of California will include by reference General Terms and Conditions and Contractor Certification Clauses that may be viewed and downloaded at Internet site http://www.dgs.ca.gov/ols/Resources/StandardContractLanguage.aspx . If you do not have Internet access, a hard copy can be provided by contacting the person listed below.

In the opinion of the Department of Parks and Recreation, this RFP is complete and without need of explanation. Questions regarding the RFP must be submitted in writing via e-mail to:

Ca. Department of Parks and Recreation 340 James Way, Suite 270 Pismo Beach, Ca. 93449 or via e-mail to: od.billing@parks.ca.gov

Please note that no information given will be binding upon the State unless such information is issued in writing as an official addendum.

The deadline for project questions is September 28, 2026 at 2:00pm.

The deadline for proposal submission is October 7, 2026 at 2:00pm.

Date Time

9/16/2026

9/28/2026 2:00 PM

9/29/2026

10/07/2026 2:00 PM

10/13/2023 2:00 PM

10/14/2026

10/21/2026

Propsal Submission Deadline

Proposal Opening and Review

Proposal Intent to Award

Proposal Award

Event

RFP release to Bidders

Question Submittal Deadline

Answers to Questions

DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION

Oceano Dunes District Bird Banding Services

C26554004

Key Action Dates

Kayla Houser Highlight

Kayla Houser Highlight

California Natural Resources Agency

Oceano Dunes District San Luis Obispo County, CA

Bird Banding Services C26554004

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Number of Pages

Cover Sheet

Cover Letter

Table of Contents

Key Action Dates

PREFERENCE PROGRAMS

Small Business (SB) Notice, DPR478

2.2 Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise (DVBE) Notice, Participation Requirement Waived, DPR479IW

PROJECT INFORMATION

Purpose and Description of Services Minimum Qualifications for Proposers Work Plan and Work Schedule Requirements Project Personnel Cost Detail Format and Requirements Proposal Submission Evaluation Process Award and Protest

SAMPLE DOCUMENTS (sample documents only, do not use) Sample Contract Forms Standard Agreement, STD 213 SAMPLE Exhibit A, Standard Agreement, DPR603 SAMPLE Exhibit B, Budget Detail and Payment Provisions DPR604 SAMPLE Exhibit C, General Terms and Conditions (View and download at dgs.ca.gov/ols.Resources/standartcontractlanguage.aspx) Exhibit D, Special Terms and Conditions DPR605cs SAMPLE Travel Log SAMPLE

Sample Proposal Evaluation Forms Sample Proposal Evaluation Sample Reference Evaluation

PROPOSAL DOCUMENTS (Required and Optional Attachments) Proposer’s Checklist Proposal/Proposer Certification Sheet Proposer References Exhibit B, Attachment I Form DPR940b Sample Cost Proposal Worksheet

Payee Date Record STD204 Small Business Preference DPR 85

Bidder’s Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise (DVBE) Participation GSPD05-105 DVBE Participation DPR486 Bidder’s DVBE Declarations DGS PD 843 Commercially Useful Function – Bidder Certification, DPR 87 Darfur Contracting Act Certification, DPR74 California Certification Clause, CCC 04/2017

DGS OLS 04

AI Disclosure Form, DPR 97B

Bidder

DPR 478 (Rev. 4/2023)(Excel 4/14/2023)(Page 1 of 2)

$29,870 $28,421

Small Business Status

Claims small business status, but is not CA certified

Does not claim to be a small business Claims small business status, but their CA certification has expired

Claims small business and is CA Certified

$28,975 $28,975

$29,520 $29,520

Bid Amount Bid After 5% Preference

$30,750 $30,750

Small Business (SB) Notice 5% Small Business Preference

1. What is a California Certified Small Business (SB)?

a) For a business to be considered a Small Business (SB), they must be certified with the State of California - Department of General Services in accordance with California Code of Regulations, Title 2, Section 1896.94.

State of California - Natural Resources Agency

DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION

b) Your business may be eligible if it meets all of the following*:

1. Must be independently owned and operated.

2. Cannot be dominant in its field of operation.

3. Must have its principal office located in California.

4. Must have its owners (or officers in the case of a corporation) domiciled in California.

5. Together with its affiliates, be either:

° A business with 100 or fewer employees, and an average annual gross receipts of $16 million or less over the previous three tax years, or

° A manufacturer with 100 or fewer employees.

6. Microbusiness: A small business will automatically be designated as a microbusiness if gross annual receipts, together with all affiliates, are less than $5,000,000 or, the small business is a manufacturer with 25 or fewer employees.

* For additional details visit the Department of General Services (DGS) website.

2. What is the SB Preference?

a) State law allows certified small business (SB) and microbusiness (MB) firms to receive a 5% bidding preference on applicable state solicitations. The 5% preference is also available for non-certified businesses who subcontract 25% of contract amount with a certified SB/MB.

b) The effect of the preference is to help SBs/MBs be more competitive in the bid process, thereby enhancing state contract awards directly or indirectly to SB/MB. The preference is only used for computation purposes to determine the winning bidder, the contract is awarded at the actual bid amount.

3. In no event shall the SB preference or non-SB subcontracting reference exceed $50,000 in any single bid.

4. How does the 5% Small Business (SB) Preference Work?

a) The following example shows how the 5% preference computation works, and how it is used to determine a successful bidder.

The State of California www.dgs.ca.gov/PD/Contact

Department of General Services Receptionist: (916) 375-4940 Office of Small Business and DVBE Services 24-hour recording: (916) 322-5060 707 Third Street, First Floor – Room 400 FAX: (916) 375-4950 West Sacramento, CA 95605 OSDSHelp@dgs.ca.gov

DPR 478 (Rev. 4/2023)(Page 2 of 2)

b) Computation Method for example 4-a:

1. Five percent is applied to the lowest (non-certified small business) responsible bid ([Bidder 2] $28,975 x .05 = $1448.75).

2. The preference amount ($1,448.75) is subtracted from the certified small business (Bidder 4’s) bid amount ($29,870 - $1,448.75 = $28,421.25).

3. Bidder 4’s computed total is $28,421.25, making them the lowest bidder.

4. The contract is awarded to Bidder 4 for $29,870.

c) NOTE: The 5% SB preference is applied to currently certified and registered small businesses and is used for bid evaluation purposes and does not alter the bid's actual amount.

5. Documentation

a) Bidders must provide a printout from the State's SB/DVBE vendor system showing your certification and expiration date from the following web site. www.Caleprocure.ca.gov

b) If a non-certified firm is claiming the SB Preference based on subcontracting at least 25% of the contract to a certified SB/MB, you must include a complete GSPD 05-105 with your bid. An evaluated bid under the 25% SB subcontracting qualification cannot displace a certiffied and registered SB.

c) At completion of peformance and when SB participation was included toward SB goals under this contract, then the contractor must complete and submit form DPR 489 to the State's designated representative under this contract and within the time specified within the contracting documents or within 60 days of receipt of final payment, which ever is sooner.

6. Verification

Information submitted by the bidders to claim the SB Preference will be verified by the State. If evidence of an alleged violation is found during the verification process, the State shall initiate an investigation, in accordance with the requirements of the PCC §10115, et seq., and MVC §999 et seq., and follow the investigatory procedures required by the 2 CCR §1896.80. Contractors found to be in violation of certain provisions may be subject to loss of certification, penalties and/or contract termination.

7. To locate SB/MB contractors:

a) Contact the department’s contracting official named in this solicitation for any SB/MB contractors who may have identified themselves as potential subcontractors, and to obtain suggestions for search criteria to possibly identify SB/MB contractors for the solicitation. You may also contact the department’s SB/DVBE Advocate for assistance: www.parks.ca.gov/advocate.

b) Access the list of all certified SB/MBs by using the Department of General Services, Procurement Division (DGS-PD) online certified firm database at: www.Caleprocure.ca.gov

c) Search by “Keywords” or United Nations Standard Products and Services Codes (UNSPSC) that apply to the elements of work you want to subcontract to a SB/MB.

d) Check for subcontractor ads that may be placed on the California State Contracts Register (CSCR) for this solicitation prior to the closing date. You may access the CSCR at: www.Caleprocure.ca.gov

8. Information The State of California, Department of General Services, Procurement Division, Office of Small Business and DVBE Services (OSDS) offers many services that assist contractor/business owners with a variety of information designed to streamline the State contracting process. OSDS also certifies SB/MB contractors. For more information, please contact OSDS to find out more:

DPR 479SW (Rev. 12/2022)(Excel 12/20/2022)(Page 1 of 5)

Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise (DVBE) Notice

2. What is a Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise (DVBE)?

a. For a business to be considered a Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise (DVBE), they must be certified with the State of California - Department of General Services in accordance with California Code of Regulations, Title 2, Section 1896.94. Please see the following website for more information about DVBE certification benefits and eligibility requirements:

www.dgs.ca.gov/PD/Services/Page-Content/Procurement-Division-Services-List-Folder/Certify-or-Re-apply-as-Small-Business-Disabled-Veteran-Business-Enterprise

b. Only DVBEs who perform a commercially useful function relevant to this solicitation, may be used to satisfy the DVBE participation and/or incentive program requirements.

3. Commercially Useful Function Definition

a. California Code of Regulations, Title 2, § 1896.61(l): The term "DVBE contractor, subcontractor or supplier" means any person or entity that satisfies the ownership (or management) and control requirements of §1896.61(f); is certified in accordance with §1896.70; and provides services or goods that contribute to the fulfillment of the contract requirements by performing a commercially useful function.

b. A person or entity must perform a commercially useful function (CUF) as defined under Military and Veterans Code (MVC) §999.

c. A contractor, subcontractor, or supplier will not be considered to perform a commercially useful function if the contractor's, subcontractor's, or supplier's role is limited to that of an extra participant in a transaction, contract, or project through which funds are passed in order to obtain the appearance of disabled veteran business enterprise participation.

4. What is the DVBE Incentive Program?

a. The DVBE Incentive Program was established by statute and applies to contracts solely financed by State funds. This program is separate from the DVBE Participation Program. The incentive is designed to encourage bidders to partner with DVBE subcontractors.

1. Bidder's attention is directed to the Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise (DVBE) Participation Requirement for bidders, as outlined in the accompanying bid package.

The DVBE Participation Requirement for this solicitation has been waived – however the DVBE Incentive still applies.

There is no minimum DVBE participation requirement for this solicitation.

DVBE Incentive for Request for Proposal (RFP), Secondary Method (Participation Requirement Waived)

State of California - Natural Resources Agency

DPR 479SW (Rev. 12/2022)(Excel 12/20/2022)(Page 2 of 5)

b. The incentive may be combined with other incentives and preferences up to an established cap of $100,000.00. The incentive is used only for evaluation purposes and does not alter the amounts of the actual bids.

c. Reporting Requirement, pursuant to Military & Veteran Code (MVC) 999.5 (d); If, for this agreement, a contractor made a commitment to achieve disabled veteran business enterprise (DVBE) participation, within 60 days of receiving final payment under this agreement (or within such other time period as may be specified elsewhere in this agreement) the contractor must certify in a report to the awarding department:

i) the total amount the prime contractor received under the contract

ii) the name and address of the DVBE(s) that participated in the performance of the contract

iii) the amount each DVBE received from the prime contractor

iv) that all payments under the contract have been made to the DVBE(s)

v) the actual percentage of DVBE participation that was achieved

d. Contractor is required to report to DPR the actual amounts spent with each DVBE subcontractor on STD. 817. If awarded the contract you will receive this form at the completion of the contract.

Failure to submit a completed STD. 817, as applicable, will deem the contractor non-compliant to the state contract and will be subject to civil penalty under MVC 999.5 (d).

5. Who is eligible to receive the incentive?

a. Any responsive and responsible bidder who has attained .01% DVBE participation or higher.

6. Documentation

a. Bidders must document DVBE participation commitment by completing and submitting the following forms:

1) GSPD 05-105, Bidder Declaration: The GSPD 05-105 is used to document the proposed prime contractor and subcontractors, including their roles and responsibilities.

The form must be submitted with the bid package. If there is a discrepancy between the declared dollar amount and percentage of bid for DVBE participation then the percentage shall prevail.

2) DGS PD 843, Bidder Declaration: All disabled veteran owners and disabled veteran managers of the DVBE must complete the form and submit it with the bid package.

A DGS PD 843 needs to be submitted by every DVBE supplier who is part of a bid whether they are the prime contractor or subcontractor.

b. Bids that fail to submit the completed required forms to confirm the level of DVBE participation will not be eligible to receive the DVBE incentive. Clerical and typographical errors on these forms may be corrected at the State’s sole discretion.

c. Information submitted by the bidders to claim the DVBE incentive(s) will be verified by the State.

If evidence of an alleged violation is found during the verification process, the State shall initiate an investigation, in accordance with the requirements of the PCC §10115, et seq., and MVC §999 et seq., and follow the investigatory procedures required by the 2 CCR §1896.80.

Contractors found to be in violation of certain provisions may be subject to loss of certification, penalties and/or contract termination.

c. Table A – RFP Secondary (High Score) Method

Secondary/High Score Method

A B C

0% 4.5% 8%

Yes Yes Yes

60 55 68

30 29 26

(55 + 29)

(68 + 26) n/a 4% 5% n/a

(4% x 100)

(5% x 100)

(84 + 4)

(94 + 5)

2 3 1

DPR 479SW (Rev. 12/2022)(Excel 12/20/2022)(Page 3 of 5)

Rank:

Cost Proposal (30 points maximum)

DVBE Incentive (from Table A)

Incentive Amount (Proposer’s DVBE Incentive x total possible points)

Adjusted Score (Proposer’s Score + Proposer’s Incentive Amount)

Total Possible Points aka high Score (100 max) Technical Proposal Pts. + Cost Proposal Pts.)

Responsive and Responsible

Technical Proposal (70 points maximum)

3% - 3.99%

2% - 2.99%

.01% - 1.99%

3% of total possible points

2% of total possible points

1% of total possible points

Proposer Name

DVBE Participation for certified DVBE Prime or Subcontractors

Confirmed DVBE Participation of DVBE Incentive Amount for RFP Secondary Method

5% or more

4% - 4.99%

5% of total possible points

4% of total possible points

7. How does the DVBE Incentive Program Work?

a. The DVBE incentive is used only for evaluation purposes to determine the successful bidder and does not alter the amounts of the actual bids. A dollar cap of $100,000.00 is set for all combined incentives and preferences.

b. For contracts to be awarded based on the High Score Method, incentive points are included in the sum of non-cost points. Incentive points cannot be used to achieve any applicable minimum point requirements. The Computation Method does not include the small business preference; however, the small business preference may be applied and may affect the application of the incentive and the outcome of the ranking.

8. Computation Method

The State of California www.dgs.ca.gov/PD Department of General Services Receptionist: (916) 375-4940 Office of Small Business and DVBE Services 24-hour recording: (916) 322-5060 707 Third Street, First Floor – Room 400 FAX: (916) 375-4950 West Sacramento, CA 95605 OSDSHelp@dgs.ca.gov

DPR 479SW (Rev. 12/2022)(Excel 12/20/2022)(Page 4 of 5)

9. Substitution of Proposed DVBE

a. If awarded the contract, the DVBE subcontractors and/or contractors proposed by bidder must be used unless prior written notice of substitution is provided to the state and the state approves such substitution.

b. The notice must include a minimum of: (1) a written explanation of the reason for the substitution;

and (2) an updated GSPD 05-105 must be submitted to the award office of Department of Parks and Recreation. The substitution request must before approved before the substitution can take place.

c. Failure to adhere to at least the DVBE participation proposed by the successful bidder may be cause for contract termination and recovery of damages under the rights and remedies due the state under the default section of the contract.

d. Contractor understands and agrees that should award of this contract be based in part on their commitment to use the Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise (DVBE) subcontractor(s) identified in their bid or offer, per Military and Veterans Code 999.5 (e), a DVBE subcontractor may only be replaced by another DVBE subcontractor and must be approved by the State. Changes to the scope of work that impact the DVBE subcontractor(s) identified in the bid or offer and approved DVBE substitutions will be documented by contract amendment.

e. Failure of Contractor to seek substitution and adhere to the DVBE participation level identifiedin the bid or offer may be cause for contract termination, recovery of damages under rights and remedies due to the State, and penalties as outlined in M&VC § 999.9; Public Contract Code (PCC) § 10115.10, or PCC § 4110 (applies to public works only).

10. To locate DVBE contractors:

a. Contact the department’s contracting official named in this solicitation for any DVBE contractors who may have identified themselves as potential subcontractors, and to obtain suggestions for search criteria to possibly identify DVBE contractors for the solicitation. You may also contact the department’s SB/DVBE Advocate for assistance: www.parks.ca.gov/advocate.

b. Access the list of all certified DVBEs by using the Department of General Services, Procurement Division (DGS-PD) online certified firm database at:

https://caleprocure.ca.gov/pages/PublicSearch/supplier-search.aspx?psNewWin=true

c. Check for subcontractor ads that may be placed on the California State Contracts Register (CSCR) for this solicitation prior to the closing date. You may access the CSCR at:

www.Caleprocure.ca.gov

d. The State of California, Department of General Services, Procurement Division, Office of Small Business and DVBE Services (OSDS) offers many services that assist contractor/business owners with a variety of information designed to streamline the State contracting process. OSDS also certifies DVBE contractors. For more information, please contact OSDS to find out more:

b. DGS PD 843, DVBE Declaration

DPR 479SW (Rev. 12/2022)(Excel 12/20/2022)(Page 5 of 5)

a. GSPD 05-105, Bidder Declaration

DISABLED VETERAN BUSINESS ENTERPRISE (DVBE)

DVBE Documentation Checklist

1. The State of California acknowledges the service and sacrifice of its disabled veterans, in part, through the “Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise (DVBE) Participation Program.” As mandated by law, state agencies have a goal to award at least 3% of their annual contract dollars to certified DVBE’s.

2. When a firm bids on a state DPR contract that contains DVBE participation, the firm may benefit from the DVBE Incentive program. We encourage all suppliers to obtain as much DVBE participation as possible.

3. INCOMPLETE DOCUMENTATION (GSPD 05-105 AND DGS PD 843) MUST RESULT IN

DISQUALIFICATION FROM FURTHER PARTICIPATION IN THE SELECTION PROCESS FOR THE

CONTRACT.

4. The following checklist is provided to assist bidders with their DVBE participation documentation:

All DVBE participation is indicated.

The names of each participating DVBE company is listed with the dollar value and applied percentage of the bid.

A copy of the printout from eProcurement system showing the company’s DVBE certification status.

The DVBE participation percentage listed agrees with the dollar value claimed.

A completed and signed DGS PD 843 is included with the bid for every DVBE (whether prime contractor or subcontractor) included.

Agreement Number: C26554004

EXHIBIT A: ATTACHMENT I

I. Purpose and Description of Services

A. Purpose

1. The State of California (State), Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR), is seeking a firm to provide a qualified Ornithologist or Biologist that is qualified to band Western Snowy Plover (WSP) chicks and possibly adults as well as California Least Tern (CLT) chicks at Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area (ODSVRA).

B. Background

1. ODSVRA has been monitoring WSP and CLT for over 30 years, intensive monitoring and banding of WSP has occurred for 25 consecutive years, and CLT have been banded since 2003. Banding is a very important component of the current monitoring program by providing important breeding information such as fledging success.

2. ODSVRA is seeking qualified WSP and CLT Ornithologist(s) or Biologist(s) to band WSP and CLT chicks, and possibly to trap and band WSP adults and juveniles for the 2027, 2028, and 2029 nesting and breeding seasons. For successful tracking of the WSP and CLT, the WSP broods are given unique color band combinations and each individual CLT chick is given a unique individual color band combination. The project also includes floating of WSP eggs.

3. Contractor shall work with the ODSVRA staff to assist with monitoring of both species, train selected ODSVRA staff in floating and banding techniques and assist in the training of newly hired staff for WSP and CLT monitoring.

4. From 2005 - 2026, the nesting area in ODSVRA produced a range of 197-610 WSP chicks per season from 99-333 nests per season. During this same period, the site produced a range of 35-99 CLT chicks per season from between 23-66 nests per season. These numbers are intended to give prospective proposers a general idea of the amount of work associated with this project. However, past breeding numbers are no indication of future breeding activity at this site. Proposers are advised that unforeseen circumstances could arise that dramatically change (increase or decrease) the breeding activity at ODSVRA and the workload involved in completing this project.

5. The project is being developed with State funds and is performed in consultation with United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW). The project assists ODSVRA’s objective of protecting and preserving the natural resources while providing high quality recreational opportunities for the citizens of the State of California.

C. Project Objectives - Endangered Avian Banding Management

1. Contractor shall obtain bands in accordance with procedures provided by the United States Geological Survey (USGS), as well as with the color band coordinator for WSP, to avoid use of duplicate color banding schemes among other sites or researchers.

a. Contractors shall coordinate with ODSVRA staff to inventory un- used or re-usable band combinations (using band colors assigned to the ODSVRA site) to provide sufficient band combinations to band all ODSVRA WSP chicks to brood and all CLT chicks to individual during the 2027 to 2029 breeding seasons.

b. Bands used will include colored plastic bands and colored tape placed over plastic bands and aluminum bands.

c. Contractor shall report all used band combinations to the color band coordinator for WSP, ODSVRA staff, and applicable regulatory entities.

2. Contractor shall be available for all WSP hatches (this includes all holidays and weekends if necessary) at which time the contractor will band all chicks within the clutch. Contractor shall strive to band all WSP chicks within 12 hours of hatching unless conditions prevent the safe entry into the nesting area and handling of the chicks.

3. Contractor shall be available for all CLT hatches (this includes all holidays and weekends if necessary) at which time the contractor will band all chicks from the clutch. Contractor shall strive to band all CLT chicks within 24 hours of hatching unless conditions prevent the safe entry into the nesting area and handling of the chicks.

4. Contractor shall assign two qualified WSP and CLT banders to be available to provide coverage seven days a week, a primary bander and a backup bander. The goal is to increase the potential to capture and band all WSP and CLT chicks and to provide days off to the primary bander, especially during the busier hatching period, generally from 1 June to 31 July.

5. As necessary, contractor shall float WSP eggs to determine initiation date and predicted hatch date. Contractor may also float or handle CLT eggs, if agencies permit this activity.

6. Contractor may capture and band WSP juveniles or adult(s) of the clutch if deemed necessary and as permitted by applicable regulatory agencies. Banding of adults shall be accomplished before the hatch of the clutch and in a manner that does not result in the abandonment of the nest.

7. Contractor shall coordinate timing of all banding and monitoring activities with ODSVRA Senior Environmental Scientist and/or project lead staff. Contractor is advised that weather conditions, recreational activities, and the location of nests and broods make the entry into the nesting area for banding purposes difficult.

a. Close coordination and communication with ODSVRA staff is critical to conduct the banding activities with the least possible disturbance to nesting birds and broods.

b. Zello phone application shall be downloaded on contractor smart phone as it is necessary in the field for two-way communication.

8. Contractor shall coordinate all work with ODSVRA staff and contractors, working as an integral part of the team, including coordinating and communicating all work activities by Zello or a DPR provided two-way radio when in the field.

9. Contractor shall attend ODSVRA staff meetings.

10. Contractor may be required to assist with WSP and CLT monitoring and data collection of individual nest, brood, and fledgling activity while working at the ODSVRA site.

11. Contractor shall assist in tracking predator activity by recording and reporting all predator sightings or sign to ODSVRA staff. Contractor shall also assist with hazing of avian predators from sensitive nesting areas using a whistler gun or other appropriate devise.

12. The contractor shall assist with training at the beginning of each season by providing educational or interpretive programs on WSP and CLT monitoring methods to ODSVRA staff, with the goal of listing staff as authorized individuals to conduct monitoring activities as pursuant to the ODSVRA federal permit. As necessary, contractor shall also provide field training to ODSVRA field staff throughout the breeding season.

13. Contractor shall train selected ODSVRA staff in floating and banding techniques.

14. Contractor shall be available to respond to injured WSP and CLT during the breeding season and provide technical assistance related to injury that relates to band conditions. Previous experience with trapping injured WSP and CLT is highly desirable.

15. As necessary, contractor shall report any WSP and/or CLT found dead to the Senior Environmental Scientist and/or project lead staff.

16. Presentations on results may be required at the completion of nesting season for regional or range wide CLT or WSP meetings; for ODSVRA staff; and/or for members of the public.

17. Contractor(s) shall furnish all required tools, materials, smart phone with Zello application, labor, incidentals, and transportation to the nesting area and is strongly advised to have a high clearance 4-wheel drive vehicle for this purpose.

D. Project Deliverables - Record Keeping and Reporting

1. The contractor shall keep records of all monitoring and banding activities and data and shall provide detailed field notes to the project lead staff daily, in a format as specified by ODSVRA staff.

2. Contractor shall assist with reviewing an end of the season final draft report each year, particularly sections of the report related to banding activity, providing edits and feedback to ODSVRA project lead staff.

E. Changes in Personnel

1. Contractor's key personnel as indicated in Contractor's response to the RFP may not be substituted without the written consent of the ODSVRA project lead.

2. In the event that the Contractor wishes to change personnel, Contractor shall provide a resume or Curriculum Vitae to demonstrate that the new personnel possess the minimum qualifications identified in this RFP.

3. Contractor shall allow a minimum of 60 days for the State to review and approve changes in personnel.

F. Data Ownership and Rights

1. Due to the Sensitive nature of this project the Contractor shall not speak with the news media, non-profit organizations, or outside agencies concerning his/her activities at ODSVRA unless prior approval is given by the Deputy Director of the Off- Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation (OHMVR) Division.

a. In addition, any electronic and written materials developed during and/or pursuant to this agreement by Contractor, including all data, plans, drawings, reports, manuals, field notes and other written graphic work, along with all related copyrights and other proprietary rights therein, as may now exist and/or which hereafter come into existence, shall belong to the State of California upon creation, and shall continue in State’s exclusive ownership upon termination of this agreement.

b. Contractor further intends and agrees to assign to State all right, title and interest in and to such materials as well as all related copyrights and other proprietary rights therein.

2. Contractor shall have no rights to use, publish, copy, distribute, sell, display or otherwise disclose any materials developed pursuant to this agreement, other than to State as called for herein. Further, Contractor agrees to cooperate with State and to execute any document or documents that may be found to be necessary to give the foregoing provisions full force and effect, including but not limited to, an assignment of copyright.

3. Contractor agrees not to incorporate into or make the materials produced dependent upon any original works of authorship or Intellectual Property Rights of third parties without first (i) obtaining State’s prior written permission, and (ii) granting to or obtaining for State a nonexclusive, royalty-free, paid-up, irrevocable, perpetual, world-wide license, to use, reproduce, sell, modify, publicly and privately perform, publicly and privately display and distribute, for any purpose whatsoever, any such prior works.

G. Travel Expenses

1. Contractor shall estimate travel costs associated with the proposed project. It is understood and agreed that State will pay only for travel rendered as authorized by the ODSVRA Project Manager.

2. Travel expenses and per diem related to the services provided under this agreement may not exceed rates paid to the State’s non-represented/excluded employees.

These rates are posted at: http://www.calhr.ca.gov/employees/Pages/travel-reimbursements.aspx.

3. All travel costs are subject to approval by the ODSVRA Project Manager and must be supported by a travel expense voucher showing purpose, location, dates, time of travel, rates claimed, mileage logs, and any other applicable receipts.

4. Each cost proposal must include a separate line item for travel costs associated with the installation and operation of the monitoring devices. Actual costs may vary based on number of trips required, travel distance, and actual document costs incurred during the travel.

5. Rental vehicle reimbursements will only be allowed for the actual days used on the project and reimbursed at the allowable State rates.

6. Leased vehicles may be reimbursed as a personal vehicle for mileage only. The State will not be responsible for reimbursing lease fees.

7. All travel expenses under this section must be directly applicable to time periods specifically designated to the project. A travel log must be provided showing project http://www.calhr.ca.gov/employees/Pages/travel-reimbursements.aspx http://www.calhr.ca.gov/employees/Pages/travel-reimbursements.aspx http://www.calhr.ca.gov/employees/Pages/travel-reimbursements.aspx

Contractor Name:

Agreement Number:

II. Minimum Qualifications for Proposers

A. Permit Requirements

1. Bidders shall furnish evidence that, of the personnel that will be assigned to this project, at least two or more persons are listed as authorized for work in San Luis Obispo, California on a current copy of all the following permits:

a. USFWS Threatened and Endangered Species Permit that authorizes for monitoring and banding of WSP birds (chicks, juveniles, adults), floating of WSP eggs, monitoring of CLT, and banding of CLT chicks.

b. USGS, Bird Banding Laboratory Federal Banding Permit to band WSP and CLT chicks, as well as WSP adults.

c. USGS, Bird Banding Laboratory Federal Banding Permit, Auxiliary Banding Authorization for color banding of CLT and

WSP.

d. CDFW Memorandum of Understanding/Letter Permit for banding of CLT or the equivalent CDFW authorization for banding of CLT.

e. CDFW Scientific Collection Permits for all required handling and banding of WSP and CLT.

2. If contractor does not have all permits at the time of this RFP, contractor may still be eligible to bid on the project if written evidence is furnished demonstrating substantial progress in securing all required permits by March 1, 2027.

3. Prospective contractors are advised that CLT and WSP nest in the same geographical area. Therefore, banding personnel must be listed on a USFWS Threatened and Endangered Species Permit for both CLT and WSP to enter nesting areas. Individuals with USFWS permits for either CLT or WSP, but not both species may not be able to complete the required work under this contract.

B. Experience Requirements

1. Contractor shall have a minimum of three (3) years of independent experience capturing and banding of WSP adults, wild hatched WSP chicks, and wild hatched CLT chicks, with a minimum average of 30 and 50 CLT and WSP chick individuals, respectively, banded per year

2. Banding experience should include working with colored bands and colored tape placed over plastic bands and aluminum bands.

3. Contractor shall have a minimum of three (3) years independent experience floating WSP eggs, with a minimum average of 15 eggs floated per year.

4. Contractor shall have a minimum of five (5) years’ experience monitoring of WSP and CLT individuals, broods, and fledglings.

5. Contractor shall have minimum of three (3) years’ experience preparing detailed biological reports.

6. Contractor shall have experience working on a project in a team atmosphere of field monitoring staff and other consultants.

C. Reference Requirements

1. Potential contractors shall furnish references with their project proposal. Reference information must include names, titles, addresses, and contact phone numbers for a minimum of three (3) firms that can attest to the skills and abilities of the proposing entity to conduct the work identified in this RFP, specifically, WSP or CLT banding and monitoring projects that the proposer has completed for similar clients.

2. Contractor shall describe the goal of each project; approximate number of WSP and CLT banded and WSP eggs floated for project;

and final cost of project

3. At least two (2) references will be contacted, and their responses will be considered in determining if firms and individuals meet the Minimum Qualifications in this RFP.

III. Work Plan and Work Schedule Requirements

A. The proposer shall develop a work plan and schedule for task completion, which includes:

1. Identification of each task and/or specific milestones to be accomplished to implement and fulfill the project.

2. Discussion of each of the activities conducted to achieve the scope and objectives as defined and identified in the Purpose and Description of Services including the following:

a. Description of methods to ensure sufficient band combinations will be provided to band ODSVRA WSP chicks to brood and all CLT chicks to individual during the 2027, 2028, and 2029 breeding seasons.

b. Description of methods to ensure personnel will be available for all hatches to band WSP chicks within 12 hours and CLT chicks within 48 hours of hatching.

c. Description of work plan and ability of contractor to be available for floating of WSP eggs, assisting with monitoring of WSP and CLT, tracking predator activity, and other tasks described in Purpose and Description of Services, Section C.

3. Description of staff levels, schedules, and primary responsibilities of on-site staff.

Agreement Number: C26554004

IV. Project Personnel

A. Permitting: Proposals must include a current copy of the following, or furnish evidence of substantial progress towards obtaining the following, prior to the project anticipated start date (March 1, 2027) for all personnel that will be assigned to this project:

1. USFWS Threatened and Endangered Species Permit authorizing monitoring and banding of WSP birds (chicks, juveniles, adults), floating of WSP eggs, handling of CLT eggs, monitoring of CLT, and banding of CLT chicks.

2. USGS, Bird Banding Laboratory Federal Banding Permit to band WSP and CLT chicks, as well as WSP adults.

3. USGS, Bird Banding Laboratory Federal Banding Permit, Auxiliary Banding Authorization for color banding of CLT and WSP.

4. DFG Memorandum of Understanding/Letter Permit for banding of CLT or the equivalent DFG authorization for banding of CLT.

5. DFG Scientific Collection Permits for all required handling and banding of WSP and CLT.

B. In-House Production Capability

1. Proposals must describe the percentage of this project’s budget you estimate will be completed in-house versus sub-contracted.

2. Proposals must provide a list all personnel on the firm’s in-house staff that will be assigned to this project, including their classification, name, and title. The list may exclude partners and sub-contractors not directly employed by your firm.

C. Personnel Experience

1. Proposals must include Documentation supporting the biological experience of all personnel that will be assigned to this project including descriptions of the following:

a. Banding of WSP. Include the number of years’ experience independently capturing and banding WSP adults, juveniles, and chicks and numbers of WSP chicks banded per year. Also include a description of the types of banding materials personnel have experience using.

b. Banding of CLT. Include the number of years’ experience independently banding CLT chicks and numbers of CLT chicks banded per year and the types of banding materials used.

c. Floating of WSP eggs. Include the number of years’ experience of independently floating WSP eggs and number of eggs floated per year.

Agreement Number: C26554004

d. WSP monitoring. Include number of years’ experience monitoring WSP, type of monitoring effort, and site details.

e. CLT monitoring. Include number of years’ experience monitoring CLT, type of monitoring effort, and site details.

f. Preparing biological reports. Include a description of the type of reports, level of detail, approximate number of WSP or CLT season end reports written, and whether deadlines were met for reports.

g. Working with multi-disciplinary teams.

h. Working with state governmental entities.

i. Completing projects within specified timelines and budgetary constraints.

D. Project Management

1. Provide references for a minimum of three (3) WSP or CLT banding and monitoring projects that the proposer has completed for similar clients Include:

name of company or agency; address of company or agency; phone number for company or agency; contact person for questions about your performance; goal of project; approximate number of WSP and CLT banded and WSP eggs floated for project; and final cost of project.

2. At least two (2) references will be contacted for information about your performance in regard to project management and administration.

E. On-site Work Environment- Facilities and Resources

1. Services shall be provided at the Oceano Dunes SVRA, a coastal sand dune environment. Microclimates create unpredictable weather patterns. Proposers are cautioned about extreme climate variables in temperature and wind speeds.

2. Other conditions include blowing sand and high-water tides. The area is undeveloped. Restrooms are remote. The nearest food and water can be two

(2) miles or further from the work site.

3. Contractor(s) shall provide their own transportation to the nesting area and a high clearance 4-wheel drive vehicle is necessary for this purpose. Contractor shall furnish all tools, materials, and labor to conduct all aspects of this project.

IV. Cost Detail Format and Requirements

The proposed work should be broken down into the outline in Work Plan and Work Schedule for the purpose of this proposal. Use the Sample Cost Proposal Worksheet in the Proposal Documents as a guide in preparing your cost proposal.

An Excel Spreadsheet version of the Cost Proposal Worksheet can be provided with this RFP for the Proposers use.

Proposers who choose to submit the information in a different format must include, at a minimum the elements in the bulleted list below.

Attach additional proposal pages of the same detail for subcontractors.

The total cost of the project, with a detailed breakdown showing how the costs were determined. The detailed budget breakdown shall include:

• Identification of position/classification titles funded.

• Salary rates or ranges.

• Percentage of time devoted to the work.

• Fringe benefits.

• Operating expenses.

• Travel (lodging, airfare, vehicle) and per diem (meal) expenses.

• Overhead or indirect costs.

C26554004 Page 1 of 2

VI. Proposal Submission

A. Proposals should provide straightforward and concise descriptions of the proposer's ability to satisfy the requirements of this RFP. The proposal must be complete and accurate. Omissions, inaccuracies or misstatements may be cause for rejection of a proposal.

B. All proposals must be submitted electronically via email as an attachment in Portable Document Format (PDF) to od.billing@parks.ca.gov by dates and times shown in Key Action Dates. Proposals received after this date and time will not be considered.

C. Submissions with attached PDF documents in excess of 10 Megabytes in size risk being rejected and may be deemed unresponsive. DPR will provide an electronic email response confirming receipt of each submission received. If a confirmation receipt is not received within 30-minutes of submission, please contact kayla.houser@parks.ca.gov to confirm your bid (proposal) was received. Confirmation receipt is not a representation by DPR that the submitted bid is responsive and complete.

D. All documents contained in the proposal package must have original signatures or DocuSign signatures and must be signed by a person who is authorized to bind the proposing firm.

E. Proposers are responsible for ensuring that the electronic submission contains the attachment(s), is fully responsive and lacks any deficiency prior to submitting to the email address above. Failure by the proposer to submit bids as directed risks their proposal being deemed unresponsive and rejected. Proposers are advised to submit their proposals at least an hour in advance of the bid submission deadline to allow for confirmation of bid submission.

F. The proposal emails shall contain the RFP Number C26554004, RFP Title "Bird Banding", and the words “Bid Proposal” in the subject line. If the proposal is made under a fictitious name or business title, the legal name of proposer must be provided.

G. All proposals shall include the documents identified in Section E, Required Attachment Checklist. 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.

H. E-Mail proposals to: od.billing@parks.ca.gov

I. Proposals must be submitted for the performance of all the services described herein.

Any deviation from the work specifications will not be considered and will cause a proposal to be rejected.

J. 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 State may reject any or all proposals and may waive an immaterial deviation in a proposal. The State's waiver of an immaterial deviation shall in no way modify the RFP document or excuse the proposer from full compliance with all requirements if awarded the agreement.

Agreement Number: C23554007

K. Costs incurred for developing proposals and in anticipation of award of the agreement are entirely the responsibility of the proposer and shall not be charged to the State of California.

L. An individual who is authorized to bind the proposing firm contractually shall sign the Attachment 2, Proposal/Proposer Certification Sheet. The signature must indicate the title or position that the individual holds in the firm. An unsigned proposal may be rejected.

M. A proposer may modify a proposal after its submission by withdrawing its original proposal and resubmitting a new proposal prior to the proposal submission deadline as set forth in the Key Action Dates. Proposal modifications offered in any other manner, oral or written, will not be considered.

N. A proposer may withdraw its proposal by submitting a written withdrawal request to the State, signed by the proposer or an authorized agent in accordance with h) above. A proposer may thereafter submit a new proposal prior to the proposal submission deadline.

Proposals may not be withdrawn without cause subsequent to proposal submission deadline.

O. The awarding agency may modify the RFP prior to the date fixed for submission of proposals by the issuance of an addendum to all parties who received a proposal package.

P. The awarding agency reserves the right to reject all proposals. The agency is not required to award an agreement.

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

R. Where applicable, proposer should carefully examine work sites and specifications. No additions or increases to the agreement amount will be made due to a lack of careful examination of work sites and specifications. Work sites visits are by appointment only no later than seven (7) days from the advertisement of this RFP. Contact kayla.houser@parks.ca.gov to schedule an appointment.

S. More than one proposal from an individual, firm, partnership, corporation or association under the same or different names, will not be considered.

T. The State does not accept alternate contract language from a prospective contractor.

A proposal with such language will be considered a counter proposal and will be rejected.

The State’s General Terms and Conditions (GTC) are not negotiable.

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

VII. Evaluation Process

A. At the time of proposal opening, each proposal will be checked for the presence or absence of required information in conformance with the submission requirements of this

RFP.

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

C. Award, if made, will be to the highest scored responsible proposal.

D. Proposal Evaluation: The proposals that meet the minimum qualifications will be evaluated and scored according to the criteria indicated below. A minimum of (70) points must be achieved in this phase to be considered responsive. (A responsive proposal is one which meets or exceeds the requirements stated in this RFP.)

Maximum Possible Points

E. Rating/Scoring Criteria

1. Proposal Quality and Work Plan

2. Experience and Technical Merit

3. Project Cost

4. Total Possible Points 100

VIII. Award and Protest

A. Notice of the proposed award shall be posted in a public place in the Oceano Dunes District Office of the Department of Parks and Recreation located at 340 James Way, Suite 270, Pismo Beach, CA 93449 for five (5) working days prior to awarding the…