RFP S 63500 00003581 Mule Deer Capture Projects for Research in Eastern Or DOJ.pdf

RFP #S-63500-00003581 - Mule Deer Capture Projects for Research in Eastern Oregon

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STATE OF OREGON

COVER PAGE

OREGON DEPARTMENT OF FISH AND WILDLIFE

Is issuing this Request for Proposals (RFP) under OregonBuys Bid Number S-63500-00003581 for

MULE DEER CAPTURE PROJECTS FOR RESEARCH IN EASTERN OREGON

Date of Issue: July 18, 2022

Opening Date and Time: August 12, 2022 @ 2:00 PDT

Single Point of Contact (SPC): Patty Whalen, Grants and Contracts Spec III, OPBC

Address: 4034 Fairview Industrial Drive SE

City, State, Zip Salem, OR, 97302

Phone (voice) 503-947-6138

Phone (fax) 503-947-6156

E-mail: Patty.L.Whalen@odfw.oregon.gov

The State of Oregon promotes equal opportunity for all individuals without regard to age, color, disability, marital status, national origin, race, religion or creed, sex or gender, sexual orientation, or veteran status.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

SECTION 1: GENERAL INFORMATION

1.1 INTRODUCTION

1.2 SCHEDULE

1.3 SINGLE POINT OF CONTACT (SPC)

SECTION 2: AUTHORITY, OVERVIEW, AND SCOPE

2.1 AUTHORITY AND METHOD

2.2 DEFINITION OF TERMS

2.3 OVERVIEW AND PURPOSE

2.4 SCOPE OF WORK/SPECIFICATIONS

SECTION 3: PROCUREMENT REQUIREMENTS

3.1 MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

3.2 MINIMUM SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS

3.3 PROPOSAL REQUIREMENTS

SECTION 4: SOLICITATION PROCESS

4.1 PUBLIC NOTICE

4.2 PRE-PROPOSAL CONFERENCE

4.3 QUESTIONS / REQUESTS FOR CLARIFICATIONS

4.4 SOLICITATION PROTESTS

4.5 PROPOSAL DELIVERY OPTIONS

4.6 PROPOSAL MODIFICATION OR WITHDRAWAL

4.7 PROPOSAL DUE

4.8 PUBLIC OPENING

4.9 PROPOSAL REJECTION

4.10 EVALUATION PROCESS

4.11 POINT AND SCORE CALCULATIONS

4.12 RANKING OF PROPOSERS

4.13 NEXT STEP DETERMINATION .................................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.

SECTION 5: AWARD AND NEGOTIATION

5.1 AWARD NOTIFICATION PROCESS

5.2 INTENT TO AWARD PROTEST

5.3 APPARENT SUCCESSFUL PROPOSER SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS

5.4 NEGOTIATION

SECTION 6: ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

6.1 CERTIFIED FIRM PARTICIPATION

6.2 GOVERNING LAWS AND REGULATIONS

6.3 OWNERSHIP/PERMISSION TO USE MATERIALS

6.4 CANCELLATION OF RFP; REJECTION OF PROPOSAL; NO DAMAGES

6.5 COST OF SUBMITTING A PROPOSAL

6.6 STATEWIDE E-WASTE/RECOVERY PROCEDURE

6.7 RECYCLABLE PRODUCTS

6.8 CHECKLIST DISCLAIMER

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LIST OF ATTACHMENTS

ATTACHMENT A SAMPLE CONTRACT

ATTACHMENT B DISCLOSURE EXEMPTION AFFIDAVIT (MUST BE RETURNED WITH PROPOSAL IF APPLICABLE)

ATTACHMENT C PROPOSER INFORMATION AND CERTIFICATION SHEET (MUST BE RETURNED WITH PROPOSAL)

ATTACHMENT D REFERENCE CHECK FORM (MUST BE RETURNED WITH PROPOSAL)

ATTACHMENT E PRICE PROPOSAL FORM (MUST BE RETURNED WITH PROPOSAL)

ATTACHMENT F COBID CERTIFICATION / OUTREACH PLAN (MUST BE RETURNED WITH PROPOSAL)

ATTACHMENT G RESPONSIBILITY INQUIRY (MUST BE RETURNED WITH PROPOSAL)

ATTACHMENT H SCORED PROPOSAL COMPONENTS FORM (MUST BE RETURNED WITH PROPOSAL)

SECTION 1: GENERAL INFORMATION

1.1 INTRODUCTION

The Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife’s East Region, Wildlife Research Office in La Grande (“ODFW” or “Agency”) is seeking a Contractor (hereafter “Contractor” or “Provider”) to provide Two

(2) Helicopter(s), experienced Pilot(s), Capture Crew including Gunner(s) and Mugger(s), and support services including a fuel truck with licensed driver for capturing and collaring mule deer in Eastern Oregon. Proposer will need to provide a first helicopter, pilot, and capture crew to netgun and physically restrain mule deer. Proposer will also need to provide a second Helicopter to transport ODFW Biologist to capture sites to take biological samples and collar mule deer.

Mule deer are one of the premier big game species in Eastern Oregon. These species have high social, economic, aesthetic and hunting values. This project is designed to address big game species data gaps by collaring mule deer in their winter ranges. ODFW will use the data provided by collared deer to provide an estimate of adult and 6-month-old survival and causes of mortality for subpopulations of mule deer. This is an important factor to develop accurate population estimates.

The Agency has authorization to conduct wildlife management activities under ORS. 496.012.

This RFP encompasses two (2) Tasks.

Task 1 is the capture efforts of adult females and six-month-old fawns in the John Day Valley (Murder’s Creek WMU) with performance periods in December and March.

Task 2 is the capture efforts of adult females and six-month-old fawns in South-Central Oregon (Summer Lake and Interstate WMUs) with performance periods in December and March.

The initial performance period for Tasks 1 & 2 will start in early December of 2022 and March of 2023.

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The term of the Contract is anticipated to be five (5) years (through April 30, 2027). In October of each year Agency will allow Contractor to submit cost increases for review and approval by Agency.

The number of flight days and months needed each year will be dependent the number of captures required for that year.

Additional details on the Scope of the services are included in the Scope of Work section.

1.2 SCHEDULE

The table below represents a tentative schedule of events. All times are listed in Pacific Time. All dates listed are subject to change. N/A denotes that event is not applicable to this RFP.

Event Date Time

Pre-Proposal Meeting (See Page 19, Sec 4.2) July 27, 2022 9:00 AM PST

Questions / Requests for Clarification Due July 27, 2022 2:00 PM PST

Answers to Questions / Requests for Clarification Issued (approx.)

July 29, 2022 @ 2:00 PM PST

RFP Protest Period Ends August 5, 2022 @ 2:00 PM PST

7 calendar days prior to RFP Opening

RFP Opening Date (Proposal Due Date) August 12, 2022 @ 2:00 PM PST

Opening of Proposals (There will be no Public Opening) August 12, 2022 2:01 PM PST

Issuance of Notice of Intent to Award (approx.) August 19, 2022 2:00 PM PST

Award Protest Period Ends 7 calendar days after Notice of Intent to Award

1.3 SINGLE POINT OF CONTACT (SPC)

The SPC, and contact information can be found on the Cover Page. Proposers will direct all communications, questions both technical and contractual related to any provision of this RFP to the SPC. Contact with any other ODFW staff regarding this project without prior consent from the SPC may lead to the disqualification of Proposer and proposal.

SECTION 2: AUTHORITY, OVERVIEW, AND SCOPE

2.1 AUTHORITY AND METHOD

Agency is issuing this RFP pursuant to its authority under ORS 496.146 (11). The Agency has authorization to conduct wildlife management activities under ORS. 496.138 consistent with the policy in ORS 496.012.

Agency is using the Competitive Request for Sealed Proposals method, pursuant to ORS 279B.060.

2.2 DEFINITION OF TERMS

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For the purposes of this RFP, capitalized words will refer to the following definitions.

2.2.1 General Definitions

Capitalized terms not specifically defined in this document are defined in OAR 137-046- 0110.

2.3 OVERVIEW AND PURPOSE

2.3.1 Agency Overview and Background

ODFW’s mission is to protect and enhance Oregon's fish, wildlife, and their habitats for use and enjoyment by present and future generations. Proposals are being requested by the Agency’s Wildlife Division. The Wildlife Division consists of three main programs – Conservation, Game, and Habitat.

• The Conservation Program is responsible for statewide species surveys, conservation and management of sensitive, threatened, and endangered species, marine mammal health, and implementation of the Comprehensive Wildlife Conservation Strategy.

• The Game Program is responsible for inventories of game species, game management, hunter surveys, harvest regulations, investigation of wildlife diseases, wildlife damage prevention and response, and predator control.

• The Habitat Program is responsible for management of the department’s 16 wildlife areas, development and restoration of fish and wildlife habitat, landowner assistance for habitat development, the Access and Habitat Program, and administration of Pittman-Robertson Act funds.

This proposal request is under the Game Program with the goal of supporting the Agency mission by conducting big game survey operations, wildlife research, disease surveillance, other wildlife species census, related wildlife actions, and habitat condition inventories.

2.3.2 Project Overview, Background and Purpose

Mule deer are one of the premier big game species in Oregon, with high social, economic, aesthetic, and cultural values. Mule deer populations have been declining in eastern Oregon for several decades and ODFW needs to understand the reasons for these declines. This work is designed to collect data on mule deer demographic rates to help document and understand reasons for ongoing population declines.

Capture efforts for mule deer will be broken into two research projects referred to as Tasks 1 and 2.

Data collected for research projects (Tasks 1 and 2) include capture efforts of adult females and 6-month-old fawns. Capture efforts of adults require measurement of body fat by trained Agency biologists. The captures will primarily occur using two helicopters; one helicopter will carry the capture crew provided by the Contractor and will netgun and restrain deer; one helicopter will transport ODFW staff to the capture location where staff will process the deer, place a GPS collar and vaginal implant transmitter, and collect relevant biological information. Capture of 6-month-old fawns will occur exclusively by the Contractor. Upon capture, all 6-month-old fawns will be sexed and weighed before being collared and released by the Contractor at the site of capture. Capture of

DAS Procurement Services, Version 4.4 July 1, 2021 Page 6 of 29 adults will occur in both December and March, whereas capture of fawns will occur only in December. Some adults will need to be recaptured in each sampling period, but these deer will have functioning collars to aid in relocation. For Task 1, a sample of adult deer will be transported to a central processing location, where ODFW staff will process the animal. This process will require the Contractor to capture and restrain mule deer and sling them to a central processing area. Additional details for each Task are outlined in the Scope of Work below.

2.4 SCOPE OF WORK/SPECIFICATIONS

Proposer will provide Two (2) helicopters with specifications outlined in Section 3.1.1, experienced pilot(s), gunner(s), mugger(s), and support services including a fuel service truck and licensed driver. One helicopter will be used by the Contractor to capture and restrain adult female mule deer or fawns. The second helicopter will be used to transport Agency staff to capture locations so they can take biological measurements, insert VITs, and collar adult female mule deer.

Capture efforts for research projects will occur on winter range within the Murderer’s Creek, Wagontire, and Interstate Wildlife Management Units (WMU).

The Contract will encompass Two (2) main Tasks.

Task 1) a research project in the John Day Valley, and Task 2) a research project in South-Central Oregon near Lakeview, Objectives, capture requirements and capture numbers for each area are described below in Tasks

1, and 2 below.

TASK 1: Mule Deer Research in John Day Valley [Murderer’s Creek WMU]

(Figure 1): TASK 1 MAP (See Att A – Draft Contract, Exhibit F)

(Table 1): See Table below

The Agency will conduct captures of adult female mule deer and 6-month-old fawns in early December

2022, 2023, 2024, 2025, and 2026 in the John Day Valley (Figure 1). Capture efforts for adult females will include a mix of new captures and recaptures of previously collared deer, with functioning collars each

December (Table 1). Fawn captures will include 50 individuals in 2022 and up to 25 new fawns each subsequent winter. Captures in this area must occur in December each year.

Additionally, the Agency will conduct capture efforts for adult female mule deer in March 2023, 2024, 2025, 2026, and 2027. March capture efforts will include a mix of new captures and recaptures of previously captured deer each March (Table 1). If sample sizes are not met during December captures, remaining captures will occur in March when mule deer are most likely to occur on winter range before migrating back to summer range. Precise capture and recapture numbers during March captures will change because of outcomes of December captures and overwinter mortality of previously collared mule deer.

Capture efforts will occur on mule deer winter range in eastern Oregon, in the Murderer’s Creek Wildlife

Management Unit (Figure 1). Captures would occur in an estimated population of ~8,000 mule deer within

~400 square miles of winter range (Figure 1). Precise capture dates and number of collars deployed each year will be determined based on collar delivery, weather, and local conditions. Flexibility to start work when appropriate weather conditions are present will improve efficiency of the project.

Capture efforts for adult females require measuring body fat, assessing pregnancy, and inserting vaginal implant transmitters in pregnant deer – ODFW staff will be responsible for these activities. To

DAS Procurement Services, Version 4.4 July 1, 2021 Page 7 of 29 accommodate opportunities to train ODFW staff in measurement of body fat, capture efforts in the John

Day Valley will include a mixture of capture efforts. The first capture approach will require capture of deer on Phillip Schneider Wildlife Area, where deer are captured and then slung to a central processing location.

Exact capture numbers of each type within a year are unknown, but contractors should provide cost estimates for either capture type. We anticipate captures of deer that will be processed at a centralized location will be approximately 15-20 deer captured during December captures. Deer captured using this approach will be the first deer captured each December as part of Task 1. This approach will require the

Contractor to capture, hobble, and blindfold mule deer and then sling them to a central processing location.

Deer will be released at the central processing location after Agency biologists collar the animal and take relevant biological measurements. During later years of the study, this training opportunity may not be needed, and if that occurs, all deer will be captured using the two-helicopter approach outlined below.

Most captures will occur using two-helicopters. The lead helicopter will include non-ODFW staff responsible for net-gunning, blindfolding, and hobbling captured deer. The second helicopter will transport ODFW staff to the site to fit a GPS collar, measure body fat, assess pregnancy status, insert vaginal implant transmitters, and collect other relevant biological information. Capture numbers for this study area should be relatively consistent (Table 1) but could increase depending on the degree of mortality or collar failures observed each year. This would primarily affect the number of new females captured each period to ensure sufficient number of collared females leaving winter range each year. Recollar numbers should remain relatively constant to meet research objectives.

Captures of fawns will be conducted entirely by the Contractor. The contractor will be responsible to netgun, restrain, and place collars on fawns and then release them on site. The Contractor will also determine sex and weight of all captured fawns.

Base centers for operations in John Day Valley area include the following: John Day or Burns. All locations provide base services; food, accommodations, and vehicular and aviation fuel. The Contractor is responsible for all costs associated food, accommodations, and fuel associated with this project.

Table 1. Estimated captures of mule deer at the Murderer's Creek study area in central Oregon.

Approximately 25% of captures of adult females will require deer to be transported to a central processing location. Remaining adult deer will be processed using a two-helicopter approach; the lead helicopter will net gun and hobble deer; the trailing helicopter will transport ODFW staff to collect biological information. Fawns will be captured, handled, and collared by the contractor without ODFW assistance.

Winter 22/23 Winter 23/24 Winter 24/25 Winter 25/26 Winter 26/27

Type of Capture Dec-

Mar-

Dec-

Mar-

Dec-

Mar-

Dec-

Mar-

Dec-

Mar-

New Female 35 35 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 Haul deer to central processing 15 15 15 15 15

Recollar Female 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 25

Fawn 50 25 25 25 25

Proposer will:

a. Attend Pre-Flight safety review meetings before each flight. All aspects of the project will be discussed, and, any questions answered.

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b. Provide ≥2 helicopters with specifications outlined in Section 3.1.1, experienced pilot(s), gunner(s), mugger(s), and support services including a fuel service truck and driver. One helicopter will be used by the Contractor to capture and restrain adult female mule deer or fawns. The second helicopter will be used to transport Agency staff to capture locations so they can take biological measurements, insert VITs, and collar adult female mule deer.

c. Provide a Fuel truck that will have enough capacity to ensure operations of two helicopters in remote areas for a minimum of 12 hours of flight time.

d. Provide an onboard GPS that allows the upload of polygon and point shapefiles.

e. The Contractor will provide the net gun, nets, cartridges, hobbles, blindfolds, and penetrating capture bolt equipment. The Contractor will provide GPS units as described in Items H and N.

f. Provide real time flight following (preferred) or the ability to quickly download the flight log at each refueling period.

g. Provide each individual mugger with a portable GPS unit to provide the Agency with coordinates at each deer capture location. Collars will be distributed according to spatial sampling protocols defined by the Agency. While these conditions may be changed at the Agency’s discretion based on local circumstances during the capture operation. Exact maps for capture efforts will be provided prior to capture but will account for changes in landowner access, weather conditions, and mule deer distribution.

h. Each December, the Contractor will capture up to 50 adult female mule deer (Table 1). The initial capture in December 2022, will include captures of only uncollared adult females. During subsequent December captures, there will be a mix of efforts to capture uncollared adult females to increase sample sizes due to mortality or collar failure and recollar a sample of previously collared adult females. All recaptures will be of adult females with functioning GPS collars to aid location prior to the flight. Adult captures will include a mix of capturing deer and transporting to a central processing site and a two-helicopter approach where the Contractor will netgun and restrain deer, ODFW staff will be transported to the site in a second helicopter. Agency staff will be responsible to assess pregnancy, measure body fat, and fit pregnant mule deer with a GPS collar and vaginal implant transmitter (VIT).

i. Each March, the Contractor will capture up to 35 adult female mule deer (Table 1). During March captures, there will be a mix of efforts to capture uncollared adult females and recollar a sample of previously collared adult females. All recaptures will be of adult females with functioning GPS collars to aid location prior to the flight. Adult captures will include a mix of capturing deer and transporting to a central processing site and a two-helicopter approach where the Contractor will netgun and restrain deer, ODFW staff will be transported to the site in a second helicopter. Agency staff will be responsible to assess pregnancy, measure body fat, and fit pregnant mule deer with a

GPS collar and vaginal implant transmitter (VIT).

j. Capture up to 50, 6-month-old mule deer fawns in December 2022. In subsequent years, the contractor will capture 25, 6-month-old fawns each winter. The Contractor will netgun, handle, and place collars on all 6-month-old fawns that are captured. All fawns will be sexed and weighed.

Agency staff will not assist in capture or handling 6-month-old fawns. Fawns will only be captured during the December capture period.

k. Approximately 25% of adult deer captured each capture event will be captured and slung via helicopter to a central processing site. Agency staff will collar and take relevant biological samples from deer.

l. All remaining adult mule deer captured will be captured and restrained for Agency staff to process at the capture site. Agency staff will collar and collect biological information prior to releasing the deer on site.

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m. Fawns will be captured, handled, and collared by the Contractor. The Contractor will determine sex and weight of all captured fawns. All fawns will be released on site following handling and collaring.

Agency staff will not assist with fawn captures.

n. All mule deer will be physically restrained during capture. The Contractor will not be compensated for animals that die or must be euthanized from capture related injuries at the time of capture. All capture related deaths must be reported to ODFW staff onsite at the time of the incident.

o. Be responsible for human euthanasia of injured animals using a penetrating captive bolt. The

Contractor will provide adequate and appropriate restraint to ensure accurate placement and operator safety. In addition to sufficient restraint, the Contractor must be appropriately trained and skilled, and the proper cartridge strength for the size of the animal must be used. It is important that there is sufficient energy from gun powder or compressed air to penetrate the skull of the individual being euthanized. Exsanguination must follow use of the penetrating captive bolt.

Penetrating captive bolt equipment must be maintained and used properly.

p. Because mule deer are not active all day, it may be necessary and more efficient use of flight time to attempt capture in morning and evening hours only.

q. Capture will be more efficient in favorable weather. Contractor will determine all factors related to crew safety and suitable flying conditions, however, collar distribution must still be met as described in Item I, above.

Agency will:

a. Provide all GPS collars for adult female mule deer and mule deer fawns. Additional equipment for attaching collars (e.g., nut drivers) will also be provided by the agency.

b. Provide all vaginal implant transmitters.

c. Collect all biological data from adult female mule deer.

d. Produce and provide three shapefiles for mule deer capture. These files will consist of the access area(s), landing zones, and capture points. The access area polygon shapefile will show areas for with the Agency as obtained access permission within the winter range, both private and public lands. A point shapefile representing landing zones will represent locations to land the helicopter and places to park overnight. The capture points shapefile will be the distribution of mule deer capture locations within the access areas. The file will be developed just prior to annual capture efforts to ensure that the most up to date mule deer distribution information is used.

e. Coordinate access with private landowners for mule deer capture and landing zones for the helicopter. All areas of winter range shown on maps may not be available for capture operations.

f. Be present at landing zones to provide logistical and operational support. Provide hard copy maps of the access area, landing zones, and capture locations for planning work. In addition, the maps will delineate winter range strata and deer densities.

TASK 2: Mule Deer Research in South-Central Oregon [Summer Lake and Interstate WMUs]

(Figure 2): TASK 2 MAP (See Att A – Draft Contract, Exhibit G)

(Table 2): See Table below

The Agency will conduct captures of adult female mule deer and 6-month-old fawns in mid-December

2022, 2023, 2024, 2025, and 2026 near Lakeview (Figure 2). Capture efforts for adult females will include a mix of new captures and recaptures of previously collared deer, with functioning collars each December

(Table 2). Fawn captures will include 50 individuals in 2022 and up to 25 new fawns each subsequent winter. Captures in this area must occur in December each year.

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Additionally, the Agency will conduct capture efforts for adult female mule deer in March 2023, 2024, 2025, 2026, and 2027. March capture efforts will include a mix of new captures and recaptures of previously captured deer each March (Table 2). If sample sizes are not met during December captures, remaining captures will occur in March when mule deer are most likely to occur on winter range before migrating back to summer range. Precise capture and recapture numbers during March captures will change because of outcomes of December captures and overwinter mortality of previously collared mule deer.

Capture efforts will occur on mule deer winter range in eastern Oregon, in the Interstate and Wagontire

Wildlife Management Units (Figure 2). Captures would occur in an estimated population of ~6,000 mule deer within ~300 square miles of winter range. Precise capture dates and number of collars deployed each year will be determined based on collar delivery, weather, and local conditions. Flexibility to start work when appropriate weather conditions are present will improve efficiency of the project.

Capture efforts for adult females require measuring body fat, assessing pregnancy, and inserting vaginal implant transmitters in pregnant deer – ODFW staff will be responsible for these activities. All captures for adult females will occur using two-helicopters. The lead helicopter will include non-ODFW staff responsible for net-gunning, blindfolding, and hobbling captured deer. The second helicopter will transport ODFW staff to the site to fit a GPS collar, measure body fat, assess pregnancy status, insert vaginal implant transmitters, and collect other relevant biological information. Capture numbers for this study area should be relatively consistent (Table 2) but could increase depending on the degree of mortality or collar failures observed each year. This would primarily affect the number of new females captured each period to ensure sufficient number of collared females leaving winter range each year. Recollar numbers should remain relatively constant to meet research objectives.

Captures of fawns will be conducted entirely by the Contractor. The contractor will be responsible to netgun, restrain, and place collars on fawns and then release them on site. The Contractor will also determine sex and weight of all captured fawns.

Base centers for operations in south-central Oregon captures include Lakeview or Klamath Falls. All locations provide base services; food, accommodations, and vehicular and aviation fuel. The Contractor is responsible for all costs associated food, accommodations, and fuel associated with this project.

Table 2. Estimated captures of mule deer at the Interstate study area in south-central Oregon. Adult deer will be processed using a two-helicopter approach; the lead helicopter will net gun and hobble;

the trailing helicopter will transport ODFW staff to collect biological information. Fawns will be captured, handled, and collared by the contractor without ODFW assistance.

Winter 22/23 Winter 23/24 Winter 24/25 Winter 25/26 Winter 26/27

Type of Capture Dec-

Mar-

Dec-

Mar-

Dec-

Mar-

Dec-

Mar-

Dec-

Mar-

New Female 50 35 15 10 15 10 15 10 15 10

Recollar 25 35 25 35 25 35 25 35 25

Fawn 50 25 25 25 25

Proposer will:

a. Attend Pre-Flight safety review meetings before each flight. All aspects of the project will be discussed, and, any questions answered.

b. Provide ≥2 helicopters with specifications outlined in Section 3.1.1, experienced pilot(s), gunner(s), mugger(s), and support services including a fuel service truck and driver. One helicopter will be used by the Contractor to capture and restrain adult female mule deer or fawns. The second

DAS Procurement Services, Version 4.4 July 1, 2021 Page 11 of 29 helicopter will be used to transport Agency staff to capture locations so they can take biological measurements, insert VITs, and collar adult female mule deer.

c. Provide a Fuel truck that will have enough capacity to ensure operations of two helicopters in remote areas for a minimum of 12 hours of flight time.

d. Provide an onboard GPS that allows the upload of polygon and point shapefiles.

e. Provide real time flight following (preferred) or the ability to quickly download the flight log at each refueling period.

f. The Contractor will provide the net gun, nets, cartridges, hobbles, blindfolds, and penetrating capture bolt equipment. The Contractor will provide GPS units as described in Items D and G.

g. Provide each individual mugger with a portable GPS unit to provide the Agency with coordinates at each deer capture location. Collars will be distributed according to spatial sampling protocols defined by the Agency. While these conditions may be changed at the Agency’s discretion based on local circumstances during the capture operation. Exact maps for capture efforts will be provided prior to capture but will account for changes in landowner access, weather conditions, and mule deer distribution.

h. Each December, the Contractor will capture up to 50 adult female mule deer (Table 2). The initial capture in December 2022, will include captures of only uncollared adult females. During subsequent December captures, there will be a mix of efforts to capture uncollared adult females to increase sample sizes due to mortality or collar failure and recollar a sample of previously collared adult females. All recaptures will be of adult females with functioning GPS collars to aid location prior to the flight. Adult captures be conducted using two-helicopter approach where the

Contractor will netgun and restrain deer, ODFW staff will be transported to the site in a second helicopter. Agency staff will be responsible to assess pregnancy, measure body fat, and fit pregnant mule deer with a GPS collar and vaginal implant transmitter (VIT).

i. Each March, the Contractor will capture up to 35 adult female mule deer (Table 2). During March captures, there will be a mix of efforts to capture uncollared adult females and recollar a sample of previously collared adult females. All recaptures will be of adult females with functioning GPS collars to aid location prior to the flight. Adult captures be conducted using two-helicopter approach where the Contractor will netgun and restrain deer, ODFW staff will be transported to the site in a second helicopter. Agency staff will be responsible to assess pregnancy, measure body fat, and fit pregnant mule deer with a GPS collar and vaginal implant transmitter (VIT).

j. The Contractor will capture up to 50, 6-month-old mule deer fawns in December 2022. In subsequent years, the contractor will capture 25, 6-month-old fawns each winter. The Contractor will netgun, handle, and place collars on all 6-month-old fawns that are captured. All fawns will be sexed and weighed. Agency staff will not assist in capture or handling 6-month-old fawns. Fawns will only be captured during the December capture period.

k. All adult mule deer captured will be captured and restrained for Agency staff to process at the capture site. Agency staff will collar and collect biological information prior to releasing the deer on site. All adult deer will be released at the capture site.

l. Fawns will be captured, handled, and collared by the Contractor. The Contractor will determine sex and weight of all captured fawns. All fawns will be released on site following handling and collaring.

Agency staff will not assist with fawn captures.

m. All mule deer will be physically restrained during capture. The Contractor will not be compensated for animals that die or must be euthanized from capture related injuries at the time of capture. All capture related deaths must be reported to ODFW staff onsite at the time of the incident.

n. Be responsible for human euthanasia of injured animals using a penetrating captive bolt. The

Contractor will provide adequate and appropriate restraint to ensure accurate placement and operator safety. In addition to sufficient restraint, the Contractor must be appropriately trained and

DAS Procurement Services, Version 4.4 July 1, 2021 Page 12 of 29 skilled, and the proper cartridge strength for the size of the animal must be used. It is important that there is sufficient energy from gun powder or compressed air to penetrate the skull of the individual being euthanized. Exsanguination must follow use of the penetrating captive bolt.

Penetrating captive bolt equipment must be maintained and used properly.

o. Because mule deer are not active all day, it may be necessary and more efficient use of flight time to attempt capture in morning and evening hours only.

p. Capture will be more efficient in favorable weather. Contractor will determine all factors related to crew safety and suitable flying conditions; however, collar distribution must still be met as described in Item M, above.

Agency will:

q. Provide all GPS collars for adult female mule deer and mule deer fawns. Additional equipment for attaching collars (e.g., nut drivers) will be provided by the agency.

r. Provide all vaginal implant transmitters.

s. Provide staff that will collect all biological data from adult female mule deer.

t. Produce and provide three shapefiles for mule deer capture. These files will consist of the access area(s), landing zones, and capture points. The access area polygon shapefile will show areas for with the Agency as obtained access permission within the winter range, both private and public lands. A point shapefile representing landing zones will represent locations to land the helicopter and places to park overnight. The capture points shapefile will be the distribution of mule deer capture locations within the access areas. The file will be developed just prior to annual capture efforts to ensure that the most up to date mule deer distribution information is used.

u. Coordinate access with private landowners for mule deer capture and landing zones for the helicopter. All areas of winter range shown on maps may not be available for capture operations.

v. Be present at landing zones to provide logistical and operational support. Provide hard copy maps of the access area, landing zones, and capture locations for planning work. In addition, the maps will delineate winter range strata and deer densities.

2.5 Safety Procedures:

The Contractor’s pilot(s) must communicate and maintain all safety procedures. Safety procedures will not be compromised at any time during the contract.

2.6 Aircraft to be provided: as described in Section 3.1.1

2.7 Aircraft or Equipment Break Down:

Should the helicopter or other essential equipment break down and cause delay or termination of the operation, the equipment shall be repaired or replaced within 48 hours to allow continuance of the project. Failure to do so may result in a $500/day penalty until deficiencies are corrected. In the event weather conditions force a long-term shutdown during the capture operations, and it is agreed the airship has to return to its home base then one-half the ferry time will be paid. All

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2.8 Pilot to be provided: as described in Section 3.1.2

2.9 Additional or Substitute Helicopter or Pilot:

If for any reason an additional or substitute helicopter or pilot are required to complete the work required under this contract, it will be the responsibility of the contractor to supply or subcontract the same, within 48 hours, and with ODFW approval, at the contractor’s expense. The contractor must specify names of pilots provided for this contract and may not provide substitute pilots without prior approval by ODFW.

2.10 Poor Pilot Performance:

ODFW reserves the right to ground any pilot who, in its sole opinion, violates Contract requirements, is unsafe, or otherwise performs unsatisfactorily. Contractor will be required, within 48 hours, to replace the grounded pilot. All replacements shall be approved in advance of use under the contract by ODFW. Failure to furnish a replacement pilot within the specified time will authorize ODFW to assess Contractor the amount of $500 per day for delay.

2.11 Damages:

Contractor shall deliver within the time indicated in Sample Contract (Attachment A). Should Contractor fail to meet the delivery schedule, thereby making it necessary for the State to purchase urgently needed services from another source, Contractor shall pay the difference between the accepted bid price and the new purchase price.

2.12 Specific Requirements:

Successful Proposer shall:

• Meet with the designated Agency biologist and be ready to fly at sunrise each morning. The usual procedure will be to capture mule deer so long as weather conditions (e.g., daytime temperatures are sufficiently low) allow, at the biologist’s discretion.

• Transport Agency biologist(s) at designated locations.

• Make services available for this project within a 48-hour notice by the Agency.

• Determine all conditions regarding safety prior to and during the flight. Advise Agency if conditions are unsafe and either forego the particular flight or will return to base or any other site deemed appropriate for safety reasons. Flight Following will be coordinated with Agency Contract Administrator.

• Flight schedule is approximate and may be subject to change for reasons of inclement weather, animal distribution as a result of range conditions and weather, data collection needs, or budget availability. Schedules may be adjusted between locations if necessary to complete capture work in an effective manner. Actual departure sites may vary to facilitate efficient and safest use of helicopter time. Schedule may also require non-flight days to accommodate weather conditions, aircraft service schedules, and unforeseen events. Additional mission periods may be requested by Agency within the contract period.

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2.13 Failure to Perform:

Unless the contractor is providing architectural, engineering, photogrammetric mapping, transportation planning or land surveying services or related services, as defined in ORS 279C.100, or unless the contracting agency for good cause specifies otherwise, the scope of work shall require the contractor to meet the highest standards prevalent in the industry or business most closely involved in providing the appropriate goods or services.

The contract terms and conditions shall specify clear consequences for a contractor's failure to perform the scope of work identified in the request for proposals or the contractor's failure to meet established performance standards. The consequences may include, but are not limited to:

(A) Reducing or withholding payment;

(B) Requiring the contractor to perform, at the contractor's expense, additional work necessary to perform the identified scope of work or meet the established performance standards; or

(C) Declaring a default, terminating the public contract and seeking damages and other relief available under the terms of the public contract or other applicable law.

SECTION 3: PROCUREMENT REQUIREMENTS

3.1 MINIMUM PROPOSER REQUIREMENTS

Proposals not in compliance with the following Minimum Proposer Requirements will be rejected.

At a minimum, responses to the solicitation shall include:

3.1.1 AIRCRAFT TO BE PROVIDED BY PROPOSER

The Proposer is required to provide a Bell 206L, Hughes 500d or equivalent with minimum 340 horsepower to meet requirements for capture. Airframes submitted with this proposal must be certified under 14 CFR part 133 to perform external lift operations to up to 1,200 lbs, while operating at elevations between 250 to 2,500 meters (820 – 8,202 feet) elevation above sea level. The contractor is required to provide in their bid the airframe age of the specific aircraft to be used for the capture with the complete damage history. Aircraft are required to have radio communications between the pilot and ground crew, and a G.P.S. navigational system. The aircraft must currently be certified, and maintained in accordance with Federal Aviation Regulations (FAR) Part 133 or 135 standards. Aircraft must be qualified for the work and terrain required in accomplishing the work and approved by FAA for aerial capture work. Substitute or back-up aircraft must meet the same standards as the original aircraft requirements we specified. All approved aircraft shall be authorized to perform the requirements of this contract in compliance with the current FAA and Oregon State Division of Aeronautics’ rules and regulations, as applicable to such requirements. ODFW reserves the right to check the background of any aircraft, and may reject any bid if unfavorable information is detected.

Each aircraft is required to have radio communications between the pilot and ground crew, a G.P.S. navigational system, and a remote aircraft tracking system allowing Agency personnel and/or the contractor to monitor the aircrafts’ flight progress in real time from a remote location. Agency’s preference is a helicopter with flight following systems for tracking flight

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3.1.2 FUEL TRUCK REQUIREMENTS

Fuel truck must have the capacity to ensure operations in remote areas for a minimum of 12 hours of flight time. Fuel to refill the fuel truck is available at airports. The fuel truck will be necessary for the majority of the project to supply fuel to the aircraft.

3.1.3 PILOT(S) REQUIREMENTS – Attachment H

Have flight experience as follows, substantiated by pilot logbook:

- minimum of 1000 hours of helicopter flight time with aircraft equivalent to this contract requirements

- minimum of 100 hours of low elevation (<500 ft.) over variable and rough terrain

- minimum of 100 hours of flying altitudes up to 6,500 ft

- minimum of 25 hours of takeoffs and landings in remote areas

- minimum of 100 hours of wildlife inventory experience

- current rotorcraft external-load operating certificate

- Aircraft pilots must be qualified in accordance with FAR Part 133, PART 135. Substitute or back-up pilots must meet the same standards as the original pilot requirements we specify.

All approved pilots shall be authorized to perform the requirements of this contract in compliance with the current FAA and Oregon State Division of Aeronautics’ rules and regulations, as applicable to such requirements. The AGENCY reserves the right to check the background of any pilot even through the Federal Aviation Administration. If substantiated information is found showing poor performance, safety violations, failure to fulfill contractual obligations, minimum requirements not being met, or any other unfavorable information; AGENCY reserves the right to reject any pilot/contract for purposes of this contract.

3.1.4 CAPTURE CREW REQUIREMENTS – Attachment H

Have qualifications and training as follows, substantiated by employment records, training certificates or references:

- experience net-gunning mule deer or similar ungulates in the wild

- experience physically restraining and releasing mule deer or similar ungulates in the wild

- experience attaching GPS radio collars to mule deer or similar ungulates in the wild

- Must be trained prior to the start of contract in Humane Physical Methods of Euthanasia as described in sample contract.

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3.1.5 PROPOSER QUALIFICATIONS – Attachment H

• Proposer must have a minimum of three (3) years of successful professional experience providing goods and/or performing services comparable to those required under this contract, and

• Proposer must provide copies of required Aircraft & Pilot FAR 135 certification and Safety Management System with proposal.

3.1.6 PROPOSER shall submit completed Reference Check Form(s) – Attachment D:

• Proposer must provide at least two (2) current professional references and one (1) professional reference for work (from different firms and clients) supportive of bidder’s ability to comply with the requirements of this RFP.

• References must verify the quality of previous, related Work.

• Agency may check to determine if references provided support Proposer’s ability to comply with the requirements of this RFP. Agency may use references to obtain additional information, break tie scores, or verify any information needed. Agency may contact any reference (submitted or not) to verify Proposer’s qualifications.

• Proposer shall submit reference names and contact information. Agency will make three (3) attempts to contact each of the references provided by the Proposer. If these attempts are unsuccessful, the Proposer will receive a score of zero for that reference.

3.2 MINIMUM SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS

3.2.1 Proposal Submissions

To be considered for evaluation, Proposal must contain each of the following elements (further detailed in Proposal Requirements section below):

• Disclosure Exemption Affidavit (Attachment B)

• Proposer Information and Certification Sheet (Attachment C)

• Reference Check Form (Attachment D)

• Price Proposal Form (Attachment E)

• COBID Certification / Outreach Plan (Attachment F)

• Responsibility Inquiry (Attachment G)

• Scored Proposal Components Form (Attachment H)

3.2.2 Proposal Format and Quantity

Proposal should follow the format and reference the sections listed in the Proposal

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Requirements section. Responses to each section and subsection should be labeled to indicate the item being addressed.

3.2.2.1 OregonBuys Electronic Response. Proposer should submit its Proposal electronically through OregonBuys. Be sure all mandatory submission documents are uploaded to OregonBuys. Proposer should follow the procedures outlined in Electronic Submission.

The Price Proposal (Attachment E) must be submitted as a separate electronic response file uploaded to OregonBuys.

Electronic Submissions: Proposer shall submit one copy of its Proposal and all other submittal requirements, with Attachment C - Proposer Information and Certification Sheet bearing the Proposer’s authorized representative’s Signature, in one of the following formats: Adobe Acrobat (pdf), Microsoft Word (docx), or Microsoft Excel (xlsx). If Proposer believes any of its Proposal is exempt from disclosure under Oregon Public Records Law (ORS 192.311 through 192.478), Proposer shall complete and submit the Disclosure Exemption Affidavit (Attachment B). Proposer shall also mark as “Confidential” in OregonBuys all attachments to its Proposal that Proposer believes are exempt from disclosure

The Proposer Information and Certification Sheet (Attachment C) must bear the Proposer’s authorized representative’s Signature.

Proposer may submit its Proposal by hard copy.

3.2.2.2 Hard Copy Response

If Proposer elects to submit its Proposal by hard copy, Proposer shall submit its Proposal and all other submittal requirements using only white 8 ½” x 11” Recycled Paper, minimum 12 point font. Proposer shall submit a copy of its Proposal and all other submittal requirements, with Attachment C - Proposer Information and Certification Sheet bearing the Proposer’s authorized representative’s Signature. If Proposer believes any of its Proposal is exempt from disclosure under Oregon Public Records Law (ORS

192.311 through 192.478) Proposer also shall submit a fully redacted version of its Proposal, clearly identified as the redacted version.

Proposer shall submit its Proposal in a sealed package addressed to the SPC with the Proposer’s name and the OregonBuys bid number clearly visible on the outside of the package. The Price Proposal (Attachment E) must be submitted in a separate envelope.

3.2.3 Authorized Representative

Failure of Proposer’s authorized representative to sign the Proposal may result in rejection of the Proposal by Agency.

3.3 PROPOSAL REQUIREMENTS

Proposal must address each of the items listed in this section and all other requirements set forth in this RFP. Proposer shall describe the Goods to be provided or the Services to be performed or both.

A Proposal that merely offers to provide the goods or services as stated in this RFP may be considered non-Responsive to this RFP and will not be considered further.

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Proposal should not include extensive artwork, unusual printing or other materials not essential to the utility and clarity of the Proposal. Do not include marketing or advertising material in the Proposal, unless requested. Proposal should be straightforward and address the requests of the RFP.

Proposal containing unsolicited marketing or advertising material may receive a lower evaluation score if required information is difficult to locate.

3.3.1 Proposer Information and Certification Sheet (Attachment C)

Proposer shall complete and submit the Proposer Information and Certification Sheet (Attachment C).

Failure to demonstrate compliance with Oregon Tax Laws and sign the Proposer Information and Certification Sheet may result in a finding of non-Responsibility.

3.3.2 References (Attachment D)

Provide at least two (2) current professional references and one (1) professional reference for work (from different firms and clients) supportive of bidder’s ability to comply with the requirements of this contract.