RFQ 1232SA26Q0138.pdf

SEE ADDENDUMIS CHECKED

CODE 18a. PAYMENT WILL BE MADE BY

CODE

FACILITYCODE

17b. CHECK IF REMITTANCE IS DIFFERENT AND PUT SUCH ADDRESS IN OFFER

OFFEROR

ARS-1232SA

BELTSVILLE MD 20705

RM 3-2102

5601 SUNNYSIDE AVENUE

USDA ARS ACQUISITION AND PROPERTY D

ARS-126125 CODE 16. ADMINISTERED BYCODE

X

X

X

111940

SIZE STANDARD:

100.00 % FOR:SET ASIDE:UNRESTRICTED ORARS-1232SA

REQUEST FOR

PROPOSAL

(RFP)

INVITATION

FOR BID (IFB)

10. THIS ACQUISITION ISCODE

REQUEST FOR

QUOTE (RFQ)

14. METHOD OF SOLICITATION

13b. RATING

NORTH AMERICAN INDUSTRY

CLASSIFICATION STANDARD

(NAICS):

SMALL BUSINESS

04/30/2026 1700 ET

04/14/2026

6626865296RICHARD HAWTHORNE

(No collect calls)

INFORMATION CALL:

FOR SOLICITATION 8. OFFER DUE DATE/LOCAL TIMEb. TELEPHONE NUMBER a. NAME

4. ORDER NUMBER3. AWARD/ 6. SOLICITATION

1232SA26Q0138

5. SOLICITATION NUMBER

SOLICITATION/CONTRACT/ORDER FOR COMMERCIAL ITEMS 1. REQUISITION NUMBER PAGE OF

1 25 1162736OFFEROR TO COMPLETE BLOCKS 12, 17, 23, 24, & 30

TELEPHONE NO.

17a. CONTRACTOR/

AMES IA 50010

P.O. BOX 70

1920 DAYTON AVENUE

MWA NATIONAL ANIMAL DISEASE CENTER

15. DELIVER TO

BELTSVILLE MD 20705

RM 3-2102

5601 SUNNYSIDE AVENUE

9. ISSUED BY

7.

2. CONTRACT NO.

EFFECTIVE DATE

$2.5

18b. SUBMIT INVOICES TO ADDRESS SHOWN IN BLOCK 18a UNLESS BLOCK BELOW

ISSUE DATE

DELIVERY FOR FREE ON BOARD

(FOB) DESTINATION UNLESS

BLOCK IS MARKED

11.

SEE SCHEDULEX

12. DISCOUNT TERMS THIS CONTRACT IS A RATED

ORDER UNDER THE DEFENSE

PRIORITIES AND ALLOCATIONS

SYSTEM - DPAS (15 CFR 700)

13a.

SERVICE-DISABLED

VETERAN-OWNED

SMALL BUSINESS

(SDVOSB)

HUBZONE SMALL

BUSINESS

8(A)

USDA ARS ACQUISITION AND PROPERTY D

WOMEN-OWNED SMALL

BUSINESS (WOSB)

ECONOMICALLY DISADVANTAGED

WOMEN-OWNED SMALL

BUSINESS (EDWOSB)

24.

AMOUNT

23.

UNIT PRICE

22.

UNIT

21.

QUANTITY

20.

SCHEDULE OF SUPPLIES/SERVICES

19.

ITEM NO.

Delivery: 10 Days After Notice to Proceed

0001 Hay - Grass, Round Bale

0002 Hay - Grass, Small Square Bale

0003 Hay - Grass, Large Square Bale

Continued ...

(Use Reverse and/or Attach Additional Sheets as Necessary)

HEREIN, IS ACCEPTED AS TO ITEMS:

XX

DATED

FRANK C. PALMER

. YOUR OFFER ON SOLICITATION (BLOCK 5),

INCLUDING ANY ADDITIONS OR CHANGES WHICH ARE SET FORTH

COPIES TO ISSUING OFFICE. CONTRACTOR AGREES TO FURNISH AND DELIVER

ARE

ARE

31c. DATE SIGNED

27b. CONTRACT/PURCHASE ORDER INCORPORATES BY REFERENCE FAR 52.212-4. FAR 52.212-5 IS ATTACHED. ADDENDA

31a. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA (SIGNATURE OF CONTRACTING OFFICER)

30c. DATE SIGNED 31b. NAME OF CONTRACTING OFFICER (Type or print)

ALL ITEMS SET FORTH OR OTHERWISE IDENTIFIED ABOVE AND ON ANY ADDITIONAL

SHEETS SUBJECT TO THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS SPECIFIED.

27a. SOLICITATION INCORPORATES BY REFERENCE (FEDERAL ACQUISITION REGULATION) FAR 52.212-1, 52.212-4. FAR 52.212-3

AND 52.212-5 ARE ATTACHED. ADDENDA

26. TOTAL AWARD AMOUNT (For Government Use Only)

OFFER

STANDARD FORM 1449 (REV. 11/2021)

Prescribed by GSA - FAR (48 CFR) 53.212

ARE NOT ATTACHED.

ARE NOT ATTACHED.

AUTHORIZED FOR LOCAL REPRODUCTION

PREVIOUS EDITION IS NOT USABLE

30b. NAME AND TITLE OF SIGNER (Type or print)

30a. SIGNATURE OF OFFEROR/CONTRACTOR

28. CONTRACTOR IS REQUIRED TO SIGN THIS DOCUMENT AND RETURN

25. ACCOUNTING AND APPROPRIATION DATA

29. AWARD OF CONTRACT: REFERENCE

32e. MAILING ADDRESS OF AUTHORIZED GOVERNMENT REPRESENTATIVE

32c. DATE 32b. SIGNATURE OF AUTHORIZED GOVERNMENT REPRESENTATIVE

ACCEPTED, AND CONFORMS TO THE CONTRACT, EXCEPT AS NOTED:

32a. QUANTITY IN COLUMN 21 HAS BEEN

RECEIVED INSPECTED

40. PAID BY39. S/R VOUCHER NUMBER38. S/R ACCOUNT NUMBER

37. CHECK NUMBER

FINALPARTIAL

36. PAYMENT

FINALPARTIAL

35. AMOUNT VERIFIED

CORRECT FOR

34. VOUCHER NUMBER33. SHIP NUMBER

COMPLETE

32g. E-MAIL OF AUTHORIZED GOVERNMENT REPRESENTATIVE

42d. TOTAL CONTAINERS42c. DATE REC'D (YY/MM/DD)

42b. RECEIVED AT (Location)

42a. RECEIVED BY (Print)

41c. DATE41b. SIGNATURE AND TITLE OF CERTIFYING OFFICER

41a. I CERTIFY THIS ACCOUNT IS CORRECT AND PROPER FOR PAYMENT

STANDARD FORM 1449 (REV. 11/2021) BACK

24.

AMOUNT

23.

UNIT PRICE

22.

UNIT

21.

QUANTITY

20.

SCHEDULE OF SUPPLIES/SERVICES

19.

ITEM NO.

0004 Hay - Alfalfa, Large Square Bale

0005 Hay - Straw, Small Square Bale

0006 Hay - Straw, Large Square Bale

32f. TELEPHONE NUMBER OF AUTHORIZED GOVERNMENT REPRESENTATIVE

32d. PRINTED NAME AND TITLE OF AUTHORIZED GOVERNMENT REPRESENTATIVE

25 2 of

IDIQ for Hay in Ames, IA

1232SA26Q0138

Description -

This is a combined synopsis/solicitation for commercial items prepared in accordance with the format in FAR Part 12. This announcement constitutes the only solicitation; offers are being requested, and a separate written solicitation will not be issued.

Solicitation number 1232SA26Q0138 is issued as a Request for Quotation (RFQ) seeking responsible contractors to establish multiple-award Indefinite Delivery, Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contracts for firm-fixed-price commercial hay and straw supply. The ordering period will be five years starting on the date of award. The Government will place Task Orders on an as-needed basis to successful Contractors during this period.

Note: Initial pricing established under this RFQ will be valid for 60 days, after which pricing for individual Task Orders will be competed among all IDIQ holders.

This acquisition is set-aside for small business concerns. The applicable North American Industry Classification Standard Code is 111940 (Hay Farming) The small business size standard is $2.5M This acquisition is a Total Small Business Set-Aside. All responsible sources may submit a quotation which will be considered by the agency.

Statement of Requirement

1. Hay – Grass, Round Bale

2. Hay – Grass, Small Square Bale

3. Hay – Grass, Large Square Bale

4. Hay – Alfalfa, Large Square Bale

5. Hay – Straw, Small Square Bale

6. Hay – Straw, Large Square Bale

Award Type

The Government intends to award a sufficient number of multiple-award IDIQ contracts to ensure adequate competition for all line items, typically three or more. Each contract will include a Guaranteed Minimum of $2,500.00, satisfied by the first Task Order. The aggregate program ceiling is $1,000,000.00 over five years

Evaluation and Basis for Award

The provision at FAR 52.212-2, Evaluation—Commercial Products and Commercial Services is not applicable to this solicitation. In lieu of this provision, quotes will be evaluated in accordance with FAR 12.203 based on the criteria listed below. Award will be made to the offeror representing the best value to the Government.

1. Evaluation Factors:

• Technical: The Government will evaluate the Contractor's documented evidence of their ability to meet the specifications in the SOW, including hay quality, nutritional parameters, and delivery timelines. Offerors are not required to quote on all six (6) hay types to be considered for award; however, the quote must clearly identify which specific items (1–6) the vendor is capable of providing.

• Price: Prices will be evaluated inclusive of transportation charges to the delivery destination. Offerors must submit current pricing for the specific hay types offered, which shall remain valid for 60 days from the date of quote submission.

2. Evaluation Process:

The Contracting Officer will perform a Comparative Evaluation of all timely quotations. The Government will conduct a side-by-side comparison of technical capability and the 60-day price lists to determine which offerors represent the best value.

The Government’s objective is to establish a pool of Multiple-Award IDIQs that ensures overlapping coverage across all six (6) hay and straw types. The Government intends to award the minimum number of IDIQs necessary to ensure that at least two (2) qualified vendors are available to provide each specific item. This ensures continuous supply and maintains competitive tension for all subsequent Task Orders.

Delivery Information

F.o.b. destination, is requested as the F.O.B. point for all deliverables.

- All offers will be considered F.O.B. Destination unless F.O.B. origin is specified AND estimated shipping costs are included.

The Government requires delivery within 5 business days of Task Order issuance. While early deliveries are encouraged, the 5-day window is a key performance requirement. Offerors who cannot meet this standard should clearly state their proposed lead time for consideration;

however, delivery windows exceeding 5 days will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis and may impact the technical acceptability of the quote.

Delivery Location:

USDA, ARS, MWA, NADC

1920 Dayton Avenue, Building 14 Ames, Iowa 50010

Quote Submittal Information

QUESTIONS REGARDING THIS RFQ ARE DUE TO RICHARD HAWTHORNE at Richard.hawthorne@usda.gov, NO LATER THAN 1:00 p. m. ET, April 23rd , 2026. Questions will only be accepted via email and WILL NOT be answered if received after this date/time.

https://usdagcc-my.sharepoint.com/personal/richard_hawthorne_usda_gov/Documents/New%20folder/Richard.hawthorne@usda.gov

QUOTES REGARDING THIS RFQ ARE DUE TO RICHARD HAWTHORNE at Richard.hawthorne@usda.gov , NO LATER THAN 5:00 p. m. ET, April 30th, 2026.

Primary Point of Contact:

Richard Hawthorne Contract Specialist richard.hawthorne@usda.gov.

mailto:Richard.hawthorne@usda.gov mailto:richard.hawthorne@usda.gov

ATTACHMENT 1 – IDIQ TERMS AND CONDITIONS

1.1 DESCRIPTION OF AGREEMENT

The Contractor shall furnish hay bales as required by the Government through the issuance of firm-fixed-price Task Orders. This is a Multiple-Award Indefinite Delivery, Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract with a five-year ordering period. The aggregate maximum ceiling for all orders placed under this IDIQ is $1,000,000.00.

1.2 EXTENT OF OBLIGATION (GUARANTEED MINIMUM)

The Government’s minimum obligation under this contract is limited to the Guaranteed Minimum of $2,500.00 for the duration of the contract. This minimum will be satisfied by the first Task Order issued to each awardee. Beyond this minimum, the Government is obligated only to the extent of authorized Task Orders actually issued.

1.3 ORDER LIMITATIONS

The individual Task Order ceiling is $350,000.00. All orders exceeding the Micro-Purchase Threshold ($15,000) will be competed among all IDIQ holders in accordance with FAR

16.507 Fair Opportunity procedures.

1.4 AUTHORIZED REPRESENTATIVES & BINDING ORDERS

• Authorized Groups:

• National Animal Disease Center (NADC), MWA, Ames, IA.

• USDA/ARS Warranted Contracting Officers.

• Authority: Representatives may only place orders within the express scope of this IDIQ and their single purchase limit.

• Binding Contract: Each Task Order issued becomes a binding contract upon issuance.

1.5 DELIVERY & SHIPMENT DOCUMENTATION

All shipments must comply with the conditions stated in the Statement of Work (SOW).

Specific delivery schedules will be established at the Task Order level.

1.6 INVOICING & REPORTING INSTRUCTIONS

• Quarterly Report: The Contractor shall provide a report of all quarterly orders to the CO by the 15th of the month following the end of each Federal Fiscal Quarter.

o Q1 (Oct–Dec): Due January 15th o Q2 (Jan–Mar): Due April 15th o Q3 (Apr–Jun): Due July 15th o Q4 (Jul–Sep): Due September 28th o Exception for September: To accommodate fiscal year-end closeout, no orders shall be placed during the final five business days of September, and the September report must be submitted no later than September 28th.

• Below MPT ($15,000): Paid via Government Purchase Card (GPC); invoice/receipt provided to cardholder.

• Above MPT ($15,000): Electronic submission via IPP.gov.

1.7 APPLICABLE CLAUSES

The applicable clauses listed in FAR 12.205 (attached) apply to all purchases made under this IDIQ.

1.8 PERIODIC REVIEW

This IDIQ will be reviewed periodically to assess Contractor performance, monitor market conditions for hay commodities, and determine the necessity of implementing On-Ramp or Off-Ramp procedures as described in Section 1.9.

1.9 ON AND OFF RAMP PROCEDURES

• On Ramp Procedures: The Government will review IDIQ performance and requirements on a regular basis and determine the necessity of on ramping. The Government reserves the right to announce and issue a new solicitation for the purposes of: (i) adding additional Contractors to expeditiously meet the requirement as the need for increased assessments materialize; and (ii) increase the small business pool of Contractors; and (iii) increase competition. The Government may implement on-ramp procedures at any time by reopening the competition and utilizing the same basis of award established in the initial solicitation. Quotes submitted in response to the solicitation amendment for on-ramping must be rated equal to or higher than the lowest rated contractor originally awarded IDIQ in order to be considered for an award. Quotes submitted in response to a previous solicitation shall not be evaluated unless company has received certification/license/authority since previous submission. Any resulting IDIQ awarded will include the same terms and conditions as the current agreement holders. Implementing this procedure will not affect the overall period of performance for the basic agreement.

• Off Ramp Procedures: The Government reserves the right to implement off-ramp procedures, which would result in the removal of IDIQ holders. The criteria for off-ramping may include, but not limited to, IDIQ holders not proposing on order request(s), not having at least one order awarded beyond guaranteed quantity, and/or unsatisfactorily meeting the SOW/PWS requirements. If implemented, off-ramp procedures will remove IDIQ holders by cancelling the IDIQ.

1.10 CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION

POINTS OF CONTACT

All correspondence and or questions pertaining to this IDIQ should be directed to:

Richard Hawthorne Contract Specialist

USDA/ARS

662-686-5296 Richard.hawthorne@usda.gov

Ames, IA location personnel will be identified and listed after award.

2.0 PRICE SCHEDULE

Initial pricing submitted below shall be firm fixed for the first 60 calendar days following the date of IDIQ award. These prices, along with hay quality and specifications, will be used as primary factors to determine the successful offerors for the establishment of the multiple-award IDIQs. After the initial 60-day period, pricing for individual Task Orders will be competed among all IDIQ holders to reflect current market conditions.

*For the purpose of this quote, "One Load" is defined as a full semi-trailer. Offerors shall specify their average tonnage per load based on the bale types below.

Item No.

Description of Hay Unit of Issue

Price per Ton

Estimated Tons per Load

Total Hay Price per Load (including all delivery fess) mailto:Richard.hawthorne@usda.gov

1 Hay – Grass, Round Bale

Ton $ $

2 Hay – Grass, Small Square Bale

Ton $ $

3 Hay – Grass, Large Square Bale

Ton $ $

4 Hay – Alfalfa, Large Square Bale

Ton $ $

5 Hay – Straw, Small Square Bale

Ton $ $

6 Hay – Straw, Large Square Bale

Ton $ $

3.0 STATEMENT OF WORK

3.1 GENERAL

3.1.1 Background:

The mission of the USDA-National Animal Disease Center Animal Resources unit in Ames, IA is to provide animal care and support services for internal users that rely on animal products for research, testing and training. Fresh, clean, high-quality feed is critical to support animal health and well-being of a variety of animals used in laboratory research at the USDA National Animal Disease Center in Ames, IA.

3.1.2 Scope of Work

The Contractor shall provide all resources necessary to accomplish the tasks and deliverables described in this Statement of Work. The Contractor shall make deliveries within five (5) business days after receipt of a telephone or written order from an authorized Government employee.

Since diet is an essential control factor necessary in the Center’s research, no substitution or deviation from the specifications is permissible without approval from the USDA. Only Clean, high-quality ingredients are to be used.

Combining/Blending with like ingredients of low quality or possible contamination is not acceptable. This would include but not limited to foreign material, mold and mycotoxins within feed ingredients.

3.1.3 Estimated Annual Quantities

The following values represent the Government’s anticipated requirements. These quantities are estimates for informational purposes and do not constitute a guaranteed purchase volume beyond the minimum obligation stated in Section 1.2 (p. 1).

Item No. Description of Hay Estimated Annual Quantities, in Tons 1 Hay – Grass, Round Bale 225 2 Hay – Grass, Small Square Bale 75 3 Hay – Grass, Large Square Bale 225 4 Hay – Alfalfa, Large Square Bale 75 5 Hay – Straw, Small Square Bale 50 6 Hay – Straw, Large Square Bale 75

3.2 TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS

All hay and straw

• Must be from current or end of previous calendar year crop (less than 12 months from harvest).

• Bales must be clean (<2% foreign matter and no non-plant-based material).

• Bales must contain no matter injurious to livestock.

• Bales must be free of mold, musty odor, dust, signs of insect, rodent, and/or wildlife damage.

• Hay and straw must not have any bearded grain or any forage plant containing long awns (spikelets).

• Hay and straw delivered must be of consistent composition and quality throughout each load and from first to last load.

• All hay and straw is to be harvested from fields that are not grazed or had application of ruminant animal manure. All hay should be from fields located on one farm or close proximity.

• Price to include delivery to place of performance.

• Quote shall include documented evidence of ability to meet the requirements of this solicitation based on the specifications outlined.

Please Note:

• Hay that shows signs of greater than 2% foreign material, mold, musty odor, excessive dust/dirt, weeds, exposure/damage by rodents/insects/wildlife (fur, scat), moisture damage (included rain during baling), heating, discoloration, and/or significant evidence of storage in direct contact with floor (such as dirt, gravel, discoloration, moisture damage, and/or mold) is unacceptable and may be rejected.

• NADC submits a sample for analysis on each load of hay received for use as documentation of nutritional parameters for research project records. Based on the results of this testing, if the load does not meet the minimum requirements as specified for that product by at least 95%, it may be subject to rejection in whole or part.

3.2.1 Specifications for Hay – Grass, Round Bale

• Based on USDA Hay Quality Designation Guidelines must meet Good or Fair standards

• Relative Feed Value (RFV) must be 70-120, Crude Protein of 6-12 on a dry matter basis, and moisture content between 10-16%

• Acceptable grass varieties are Orchard Grass, Brome (Smooth or Meadow), Timothy, Kentucky Bluegrass, Limestone Little Bluestem, Western Wheatgrass, Big Bluestem, Switchgrass, Prairie Cordgrass, Indian Grass

• Bales must be tight, solid, net wrapped weighting NLT 1400#.

• Bales must be no less than 4 feet and no more than 6 feet in width.

3.2.2 Specifications for Hay – Grass, Small Square Bale

• Based on USDA Hay Quality Designation Guidelines must meet Good or Fair standards

• Relative Feed Value (RFV) must be 70-110, Crude Protein of 6-14 on a dry matter basis, moisture content between 10-14%, Acid Detergent Fiber (ADF) less than 49% on a dry matter basis, and Neutral Detergent Fiber (NDF) less than 65% on a dry matter basis.

• Composition of the hay is to be of no more than 60% of any one type of the following acceptable grass varieties: Orchard Grass, Brome (Smooth or Meadow), Timothy, Kentucky Bluegrass, Limestone Little Bluestem, Western Wheatgrass, Big Bluestem, Switchgrass, Prairie Cordgrass, Indian Grass

• Hay must be green with greater than fifty per cent (50%) leaves.

• Bales must be tight, solid, uniform size and construction utilizing rot-proof twine.

• Bale weights must be uniform (within 5# of average) weight not less than 55# or more than 75#. Bale size should be uniform and not be shorter than 32inches or longer than 42 inches.

• The Contractor shall be responsible for unloading and stacking the hay in an area and manner as designated by the Government.

o Acceptable Alternatives with approval of Technical POC:

1-(Preferred) Delivery of bales banded in bundles of not less than 14 bales/bundle or not more than 21 bales/bundle allowing for handling with skid loader . The government will mechanically unload and stack the hay in the designated storage area at no expense to the contractor.

2) Delivery of hay on semi-trailer (enclosed or flatbed) and leave trailer for USDA personnel to use hay as needed. Trailer to be replaced with new load of hay with no less than 25 bales remaining (Contractor responsible for unloading remaining bales).

o NOTE: Any alternative method will be at NO additional cost to the government.

3.2.3 Specifications for Hay – Grass, Large Square Bale

• Based on USDA Hay Quality Designation Guidelines must meet Good or Fair standards

• Relative Feed Value (RFV) must be 70-110, Crude Protein of 6-12 on a dry matter basis, moisture content between 10-14%, Acid Detergent Fiber (ADF) less than 49% on a dry matter basis, and Neutral Detergent Fiber (NDF) less than 65% on a dry matter basis.

• Hay composition is to be of no more than 60% of any one type of the following acceptable grass varieties: Orchard Grass, Brome (Smooth/Meadow), Timothy, Kentucky Bluegrass, Limestone Little Bluestem, Western Wheatgrass, Big Bluestem, Switchgrass, Prairie Cordgrass, Indian Grass

• Hay must be green with greater than fifty per cent (50%) leaves.

• Bales must be tight, solid, uniform size and construction utilizing rot-proof twine.

• Acceptable Bale sizes are 3’ X 3’ X 8’, 3’ X 4’ X 8’ or 4’ X 4’ X 8’. All bales should be of equal and uniform size.

3.2.4 Specifications for Hay – Alfalfa, Large Square Bale

• Alfalfa Hay must be Premium Grade or better based on USDA Hay Quality Designation Guidelines.

• Relative Feed Value (RFV) must be NLT 185, Crude Protein (CP) NLT 20% on a dry matter basis, Moisture content between 10-14%, Acid Detergent Fiber (ADF) NTE 29% on a dry matter basis, and Neutral Detergent Fiber (NDF) NTE 36% on a dry matter basis.

• No hay will be accepted, nor hay that has been rained on, is moldy, weathered, and weedy, wet, or shows poor construction. This includes hay that shows signs of storage in direct contact with floor/ground such as dirt, gravel, discoloration, moisture damage, and/or mold. Hay must be dry, leafy, be of good green color and free of insect or rodent damage.

• Composition of the hay is to be straight alfalfa. No more than 10% of high-quality grass put up at proper maturity may be permitted.

• Hay must be green with greater than fifty per cent (50%) leaves.

• Bales must be tight, solid, uniform size and construction utilizing rot-proof twine.

• Acceptable Bale sizes are 3’ X 3’ X 8’, 3’ X 4’ X 8’ or 4’ X 4’ X 8’. All bales should be of equal and uniform size.

• Contractor to submit to government Technical POC a Forage Analysis for each load of Alfalfa prior to delivery that includes RFV, CP, moisture %, ADF, and NDF. NADC submits a sample for analysis on each load of hay received for use as documentation of nutritional parameters for research project records. Based on the results of this testing, if the load does not meet the minimum requirements noted above by at least 95%, it will be subject to rejection in whole or part.

3.2.5 Specifications for Straw - Small Square Bale

• The straw shall be US Grade No. 1, wheat or oat straw in accordance with the “Handbook of Official Hay & Straw Standards”, revised effective July 1, 1949, of the United States Department of Agriculture, Production and Marketing Administration, Grain Division.

• The straw shall be satisfactorily baled with rot-proof twine. Bales that are ragged, bales shorter than 36" or longer than 48", and bales having twine of unequal tension, which makes it difficult to handle, will not be acceptable. Bales should weigh between 45 and 65 pounds each.

• The Contractor shall be responsible for unloading and stacking the straw in an area and manner as designated by the Government.

o Acceptable Alternatives with approval of Technical POC:

1-(Preferred) Delivery of bales banded in bundles of not less than 14 bales/bundle or not more than 21 bales/bundle allowing for handling with skid loader . The government will mechanically unload and stack the straw in the designated storage area at no expense to the contractor.

2) Delivery of straw on semi-trailer (enclosed or flatbed) and leave trailer for USDA personnel to use straw as needed. Trailer to be replaced with new load of straw with no less than 25 bales remaining (Contractor responsible for unloading remaining bales).

o NOTE: Any alternative method will be at NO additional cost to the government.

3.2.6 Specifications for Straw - Large Square Bale

• The straw shall be US Grade No. 1, wheat or oat straw in accordance with the “Handbook of Official Hay & Straw Standards”, revised effective July 1, 1949, of the United States Department of Agriculture, Production and Marketing Administration, Grain Division.

• Bales must be tight, solid, uniform size and construction utilizing rot-proof twine.

• Acceptable Bale sizes are 3’ X 3’ X 8’, 3’ X 4’ X 8’ or 4’ X 4’ X 8’. All bales should be of equal and uniform size.

3.3 TASK ORDER QUALITY MATCHING & VERIFICATION

3.3.1 Baseline Quality Profile: The Government will establish a Baseline Quality Profile based on the laboratory analysis of the initial successful hay delivery. This profile serves as the standard for all subsequent requirements to ensure diet consistency for research animals.

3.3.2 Task Order RFQs: When issuing a Task Order RFQ to IDIQ holders, the Government will provide the current Baseline Quality Profile (including RFV, Protein, and Moisture levels). Contractors competing for the Task Order must certify that their offered hay—whether a single cutting or a custom blend—matches the provided Baseline Quality Profile within a 5% variance.

3.3.3 Delivery Testing: The Government will pull a representative sample from every delivered load for third-party laboratory analysis. Acceptance of each load is contingent upon lab results confirming compliance with the specifications in Section 3.2 and the Baseline Quality Profile. Any load failing to match the established profile will be rejected at the Contractor’s expense and may serve as grounds for Off-Ramping per Section 1.9.

3.4 DELIVERY AND INSPECTION REQUIREMENTS

3.4.1 Place of Delivery:

USDA, ARS, MWA, NADC, 1920 Dayton Avenue, Building 14, Ames, Iowa 50010.

Deliveries shall be made during normal business hours of 7:30 a.m. through 2:30 p.m. (CT) Monday through Friday, excluding Federal holidays. The Contractor shall make deliveries within five (5) working days after receipt of a telephone or written order from an authorized Government employee. Deliveries will be made with clean vehicles/trailers not used in the transportation of livestock. The Contractor shall assure that the material conforms to the specifications in the contract prior to delivery. Upon delivery, at destination, the Government reserves the right to reject any or all parts of a shipment, if in the opinion of the Government, does not meet the requirements contained herein. It is requested that contractor provide notice of at least 48 hours prior to delivery.

3.4.2 Delivery Ticket: A delivery ticket shall accompany each order, bearing the signature of the delivering party and the Government receiving official. The Contractor shall provide the Government with certified copies of both the loaded (gross) and unloaded (tare) weigh tickets from a state-certified or DOT-certified weighing station, with the contractor’s firm name printed on the tickets. Both the empty and loaded weights shall be obtained from the same certified weighing station to ensure consistent and verifiable weight determination. The delivery ticket must also list the number of bales included in the load.

3.4.3 Deliveries: Deliveries shall be made direct from the farm to the NADC without transfer from truck to truck or through terminals and unloaded at location specified by the NADC. Partial deliveries of a minimum quantity may be requested. It will be requested that contractor call 515-337-7248 prior to delivery.

Pick-up and delivery shall not be made on Federal Holidays or Observance of Federal Holidays (New Year's Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Birthday, Washington's Birthday, Memorial Day, Juneteenth, Independence Day, Labor Day, Columbus Day, Veterans Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day). If the Monday is a Federal Holiday or the Observance of the Federal Holiday, then the delivery will be made on Tuesday of that week.

3.4.4 Inspection

The Government reserves the right to inspect the premises and origin of hay before, and at any time after the contract is consummated to assure that the hay is not being contaminated with dangerous pathogens. The Government reserves the right to make inspection of fields, barns where the hay is being stored, and the bales to determine quality and freedom from animal contaminations and also to assure that the quoter’s operations will meet conditions required.

Final inspection will be made at time of delivery to the National Animal Disease Center, and the hay must meet specifications & requirements as specified herein or it will not be accepted. It will be required that the hay not be unloaded until inspected and approved by Government personnel. After delivery, each load of hay will have a sample sent for forage analysis at the government’s expense. Based on the results of this testing, if the load does not meet the minimum specifications, it will be subject to rejection in whole or part.

3.5 FACILITY REQUIREMENTS

The following rules and regulations apply to all property at the NCAH, Ames, Iowa, under the custody of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and to all persons entering on such property.

Admission to Property: The campus is closed to the public. Admission to the facility is restricted to authorized persons and approved visitors. Upon entry, visitors:

• Will be required to present Government or other identifying credentials to the Officer at the Visitor Gate (photo driver's license, passport, or other official photo identification).

• Will be issued a visitor's badge and must always wear and display the badge while visiting the facilities.

• No Weapons or Pets of any kind are allowed on Campus to include in vehicles.

4.0 CLAUSE ADDENDUM

Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) and United States Department of Agriculture Acquisition Regulation (AGAR) Clauses and Provisions The clauses and provisions contained herein are applicable to any order awarded as a result of this solicitation. The terms and conditions set forth herein supersede all other terms and conditions. Acceptance of the order in accordance with (IAW) FAR 12.201- 1(b)(2) constitutes acceptance of all terms and conditions contained herein.

As part of the Revolutionary FAR Overhaul (RFO), system updates may lag policy updates.

The System for Award Management (SAM) may continue to require entities to complete representations based on provisions that are not included in this solicitation. Contracting officers will rely on representations from offers based on provisions in the solicitation.

Entities are not required to, nor are they able to, update their entity registration to remove these representations in SAM.

52.252-2 Clauses Incorporated by Reference Feb

This solicitation incorporates one or more clauses by reference, with the same force and effect as if they were given in full text. Upon request, the Contracting Officer will make their full text available. Also the full text of the clause may be accessed electronically at Internet address https://www.acquisition.gov/far-overhaul/far-part-deviation-guide/far-overhaul-part-52

52.212-4 Terms and Conditions—Commercial Products and Commercial Services (Nov 2025) ☐ Alternate I (Nov 2025) of 52.212-4 52.203-17 Contractor Employee Whistleblower Rights (Nov 2023) 52.203-19 Prohibition on Requiring Certain Internal Confidentiality Agreements or Statements (Jan 2017) 52.222-50 Combating Trafficking in Persons (Nov 2025)

☐ Alternate I (Nov 2025) of 52.222-50 52.226-8 Encouraging Contractor Policies to Ban Text Messaging While Driving (May 2024) 52.232-39 Unenforceability of Unauthorized Obligations (Jun 2013) 52.232-40 Providing Accelerated Payments to Small Business Subcontractors (Mar 2023) 52.233-3 Protest After Award (Sep 2025) 52.233-4 Applicable Law for Breach of Contract Claim (Sep 2025) 52.240-91 Security Prohibitions and Exclusions (Nov 2025)

☐ Alternate I (Nov 2025) of 52.240-91 52.244-6 Subcontracts for Commercial Products and Commercial Services (Nov 2025)

The following clauses are applicable if checked:

☒ 52.203-6 Restrictions on Subcontractor Sales to the Government (Jun 2020) with Alternate I (Nov 2021) of 52.203-6 ☒ 52.204-13 System for Award Management—Maintenance (Nov 2025) ☒ 52.209-6 Protecting the Government’s Interest When Subcontracting with Contractors Debarred, Suspended, or Proposed for Debarment (Sep 2025) ☒ 52.209-9 Updates of Publicly Available Information Regarding Responsibility Matters (Sep 2025) ☒ 52.209-10 Prohibition on Contracting with Inverted Domestic Corporations (Sep 2025) ☒ 52.219-6 Notice of Total Small Business Aside (Nov 2025)

☐ Alternate I (Mar 2020).

☒ 52.219-8 Utilization of Small Business Concerns (Nov 2025) ☒ 52.219-14 Limitations on Subcontracting (Nov 2025) ☒ 52.219-33 Nonmanufacturer Rule (Nov 2025) ☒ 52.222-3 Convict Labor (June 2003) ☒ 52.222-19 Child Labor—Cooperation with Authorities and Remedies (Nov 2025) ☒ 52.222-35 Equal Opportunity for Veterans (Nov 2025) https://www.acquisition.gov/far-overhaul/far-part-deviation-guide/far-overhaul-part-52

☐ Alternate I (Jul 2014) of 52.222-35 ☒ 52.222-36 Equal Opportunity for Workers with Disabilities (Nov 2025)

☐ Alternate I (Jul 2014) of 52.222-36 ☒ 52.222-37 Employment Reports on Veterans (Nov 2025) ☒ 52.222-54 Employment Eligibility Verification (Nov 2025) ☒ 52.223-23 Sustainable Products and Services ☒ 52.225-1 Buy American-Supplies (Nov 2025)

☐ Alternate I (Oct 2022) of 52.225-1 ☒ 52.232-33 Payment by Electronic Funds Transfer— System for Award Management (Oct 2018)

Other Applicable Clauses

52.216-18 Ordering (Aug 2020)

(a) Any supplies and services to be furnished under this contract shall be ordered by issuance of task orders or delivery orders by the individuals or activities designated in the Schedule. Such orders may be issued from date of award through five (5) years thereafter.

52.216-19 Delivery – Order Limitations (Oct 1995)

(a) Minimum order: $2,500.00 (This matches your guaranteed minimum).

(b) Maximum order:

(1) Any single item: $350,000.00 (Your per-order ceiling).

(2) Combination of items: $350,000.00.

(3) A series of orders from the same office within 5 days that exceed the above.

(d) Contractor notice window: 5 days (If an order is too big, they must tell you within 5 days of receipt).

52.216-22 Indefinite Quantity (Nov 2025)

(a) This is an indefinite-quantity contract for the supplies or services specified, and effective for the period stated, in the Schedule. The quantities of supplies and services specified in the Schedule are estimates only and are not purchased by this contract.

(b) Delivery or performance shall be made only as authorized by orders issued in accordance with the Ordering clause. The Contractor shall furnish to the Government, when and if ordered, the supplies or services specified in the Schedule up to and including the quantity designated in the Schedule as the "maximum." The Government shall order at least the quantity of supplies or services designated in the Schedule as the "minimum."

(c) Except for any limitations on quantities in the Order Limitations clause or in the Schedule, there is no limit on the number of orders that may be issued. The

Government may issue orders requiring delivery to multiple destinations or performance at multiple locations.

(d) Any order issued during the ordering period of this contract and not completed within that period shall be completed by the Contractor within the time specified in the order, which may include order options to be exercised after the ordering period of this contract but before the end of the period of performance of the order. The contract shall govern the Contractor's and Government's rights and obligations with respect to that order, including options exercised, to the same extent as if the order were completed during the contract's ordering period; provided, that the Contractor shall not be required to make any deliveries under this contract after six (6) months following the end of the ordering period.

(e) The Government may cancel this contract in whole or in part by providing written notice. The cancellation will take effect 30 calendar days after the contractor receives the notice of cancellation. No further orders may be issued against the contract, but orders already awarded will be completed unless a termination action is taken against the order.

(f) The Contractor may request to cancel this contract by submitting a written cancellation request to the contracting officer. The cancellation will take effect 30 calendar days after the Government receives the cancellation request, unless the contracting officer informs the contractor, before cancellation is effective, that cancellation is not approved. A contractor who requests cancellation is not eligible for the minimum guarantee. If cancelled, no further orders may be issued against the contract, but orders already awarded will be completed unless a termination action is taken against the order.

52.216-32 Task-Order and Delivery-Order Ombudsman 52.217-8 Option to Extend Services (Nov 1999) 30 calendar days prior to contract expiration 52.247-34 F.O.B. Destination (Jan 1991)

AGAR Clauses 452.203-71 Anti-Discrimination and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Compliance (Dec 2025)

(a) By entering into this contract, the Contractor certifies that:

It is compliant with all applicable Federal anti-discrimination laws and the Equal Protection principles of the U.S. Constitution, and it will remain compliant for the duration of the contract.

Neither it nor any subcontractor or teaming partner operates or funds any program, policy, or initiative that promotes DEI in a manner that violates any applicable

Federal anti-discrimination laws, including but not limited to Title VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, or the Equal Protection principles of the U.S. Constitution, and the Contractor and any subcontractor or teaming partner will not do so for the duration of the contract.

(b) If the Contractor participates in, facilitates, or funds programs that implicate Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 or Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, as amended, including but not limited to grants to or for schools, colleges, universities, 4-H programs, non-governmental organization (NGO) programs, sports programs, and education-related grants to prisons or other detention facilities, the Contractor certifies that it will remain compliant with those laws, including the requirements set forth in Executive Order 14168, Defending Women from Gender Ideology Extremism and Restoring Biological Truth to the Federal Government, and Executive Order 14173, Ending Illegal Discrimination and Restoring Merit-Based Opportunity.

(c) The Contractor affirms that the above requirements are conditions of payment that go to the essence of the contract and are therefore material terms of the contract. Payments under the contract are predicated on compliance with the above requirements, and therefore the Contractor is not eligible for funding under the contract or to retain any funding under the contract absent compliance with the above requirements.

(d) This certification reflects a change in the Government’s position regarding the materiality of the foregoing requirements and therefore any prior payment of similar claims does not reflect the materiality of the foregoing requirements to this contract.

(e) Submission of a knowing false statement relating to Contractor’s compliance with the above requirements and/or eligibility for the contract may subject the Contractor to liability under the False Claims Act, 31 U.S.C. § 3729, and/or criminal liability, including under 18 U.S.C. §§ 287 and 1001.

(f) The Contractor must include the provisions of this clause in all subcontract solicitations.

(g) Failure on the part of the Contractor or its subcontractors to comply with the terms of this clause may be grounds for the Contracting Officer to terminate this contract for default.

(End of Clause)

452.204–70 Modification for Contract Closeout (Nov 2025)

(a) If unliquidated funds in the amount of $1000 or less remain on the contract, the Contracting Officer (Contracting Officer) shall issue a unilateral modification for deobligation. The contractor will receive a copy of the modification but will not be required to provide a signature. The Contracting Officer shall immediately proceed with contract closeout upon completion of the period of performance, receipt and acceptance of supplies or services, and final payment.

(b) Upon contract closeout for contracts utilizing SAP: if unliquidated funds of more than $1000 remain on the contract, the Contracting Officer shall issue a bilateral modification for deobligation. The contractor will receive a copy of the modification and will be required to provide a signature. (The Contracting Officer may also request a “Contractor Release of Claims” be completed by the contractor, although not required for contracts and orders using SAP.) If the bilateral modification and Release of Claims are not returned to the Contracting Officer within 60 days, the Contracting Officer shall release the modification as unilateral and proceed with contract close-out upon completion of the period of performance, receipt and acceptance of supplies or services, and final payment.

(c) Upon contract closeout for contracts utilizing anything other than cost reimbursement, if unliquidated funds of more than $1000 remain on the contract, the Contracting Officer shall issue a bilateral modification for deobligation. The contractor will receive a copy of the modification and a ‘‘Contractor Release of Claims’’ and will be required to provide a signature on both forms. If the bilateral modification and Release of Claims are not returned to the Contracting Officer within 120 days, the Contracting Officer shall release the modification as unilateral and proceed with contract closeout upon completion of the period of performance, receipt and acceptance of supplies or services, and final payment.

(End of Clause)

452.211-71 Variation in Quantity (Sep 2025)

(a) A variation in the quantity of any item called for by this contract will not be accepted unless the variation has been caused by conditions of loading, shipping, or packing, or allowances in manufacturing processes, and then only to the extent, if any, specified in paragraph (b) of this clause.

(b) The permissible variation shall be an increase of 10% or a decrease of 10%. This variation shall apply to the total quantity of each individual Task Order.

(End of Clause)

(END OF CLAUSES)

52.252-1 Solicitation Provisions Incorporated by Reference Feb 1998 This solicitation incorporates one or more solicitation provisions by reference, with the same force and effect as if they were given in full text. Upon request, the Contracting Officer will make their full text available. The offeror is cautioned that the listed provisions may include blocks that must be completed by the offeror and submitted with its quotation or offer. In lieu of submitting the full text of those provisions, the offeror may identify the provision by paragraph identifier and provide the appropriate information with its quotation or offer. Also, the full text of a solicitation provision may be accessed electronically at this/these address(es): https://www.acquisition.gov/far-overhaul/far-part-deviation-guide/far-overhaul-part-52

52.212-1 Instructions to Offerors - Commercial Products and Commercial Services (Nov 2025) 52.203-18 Prohibition on Contracting with Entities that Require Certain Internal Confidentiality Agreements or Statements-Representation (Jan 2017) 52.209-2 Prohibition on Contracting with Inverted Domestic Corporations - Representation (Sep 2025) 52.209-11 Representation by Corporations Regarding Delinquent Tax Liability or a Felony Conviction under any Federal Law (Sep 2025) 52.240-90 Security Prohibitions and Exclusions Representations and Certifications (Nov 2025)

The following provisions are applicable if checked:

☒ 52.203-11 Certification and Disclosure Regarding Payments to Influence Certain Federal Transactions (Sep 2024) ☒ 52.204-7 System for Award Management—Registration (Nov 2025)

☐ Alternate I (Nov 2025) to 52.204-7 ☒ 52.207-6 Solicitation of Offers from Small Business Concerns and Small Business Teaming Arrangements or Joint Ventures (Multiple-Award Contracts) (Aug 2024) ☒ 52.225-2 Buy American Certificate (Oct 2022) ☒ 52.229-11 Tax on Certain Foreign Procurements—Notice and Representation (Jul 2025)

Other Applicable FAR Provisions

52.216-27 Single or Multiple Awards (Oct 1995) 52.225-18 Place of Manufacture (Aug 2018) 52.233-2 Service of Protest (Sep 2025)

AGAR Provisions 452.203-70 Anti-Discrimination and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Certification (Dec 2025)

(a) By submission of its offer, the offeror certifies that:

It is compliant with all applicable Federal anti-discrimination laws and the Equal Protection principles of the U.S. Constitution.

Neither it nor any proposed subcontractor or teaming partner operates or funds any program, policy, or initiative that promotes DEI in a manner that violates any applicable Federal anti-discrimination laws, including but not limited to Title VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, or the Equal Protection principles of the U.S.

Constitution.

(b) If the offeror participates in, facilitates, or funds programs that implicate Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 or Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, as amended, including but not limited to grants to or for schools, colleges, universities, 4-H programs, non-governmental organization (NGO) programs, sports programs, and education-related grants to prisons or other detention facilities, by submission of its offer, the offeror certifies that it is compliant with those laws, including the requirements set forth in Executive Order 14168, Defending Women from Gender Ideology Extremism and Restoring Biological Truth to the Federal Government, and Executive Order 14173, Ending Illegal Discrimination and Restoring Merit-Based Opportunity.

(c) The offeror affirms that the above requirements are conditions of payment that go to the essence of the contract and are therefore material terms of the contract. Payments under the contract are predicated on compliance with the above requirements, and therefore the offeror will not be eligible for funding under the contract or to retain any funding under the contract absent compliance with the above requirements.

(d) This certification reflects a change in the Government’s position regarding the materiality of the foregoing requirements and therefore any prior payment of similar claims does not reflect the materiality of the foregoing requirements to this contract.

(e) Submission of a knowing false statement relating to offeror’s compliance with the above requirements and/or eligibility for the contract may subject the offeror to liability under the False Claims Act, 31 U.S.C. § 3729, and/or criminal liability, including under 18 U.S.C. §§ 287 and 1001.

(f) Failure on the part of the offeror or its subcontractors to comply with the terms of this clause may be grounds for the Contracting Officer to terminate the contract for default.

(End of Provision)

NOTICE FOR FILING AGENCY PROTESTS

United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Ombudsman Program

The USDA is committed to issuing solicitations and awarding contracts in a fair and prompt manner. The Ombudsman Program for Agency Protests (OPAP) was established to address protest issues within the agency, providing an alternative to costly and time-consuming litigation. Operating independently, OPAP offers relief comparable to that granted by the Government Accountability Office (GAO). Interested parties are encouraged to resolve concerns through USDA’s internal Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) process before pursuing external forums such as the GAO. Concerns may be addressed informally or through a formal agency protest filed with either the Contracting Officer or the Ombudsman.

Informal Forum with the Ombudsman

1. Initial Point of Contact: Interested parties who believe a specific USDA procurement is unfair or otherwise defective should first direct their concerns to the applicable Contracting Officer.

2. Escalation: If the Contracting Officer is unable to address their concerns, interested parties are encouraged to contact the USDA Ombudsman for Agency Protests. Under this informal process, the agency is not required to suspend contract award performance. Utilization of the informal forum does not suspend any time requirement for filing a formal protest with the agency or other forums.

3. Required Information: To ensure a timely response, interested parties should provide the following information to the Ombudsman: solicitation/contract number, contracting office, Contracting Officer, and solicitation closing date (if applicable).

Formal Agency Protest with the Ombudsman

1. Effort to Resolve: Prior to submitting a formal agency protest, protesters must first use their best efforts to resolve their concerns with the Contracting Officer through open and frank discussions.

2. Independent Review: If the protester’s concerns remain unresolved, an Independent Review is available by the Ombudsman. The protester may file a formal agency protest with either the Contracting Officer or, alternatively, with the Ombudsman under the OPAP program.