RFQ 12443926Q0054.pdf

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Aquatic non-native invasive species (NNIS) treatment services
Solicitation number
12443926Q0054
Issued by

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This is a Request for Proposal (RFP) for herbicide treatment of aquatic non-native invasive species (NNIS) on the Tell City Ranger District lakes in Southern Indiana. The solicitation number is 12443926Q0054, issued by USDA Forest Service CSA East 1, with an offer due date of May 6, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. Central Time. The contracting officer is Tobi Shumaker (812-547-9228). The contract will be delivered to the Hoosier National Forest in Bedford, Indiana.

The Government intends to award a firm fixed-price purchase order for one base year (05/15/2026 to 09/30/2027) with one one-year option period, making the total contract duration not to exceed two years. The scope involves treating Eurasian Milfoil and nuisance vegetation around boat ramps and beach areas at four lakes (Tipsaw, Saddle, Indian, and Celina) across multiple acres of aquatic vegetation and myriopteris (MYSP) treatment. Line items 0001-0008 constitute the base year requirement, while items 1001-1008 are optional for year two, with all deliverables to be completed by September 30 of each respective year. Contractors must hold pricing firm for 90 calendar days and provide pricing for all items to be considered responsive. State of Indiana (or reciprocal) licensing certification for herbicide treatment is mandatory. This is a small business set-aside (NAICS 115310, size standard $11.5 million). Award will be based on best value using four evaluation factors: past performance, experience, technical approach, and price. Offers must include the SF1449 form, Experience Questionnaire, past performance references with contact information, technical approach including operational plan and key personnel qualifications, and copies of herbicide treatment certifications for all employees and subcontractor employees.

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Other files

File Type Posted
Questions.docx DOCX document
RFQ 12443926Q0054_0001.pdf PDF
12443926Q0054_0001 SF1449.pdf PDF
12443926Q0054 SF1449.pdf PDF
Attachment 1 - Statement of Work.pdf PDF
Attachment 3 - WD 1981-1257 R71.pdf PDF
Attachment 4 - Experience Questionnaire.pdf PDF
Attachment 2 - Maps.pdf PDF

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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

ATLANTA GA 30309-2449

STE 876S

1720 PEACHTREE ST NW

USDA-FS CSA EAST 1

52B1 CODE 16. ADMINISTERED BYCODE

X

X

X

115310

SIZE STANDARD:

% FOR:SET ASIDE:UNRESTRICTED OR4439

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

05/08/2026 1300 CT

04/27/2026

812-547-9228TOBI SHUMAKER

(No collect calls)

INFORMATION CALL:

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

4. ORDER NUMBER3. AWARD/ 6. SOLICITATION

12443926Q0054

5. SOLICITATION NUMBER

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

1 16 1165394OFFEROR TO COMPLETE BLOCKS 12, 17, 23, 24, & 30

TELEPHONE NO.

17a. CONTRACTOR/

BEDFORD IN 47421

811 CONSTITUTION AVE

HOOSIER NATIONAL FOREST

15. DELIVER TO

ATLANTA GA 30309-2449

STE 876S

1720 PEACHTREE ST NW

9. ISSUED BY

7.

2. CONTRACT NO.

EFFECTIVE DATE

$11.5

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-FS CSA EAST 1

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.

Aquatic non-native invasive species (NNIS) treatment services on Tell City Ranger District lakes in Southern Indiana.

Period of Performance: 05/15/2026 to 09/30/2027 Continued ...

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

HEREIN, IS ACCEPTED AS TO ITEMS:

X

DATED

TOBI L. SHUMAKER

. 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.

0001 Tipsaw MYSP 49 AC

Product/Service Code: F006

Product/Service Description: NATURAL

RESOURCES/CONSERVATION- LAND TREATMENT PRACTICES

Delivery: 09/30/2026

0002 Tipsaw All Aquatic Veg 4 AC

Product/Service Code: F006

Product/Service Description: NATURAL

RESOURCES/CONSERVATION- LAND TREATMENT PRACTICES

Delivery: 09/30/2026

0003 Saddle MYSP 19.8 AC

Product/Service Code: F006

Product/Service Description: NATURAL

RESOURCES/CONSERVATION- LAND TREATMENT PRACTICES

Delivery: 09/30/2026

0004 Saddle All Aquatic Veg 0.3 AC

Product/Service Code: F006

Product/Service Description: NATURAL

RESOURCES/CONSERVATION- LAND TREATMENT PRACTICES

Delivery: 09/30/2026

Continued ...

32f. TELEPHONE NUMBER OF AUTHORIZED GOVERNMENT REPRESENTATIVE

32d. PRINTED NAME AND TITLE OF AUTHORIZED GOVERNMENT REPRESENTATIVE

16 2 of

ITEM NO. SUPPLIES/SERVICES QUANTITY UNIT UNIT PRICE AMOUNT

NAME OF OFFEROR OR CONTRACTOR

3 16

CONTINUATION SHEET

REFERENCE NO. OF DOCUMENT BEING CONTINUED PAGE OF

(A) (B) (C) (D) (E) (F)

12443926Q0054

0005 Indian MYSP 67.2 AC

Product/Service Code: F006

Product/Service Description: NATURAL

RESOURCES/CONSERVATION- LAND TREATMENT PRACTICES

Delivery: 09/30/2026

0006 Indian All Aquatic Veg 0.8 AC

Product/Service Code: F006

Product/Service Description: NATURAL

RESOURCES/CONSERVATION- LAND TREATMENT PRACTICES

Delivery: 09/30/2026

0007 Celina MYSP 68.8 AC

Product/Service Code: F006

Product/Service Description: NATURAL

RESOURCES/CONSERVATION- LAND TREATMENT PRACTICES

Delivery: 09/30/2026

0008 Celina All Aquatic Veg 0.3 AC

Product/Service Code: F006

Product/Service Description: NATURAL

RESOURCES/CONSERVATION- LAND TREATMENT PRACTICES

Delivery: 09/30/2026

1001 Tipsaw MYSP 49 AC

(Option Line Item)

Product/Service Code: F006

Product/Service Description: NATURAL

RESOURCES/CONSERVATION- LAND TREATMENT PRACTICES

Delivery: 09/30/2027

1002 Tipsaw All Aquatic Veg 4 AC

(Option Line Item)

Product/Service Code: F006

Product/Service Description: NATURAL

RESOURCES/CONSERVATION- LAND TREATMENT PRACTICES

Delivery: 09/30/2027

1003 Saddle MYSP 19.8 AC

(Option Line Item)

Product/Service Code: F006

Continued ...

NSN 7540-01-152-8067 OPTIONAL FORM 336 (4-86)

Sponsored by GSA

FAR (48 CFR) 53.110

ITEM NO. SUPPLIES/SERVICES QUANTITY UNIT UNIT PRICE AMOUNT

NAME OF OFFEROR OR CONTRACTOR

4 16

CONTINUATION SHEET

REFERENCE NO. OF DOCUMENT BEING CONTINUED PAGE OF

(A) (B) (C) (D) (E) (F)

12443926Q0054

Product/Service Description: NATURAL

RESOURCES/CONSERVATION- LAND TREATMENT PRACTICES

Delivery: 09/30/2027

1004 Saddle All Aquatic Veg 0.3 AC

(Option Line Item)

Product/Service Code: F006

Product/Service Description: NATURAL

RESOURCES/CONSERVATION- LAND TREATMENT PRACTICES

Delivery: 09/30/2027

1005 Indian MYSP 67.2 AC

(Option Line Item)

Product/Service Code: F006

Product/Service Description: NATURAL

RESOURCES/CONSERVATION- LAND TREATMENT PRACTICES

Delivery: 09/30/2027

1006 Indian MYSP 0.8 AC

(Option Line Item)

Product/Service Code: F006

Product/Service Description: NATURAL

RESOURCES/CONSERVATION- LAND TREATMENT PRACTICES

Delivery: 09/30/2027

1007 Celina MYSP 68.8 AC

(Option Line Item)

Product/Service Code: F006

Product/Service Description: NATURAL

RESOURCES/CONSERVATION- LAND TREATMENT PRACTICES

Delivery: 09/30/2027

1008 Celina All Aquatic Veg 0.3 AC

(Option Line Item)

Product/Service Code: F006

Product/Service Description: NATURAL

RESOURCES/CONSERVATION- LAND TREATMENT PRACTICES

Delivery: 09/30/2027

NSN 7540-01-152-8067 OPTIONAL FORM 336 (4-86)

Sponsored by GSA

FAR (48 CFR) 53.110

Herbicide treatment of Aquatic NNIS – Tell City Ranger District 12443926Q0054

Statement of Requirement Contractors will treat non-native invasive species (NNIS) for Eurasion Milfoil with additional treatment for nuisance vegetation around the boat ramps and beach areas of the lakes located on the Hoosier National Forest, Tell City Ranger District in Perry County, Indiana as described in the attachments. State of Indiana (or reciprocal) licensing certification for herbicide treatment is required.

1. Solicitation Attachments The following documents are included as attachments to this solicitation and can be accessed via the “Attachments/Links” section of the posting.

Attachment 1 - Performance Work Statement Attachment 2 – Maps Attachment 3 – Wage Determination Attachment 4 – Experience Questionnaire

2. External Website

Office of Indiana State Chemist - Pesticide Section https://oisc.purdue.edu/pesticide/index.html

Schedule of Items:

See attached SF1449. The Government intends to make one award from this solicitation. Therefore, to be considered responsive, contractors must submit pricing for all items. The Government reserves the right to award any line item at the time of award. Option years are not guaranteed and subject to the availability of funds and sustained satisfactory performance.

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 1998 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 ☐ 52.203-13 Contractor Code of Business Ethics and Conduct (Nov 2021) ☐ 52.204-9 Personal Identity Verification of Contractor Personnel Jan 2011 ☒ 52.204-13 System for Award Management—Maintenance (Nov 2025) ☐ 52.204-91 Contractor identification (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) ☐ 52.219-4 Notice of Price Evaluation Preference for HUBZone Small Business Concerns (Nov 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) ☐ 52.219-9 Small Business Subcontracting Plan (Nov 2025)

☐ Alternate III (Nov 2025) of 52.219-9.

☐ Alternate IV (Nov 2025) of 52.219-9

☐ 52.219-14 Limitations on Subcontracting (Nov 2025) ☐ 52.219-16 Liquidated Damages—Subcontracting Plan (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)

☐ 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) ☐ 52.222-40 Notification of Employee Rights Under the National Labor Relations Act (Dec 2010 ☒ 52.222-41 Service Contract Labor Standards (Aug 2018) ☒ 52.222-42 Statement of Equivalent Rates for Federal Hires (May 2014)

This Statement is for Information Only:

It is not a Wage Determination

Employee Class Monetary Wage -- Fringe Benefits

Forestry Technician $27.36 + $5.55

General Forestry Laborer 17.96 + $5.55

Nursery Specialist 16.61 + $5.55

☐ 52.222-43 Fair Labor Standards Act and Service Contract Labor Standards -- Price Adjustment (Multiple Year and Option Contracts) (Aug 2018) ☐ 52.222-44 Fair Labor Standards Act and Service Contract Labor Standards -- Price Adjustment (May 2014) ☐ 52.222-51 Exemption from Application of the Service Contract Labor Standards to Contracts for Maintenance, Calibration, or Repair of Certain Equipment-Requirements (May 2014) ☐ 52.222-53 Exemption from Application of the Service Contract Labor Standards to Contracts for Certain Services-Requirements (Nov 2025) ☐ 52.222-54 Employment Eligibility Verification (Nov 2025) ☒ 52.222-62 Paid Sick Leave Under Executive Order 13706 (Jan 2022) ☒ 52.222-90 Addressing DEI Discrimination by Federal Contractors (Apr 2026) ☐ 52.223-2 Reporting of Biobased Products Under Service and Construction Contracts (Nov 2025) ☐ 52.223-9 Estimate of Percentage of Recovered Material Content for EPA-Designated Items (May 2008)

☐ Alternate I (May 2008) of 52.223-9 ☐ 52.223-11 Ozone-Depleting Substances and High Global Warming Potential Hydrofluorocarbons (Nov 2025) ☐ 52.223-12 Maintenance, Service, Repair, or Disposal of Refrigeration Equipment and Air Conditioners (Nov 2025) ☒ 52.223-23 Sustainable Products and Services (Nov 2025) ☐ 52.224-3 Privacy Training (Jan 2017)

☐ Alternate I (Jan 2017) of 52.224-3 ☐ 52.225-1 Buy American-Supplies (Nov 2025)

☐ Alternate I (Oct 2022) of 52.225-1 ☐ 52.225-3 Buy American--Free Trade Agreements--Israeli Trade Act (Nov 2025)

☐ Alternate II (Nov 2025) of 52.225-3.

☐ Alternate III (Nov 2025) of 52.225-3.

☐ Alternate IV (Oct 2022) of 52.225-3

☐ 52.225-5 Trade Agreements (Nov 2023) ☐ 52.225-19 Contractor Personnel in a Designated Operational Area or Supporting a Diplomatic or Consular Mission outside the United States (May 2020) ☐ 52.225-26 Contractors Performing Private Security Functions Outside the United States (Oct 2016) ☐ 52.226-4 Notice of Disaster or Emergency Area Set-Aside (Nov 2007) ☐ 52.226-5 Restrictions on Subcontracting Outside Disaster or Emergency Area (Aug 2025) ☐ 52.229-12 Tax on Certain Foreign Procurements ☐ 52.232-29 Terms for Financing of Purchases of Commercial Products and Commercial Services (Nov 2021) ☐ 52.232-30 Installment Payments for Commercial Products and Commercial Services (Nov 2021) ☒ 52.232-33 Payment by Electronic Funds Transfer— System for Award Management (Oct 2018) ☐ 52.232-34 Payment by Electronic Funds Transfer—Other Than System for Award Management (Jul 2013) ☐ 52.232-36 Payment by Third Party (Nov 2025) ☐ 52.237-2 Protection of Government Buildings, Equipment, and Vegetation (Apr 1984) ☐ 52.237-3 Continuity of Services (Jan 1991) ☐ 52.240-92 Security Requirements (Nov 2025) ☐ 52.240-93 Basic Safeguarding of Covered Contractor Information Systems (No 2025) ☐ 52.247-64 Preference for Privately Owned U.S.-Flag Commercial Vessels (Nov 2025)

☐ Alternate I (Apr 2023) of 52.247-64.

☐ Alternate II (Nov 2021) of 52.247-64

Other Applicable Clauses

52.217-6 Option for Increased Quantity (Mar 1989) 52.217-8 Option to Extend Services (Nov 1999) 30 calendar days prior to contract expiration 52.217-9 Option to Extend the Term of the Contract (Mar 2000)

(a) 30 Calendar days prior to contract expiration and 60 days

(c) five years.

52.245-1 Government Property (Sep 2021) ☐ Alternate I (Sep 2021) of 52.245-1 52.245-9 Use and Charges

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:

(1) 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.

(2) 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 (Apr 2026)

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

(b) For commercial contracts not exceeding the simplified acquisition procedure threshold under FAR 12.001(c), if more than $1,000 in unliquidated funds remain at closeout, the Contracting Officer will issue a bilateral deobligation modification. Only the modification requires the contractor’s signature, though a Release of Claims may be requested. If the required documents are not returned within 60 days, the Contracting Officer will issue a unilateral modification and proceed with closeout once performance is complete, acceptance is confirmed, and final payment is made.

(c) For all other non-commercial or non–cost‑reimbursement contracts, if more than $1,000 in unliquidated funds remain at closeout, the Contracting Officer will issue a bilateral deobligation modification and a Release of Claims, both requiring contractor signature. If these documents are not returned within 120 days, the Contracting Officer will issue a unilateral modification u and proceed with closeout upon completion of performance, acceptance, and final payment.

(End of Clause)

Solicitation Information

Award Type

It is anticipated that a firm fixed price purchase order consisting of one (1) base year and one (1) one-year option period will be awarded as a result of this synopsis/solicitation. The total duration of this contract shall not exceed two (2) years.

The Government intends to make one award from this solicitation. Therefore, to be considered responsive, contractors must submit pricing for all items. The Government reserves the right to award any line item at the time of award. Option years are not guaranteed and subject to the availability of funds and sustained satisfactory performance.

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. Past Performance

2. Experience

3. Technical Approach

4. Price

Factor 1. Past Performance This includes quality of service, customer satisfaction, business relations, and timeliness/responsiveness. The offeror shall provide specific information about recent contracts of similar nature performed within the past three years and provide the names, addresses and phone numbers of three references who can confirm the past performance of the offeror’s firm.

Include the following information:

Agency/company name, contact point (individual) and phone number.

Period of performance of the contract Dollar value of the contract Description of the project and relevancy to this contract Was the contract completed within the contract time allowed? If not, explain.

Factor 2. Experience The offeror shall identify the experience or qualifications your company and key personnel have had in the past three years doing similar projects. Provide the name and phone number of contact person(s) for each project listed, such as the COR for government contracts or the field representative for private work. Specifically identify a foreman that you will provide for the performance of this contract. Provide information about his/her experience and knowledge of reforestation practices. Also, list the names and experience of other personnel to be used during this contract.

Provide sufficient information so that the evaluators may contact anyone that can verify these experiences. All proposals will be evaluated based on the ability of contractor’s staff, identified to participate in the project, on the following criteria:

Demonstrated knowledge and experience in treatment techniques and identification of non-native invasive plant species as specified by the Statement of Work.

Demonstration of access to (or ability to purchase) necessary equipment to treat invasives at the intensities identified in the Statement of Work.

Demonstrated experience in identification of native plants species, in order to prevent off-target damage during treatments.

Demonstrated experience treating and identifying non-native invasive plants of the Central Hardwoods Region.

Demonstrated use and knowledge of using GPS or other equipment to ensure treatments do not occur across ownership boundaries.

Submitted proposed workplan describing planned timings of treatments and reasoning.

Factor 3. Technical Approach The Government will evaluate the offeror’s ability to provide a sound, compliant approach that demonstrates a thorough understanding of the Statement of Work (SOW). To be considered responsive, quotations must include:

Operational Plan: A detailed explanation of how SOW requirements will be met on schedule, specifically including crew size, production rates, and strategies for working around flooding seasons.

Key Personnel: Experience and qualifications of proposed staff over the past three years on similar projects, including all required certifications and licenses.

1) Personnel: Provide the list of employees who will work on the project, and documentation to substantiate the requisite certification and licensing(s) and their training/experience with identifying and working around state-listed rare plants.

2) Failure to submit employees’ training/experience in native plant identification and experience working around rare plants will be deemed as nonresponsive.

Subcontractors (If Applicable): Qualifications, certification and licensing(s), training/experience, and level of effort. If subcontractors will work without direct oversight, a dedicated Safety Plan and Quality Control Plan must be provided for them.

Safety Plan

**FAILURE TO SUBMIT EMPLOYEE(S) AND SUBCONTRACTOR EMPLOYEE(S) STATE

OF INDIANA (OR RECIPROCAL) LICENSING CERTIFICATION FOR HEBICIDE

TREATMENT WILL RESULT IN THE PROPOSAL BEING DEEMED AS NONRESPONSIVE.

OFFEROR AND SUBCONTRACTOR(S) SHOULD SUBMIT A COPY OF EACH EMPLOYEE

CERTIFICATE**

Factor 4. Price Offerors must submit pricing using the attached SF1449.

Scope: Pricing must be provided for the base period and all option periods. Failure to price individual line items may result in disqualification.

Total Evaluated Price: For evaluation purposes, the Government will include the base period, all option periods, and a potential six-month extension under FAR 52.217-8. The extension will be calculated using the rates from the final option period.

Fairness: Prices will be evaluated per FAR 12.204 to ensure they are fair and reasonable.

Evaluation Method:

The Government intends to evaluate quotations using aௗcomparative evaluationௗmethodology. This means quotations will be compared against one another to determine which provides theௗbest valueௗto the Government, based on the evaluation factors outlined in this solicitation.

The Government may consider quotations thatௗexceed minimum requirementsௗand offerௗadditional value or benefits, even if they are not the lowest priced. However,ௗformal tradeoff procedures will not be conducted.

(b) Options (if applicable). The Government will evaluate offers for award purposes by adding the total price for all options to the total price for the basic requirement. The Government may determine that an offer is unacceptable if the option prices are significantly unbalanced. The evaluation of options does not obligate the Government to exercise the option(s).

(c) Notice of award. A written notice of award or acceptance of an offer furnished to the successful Offeror within the time for acceptance specified in the offer, shall result in a binding contract without further action by either party. Before the offer’s specified expiration time, the Government may accept an offer (or part of an offer), whether or not there are negotiations after its receipt, unless a written notice of withdrawal is received before award.

(End of provision)

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) FAR 52.212-1 is amended as follows:

To be considered responsive offer must include:

1. Completed and signed SF1449 and amendments if applicable

2. Attachment 5 - Experience Questionnaire or equivalent

3. Past Performance

4. Technical Approach

5. Copies of State Of Indiana (Or Reciprocal) Licensing Certification For Herbicide.

Period for acceptance of offers.

The Offeror agrees to hold the prices in its offer firm for 90 calendar days from the date specified for receipt of offers.

Questions:

Questions shall be submitted via email to tobi.shumaker@usda.gov and are due no later than NLT 5/6/2026 by 1:00 p.m. Central Time. This will ensure enough time to respond before the solicitation period ends. Please include the solicitation name and number as the subject line of the email.

Submit offers to Tobi Shumaker at tobi.underwood@usda.gov NLT 5/6/2026 by 1:00 p.m Central Time. Documents must be submitted in Word, Excel, or .pdf format.

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)

TobiShumaker Highlight

☒ 52.204-7 System for Award Management—Registration (Nov 2025) ☐ Alternate I (Nov 2025) to 52.204-7

☐ 52.204-90 Offeror Identification (Nov 2025) ☐ 52.207-6 Solicitation of Offers from Small Business Concerns and Small Business Teaming Arrangements or Joint Ventures (Multiple-Award Contracts) (Aug 2024) ☐ 52.209-12 Certification Regarding Tax Matters (Oct 2025) ☐ 52.219-2 Equal Low Bids (Nov 2025) ☐ 52.222-18 Certification Regarding Knowledge of Child Labor for Listed End Products (Feb 2021) ☐ 52.222-48 Exemption from Application of the Service Contract Labor Standards for Maintenance, Calibration, or Repair of Certain Equipment–Certification (Nov 2025) ☐ 52.222-52 Exemption from Application of the Service Contract Labor Standards for Certain Services-Certification (Nov 2025) ☐ 52.222-56 Certification Regarding Trafficking in Persons Compliance Plan (Oct 2020) ☐ 52.223-4 Recovered Material Certification (May 2008) ☐ 52.225-2 Buy American Certificate (Oct 2022) ☐ 52.225-4 Buy American-Free Trade Agreements-Israeli Trade Act Certificate (Nov 2025) ☐ 52.225-6 Trade Agreements-Certificate (Feb 2021) ☐ 52.226-3 Disaster or Emergency Area Representation (Nov 2007) ☐ 52.229-11 Tax on Certain Foreign Procurements—Notice and Representation (Jul 2025)

Other Applicable FAR Provisions

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:

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

(4) 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. Contract awards or performance will be suspended during the protest period unless justified in writing for urgent and compelling reasons or determined in writing to be in the best interest of the Government.

3. Resolution Timeline: The agency’s goal is to resolve protests within 35 calendar days from the date of filing.

4. Required Information: Protests shall include the information set forth in FAR 33.104(a)(3).

Failure to submit the required information may result in a delay or dismissal of the protest.

5. Timeliness: Protests must be filed within the timeframes specified in FAR 33.104.

6. Submission: Formal protests under the OPAP program should be submitted electronically to SPE.inquiry@usda.gov and the Contracting Officer.

Election of Forum. By initiating a protest with the USDA, the protester agrees not to pursue the same matter with the Government Accountability Office (GAO) or any other external forum while the agency protest is pending. If a protest is filed externally, the agency protest will be dismissed.

File details come from the government source that posted it. Updated .