UOM-IFB-2025-3301 Fertilizer.pdf

UOM-IFB-2025-3301 Page 1 of 16

University of Montana

INVITATION FOR BID (IFB)

(THIS IS NOT AN ORDER)

IFB Number: UOM-IFB-2025-3301

IFB Title: Spread Fertilizer Service

IFB Due Date and Time: March 24th, 2025, 2:00pm, MST

ISSUING AGENCY INFORMATION

Chris Newlon, Procurement Officer Email: chris.newlon@mso.umt.edu

Issue Date: March 10, 2025

Procurement Services

Lommasson Center 236 Missoula, Montana 59812-2304

Website: https://spb.mt.gov/eMACS-Resources

INSTRUCTIONS TO BIDDERS

The State of Montana has a new vendor registration and bids/proposals system (eMACS). This system provides vendor registration and electronic bid notification to all registered vendors. Please visit https://spb.mt.gov/eMACS-Resources to register and to learn more about the new system!

FOB: UNIVERSITY OF MONTANA

CENTRAL RECEIVING

MISSOULA MT 59812

BIDDERS MUST COMPLETE THE FOLLOWING

Payment Terms: Net 30 days Delivery Date:

Bidder Name/Address/Phone Number:

Authorized Bidder Signatory:

(Please print name and sign)

Bidder Federal I.D./Social Security Number:

Bidder E-mail Address:

https://spb.mt.gov/eMACS-Resources https://spb.mt.gov/eMACS-Resources

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INSTRUCTIONS TO VENDOR

The above COVER SHEET must be filled out and attached.

The COVER SHEET must be signed and attached to your response. Bidder's bid must be signed by an individual authorized to legally bind the offeror. The Bidder's signature guarantees that the bid has been established without collusion. Bidder shall provide proof of authority of the person signing the IFB upon the University's request.

Questions related to this bid should be asked on or before March 14, 2025 through the eMACS Q&A Board.

Please be sure you certify and submit your bid when it is completed. If you need assistance with the bidding software or to verify your bid has been completely submitted, please contact the eMACS help-desk at 1-406-444-2575 or via email at emacs@mt.gov

(The rest of this page left intentionally blank) mailto:emacs@mt.gov

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UNIVERSITY OF MONTANA STANDARD TERMS AND CONDITIONS

By submitting a response to this invitation for bid, request for proposal, limited solicitation, or acceptance of a contract or purchase order, the vendor agrees to acceptance of the following Standard Terms and Conditions and any other provisions that are specific to this solicitation, contract, or purchase order.

BIDS/PROPOSALS/SOLICITATIONS:

1. ACCEPTANCE/REJECTION OF BIDS, PROPOSALS, OR LIMITED SOLICITATION RESPONSES: The University reserves the right to accept or reject any or all bids, proposals, or limited solicitation responses, wholly or in part, and to make awards in any manner deemed in the best interest of the University. Bids, proposals, and limited solicitation responses will be firm for 30 days, unless stated otherwise in the text of the invitation for bid, request for proposal, or limited solicitation.

2. ALTERATION OF SOLICITATION DOCUMENT: In the event of inconsistencies or contradictions between language contained in the University’s solicitation document and a vendor’s response, the language contained in the University’s original solicitation document will prevail. Intentional manipulation and/or alteration of solicitation document language will result in the vendor’s disqualification and possible debarment.

3. DEBARMENT: The Contractor certifies, by submitting this bid or proposal, that neither it nor its principals are presently debarred, suspended, proposed for debarment, declared ineligible, or voluntarily excluded from participation in this transaction (contract) by any governmental department or agency. If the Contractor cannot certify this statement, attach a written explanation for review by the University.

4. FAILURE TO HONOR BID/PROPOSAL: If a bidder/offeror to whom a contract is awarded refuses to accept the award

(PO/contract) or fails to deliver in accordance with the contract terms and conditions, the department may, in its discretion, suspend the bidder/offeror for a period of time from entering into any contracts with the University of Montana.

5. LATE BIDS AND PROPOSALS: Regardless of cause, late bids and proposals will not be accepted and will automatically be disqualified from further consideration.

6. RECIPROCAL PREFERENCE: The University of Montana applies a reciprocal preference against a vendor submitting a bid from a state or country that grants a residency preference to its resident businesses. A reciprocal preference is only applied to an invitation for bid for supplies or an invitation for bid for non-construction services for public works as defined in section 18-2-401(9), MCA, and then only if federal funds are not involved. For a list of states that grant resident preference, see https://spb.mt.gov/Vendor-Resources/Preferences .

7. SOLICITATION DOCUMENT EXAMINATION: Vendors shall promptly notify the University of any ambiguity, inconsistency, or error which they may discover upon examination of a solicitation document.

PURCHASE ORDERS/CONTRACTS:

8. ACCESS AND RETENTION OF RECORDS: The Contractor agrees to provide the department, Legislative Auditor, or their authorized agents, access to any records necessary to determine contract compliance. (Section 18-1-118, MCA).

The Contractor agrees to create and retain records supporting the services rendered or supplies delivered for a period of eight years after either the completion date of the contract or the conclusion of any claim, litigation, or exception relating to the contract taken by the University of Montana or third party.

9. ASSIGNMENT, TRANSFER AND SUBCONTRACTING: The Contractor shall not assign, transfer or subcontract any portion of the contract without the express written consent of the department. (Section 18-4-141, MCA.)

10. AUTHORITY: The attached bid, request for proposal, limited solicitation, contract, or purchase order is issued under authority of Title 18, Montana Code Annotated, and the Administrative Rules of Montana, Title 2, chapter 5.

https://spb.mt.gov/Vendor-Resources/Preferences

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11. CHANGES IN WORK or INCREASE IN CONTRACT/PURCHASE ORDER AMOUNT: Prior approval must be obtained in the form of a contract addendum or purchase order adjustment from University Procurement Services. A request by the Contractor or the University Department representative shall be accompanied by an itemized statement, which details all costs that would be incurred to effect the change. Contractor shall provide a complete statement of all actual costs to be incurred for each requested change. This information will be approved by the University Department and sent to the University of Montana Procurement Services for the contract addendum to be signed by both parties and/or the purchase order to be adjusted.

12. COMPLIANCE WITH LAWS: Contractor shall, in performance of work under this Contract, fully comply with all applicable federal, state, or local laws, rules, regulations, and executive orders including but not limited to, the Montana Human Rights Act, the Equal Pay Act of 1963, the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Age Discrimination Act of 1975, the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. Contractor is the employer for the purpose of providing healthcare benefits and paying any applicable penalties, fees and taxes under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act [P.l. 111-148, 124 Stat. 119]. Any subletting or subcontracting by Contractor subjects subcontractors to the same provisions. In accordance with 49-3-207, MCA, and Executive Order No. 04-2016 Contractor agrees that the hiring of persons to perform this Contract will be made on the basis of merit and qualifications and there will be no discrimination based on race, color, sex, pregnancy, childbirth or medical conditions related to pregnancy or childbirth, political or religious affiliation or ideas, culture, creed, social origin or condition, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, military service or veteran status, or marital status by the persons performing this Contract.

13. COMPLIANCE WITH WORKERS' COMPENSATION ACT: Contractor shall comply with the provisions of the Montana

Workers' Compensation Act while performing work for the University in accordance with 39-71-401, 39-71-405, and 39- 71-417, MCA. Proof of compliance must be in the form of workers' compensation insurance, an independent contractor's exemption, or documentation of corporate officer status. Neither Contractor nor its employees are University employees. This insurance/exemption must be valid for the entire contract term and any renewal. Upon expiration, a renewal document must be sent to the University of Montana, Procurement Services, 32 Campus Drive, Missoula, MT 59812-2304.

14. CONFIDENTIALITY: Contractor agrees that information not generally known to the public to which the Contractor has been or will be exposed as a result of the Contractor’s work with and for the University is confidential information that belongs to the University. This includes information developed by the Contractor, alone or with others, or entrusted to the University by its customers or others. The University’s confidential information includes, without limitation, information relating to the University’s trade secrets, know-how, procedures, purchasing, accounting, marketing, sales, customers, distributors, and employees. Contractor will hold the University’s confidential information in strict confidence and will not disclose or use it except as authorized by the University for the University’s benefit. Contractor also acknowledges and agrees not to disclose, and has not been asked to disclose, confidential information learned from prior individuals or companies. The confidentiality provision of this agreement shall survive after the Contractor’s services to the University ends, regardless of the reason it ends, and shall be enforceable regardless of any claim the Contractor may have against the University.

15. CONFORMANCE WITH CONTRACT: No alteration of the terms, conditions, delivery, price, quality, quantities, or specifications of the contract shall be granted without University Procurement Services prior written consent. Product or services provided that do not conform to the contract terms, conditions, and specifications may be rejected and returned at the Contractor’s expense.

16. CONTRACTOR: The Contractor is an independent contractor or a business providing services for the University of

Montana. Neither the Contractor nor any of his employees are employees of the University of Montana or any agency or division thereof, nor will they be considered employees of the University of Montana under any subsequent amendment to the contract or purchase order unless otherwise expressed.

17. DISABILITY ACCOMMODATIONS: The University does not discriminate on the basis of disability in admission to, access to, or operations of its programs, services, or activities. Individuals who need aids, alternative document formats, or services for effective communications or other disability related accommodations in the programs and services offered are invited to make their needs and preferences known to this office. Interested parties should provide as much advance notice as possible.

18. FORCE MAJEURE: Neither party is responsible for failure to fulfill its obligations due to causes beyond its reasonable control that make the contract impossible, impracticable, or frustrate the purpose of the contract, including but not

UOM-IFB-2025-3301 Page 5 of 16 limited to: acts or omissions of government or military authority; acts of God; government or court orders, guidelines, regulations or actions related to communicable diseases, epidemics, pandemics, or other dangers to public health;

materials shortages; transportation delays; fires; floods; labor disturbances; riots; wars; terrorist acts; or any other causes, directly or indirectly beyond the reasonable control of the nonperforming party, so long as such party uses its best efforts to remedy such failure or delays if reasonable to do so. A party affected by a force majeure condition shall provide written notice to the other party within a reasonable time of the onset of the condition. A force majeure condition excuses a party’s obligations under this contract, unless the parties mutually agree that the obligation is merely suspended because of the condition.

19. HOLD HARMLESS/INDEMNIFICATION: The Contractor agrees to protect, defend, and save the University, its elected and appointed officials, agents, and employees, while acting within the scope of their duties as such, harmless from and against all claims, demands, causes of action of any kind or character, including the cost of defense thereof, arising in favor of the Contractor's employees or third parties on account of bodily or personal injuries, death, or damage to property arising out of services performed or omissions of services or in any way resulting from the acts or omissions of the Contractor and/or its agents, employees, representatives, assigns, subcontractors, except the sole negligence of the University, under this agreement

20. INVOICES: Except where stipulated otherwise on the purchase order, address all invoices to:

Accounts Payable 32 Campus Drive Missoula, MT 59812-2304 or send via email to montana.invoices@trustflowds.com. Invoices sent via email must meet these requirements:

a. All invoices must reference the purchase order number.

b. All invoices must have a unique invoice number – 15 max. characters and a number is preferred.

c. All invoices may state their remittance address.

d. All invoices must be PDF attachments with scan image quality of at least 300dpi.

e. UM will accept multiple PDF attachments in a single email.

- Each invoice must be a single PDF.

- One PDF equals one invoice.

- UM will not accept multiple invoices within the same PDF attachment.

f. Do not send correspondence to montana.invoices@trustflowds.com as any text or additional information in the email will be discarded.

21. PAYMENT TERM: All payment terms will be computed from the date of delivery of supplies or services OR receipt of a properly executed invoice, whichever is later. Unless otherwise noted in the solicitation document, the University is allowed 30 days to pay such invoices.(See section 17-8-242 MCA). Vendors that utilize the University's electronic payment method will maintain a preferred vendor status with the University of Montana. Vendors can select from one of the following payment terms to state on your invoice:

a. Accounts Payable Direct Program (ePayables), https://www.umt.edu/business-services/employees/services/accounts-payable/ap-direct-program.php

b. NET 30

22. REDUCTION OF FUNDING: The University must terminate this contract if funds are not appropriated or otherwise made available to support the University's continuation of performance in a subsequent fiscal period. (See section 18-

4-313(4), MCA.)

23. REFERENCE TO PURCHASE ORDER: The purchase order number MUST appear on all invoices, packing lists, packages, and correspondence pertaining to the contract. If the number is not provided, the University is not obligated to pay the invoice.

24. REGISTRATION WITH THE SECRETARY OF STATE: Any business intending to transact business in Montana must register with the Secretary of State. Businesses that are incorporated in another state or country, but which are conducting activity in Montana, must determine whether they are transacting business in Montana in accordance with mailto:montana.invoices@trustflowds.com mailto:montana.invoices@edmgroup.com http://www.umt.edu/bussrvcs/Employees/Services/Accounts%20Payable/AP%20Direct%20Program.aspx https://www.umt.edu/business-services/employees/services/accounts-payable/ap-direct-program.php https://www.umt.edu/business-services/employees/services/accounts-payable/ap-direct-program.php

UOM-IFB-2025-3301 Page 6 of 16 sections 35-1-1026 and 35-8-1001, MCA. Such businesses may want to obtain the guidance of their attorney or accountant to determine whether their activity is considered transacting business.

If businesses determine that they are transacting business in Montana, they must register with the Secretary of State and obtain a certificate of authority to demonstrate that they are in good standing in Montana. To obtain registration materials, call the Office of the Secretary of State at (406) 444-3665, or visit their website at http://sos.mt.gov.

If you are conducting business under your own full legal name, you do not need to register with the Secretary of State.

25. SEVERABILITY CLAUSE: A declaration by any court, or any other binding legal source, that any provision of the contract is illegal and void shall not affect the legality and enforceability of any other provision of the contract, unless the provisions are mutually dependent.

26. SHIPPING: Supplies shall be shipped prepaid, F.O.B. Destination, unless the contract specifies otherwise.

27. SUBCONTRACTS: The Contractor may not transfer, assign or subcontract this contract or resulting purchase order or any interest therein without the express written approval of the University of Montana. In the event a subcontract is authorized by the University, the Contractor will inset in any subcontract the clauses set forth in this contract and also a clause requiring the subcontractors to include these clauses in any lower tier subcontracts which they may enter into together with a clause requiring this insertion in any further subcontracts that may in turn be made.

28. TAX EXEMPTION: The University is exempt from Federal Excise Taxes (#81-6001713 ).

29. TECHNOLOGY ACCESS FOR BLIND OR VISUALLY IMPAIRED: Contractor acknowledges that no University funds may be expended for the purchase of information technology equipment and software for use by employees, program participants, or members of the public unless it provides blind or visually impaired individuals with access, including interactive use of the equipment and services, that is equivalent to that provided to individuals who are not blind or visually impaired. (18-5-603, MCA.). In addition, Contractor acknowledges that such information technology equipment and software will provide equal and effective access to all individuals in accordance with federal and state laws and regulations, including, but not limited to the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and Section 508 of the 1973 Rehabilitation Act. Contractor must meet the accessibility standards of WCAG 2.0 Level AA for web-based technology and Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act for other Electronic Information Technology; and warrants that any technology provided complies with these standards and any applicable current federal and state disability laws.

30. TERMINATION OF CONTRACT: Unless otherwise stated, the University may, by written notice to the Contractor, terminate the contract in whole or in part at any time the Contractor fails to perform the contract.

31. U.S. FUNDS: All prices and payments must be in U.S. dollars.

32. VENUE: This solicitation/bid/proposal/contract/purchase order is governed by the laws of Montana. The parties agree that any litigation concerning this solicitation/bid/proposal/contract/purchase order must be brought in the District Court for Missoula County, State of Montana, and each party shall pay its own costs and attorney fees. (Section 18-1-401, MCA.)

33. WARRANTIES (NON-INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY): The Contractor warrants that the products offered conform to the specifications requested, are fit and sufficient for the purpose manufactured, are of good material and workmanship, and are free from defect. The Contractor further warrants that the products are new and unused and of the latest model or manufacture, unless the University specifies otherwise. Exceptions will be rejected.

34. WARRANTY FOR INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY SERVICES: The Contractor warrants that it performs all services using reasonable care and skill and according to its current description (including any completion criteria) contained in this contract. University agrees to provide timely written notice of any failure to comply with this warranty so that the Contractor can take corrective action.

35. WARRANTY FOR SOFTWARE: For a period of ninety (90) days from the date of receipt of software, the Contractor warrants that: (i) the unmodified software will provide the features and functions, and will otherwise conform to all published documentation including on the Contractor's website; and (ii) the media upon which the software is furnished will be free from defects in materials and workmanship under normal use and service.

http://sos.mt.gov/

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36. WARRANTY FOR INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY HARDWARE: The Contractor warrants that hardware provided is free from defects in materials and workmanship and conforms to the specifications. The warranty period for provided hardware is a fixed period commencing on the date specified in a statement of work or applicable contract. If the hardware does not function as warranted during the warranty period and the Contractor is unable to either: i) make it do so; or ii) replace it with one that is at least functionally equivalent, University may return it to the Contractor for a full refund.

37. WARRANTIES (INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY SPECIFIC)

The parties agree that the warranties set forth above do not require uninterrupted or error-free operation of hardware or services unless otherwise stated in the specifications.

These warranties are the University’s exclusive warranties and replace all other warranties or conditions, express or implied, including, but not limited to, the implied warranties or conditions of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose.

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ACCEPTANCE OF STANDARD TERMS AND CONDITIONS

By submitting a bid to this IFB, the bidder accepts the University’s standard terms and conditions. Much of the language included in the standard terms and conditions and contract reflects requirements of Montana law.

Bidders requesting additions or exceptions to the University’s standard terms and conditions, shall submit them as an attachment to the procurement officer in a WORD document. A request must be accompanied by an explanation why the exception is being sought and what specific effect it will have on the bidder's ability to perform the contract.

The University shall identify and determine if any revisions to the standard terms and conditions and contract language can be negotiated to the low bidder. If the terms are not accepted by the low bidder, the low bidder may withdraw their bid.

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GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

INTRODUCTION

University of Montana, College of Forestry and Conservation (hereinafter referred to as “University”) is soliciting bids for spreading fertilizer. A more complete description of the supplies and/or services sought is provided under “Specifications and Pricing Schedule” of this IFB. Bids submitted in response to this solicitation must comply with the instructions and procedures contained herein.

CONTRACT TERM

The contract term is for a period of one year beginning upon contract execution and ending one year after the execution date. Renewals of the contract, by mutual agreement of both parties, may be made at one-year intervals, or any interval that is advantageous to the University. The contract resulting from this bid, including any renewals, may not exceed a total of seven years, at the option of the University.

INSTRUCTIONS TO BIDDERS

Procurement Officer Contact Information. Contact information for the procurement officer is as follows:

Procurement Officer: Chris Newlon Address: Lommasson Center 236, 32 Campus Drive, Missoula, MT 59812-2304 E-mail Address: chris.newlon@mso.umt.edu

Examination of Solicitation Documents and Explanation to Bidders. Bidders are responsible for examining the solicitation documents and any addenda issued to become informed as to all conditions that might in any way affect the cost or performance of any work. Failure to do so will be at the sole risk of the bidder. Should the bidder find discrepancies in or omissions from the solicitation documents, or should their intent or meaning appear unclear or ambiguous, or should any other question arise relative to the solicitation documents, the bidder shall promptly notify the procurement officer in writing. The bidder making such request will be solely responsible for its timely receipt by the procurement officer. Replies to such notices may be made in the form of an addendum to the solicitation.

Interpretation or Representations. University assumes no responsibility for any interpretation or representations made by any of its officers or agents unless interpretations or representations are incorporated into a formal written addendum to the solicitation.

Acknowledgment of Addendum. If the IFB is amended, then all terms and conditions which are not modified remain unchanged. It is the bidder's responsibility to keep informed of any changes to the solicitation. Bids that fail to include an Acknowledgment of Addendum through the eMAC system or returning the addendum with their bid may be considered nonresponsive.

Extension of Prices. In the case of error in the extension of prices in the bid, the unit price will govern. In a lot bid, the lot price will govern.

Bid Preparation Costs. The costs for developing and delivering responses to this IFB are entirely the responsibility of the bidder. University is not liable for any expense incurred by the bidder in the preparation and presentation of their bid or any other costs incurred by the bidder prior to execution of a purchase order or contract.

FORM OF QUESTIONS

Bidders having questions or requiring clarification or interpretation of any documents within this IFB must address these issues in writing using the State of Montana’s EMAC system at http://bids.mt.gov/ to the procurement officer referenced above on or before March 14th, 2025, 2:00PM MST. Bidders are to submit questions using the Vendor IFB Question and Answer section in the EMAC system at http://bids.mt.gov/ for this IFB. Clear reference to the section, page, and item in question must be included in the offeror’s questions. Questions received after the deadline may not be considered.

mailto:chris.newlon@mso.umt.edu http://bids.mt.gov/

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UNIVERSITY’S RESPONSE

The University will provide a written response by March 18th, 2025, 2:00PM MST to all questions received by March 14th, 2025, 2:00PM MST. The University's response may be by a written addendum or an answer in the EMAC Question and Answer section of the EMAC system by the close of business on the date listed. A prerequisite on the State of Montana’s EMAC system may be required to confirm you have read the EMAC Question and Answer section at http://bids.mt.gov/ for this IFB. Any other form of interpretation, correction, or change to this IFB will not be binding upon the University.

BID SUBMISSION

Bids must be completed in the eMAC system prior to 2:00pm, MST, March 24th, 2025. Bidders must follow this “Instructions to Vendor” under the “Prerequisite Content” in the State of Montana eMAC system. Bidder must attach documents when directed by the “Instructions to Vendor”. Bid pages must be consecutively numbered.

Late Bids. Regardless of cause, late bids will not be accepted and will automatically be disqualified from further consideration.

Bidder’s Signature on Cover Page. The solicitation must be signed by an individual authorized to legally bind the business submitting the bid. The bidder’s signature on a bid in response to this IFB guarantees that the offer has been established without collusion and without effort to preclude the University of Montana from obtaining the best possible supply or service.

Offer in Effect for 120 Days. Offeror agrees that it may not modify, withdraw, or cancel its proposal for a 120-day period following the IFB due date, or receipt of best and final offer, if required.

CHANGE OR WITHDRAWAL OF BIDS

Change AFTER Bid Has Closed But Prior to Bid Award. After bids are closed and vendors have posted their bid, they may not be changed except to correct patently obvious mistakes and minor variations as allowed by ARM

2.5.505. The bidder shall submit verification of the correct bid to the University prior to the final award by the University.

BID AWARDS

Basis for Award. Bid award, if made, will be to the responsive and responsible bidder who offers the lowest cost to the University in accordance with the specifications set forth in the invitation for bid. The University reserves the right to accept or reject any or all bids, wholly or in part, and to award to multiple vendors, if necessary, if deemed in the best interest of the University.

Rejection of Bids. While the University has every intention to award a contract as a result of this IFB, issuance of the IFB in no way constitutes a commitment by the University of Montana to award and execute a contract. Upon a determination such actions would be in its best interest, the University, in its sole discretion, reserves the right to:

• Cancel or terminate this IFB (18-4-307, MCA);

• Waive any undesirable, inconsequential, or inconsistent provisions of this IFB which would not have significant impact on any bid (ARM 2.5.505); or

• If awarded, terminate any contract if the University determines adequate funds are not available (18-4-313, MCA)

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SPECIAL TERMS AND CONDITIONS

COMPLIANCE WITH WORKERS’ COMPENSATION ACT

Contractors are required to comply with the provisions of the Montana Workers' Compensation Act while performing work for the University of Montana in accordance with the sections 39-71-401, 39-71-405, and 39-71-417, MCA. Proof of compliance must be in the form of workers' compensation insurance, an independent contractor exemption, or documentation of corporate officer status. Neither the Contractor nor its employees are employees of the University. This insurance/exemption must be valid for the entire term of the contract. A renewal document must be sent to the University of Montana, Procurement Services, 32 Campus Drive, Missoula, MT 59812-2304, upon expiration.

REQUIRED INSURANCE

General Requirements: The Contractor shall maintain for the duration of the contract, at its cost and expense, insurance against claims for injuries to persons or damages to property, including contractual liability, which may arise from or in connection with the performance of the work by the Contractor, agents, employees, representatives, assigns, or subcontractors. This insurance shall cover such claims as may be caused by any negligent act or omission.

Primary Insurance: The Contractor's insurance coverage shall be primary insurance as respect to the University, its officers, officials, employees, and volunteers and shall apply separately to each project or location. Any insurance or self-insurance maintained by the University, its officers, officials, employees or volunteers shall be in excess of the Contractor's insurance and shall not contribute with it.

Specific Requirements for Commercial General Liability: The Contractor shall purchase and maintain occurrence coverage with combined single limits for bodily injury, personal injury, and property damage of $1,000,000 per occurrence and $2,000,000 aggregate per year to cover such claims as may be caused by any act, omission, or negligence of the Contractor or its officers, agents, representatives, assigns or subcontractors.

The University, its officers, officials, employees, and volunteers are to be covered and listed as additional insureds; for liability arising out of activities performed by or on behalf of the Contractor, including the insured's general supervision of the Contractor; products, and completed operations; premises owned, leased, occupied, or used.

Deductibles and Self-Insured Retentions: Any deductible or self-insured retention must be declared to and approved by the University. At the request of the University either: (1) the insurer shall reduce or eliminate such deductibles or self-insured retentions as respects the University, its officers, officials, employees, and volunteers; or (2) at the expense of the Contractor, the Contractor shall procure a bond guaranteeing payment of losses and related investigations, claims administration, and defense expenses.

Certificate of Insurance/Endorsements: A certificate of insurance from an insurer with a Best's rating of no less than A- indicating compliance with the required coverages must be received by the University of Montana, Procurement Services, Lommasson Center 236, 32 Campus Drive, Missoula, Montana 59812-2304. Endorsement No. or documentation must be provided for Additional Insured Status. This insurance must be maintained for the duration of the contract. The Contractor must notify the University immediately, of any material change in insurance coverage, such as changes in limits, coverage, change in status of policy, etc. The University reserves the right to require complete copies of insurance policies at all times.

PREVAILING WAGE REQUIREMENTS

Montana Resident Preference. The nature of the work performed, or services provided, under this contract meets the statutory definition of a "public works contract" in section 18-2-401, MCA. Unless superseded by federal law, Montana law requires that contractors and subcontractors give preference to the employment of Montana residents for any public works contract in excess of $25,000 for construction or non-construction services in accordance with sections 18-2-401 through 18-2-432, MCA, and all administrative rules adopted in relation to these statutes.

Unless superseded by federal law, each contractor shall ensure that at least 50% of a contractor's workers performing labor on a construction project are bona fide Montana residents.

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The Commissioner of the Montana Department of Labor and Industry has established the resident requirements in accordance with sections 18-2-403 and 18-2-409, MCA. Any and all questions concerning prevailing wage and Montana resident issues should be directed to the Montana Department of Labor and Industry.

Standard Prevailing Rate of Wages. In addition, unless superseded by federal law, all employees working on a public works contract shall be paid prevailing wage rates in accordance with sections 18-2-401 through 18-2-432, MCA, and all associated administrative rules. Montana law requires that all public works contracts, as defined in section 18-2- 401, MCA, in which the total cost of the contract is in excess of $25,000, contain a provision stating for each job classification the standard prevailing wage rate, including fringe benefits, travel, per diem, and zone pay that the contractors, subcontractors, and employers shall pay during the public works contract.

The standard prevailing rate of wages paid to workers under this contract must be adjusted 12 months after the date of the award of the public works contract per section 18-2-417, MCA. The amount of the adjustment must be a 3% increase.

The adjustment must be made and applied every 12 months for the term of the contract. This adjustment is the sole responsibility of contractor and no cost adjustment in this contract will be allowed to fulfill this requirement.

Notice of Wages and Benefits. Furthermore, 18-2-406, MCA, requires that all contractors, subcontractors, and employers who are performing work or providing services under a public works contract post in a prominent and accessible site on the project staging area or work area, no later than the first day of work and continuing for the entire duration of the contract, a legible statement of all wages and fringe benefits to be paid to the employees in compliance with 18-2-423, MCA.

Wage Rates, Pay Schedule, and Records. All contractors and employers shall classify each employee who performs labor on a public works project according to the applicable standard prevailing rate of wages for such craft, classification, or type of employee established by the Commissioner of the Montana Department of Labor and Industry, and shall pay each such employee a rate of wages not less than the standard prevailing rate as specified in the Montana Prevailing Wages Rates for Non Construction Services 2023, effective January 14, 2025.

COOPERATIVE PURCHASING

Under Montana law, public procurement units, as defined in 18-4-401, MCA, have the option of cooperatively purchasing with State of Montana. Public procurement units are defined as local or state public procurement units of this or any other state, including an agency of the United States, or a tribal procurement unit. Unless the bidder/offeror objects, in writing, to the University of Montana prior to the award of this contract, the prices, terms, and conditions of this contract will be offered to these public procurement units. However, The University of Montana makes no guarantee of any public procurement unit participation in this contract.

TRANSITION ASSISTANCE

If this contract is not renewed at the end of this term, if the contract is otherwise terminated before project completion, or if particular work on a project is terminated for any reason, Contractor shall provide transition assistance for a reasonable, mutually agreed period of time after the expiration or termination of this contract or particular work under this contract.

The purpose of this assistance is to allow for the expired or terminated portion of the services to continue without interruption or adverse effect, and to facilitate the orderly transfer of such services to the University or its designees. The parties agree that such transition assistance is governed by the terms and conditions of this contract, except for those terms or conditions that do not reasonably apply to such transition assistance. The University shall pay Contractor for any resources utilized in performing such transition assistance at the most contract current rates. If the University terminates a project or this contract for cause, then the University may offset the cost of paying Contractor for the additional resources Contractor utilized in providing transition assistance with any damages the University may have sustained as a result of Contractor’s breach.

CONTRACT TERMINATION

Termination for Convenience. The University may, by written notice to Contractor, terminate this contract without cause and without incurring liability to Contractor. The University shall give notice of termination to Contractor at least thirty (30) days before the effective date of termination. The University shall pay Contractor only that amount, or prorated portion thereof, owed to Contractor up to the date the University's termination takes effect. This is Contractor's sole remedy. The University shall not be liable to Contractor for any other payments or damages arising from termination under this section, including but not limited to general, special, or consequential damages such as lost profits or revenues.

UOM-IFB-2025-3301 Page 13 of 16

Termination for Cause with Notice to Cure Requirement. Contractor may terminate this contract for the University’s failure to perform any of its duties under this contract after giving the University written notice of the failure.

The written notice must demand performance of the stated failure within a specified period of time of not less than 30 days. If the demanded performance is not completed within the specified period, the termination is effective at the end of the specified period.

Reduction of Funding. The University must by law terminate this contract if funds are not appropriated or otherwise made available to support the University's continuation of performance of this contract in a subsequent fiscal period. (18-4-313(4), MCA.)

UOM-IFB-2025-3301 Page 14 of 16

SERVICE SPECIFICATIONS

SERVICE SPECIFICATIONS:

Various fertilizer blends spread of four different fields on the Bandy Ranch. Date to spread fertilizer is from TBD to May 30, 2025.

Performance Location: The University of Montana, Bandy Ranch, 2381 Woodworth Rd, Ovando, MT.

PRICES

Taxes, Shipping, and Invoicing. The prices herein specified, unless otherwise expressly stated, shall exclude all taxes and duties of any kind which either party is required to pay with respect to the sale of products covered by this IFB, but shall include all charges and expenses in connection with the packing of the products and their carriage to the place of delivery to the University unless specifically excluded. Bid prices shall include any and all transportation costs.

The Contractor shall be paid, except as otherwise stated in this IFB, upon submission of a proper invoice, the prices stipulated herein for products, and/or services delivered to and accepted at the specified University location(s).

Fixed Price Contract. All prices are fixed for the duration of the contract and are not subject to escalation for any cause. Payment of the total fixed bid price shall constitute full payment for performance of the work and covers all costs of whatever nature incurred by the Contractor in accomplishing the work in accordance with the provisions of the contract.

ALL-OR-NONE AWARD

Awards will be made on an all-or-none basis. Failure of a bidder to provide prices for all line items listed on the Schedule may be cause for rejection of the entire bid. However, a bidder may enter "No Cost" in the unit price and extended amount columns to indicate that the item is being offered at "No Cost."

SPECIFICATIONS AND PRICING SCHEDULE

ITEM

NO.

FIELD NAME

ACRES

ANALYSIS

RATE

(Pounds per acre)

PRICE

1.

West half of pivot, Grass

65-0-30-10

212#/ac

2.

North East Pivot, Grass alfalfa

35-0-20-10

130#/ac

3.

South East Pivot, Grass alfalfa

55-0-20-10

174#/ac

4.

North Field, Grass

50-0-10-10

147#/ac

Overall Total: $ _________

UOM-IFB-2025-3301 Page 15 of 16

BID QUALIFICATION CRITERIA

The requested information listed below in this section must be submitted as an attachment by the IFB closing date.

A. REFERENCES: Bidder shall provide as a vendor attachment in the eMAC system a minimum of three professional references that are services of the type proposed in this IFB. At a minimum, the bidder shall provide the company name, the location where the services were provided, contact person(s), customer’s telephone number, e-mail address, and a complete description of the service type, and dates the services were provided. These references may be contacted to verity bidder’s ability to perform the contract. The University reserves the right to use any information or additional references deemed necessary to establish the ability of the bidder to perform the conditions of the contract.

Negative references may be grounds for bid disqualification.

B. RESUMES/COMPANY PROFILE AND EXPERIENCE: Bidder shall specify how long the individual/company submitting a bid has been in the business of providing services similar to those requested in this IFB and under what company name. Bidder should provide a complete description of any relevant past projects, including the service type and dates the services were provided. A resume or summary of qualifications, work experience, education, skills, etc., which emphasizes previous experience in this area should be provided for all key personnel who will be involved with any aspects of the contract.

C. ABILITY TO MEET PROJECT GOALS: Bidder shall provide information as to its ability to meet the project goals above with examples as a vendor attachment in the eMAC system. Bidder shall provide a work plan and the methods to be used that will convincingly demonstrate to the University what the bidder intends to do; the timeframes necessary to accomplish the work; and how the work will be accomplished to meet the contract requirements as specifically detailed above in the project goals.

D. MANDATORY TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS: Bidder shall provide information as to its ability to meet the mandatory requirements listed below under Specifications and Pricing Schedule.

E. FIRE ARM FREEDOM ACT created by House Bill No. 0356. By entering into this bid, you agree to be bound by the

Montana Firearms Freedom Act, Title 30, Chapter 20, of the Montana Code Annotated. At no point during the term of this bid or after will you engage in practices, policies, guidance, or directives that discriminate against a firearm entity or firearm trade association, as defined under Montana law. The University of Montana retains the legal right to terminate this bid and any agreement if you are found to be in violation of this clause.

No, I do not agree.

Statement of Compliance with Fire Arms Freedom Act. Offerors indicating it will comply if terms are applicable with HB No. 0356 and the Fire Arms Freedom Act will be scored. Offerors who do not comply will not be scored or considered for business. Offerors are required to sign and upload a PDF copy of this certification with their proposal to certify compliance.

Yes, I agree and will comply if applicable the requirements in House Bill No. 0356 and the Montana

Firearms Freedom Act.

Company Name (Clearly Printed):

Authorized Signature:

Date:

UOM-IFB-2025-3301 Page 16 of 16

IFB CHECKLIST

Have you remembered to:

BID SUBMISSION BY the State of Montana’s EMAC system at http://bids.mt.gov :

➢ Check the State of Montana’s EMAC website for the latest addendum to the IFB

➢ View all Prerequisites and certify that you have read the prerequisites.

➢ Attach all required Vendor Attachments.

➢ Fill out and Sign the bid’s cover sheet.

➢ Carefully review the "Standard Terms and Conditions"

➢ Carefully review all listed requirements to ensure compliance with the IFB

➢ Bid F.O.B. Destination (Ship To: Address) Freight Prepaid

➢ Attach all required Bid Qualification Criteria if applicable.