Compact Excavator

The USDA Forest Service, Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, Entiat Ranger District, is procuring a compact excavator under a "Brand Name or Equal" solicitation. The agency seeks a Kubota U17 Compact Excavator (or equivalent) with a Kubota D902-E4 engine, along with optional attachments including a thumb, tilt coupler, and 18" toothed bucket. Vendors must have active registration in the System for Award Management (SAM) and submit current representations and certifications. The evaluation will consider four factors: salient characteristics of the excavator, service and repair capabilities, past performance, and price. The solicitation closing date has been extended as referenced in SAM, with quotes originally due by 1:00 PM on July 10, 2025, and vendors must demonstrate that any "equal" products meet the specified salient characteristics outlined in the solicitation's Attachment 1.

This procurement is designated as a total small business set-aside under NAICS code 333120 (Construction Machinery Manufacturing) with a small business size standard of 1,250 employees. The contract will be awarded as a firm-fixed-price purchase order with delivery required to the Entiat Ranger District in Entiat, Washington. The solicitation has undergone two amendments clarifying that the tilt coupler, 18" grading bucket, and 18" toothed bucket are optional items in the Schedule of Items rather than required components. While specific award values are not disclosed, the procurement represents a straightforward equipment purchase for a single compact excavator unit with optional attachments. The government is seeking the best value offer that meets the specified requirements for this earth moving and excavating equipment acquisition.