Dexter NFH Aquatic Research Building Addition

The Department of the Interior Fish and Wildlife Service anticipates solicitation and award of a firm fixed price design-build construction contract for an Aquatic Research Building Addition at Dexter National Fish Hatchery (SNARRC) in Dexter, New Mexico, with a sources-sought response deadline of September 21, 2026. This procurement is set aside for Total Small Business.

The project scope encompasses design and construction of approximately 3,400 square feet of space adjacent to the existing pre-engineered metal research building. All design and construction work must be completed within 360 calendar days after contract award. The design-build contractor is responsible for field verification of existing conditions, permitting, geotechnical studies, and surveys; as-built drawings are not guaranteed accurate. The contractor must design in compliance with the International Building Code, NFPA 101, National Electric Code, and National Plumbing Code, with exterior and interior architectural features matching the existing building. Security requirements include Facility Security Level II measures: exterior lighting at all entrances and exits, secured perimeter doors with non-removable hinges and high-security locks, and monitored emergency exits.

The addition will utilize existing utility infrastructure, including hydronic heating from the existing boiler system and power distribution from the existing transformer (contractor responsible for verification and resizing if needed). No cooling is required. Domestic water plumbing will be performed by USFWS, not the contractor. The contractor must establish a shared electronic platform for project communication and conduct bi-weekly progress meetings with USFWS. Design review occurs at 35%, 65%, 90%, and 100% completion milestones.

NAICS 236220 applies; small business size standard is $45 million. Reference 140FGA26R0039. Sources-sought responses are due August 13, 2026 at 2:00 PM EST to Samantha_LaGue@ios.doi.gov.