Notice of Intent to Negotiate a Sole Source Contract

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), Agricultural Research Service (ARS), US Meat Animal Research Center in Clay Center, NE intends to negotiate a sole source contract with Folken Feed Yards, located in Leigh, NE for a Food Safety Microbiology Study. Several Food Safety Microbiology studies involving feedlot cattle require the presence of certain microbes. After numerous surveys of the USMARC feedlot some of these microbial species were consistently absent and it was determined that these studies could not be conducted at the USMARC feedlot. Surveys were conducted at nearby feedlot operated by commercial entities. It was found that of the feedlots sampled, the Folken Feed Yard had the correct microflora for the studies to be successful. These unique specifications create the need to negotiate a sole source award for the procurement action described above.

This is a notice of intent and is not a request for competitive quotations or proposals. No solicitation is available. Firms that believe they can provide equal or superior products are encouraged to identify themselves and provide a substantive statement with descriptive literature and any other supporting information to the Contracting Officer within 10 days of publication of this notice. All information received within 10 days of publication of this notice will be considered by the Government to determine if more than one firm can meet the Government's requirements and is capable of providing equal or superior services. All responses must be in writing and should be emailed to donita.furman@ars.usda.gov. Questions concerning this acquisition must be directed to Donita Furman at the above contact information.