Side-By-Side UTV for Flathead National Forest

The United States Department of Agriculture Forest Service is seeking to procure a specialized Side-By-Side UTV for the Flathead Hotshots firefighting unit located in Hungry Horse, Montana. The vehicle is intended to serve as an advanced reconnaissance and re-supply vehicle for emergency fire incidents, with specific technical requirements including a 2-seat configuration, engine specifications between 970cc-2000cc, and robust performance capabilities for rough terrain. The solicitation (RFQ 1284LM25Q0010) requires offerors to submit both technical and price proposals, with evaluation based on technically acceptable items at the most competitive price. Quotes must be submitted via email by January 29, 2025, at 1700 MS, and all offerors must maintain an active SAM registration to be eligible. The technical proposal must comprehensively address the item description and meet the detailed specifications outlined in the attachment, which align with the 2020 Wildland Fire Off-Highway Vehicle Standard.

The contract is designated as a total small business set-aside, targeting motorcycle and vehicle parts manufacturers within NAICS category 336991. Delivery of the UTV is required by June 30, 2025, to the Flathead National Forest location in Montana. The vehicle specifications demand a complex set of capabilities, including selectable 2x4/4x4 drive, front differential locker, minimum 18" suspension travel, and a payload capacity of at least 700 lbs. While a specific award value is not explicitly stated, the procurement indicates a focused, mission-critical equipment acquisition for wildland firefighting operations. The solicitation suggests potential preference for a sole-source brand replacement to optimize cost-effectiveness for parts, transportation, and outfitting, though competitive quotes are being solicited from qualified small business vendors.