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The Mississippi Department of Marine Resources is requesting bids for oyster spat-on-cultch production and deployment services in support of public oyster reef restoration in the Mississippi Sound, with bids due October 13, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. The contract requires delivery of a minimum of 200,000,000 qualifying spat-on-cultch oysters deployed onto state-owned reefs across a minimum of 4,000 cubic yards at a required density of 30,000 to 80,000 qualifying spat per cubic yard. Oysters must average 5mm or larger and be produced using broodstock sourced from Mississippi Sound waters.

Bidders must meet documented minimum qualifications in oyster hatchery operations, remote setting, or spat-on-cultch production; cultch material access and processing capability; equipment and logistical capacity for deployment; ability to source broodstock from Mississippi Sound waters; and provision of two professional references. MDMR staff must have on-site access for inspection and verification at all phases, with a minimum of two MDMR staff present at every deployment. Contractors must be registered in Mississippi's MAGIC system prior to submission.

The contract commences on the date of execution and remains in effect for two years, with possible extension at MDMR's sole discretion under the same pricing, terms, and conditions. The contract is partially funded by a grant from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and GOMESA, requiring compliance with all applicable federal laws and regulations. Payment will be made within 45 days of receipt of an approved invoice, based only on qualifying product delivered at each deployment.

Insurance requirements include workers' compensation coverage and general liability insurance with a minimum aggregate of $1,000,000. No bonds are required. Questions are due September 22, 2026, with answers posted by September 23, 2026. Award is anticipated for October 15, 2026, subject to Public Procurement Review Board approval if necessary. MDMR will award to the lowest responsive, responsible bidder meeting all specifications.