1500 Gallon Fuel Tank Fabrication and Install

The Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has issued Invitation for Bid (IFB) 25-41 for the procurement of a specialized 1,500-gallon aviation fuel tank and pump apparatus to be mounted on a DNR-provided 2025 International MV607 Extended Cab Chassis with a single back axle. This solicitation is specifically targeted at supporting the DNR Wildfire Division's Aviation program for large fire containment and wildland fire suppression operations. Bidders must be licensed to do business in Washington, registered in the state's Electronic Business Solutions (WEBS) system, and possess a minimum of 5 years of verifiable experience building vessels meeting the specified requirements. The bid will be evaluated on a best-value basis, considering compliance with specifications, worker rights, environmental considerations, and cost, with total possible points ranging from 100 to 125 and cost proposals accounting for 45 points. Electronic bid submissions are due by June 13, 2025, with an anticipated award date of June 16, 2025, and the contract period extending from execution through product delivery and warranty, with expected product delivery 150 days after chassis receipt.

The solicitation includes preferences for Washington State certified veteran-owned and small businesses, with potential 10% preference points for each category. Funding will be sourced from state dollars and is contingent upon funding availability. The procurement allows for potential set-aside advantages for veteran-owned and small businesses within Washington State, providing additional opportunities for these designated business categories. The attached exhibit includes reference photos of existing DNR fleet units, which are explicitly noted as reference materials and do not restrict vendor design approaches. While specific budget ranges are not explicitly detailed, the comprehensive nature of the solicitation suggests a significant investment in specialized firefighting equipment infrastructure. The procurement is specifically localized to Thurston County, Washington, with the contract opportunity targeted at vendors capable of meeting the precise technical specifications for this specialized aviation fuel tank and pump apparatus.