2026 Elk and Sheep Helicopter Capture

The South Dakota Department of Game, Fish and Parks is seeking a qualified vendor to provide aerial wildlife helicopter capture services in the Black Hills region for the 2026 wildlife management season. The Request for Proposal (RFP) requires a contractor to capture approximately 40 bighorn sheep and 60 adult female elk between January 1 and March 31, 2026, using specialized helicopter-based techniques. Contractors must have extensive wildlife capture experience, with a minimum of 1,000 flight hours, and demonstrate expertise in darting and immobilizing animals, equipping them with GPS radio collars, collecting biological samples, and recording comprehensive capture data. The solicitation requires detailed pricing for each captured animal, ferry hours, fuel truck mileage, and crew expenses, with strict compliance to federal aviation regulations and specific capture protocols including the BAM sedation protocol. Key proposal submission details include an August 25, 2025 due date, with an anticipated award decision and contract negotiation scheduled for September 12, 2025. Contractors must provide comprehensive insurance coverage, including commercial general liability, professional liability, and business automobile liability insurance.

The RFP does not explicitly mention specific set-aside designations or restrictions for disadvantaged enterprises. Contractors must independently obtain necessary landowner permissions and follow strict age and sex selection criteria for captured animals, with no state staff permitted in the aircraft during captures. The total contract amount will not exceed $150,000, representing a moderate-sized procurement for specialized wildlife management services. Successful vendors must provide certified pilots, appropriate equipment, and demonstrate a proven track record in wildlife capture operations. The contract requires precise execution of capture methodologies, with a focus on minimizing animal stress and ensuring scientific data collection integrity. No information is provided about incumbent vendors or existing technological infrastructure that would require integration. Potential bidders are encouraged to email inquiries to Andrew Norton at andrew.norton@state.sd.us with the subject line "RFP #25RFP16064" for any clarification of requirements prior to the proposal submission deadline.