2026 Elkhorn and South Wallowa Mule Deer Population Surveys

The Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife (ODFW) is conducting an Intermediate Procurement (OAR 125-047-0270) for helicopter services to perform mule deer population surveys in the Elkhorn and South Wallowa herd ranges located in Baker and Union counties. The project requires a contractor to provide up to two helicopters with experienced pilots capable of transporting three ODFW biologists to conduct aerial surveys using the SightRat methodology. Specific requirements include Robinson R44 or equivalent helicopters with minimum 245 horsepower, FAA Part 135 certification, GPS navigation, and radio communications. Pilots must possess a minimum of 1,000 total helicopter flight hours, including 100 hours of low-elevation operations. The survey will cover approximately 125 flight hours over 17 or more days between January 25, 2026, and March 20, 2026, with daily operations of 7-8 hours from sunrise through noon. Evaluation criteria will allocate 100 points across five components: Cost Sheet (15 points), References (15 points), Understanding of Requested Services (25 points), General Qualifications (30 points), and Pilot Qualifications (30 points). The proposal deadline is December 18, 2025, at 2:00 PM Pacific Time, with an anticipated Notice of Award on January 8, 2026.

The procurement includes a requirement for a Certified Disadvantaged Business Outreach Plan, encouraging proposers to identify opportunities for Oregon-certified firms in subcontracting. Proposers must complete a Responsibility Inquiry form demonstrating financial capability, contract history, and compliance with state regulations. The contract requires comprehensive insurance coverage, including Workers' Compensation, Commercial General Liability ($2,000,000 per occurrence), Automobile Liability ($1,000,000), and Aircraft Liability ($2,000,000 per occurrence), with the State of Oregon named as an Additional Insured. Liquidated damages of $500 per day may be assessed for equipment breakdowns or pilot replacement failures exceeding 48 hours. While no specific budget range is detailed, the cost sheet includes line items for mobilization, helicopter services, fuel truck services, ferry flights, and per diem, suggesting a comprehensive compensation structure. The contract term is two months, with the Agency anticipating awarding a single contract for the mule deer population survey project.