25-0004-IFB - DOJ - Bureau of Investigation - Helicopter Services for DOJ Eradication and Prevention of Illicit Cannabis (EPIC) Program - South Region

The California Department of Justice (DOJ) Bureau of Investigation has issued Invitation for Bid #25-0004-IFB for helicopter services supporting the Eradication and Prevention of Illicit Cannabis (EPIC) Program in the South Region. The procurement seeks one Bell 407 helicopter with comprehensive support, including a pilot, fuel, and maintenance capabilities for reconnaissance missions across ten Southern California counties, including San Luis Obispo. The helicopter must be fully equipped for Human External Cargo operations and meet U.S. Forest Service and Department of Interior inspection standards. The contract term spans two years, from July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2027, with designated EPIC season operations running 90 continuous days each year (July 1-September 30) in both 2025 and 2026. The bid submission deadline is March 19, 2025, at 3:00 PM PST, with bid opening scheduled for March 20, 2025. Pricing will be structured with a daily availability rate and hourly flight rates based on the U.S. Forest Service National CWN/Exclusive Use Helicopter Flight Rate Chart.

The solicitation includes a mandatory 3% Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise (DVBE) participation requirement, with potential additional incentives for participation above 3.25%. A $10,000 payment withhold will be applied until DVBE certification requirements are met. Contractors must provide fuel service trucks and technicians to accompany the EPIC team during operational periods. Funding for the contract is subject to availability through the Budget Act of the appropriate fiscal year. The comprehensive service requirements suggest that qualified vendors must have significant aviation infrastructure, including a well-maintained Bell 407 helicopter, experienced pilots, maintenance capabilities, and the ability to support extended field operations across multiple Southern California counties. While specific budget ranges are not explicitly stated, the detailed operational requirements and two-year contract term indicate a substantial procurement opportunity for qualified aviation service providers with specialized capabilities in law enforcement support and cannabis eradication efforts.