25-0027-IFB DOJ - Bureau of Investigation - Helicopter Services for DOJ Eradication and Prevention of Illicit Cannabis (EPIC) Program ¿ North Region

The California Department of Justice (DOJ), Bureau of Investigation is soliciting bids for Helicopter Services to support the Eradication and Prevention of Illicit Cannabis (EPIC) Program in the North Region. The procurement is an Invitation for Bid (IFB) Number 25-0027-IFB seeking a Bell 407 helicopter for reconnaissance and cannabis eradication operations across 24 Northern California counties. The required helicopter must be a Type 3, high skid, four-bladed, six-passenger, turbine-powered aircraft with comprehensive pilot, fuel, and maintenance support. Bid responses are due by 3:00 pm PST on April 25, 2025, with a bid opening scheduled for April 28, 2025. The contract term spans two years from July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2027, with operational periods focused on July 1 through September 30 in both 2025 and 2026. Qualification requirements include Inter-Agency inspection standards set by the United States Forest Service and Department of Interior, with aircraft and pilots requiring approval no later than May 1, 2025.

The solicitation includes a mandatory Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise (DVBE) participation requirement of at least 3% of the total contract value. Compensation will be structured as a daily availability rate plus an hourly flight rate based on the United States Forest Service National CWN/Exclusive Use Helicopter Flight Rate Chart, with projected annual flight hours estimated at 220, though this is not a guaranteed amount. The contract is subject to budget appropriations from the Budget Act and may be extended at the DOJ's discretion, with potential legislative restrictions or limitations. While specific budget ranges are not explicitly detailed, the funding is contingent on legislative appropriations. The procurement is open to qualified helicopter service providers who can meet the stringent operational, certification, and performance requirements outlined in the solicitation document. Potential bidders should carefully review the technical specifications, compliance requirements, and operational expectations before submitting their proposals to ensure full alignment with the DOJ's operational needs for cannabis eradication efforts in Northern California.