AGR-Land and Water-White Farm Seed Fertilizer

The Illinois Department of Agriculture is seeking a contractor to provide seed fertilizer, agricultural chemicals, and application services for the Henry White Research Farm located in Millstadt, St. Clair County. The procurement involves comprehensive agricultural inputs including MAP/DAP fertilizers, potash, zinc, boron, sulfur, nitrogen products, AG lime, and corn and soybean chemical programs across 37.5 acres. Vendor requirements include being located within 25 miles of the farm, providing services within 24 hours of notice, and meeting specific operational constraints related to rural farm conditions. The contract is structured as a small purchase with sole source conditions, with a posting date of February 28, 2025, and a response deadline of March 4, 2025. Key deliverables include precise application of fertilizers and chemicals according to the Illinois Department of Agriculture's specifications, with multiple potential application scenarios throughout the contract period. Evaluation criteria appear to focus on geographic proximity, responsiveness, and ability to meet unique farm location and operational needs.

The procurement includes a Small Business Set-Aside Program Waiver, effectively exempting the standard small business participation requirements due to the unique geographical and operational constraints of the farm. No specific disadvantaged enterprise requirements are explicitly outlined in the documentation. The total contract value is estimated at $22,478.21, with an initial one-year term and a maximum potential contract duration of ten years. The contract prohibits subcontractors and requires comprehensive insurance coverage, with the State to be named as an additional insured. Vendor qualifications include proximity to the farm, ability to respond quickly, and capability to handle specialized agricultural inputs. Funding appears to be state-sourced, with standard provisions for appropriation availability and potential termination with 30 days' notice. The contract includes standard state procurement provisions such as minority contractor initiatives and prevailing wage requirements.