Almond Hulling & Shelling Services IFB# S22021605

The California Prison Industry Authority (CALPIA) has issued Invitation for Bid (IFB) No. S22021605 for Almond Hulling & Shelling Services at the Central California Women's Facility and Valley State Prison, located in Madera County. The procurement covers agricultural services for a total of 502 acres, with specific requirements for transportation, hulling, shelling, and fumigation of almonds. The contractor must provide four sets of double almond trailers, process approximately 1 million pounds of almonds annually, and complete all hulling and shelling by December 1 of each harvest year. Key qualifications include demonstrating five years of relevant experience and providing three references from similar projects completed within the last three years. Bidders must submit detailed pricing per pound for transportation, storage, hulling, and shelling services, with additional rates for dry storage, fumigation, and cold storage. The bid is due by May 17, 2016, at 3:00 PM, with an anticipated contract start date of July 1, 2016. The contract term is two years, with an option to extend for one additional year, and CALPIA reserves the right to increase the contract amount by up to 30% of the original value.

No specific set-aside designations or preferences for small businesses, disabled veteran businesses, or other enterprise types are mentioned in the solicitation. The contractor is prohibited from subcontracting more than 50% of the contract dollar amount. Contractors must adhere to strict security provisions when working in CDCR facilities, including mandatory gate clearance procedures, TB testing, and specific clothing restrictions. Additionally, contractors are subject to comprehensive security protocols, such as equipment tracking, work area maintenance, and prohibitions on bringing certain items onto facility grounds. While the exact budget range is not explicitly stated, the contract involves processing approximately 1 million pounds of almonds annually across 502 acres. The award will be made on a best value basis, considering factors such as cost, performance, and experience. Contractors must also maintain a minimum of $1,000,000 in liability insurance and comply with various state and federal regulations regarding labor, non-discrimination, and workplace policies.