Bear Hair DNA Project

The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) is pursuing a sole source contract with Wildlife Genetics International, Inc. (WGI) for a multi-year black bear monitoring project designed to estimate annual bear population densities and support wildlife management. The project involves collecting bear hair samples using baited hair snares across multiple Washington counties, with WGI responsible for genetic extraction, analysis, and long-term storage of samples. Key deliverables include processing approximately 1,570 viable samples over two years, providing annual written reports and Excel files containing genetic analysis results, and maintaining a comprehensive database of bear DNA extractions. The contract is scheduled to run from August 1, 2025, to June 30, 2027, with potential extensions for up to six years total. Evaluation criteria include the contractor's ability to demonstrate expertise in DNA extraction, blind testing capabilities, external laboratory inspection credentials, and comparative sample reports of bear hair DNA analysis. The procurement timeline requires potential contractors to submit a capability statement within ten working days of the July 8, 2025 posting, with a final contract award anticipated on or after August 1, 2025.

The procurement is a sole source contract with no specific set-aside designations or restrictions on organizational types. WDFW selected WGI after conducting extensive market research, determining they are the only commercial provider with the necessary specialized genetic services for this project. The contract has a total value of $110,000, with a maximum of $70,000 per year, and includes a per-sample reimbursement rate of $44.65 broken down into handling ($2.00), DNA extraction ($7.15), and microsatellite genotyping ($35.50) fees. WGI was chosen based on their unique qualifications, including over 200 completed black bear studies, a client list of 24 US wildlife management agencies, and a proprietary DNA sample library that ensures research continuity. The agency compared WGI's pricing with the University of Idaho's genetics lab and found WGI to be significantly more cost-effective, with a per-sample rate $57 lower than the alternative. The contract will be funded entirely through state sources and is critical for maintaining the integrity of ongoing black bear population research in Washington State.