Benthic Biology Services - IFB 10120243

The California Department of Water Resources (DWR) is soliciting bids for Benthic Biology Services through Invitation for Bid (IFB) No. 10120243, seeking a qualified contractor to perform taxonomic identification and enumeration of macrobenthic samples from the upper San Francisco Estuary. The primary objective is to support Water Right Decision 1641 compliance through scientific analysis of biological samples. The contract requires a contractor with substantial experience, originally stipulating at least 5 years of experience analyzing benthic samples from the Upper Estuary, though this requirement was later modified in Addendum 1. Key deliverables include detailed taxonomic identification and quantitative enumeration of macrobenthic samples, with an estimated 580 samples in the first year and 630 samples in subsequent years. The procurement timeline includes several critical dates: technical questions were due by May 11, 2016, answers were provided by May 18, 2016, bids were due by May 27, 2016 at 3:00 PM, with a bid opening scheduled for June 1, 2016, and an anticipated contract start in July 2016. The contract term is three years, with potential for a one-year renewal under the same terms.

The solicitation includes provisions for small business and disabled veteran business enterprise (DVBE) participation, offering potential incentives for bidders. Small businesses can receive a 5% preference if certified or if they subcontract 25% to certified small businesses. DVBE subcontractors can be utilized for up to a 5% incentive calculation, though DVBE requirements are waived for this procurement. Bidders must complete various compliance forms, including the Bid Checklist, Bidder Certification Sheet, Bidder References, and potentially the Darfur Contracting Act Certification. Upon award, the contractor will be required to submit additional documentation such as Contractor Certification Clauses, Payee Data Record, Certificates of Insurance, and Key Employee Policies acknowledgment. While specific budget details are not explicitly stated, the procurement is structured with per-sample unit pricing, suggesting a flexible compensation model based on the volume of samples processed. The work is to be performed at the contractor's facility, indicating that no specific on-site infrastructure or technology integration is required.