Bentonite Clay

The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) has issued Invitation for Bid (IFB No. 802-25-54616) for the procurement of 200 tons of Bentonite Clay for the Black Gap Wildlife Management Area. The clay must meet specific technical requirements, including particle size less than 1 micrometer, density between 2.0 to 2.7 g/cm3, and acceptable in light gray, green, reddish, or TPWD-approved equivalent colors. Delivery is required by truckload end dump to the Black Gap WMA, located 55 miles south of Marathon on FM 2627 in Brewster County, with a mandatory delivery deadline of May 1, 2025. Vendors must provide one week's notice prior to delivery and coordinate directly with the TPWD point of contact. The bid opening is scheduled for 2:00 PM on February 6, 2025, with all shipping, handling, fuel surcharges, and delivery fees to be included in the bid price, as the delivery is F.O.B. destination. Given the remote location, TPWD will not entertain separate line items for delivery.

The solicitation includes preferences for several business categories, specifically Historically Underutilized Businesses (HUB) certified by the Comptroller of Public Accounts, Texas-based bidders, goods produced in Texas, and service-disabled veteran-owned businesses. These preferences may provide competitive advantages during the evaluation process. While a specific budget range is not explicitly stated, the procurement appears to be a targeted purchase for wildlife management purposes. The comprehensive bid specifications and preference categories suggest a structured approach to vendor selection that prioritizes local and disadvantaged business participation. Potential bidders must carefully review the technical specifications and ensure complete compliance with all delivery and material requirements to be considered for award.