CalSim Model Development and Application

The California Department of Water Resources (DWR), Division of Modeling Support Office, is requesting Statements of Qualifications from qualified engineering firms to develop, enhance, and apply CalSim modeling tools supporting Central Valley Project and State Water Project system operations, with SOQs due September 15, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. and a mandatory virtual pre-SOQ conference on August 31, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. DWR encourages participation by Small Business, Microbusiness, and Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise entities.

The work encompasses development and enhancement of CalSim 3, CalLite, CalSimHydro, CS3RimInflow, and the CalSim 3 Historical Hydrology Model; improvement and application of the WRIMS simulation engine; modeling water use for agriculture, urban, and refuge needs; and simulating streamflow and surface runoff from rim watersheds and valley floor areas. Contractors must also support calibration and validation of CalSim 3 surface and groundwater hydrology.

This solicitation may result in up to twelve multiple awards — a maximum of three contracts for each of four Specific Areas of Development: System Operation, CalSim Hydrology Development, Groundwater Model and Data Development, and Water Resource Integrated Modeling System and Processing Tools. For each area, the three most qualified firms will be designated as primary, first backup, and second backup contractors. The estimated contract value ranges from $1,000,000 to $10,000,000 over an initial three-year term (December 3, 2026 through December 2, 2029) with options for up to two one-year amendments. Pricing will be negotiated based on true and actual cost with a fixed profit rate, published escalation rates, and subcontractor markups established by DWR.

SOQs scoring at least 70 percent of total possible points will be invited to interview. Firms must disclose any use of Generative Artificial Intelligence in completing deliverables; failure to disclose may result in disqualification. All submitted materials become State property and will not be returned, except non-selected firms' brochures, which may be retrieved after award.