Community Garden Management Services at Anderson Farm County Park

Dane County, Wisconsin is seeking a contractor to provide Community Garden Management Services at Anderson Farm County Park through a Request for Proposal (RFP-2025-RFP-047) released on September 9, 2025. The procurement involves managing a 37-acre community garden site with comprehensive responsibilities including plot administration, maintenance, community engagement, and potential utilization of an on-site house. Key deliverables include enforcing garden rules, maintaining infrastructure, engaging underserved communities (with a specific focus on Hmong growers), and developing agricultural education opportunities. A vendor conference is scheduled for September 25, 2025, with proposal responses due by October 22, 2025. The anticipated contract term spans from January 1, 2026, through December 31, 2030, with potential annual renewals. Evaluation criteria will assess organizational qualifications, operational plans, community engagement strategies, fundraising potential, and cost, with additional preference points allocated to local vendors. Proposals must demonstrate the ability to manage complex garden operations, including plot allocation, infrastructure maintenance, and community programming.

The RFP does not explicitly specify set-aside designations for disadvantaged enterprises, but does emphasize community engagement and local vendor preference. The contractor must maintain $1 million in liability insurance and comply with Dane County's sustainability principles and non-discrimination requirements. The initial budget is estimated at up to $25,000 for the first 12-month period, with subsequent funding contingent on performance and budget availability. While no incumbent vendor is mentioned, the opportunity includes existing infrastructure such as raised garden beds, mowed access roads, parking areas, tool storage, wash pack shed, and a potential on-site house. The maps provided with the RFP indicate significant site complexity, including potential stormwater management areas and varied topographical features. Successful contractors will need to demonstrate significant agricultural management expertise, strong community engagement skills, and the ability to develop a sustainable, inclusive community garden program that serves diverse agricultural interests.