DFW-2018-018 Canopy Bee Surveys at Muddy Brook WMA

The Commonwealth of Massachusetts, through the Division of Fisheries and Wildlife (DFW), is seeking proposals for a project to conduct canopy bee surveys at the Muddy Brook Wildlife Management Area in Hardwick, Massachusetts, located in Worcester County. The objectives are to quantify the vertical distribution and temporal patterns of bee species in the forest canopy, forest floor, and control areas. The project will utilize 10 previously established control sites, deploying paired flight intercept traps at each site - one in the canopy (>15m) and one at ground level (0.5m). Trapping will be continuous from spring through early October, with samples collected every three weeks. All collected bees will be identified to the lowest taxonomic level possible. The project is expected to be completed by December 31, 2018, with work through June 30, 2018 to be invoiced by July 15, 2018 and work after that date to be invoiced prior to June 30, 2019. Proposals are due by February 20, 2018 at 2:00 pm through the Commonwealth's online procurement system, CommBuys, and questions must be received by February 14, 2018.

The procurement has a maximum obligation of an unspecified amount, funded through DFW's appropriations. There is no indication of any set-asides or incumbent contractor. Bidders must complete and submit various Commonwealth forms, including a Contractor Authorized Signatory Listing, Prompt Pay Discount Form, and Revenue Enforcement and Protection (REAP) Certification. The proposals will be evaluated based on the completeness of the proposal, the contractor's experience, the adequacy of the project scope and methods, the understandability and completeness of the budget, and whether the total cost meets expectations.