DNR - Aerial flight services for Fall/Winter Waterfowl Surveys - 2 year contract

The State of Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) is procuring aerial flight services through an Invitation for Bid (IFB) process to complete low-level surveys to estimate waterfowl use on select wetlands in northeast, west-central, and southern regions of Illinois. The contract term is for 2 years, beginning upon execution and terminating on June 30, 2026, with no option to renew. The IFB outlines the required services, including flight hours, survey locations, and pickup/drop-off airports for IDNR biologists accompanying the pilot. Vendors must provide a pilot and mid-sized four-seat helicopter meeting specific experience and equipment requirements. Bids will be evaluated based on the lowest responsive and responsible bidder. The IFB provides pricing details, including a set rate per flight hour and the potential for a one-time rate increase after the first 12 months based on the Consumer Price Index.

There are no small business, minority-owned, or veteran-owned business participation goals associated with this procurement. The total payments under the contract shall not exceed a maximum amount to be determined by the State prior to execution. The contract was awarded to Guardian Aero for southern Illinois surveys and to Triangle Aviation for west-central and northeast Illinois surveys, with a total contract value of $230,900 across the two vendors. The estimated return to the state for the life of the contract is $230,900.