DNR EWR PT little rock creek water use conflict 2

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (MNDNR) is seeking professional engineering services to analyze and resolve a water-use conflict in the Little Rock Creek area, spanning Benton and Morrison Counties near the city of Rice. The project aims to develop engineering designs that protect the stream from negative impacts caused by groundwater use, with a specific focus on analyzing options to mitigate stream ecosystem degradation. Key deliverables include schematic designs, design development, final construction documents, and bid documents. Qualified consulting engineering firms must submit comprehensive proposals through the SWIFT Supplier Portal by July 25, 2024, with an anticipated contract term from August 15, 2024, to June 30, 2025, and potential extension for an additional two years. The state will evaluate responses based on the following criteria: understanding of project objectives, responder background and experience, qualifications of key personnel, approach and methodology, and overall cost. The DNR has established specific sustainable diversion limits for the area, including 0.8 cubic feet per second at the upstream gage, 1.1 cubic feet per second at the long-term gage, and 2.9 cubic feet per second at the downstream gage.

The MNDNR demonstrates a commitment to diversity and inclusion in its procurement process, actively encouraging participation from minority, women, veteran, and disabled-owned businesses. While no specific set-aside percentages are explicitly stated, the state provides opportunities for diverse business enterprises to compete. The RFP includes a Veteran-Owned Preference Form and a Workforce and Equal Pay Declaration Page, which are required for businesses executing government contracts over specific thresholds in Minnesota. No incumbent vendors are identified in the documentation, and no specific budget range is provided. The proposal requires detailed cost submissions through a separate Cost Proposal Sheet, with the understanding that the state reserves the right to reject any and all responses, negotiate with highest-scoring respondents, and potentially make multiple awards. Responders must carefully adhere to the state's guidelines, including avoiding the inclusion of trade secret information as defined by Minnesota Statutes, and ensuring all submitted documents meet the DNR's accessibility requirements for digital files.