DNR EWR QC stream restoration aerial imagery

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (MNDNR) is seeking proposals for aerial imagery services focused on four stream restoration projects located in various Minnesota regions, including Pelican Rapids, Buffalo River, Miller Creek, and Mission Creek. The procurement requires a two-person drone crew to collect ortho-rectified imagery, high-resolution still photos (minimum 20 megapixels), and 4K video documentation during Spring 2025, with an estimated 4 hours of data collection per site. Vendors must submit proposals electronically through the SWIFT Supplier Portal between April 10-17, 2025, with a project delivery deadline of April 22, 2025. The proposal evaluation will be weighted across three key criteria: vendor qualifications (50%), project approach (20%), and cost (30%), with a strong preference for vendors holding FAA Remote Pilot certificates and MNDOT Commercial Operators Licenses. Required qualifications include submission of a certificate of insurance with $2 million in aircraft liability coverage, and vendors are encouraged to provide sample ortho-rectified imagery demonstrating their technical capabilities.

The MNDNR demonstrates a clear commitment to diversity and inclusion in this procurement, explicitly encouraging participation from businesses owned by minorities, women, veterans, and individuals with substantial physical disabilities. The solicitation is open to registered bidders and suppliers, with no apparent restrictions on company size, though small businesses are particularly welcomed. While no specific incumbent vendors are mentioned, the procurement is conducted in US Dollars and restricted to vendors able to operate within U.S. borders. The state reserves significant flexibility in the procurement process, including the right to short-list respondents, conduct interviews, and seek best and final offers, with no guarantee of contract award. Although a precise contract value is not specified, the detailed requirements and multi-site scope suggest a comprehensive project with potential for meaningful compensation for the selected vendor. Interested parties must carefully review all attachments and comply with the specified submission requirements to be considered for this aerial imagery contract.