DNR Otter Slough Fish Food

The state of Illinois, specifically through the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) for Jackson County, is seeking a procurement for specialized fish food formulations for the Otter Slough Fish Hatchery. The contract opportunity, identified by the ID 67d30814d5d5808ec8086672, requires a comprehensive fish food product capable of supporting multiple warm water fish species including Alligator Gar, Channel Catfish, Hybrid Sunfish, Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass, and Hybrid Striped Bass. The fish food must be delivered in multiple specifications, ranging from starter feed sizes of 0.5-0.8mm to extruded floating fish food sizes between 4.2-9.6mm, with precise nutritional requirements including a minimum of 45% crude protein and 12% crude fat for most items. Vendors must provide packaging in 50-55 pound bags or 2000-pound bulk bags, with nutritional content guaranteed for a minimum of twelve months when stored in cool, dry conditions. The solicitation was posted on February 24, 2025, with proposals due by March 10, 2025, offering potential vendors approximately two weeks to prepare and submit their responses.

The contract opportunity appears to be open to all qualified vendors, with no specific set-aside designations mentioned in the provided documents. Prospective bidders must complete the Standard Certifications form (Version 23.1), which includes 33 specific certifications covering legal, ethical, and operational standards. Vendors will need to demonstrate compliance with comprehensive requirements outlined in the State of Illinois Chief Procurement Office General Services Standard Terms and Conditions, including prevailing wage requirements, minority contractor initiatives, and detailed invoicing procedures. While specific budget ranges are not explicitly stated, the technical specifications suggest a specialized procurement with potentially significant nutritional and logistical requirements. Vendors must be prepared to meet rigorous standards, including potential consequences for non-compliance such as contract voiding, suspension, debarment, or financial penalties. The contract appears focused on providing high-quality, nutritionally precise fish food to support the DNR's aquaculture operations at the Otter Slough Fish Hatchery.