DNR Pyramid grass/forb seed

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) is seeking a contractor to provide 1,700 pounds of pure live seed (PLS) of native prairie grass and forb species for Pyramid State Park, with delivery required to the Prairie Ridge State Natural Area in Newton, Illinois by June 30, 2025. The procurement focuses on midwestern ecotype seeds sourced exclusively from Illinois, Missouri, Iowa, Indiana, or Kentucky, with specific varietal exceptions for certain grass types. Seed quality requirements are stringent, mandating mechanical cleaning, high viability, storage of less than one year, and absolute prohibition on neonicotinoid treatments. The contract, designated as SWG T-145-D-1, will commence upon final signature and terminate on March 31, 2025, with a final invoice due by that date. Evaluation criteria will be based on the total price for all line items, though the state retains flexibility to award by individual line items if no single bidder provides comprehensive coverage. The proposal is due on December 13, 2024, and requires detailed documentation of seed purity, germination rates, and minimal weed contamination.

The procurement appears open to all qualified vendors without specific set-aside designations for disadvantaged enterprises. The contract is funded through the State Wildlife Grants Federal Assistance Program (CFDA #15.634), which introduces federal compliance requirements including FAR 31.2 and 2 CFR Part 200 cost principles. Vendors must meet comprehensive certification standards outlined in the State of Illinois Standard Certifications, including requirements for maintaining a drug-free workplace, equal employment opportunity compliance, and cybersecurity standards. While a specific budget range is not explicitly stated, the contract includes provisions for competitive sealed proposals for purchases over $25,000 and requires vendors to carry $1 million in general commercial liability insurance with a $2 million annual aggregate coverage. Additional compliance requirements include potential Davis-Bacon Act provisions for construction-related contracts and mandatory record retention for three years after project completion.