DNR - Waterfowl Helicopter Surveys 2026 - 2028

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) is conducting an Invitation for Bid (IFB) (Solicitation No. 27-422DNR-RESCO-B-52000) for helicopter survey services to conduct low-level aerial waterfowl population monitoring across Illinois from 2026 through February 1, 2028. The procurement seeks helicopter pilot and aircraft services for comprehensive waterfowl surveys distributed across three geographic regions: Southern Illinois (approximately 72 flight hours annually based at Marion Airport), West-Central Illinois (approximately 60 flight hours annually based at Canton Airport), and Northeast Illinois (approximately 60 flight hours annually based at Morris Airport). Vendors may submit separate bids for one, two, or all three survey routes, with multiple awards possible. Each region requires eight biweekly surveys conducted between October and January annually at or below 500 feet above ground level along predetermined routes, with IDNR biologists accompanying pilots on each flight to collect waterfowl population data. Survey areas encompass 64 designated sites across four regional areas (Northeast Illinois Waterfowl Survey Area, West-Central Illinois Waterfowl Survey Area, Central Illinois Waterfowl Survey Area, and Southern Illinois Waterfowl Survey Area) including wildlife management areas, fish and wildlife areas, state natural areas, and various waterfowl habitats. Vendors must provide a Robinson R44 or similar four-seat helicopter equipped with noise-cancelling headsets and employ a FAA Commercial Pilot meeting specific experience requirements: 1,000 total helicopter hours as pilot in command, 100 hours in the preceding 12 months, 50 hours in the specific aircraft make and model, and 50 hours conducting low-level aerial flights preferably for wildlife surveys. Pricing is structured as a firm hourly rate for flight time conducting surveys, including refueling time and limited commuting to pickup locations, with IDNR not obligated to pay for surveys cancelled due to inclement weather but compensating for flights cancelled due to IDNR employee unavailability. Bids must be submitted electronically through BidBuy by May 6, 2026, remain firm for 90 days from opening, and include all required documentation including vendor disclosures, signed contract offers, and any applicable Business Enterprise Program or Veterans Small Business Program Utilization Plans. Awards will be made to the lowest priced responsive and responsible bidder meeting all specified criteria, with the state retaining the right to reject any or all bids and waive minor defects.

The procurement is subject to Illinois Procurement Code requirements and prevailing wage standards for natural resource services as determined by the Illinois Department of Labor. Vendors must comply with numerous state and federal certifications including the Illinois Human Rights Act, environmental protection laws, drug-free workplace standards, and Executive Order restrictions on hiring the Governor's family members. Business Enterprise Program or Veterans Small Business Program Utilization Plans are applicable if the vendor meets those classifications. All vendors must register with the Illinois Secretary of State (except sole proprietorships), the Illinois Board of Elections, and obtain an IDHR Number if the company employs 15 or more employees; vendors may alternatively maintain active Illinois Procurement Gateway registration. Vendor Disclosure forms (formerly Forms A-13 or B-13, depending on IPG registration status) must be completed and submitted, requiring detailed organizational information, financial disclosures for contracts with annual values exceeding $100,000, and certification that no forced labor was used in procuring apparel. All services must be performed within the United States, subcontracting is permitted with vendor approval for subcontracts exceeding $100,000 annually, and vendors must provide evidence of pilot certifications and appropriate insurance coverage (including $1,000,000 general commercial liability per occurrence and $2,000,000 annual aggregate) within ten days of contract execution. The contract is contingent upon appropriation availability and may be partially or wholly funded with federal funds, with the state reserving the right to terminate for convenience with 30 days' notice or for cause immediately. While specific budget or award values are not stated in the available documentation, the estimated scope encompasses approximately 192 total annual flight hours across three regions over a three-year contract period.