Engineering and Related Services for the Fish Passage Alternatives at Keno Dam

The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) has issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) for engineering and related services focused on Fish Passage Alternatives at Keno Dam, specifically located in Jackson County. The project seeks professional services consultants to develop a comprehensive analysis of fish passage improvement options, including creating a hydraulic model, conducting a flood risk assessment, and designing multiple fish passage alternatives. Deliverables will include a detailed feasibility study following the United States Bureau of Reclamation's process, planning-level cost estimates, and 30% engineering designs for the preferred alternative. Proposals will be evaluated across five key criteria: cover letter (5 points), proposer experience and key personnel (30 points), understanding of services and implementation (25 points), statement of work (35 points), and diversity, equity, and inclusion values (5 points). A mandatory pre-proposal conference is scheduled for July 23, 2025, with proposals due by August 19, 2025. The project aims to improve fish passage for native migratory species including steelhead, lamprey, Chinook salmon, and redband trout, with potential alternatives ranging from dam structure modification to complete dam removal and replacement.

The RFP does not explicitly specify set-aside designations or restrictions on respondent types, though the evaluation criteria suggest a preference for firms demonstrating diversity, equity, and inclusion values. The project is funded by a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) grant and is anticipated to have a contract duration from September 4, 2025, to July 31, 2026. While the maximum contract amount will be determined during negotiations, the contract will be awarded through a qualifications-based selection process. The project is part of the broader Klamath Hydroelectric Settlement Agreement and relates to a previously conducted Environmental Assessment for Keno Dam transfer. Reimbursable expenses will be separated into travel and general expense categories. The ODFW anticipates awarding a single contract from this RFP, with the selected consultant working closely with the Bureau of Reclamation and other stakeholders to develop comprehensive fish passage solutions.