Giddings Livestock Reporter

The Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) is soliciting bids for a Livestock Reporter for the Giddings Livestock Auction through an Invitation for Bid (IFB) issued for Kleberg County. The primary objective is to secure an independent contractor who will report weekly cattle auction data as part of the USDA Agriculture Marketing Service (AMS) Livestock Market Reporting Program. Successful bidders must demonstrate USDA-AMS livestock market reporting training and possess relevant experience conducting similar services. The contractor will be responsible for attending weekly cattle auctions, collecting and reporting data to USDA AMS, and maintaining communication with TDA program staff, USDA AMS staff, and auction operators. The initial contract term is from September 1, 2025 through August 31, 2026, with potential for three optional one-year renewals extending through August 31, 2029. Bid responses are due by March 10, 2025 at 3:00 PM CT, and the solicitation requires submission of multiple exhibits including price sheets, vendor information, financial capacity documentation, and various certifications.

The procurement does not specify explicit set-aside designations or restrictions for disadvantaged enterprises. Contractors will be required to submit monthly invoices within 30 days of service delivery, with payment processed within 30 days of receiving properly prepared invoices. TDA reserves the right to award the contract to single or multiple bidders based on best value to the state, and no exclusivity is guaranteed. While specific budget ranges are not explicitly stated, the contract involves ongoing reporting services with potential multi-year engagement. The solicitation emphasizes the importance of vendor qualifications, particularly USDA-AMS training and demonstrated experience in livestock market reporting. Bidders must carefully complete all required exhibits and provide comprehensive documentation of their capabilities to be considered for the contract.