IFB 10209303 Seed Collection, Processing, Storage, and Delivery Services

The California Department of Water Resources (DWR) has issued Invitation for Bid (IFB) #10209303 for seed collection, processing, storage, and delivery services supporting the Salton Sea Management Program in Imperial County. The procurement seeks a contractor to collect, clean, test, store, and deliver native California plant seeds from up to eight species native to the Colorado and Mojave Deserts, with a total anticipated quantity of approximately 1,000 pounds of seed. Bidders must be on the California Department of Food and Agriculture certified seed sellers list and demonstrate expertise in native desert plant species, seed collection, and climate-controlled storage. Required deliverables include locally sourced (within 20 miles of the Salton Sea) pure live seeds for specific plant species such as Iodine Bush, Big Saltbush, and Salton Saltbush, with precise quantity requirements for seed purchase and cleaning. Key technical questions are due by April 16, 2025, with bids required by April 24, 2025, and a bid opening scheduled for April 28, 2025 via a TEAMS virtual meeting. The initial contract term is two years with one optional renewal year, with an anticipated start date of July 2025. Evaluation will likely focus on bidders' demonstrated technical capabilities, seed sourcing expertise, and compliance with specific seed collection and processing requirements.

The solicitation includes small business and Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise (DVBE) preference provisions, though DVBE program requirements are currently waived. While specific award values are not explicitly stated, the comprehensive nature of the seed collection and processing services suggests a potentially significant contract value. The contract includes detailed provisions for seed cleaning, testing, packaging, and delivery, with provisions for potential seed lot inspections and interim seed requests during the contract period. Prospective bidders must possess specialized capabilities in native desert plant seed collection, including climate-controlled storage facilities and expertise in handling specific desert plant species. The procurement appears designed to support broader environmental restoration efforts at the Salton Sea, with precise requirements for seed sourcing, processing, and delivery that will require contractors to have sophisticated botanical and agricultural expertise. Contractors will need to demonstrate not just technical capabilities, but also a deep understanding of the ecological context of seed collection in the Colorado and Mojave Desert regions.