IFB P2480032, Fixed Wing Aircraft Forward Looking Infrared (FLIR) Survey Services

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) is seeking a contractor to provide Fixed Wing Aircraft Forward Looking Infrared (FLIR) Survey Services for large mammal species across various California regions. The Invitation for Bid (IFB) P2480032 requires a contractor with a qualified pilot having at least 1,000 hours of wildlife survey experience and an observer holding a bachelor's degree in wildlife biology. The primary objective is to conduct aerial surveys using FLIR technology to detect and count wildlife species such as deer, bighorn sheep, elk, and pronghorn by flying prescribed routes at a minimum altitude of 1,500 feet. Specific survey missions include a deer and wild horse survey in Deer Hunt Zone X3b (540km of transects in June-July 2025), a deer survey in Zones D3, D4, and D5 (July-August 2025), and an elk and deer survey in Elk Management Units 11-17 (2,850km of transects in November 2025). The bid is due on May 16, 2025, at 5:00 PM (PT), with a proposed award date of May 30, 2025, and the contract will run through June 30, 2027, with potential one-year extension.

The solicitation includes a 5% Small Business Preference and has waived the DVBE (Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise) Participation Program Requirements. The contractor will be responsible for providing the aircraft, equipment, fuel, and all associated costs, and must maintain comprehensive insurance coverage, including $10,000,000 in aircraft liability. The total contract budget is set at $700,000, with payment made on a project-by-project basis for actual services rendered. The contractor must provide comprehensive insurance, including Commercial General Liability, Automobile Liability, Aircraft Liability, Professional Liability, and Workers Compensation, with the State of California named as an additional insured. The survey services will involve detailed data processing and geo-rectification of infrared imagery, requiring specialized technical capabilities. While no incumbent vendors are specifically mentioned, the contract represents a significant opportunity for businesses with expertise in wildlife surveys, aerial reconnaissance, and FLIR technology.