Invasive Carp Commercial Fishing (DNR)

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is seeking commercial fishing contractors through a formal Request for Proposal (RFP) to track, contain, and catch invasive carp species entering Minnesota waters. The contract, focused on rivers including the St. Croix, Mississippi, and Minnesota Rivers, requires contractors to deploy multiple crews simultaneously using various fishing techniques such as gill netting, seine netting, and purse seining. Contractors must possess a current Minnesota Commercial Fishing license, have at least three years of commercial fishing experience, and demonstrate previous successful invasive carp removal contracts valued at a minimum of $80,000. The evaluation process will allocate 1000 total points, with 100 points for acceptance of state terms, 300 points for contractor qualifications, and 600 points for cost details. Key deliverables include full days of seining with 6-person crews, gill netting with 3-person teams, and labor assistance for DNR Fisheries staff. Proposals are due by April 17, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. Central Time through the SWIFT Supplier Portal, with a question submission deadline of April 7, 2025.

The state encourages participation from diverse businesses, including those owned by racial minorities, women, veterans, persons with substantial physical disabilities, or businesses located in economically disadvantaged counties. Contractors must pass criminal background checks and comply with strict invasive species prevention protocols, including comprehensive equipment cleaning and decontamination procedures. The contract term is anticipated to run from May 2025 through April 2027, with potential extensions up to an additional three years. The estimated total contract value ranges from $350,000 to $400,000 annually, though this is not a guaranteed minimum or maximum. Contractors must provide a minimum of two commercial fishing boats, with at least one equipped with a powered winch, and will be responsible for monthly reporting to the DNR Commissioner. The state reserves the right to reject any responses, negotiate with top-scoring respondents, and potentially make multiple awards if deemed in the best interest of the state.