KDFWR Vertical Tillage Tool Big Rivers WMA (RE-BID)

The Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources is soliciting bids for a new 10-foot vertical tillage tool for the Big Rivers Wildlife Management Area under RFB 660 2700000184, a re-bid of RFB 660 2700000163, with bids due November 2, 2026. Kentucky resident bidder reciprocal preference applies under KRS 45A.490-494, and preferences are available for qualified bidders, including Kentucky Correctional Industries (20 percent) and Kentucky Industries for the Blind and qualified nonprofit agencies serving individuals with severe disabilities (15 percent).

The equipment must have a 10- to 11-foot working width, a heavy-duty welded steel frame in rigid configuration, and a drawbar hitch compatible with 100-120 horsepower tractors. Blades must be 20 inches or larger at 7.5-inch spacing in a two-row offset configuration, with hydraulically adjustable gang angle from 0 to 8 degrees. The tool includes one to two rolling basket or reel finishing attachments with LED safety lighting. Quotes must be F.O.B. Destination, freight prepaid and allowed. Vendors must provide specific delivery times and warranty periods, as vague terms such as "as required" or "prompt" render bids non-responsive. Before award, vendors must supply Commercial General Liability insurance of $1 million per occurrence and $2 million aggregate, Automobile Liability insurance of $1 million combined single limit if applicable, Kentucky tax registration, a Certificate of Authority for foreign entities, and required affidavits. Shipments go to Big Rivers WMA at 7619 State Route 365, Sturgis, Kentucky.

The contract is a one-time purchase with no renewal options. Award is based on best value: 90 points for price (lowest bidder receives maximum points), 5 points for delivery time in working days, and 5 points for warranty period in months. Pricing must remain valid for at least 60 calendar days after the bid due date, and price increases are prohibited during the first 12 months. Vendors must register in the Commonwealth eProcurement System (VSS) before submitting, and registration can take 24 to 48 hours. Written questions are due October 27, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. Eastern, and KDFWR's question responses follow on October 28. Bids close November 2, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. Eastern. Questions go to Erin Eagan, KDFWR Purchasing Division, at 502-892-4409 or Erin.Eagan@ky.gov.