Manual Bat Analysis from Acoustic Bat Call Data

The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks is seeking competitive proposals for manual analysis and identification of bat species from full-spectrum stationary acoustic bat call data collected in south central Kansas from 2023 to 2025 using NABat protocols. The primary objectives are to determine bat species range, understand species richness at surveyed sites, and provide nightly occurrence data through presence-absence sampling. Vendors must manually analyze approximately 49,000-43,300 acoustic files per year across 6-8 GRTS cells and 16-24 sites. Key qualifications include at least three years of experience in manually vetting bat acoustic call data, with personnel experienced in identifying midwestern bat species. The contractor will be responsible for auto-ID analysis, manual vetting of high-quality bat call files, and returning formatted data to KDWP following NABat protocols. The proposal is due by October 29, 2025, at 2:00 PM CST, with a contract period running from the date of award through December 31, 2026, and all data to be delivered by March 31, 2026.

The solicitation includes potential preferences for Disabled Veteran Owned Businesses and Certified Business categories. Bidders must obtain a current Tax Clearance Certificate and comply with state requirements, including immigration reform and control regulations. Vendors must submit various forms and certifications, including documentation related to immigration reform, sexual harassment, and a Boycott of Israel form. While no specific budget range is explicitly stated, the procurement process requires vendors to price their proposal to complete manual vetting of all sites. The event is conducted through the State of Kansas SMART Strategic Sourcing System, which requires specific vendor registration procedures. Invoicing is structured with the first invoice due by January 14, 2026, covering expenditures from contract execution to December 31, 2025, and a second invoice due by April 14, 2026. Shipping for the project will be to the KDWP address in Pratt, Kansas, via common carrier.