MassWildlife Botanical Survey Coastal Plain Ponds (DFW-2026-018)

The Massachusetts Division of Fisheries & Wildlife (MassWildlife) is seeking a qualified contractor to conduct a comprehensive botanical survey of coastal plain ponds across Plymouth, Barnstable, and Yarmouth, Massachusetts. The project, designated as DFW-2026-018, aims to document the natural community composition and ecological characteristics of 107 coastal plain ponds over a two-year period. Key deliverables include mapping and documenting rare and invasive plant species, assessing water levels, analyzing shoreline disturbances, and capturing detailed field photographs. Bidders must demonstrate expertise in plant identification, vegetation community assessments, and specific experience with coastal plain pond ecosystems. The evaluation criteria will prioritize vendors based on their written proposal quality, technical approach, project methodology, managerial procedures, experience, past performance, and competitive fee structure. Responses must be submitted electronically through COMMBUYS by September 22, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. EST, with an anticipated contract start date immediately upon award and an initial contract period running through June 30, 2026.

The procurement is part of the Massachusetts Small Business Purchasing Program, which aims to increase contracting opportunities for small businesses within the Commonwealth. While the solicitation does not explicitly restrict participation, it shows a preference for small business vendors who can meet the best value criteria. The estimated annual contract value is $30,000, with options to renew for two additional one-year periods, potentially extending the total contract duration to June 30, 2028. The contract will be processed through Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) with payments issued 45 days from invoice receipt. No incumbent vendor is specified in the documentation, and there are no mentioned requirements for integration with existing infrastructure or technology. Contractors will be required to comply with standard Massachusetts state contract certifications, including provisions related to diversity, anti-discrimination, and employment practices. The ultimate goal of the project is to establish a baseline of current ecological conditions, understand rare plant species distribution, and provide MassWildlife staff with insights to inform potential conservation actions.