Native Local Genotype Seed for Lake Hudson Recreation Area

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources, Parks and Recreation Division issued a Request for Quote (RFQ 180000000595) on May 7, 2018, for the procurement of native, local genotype seed to support ecological restoration efforts at Lake Hudson Recreation Area in Lenawee County near Clayton, Michigan. The solicitation seeks fresh seed from 24 specified native prairie wildflower species in quantities totaling a minimum of 55 pounds across no fewer than 20 species, with individual species quantities ranging from 8 ounces to 8 pounds. All seed must originate from local genetic sources within 100 to 150 miles of the planting site, with 90 percent of seed collected within the previous two years (summer/fall 2016 or 2017) and remaining seed collected no earlier than June 2015. The seed will be planted during spring or fall 2018 to increase diversity in the nearly 700-acre restoration area. Bidders must submit pricing on a per-unit basis for each seed species plus separate delivery costs to the Department of Natural Resources in Lansing through both the RFQ document and the SIGMA-VSS system. The question deadline is May 21, 2018, with bids due by May 29, 2018, at 9:30 a.m. Eastern Time, and no site visit or bidders conference is specified. Payment terms are net 45 days from invoice, with quick payment discounts encouraged.

The State has designated Qualified Disabled Veteran (QDV) preferences under Michigan law, requiring respondents claiming this designation to submit DD214 documentation, VA rating letters, or certification from the National Veterans Business Development Council. Substitutions of up to 20 percent of listed species are permitted based on availability, provided total seed weight requirements are maintained at a fixed cost. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources reserves the right to reject all bids and is not obligated to accept the lowest price proposal; evaluation criteria will consider any discrepancies between the RFQ document and SIGMA-VSS system entries using the lowest price provided. No specific budget range or award value is listed in the solicitation, and no incumbent vendors or technology integration requirements are identified. Organizations responding must demonstrate capability to source and deliver locally-collected native seed that meets the specified freshness and geographic origin requirements.