OAHP Valuation Methodology

The Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board (OWEB) is conducting a Request for Proposals (RFP) to develop a methodology for valuing ecosystem services resulting from conservation activities on agricultural land in Marion County, Oregon. The primary objective is to create a comprehensive framework that will enable compensation for agricultural landowners engaging in conservation practices. The selected contractor will be required to produce a final report containing a proposed valuation methodology, accompanied by software and documentation. Key deliverables include a detailed work plan, a methodology that can quantify economic benefits of conservation actions across diverse agricultural regions, and an approach that considers improvements in water quality, water quantity, habitat, and carbon sequestration. The project is scheduled to begin on November 1, 2022, with an initial contract term of one year and potential extensions up to three years, with a final report due by March 31, 2023. Evaluation criteria will focus on the contractor's knowledge of conservation practices, existing ecosystem service valuation methodologies, ability to work with diverse parties, and capability to evaluate economic benefits of conservation actions. Proposals are due by September 30, 2022, and will be assessed by a selection committee that will rank and select the most responsible proposer(s).

The RFP includes specific provisions for certified disadvantaged businesses, requiring equal opportunity for minority-owned, woman-owned, service-disabled veteran-owned, and emerging small businesses to participate in potential subcontracts. Offerors must describe their efforts to solicit certified firms and provide past contractual relationships with both certified and non-certified firms. While no specific funding sources or award values are explicitly stated in the documents, the contract includes a sample services agreement with a placeholder for maximum compensation. Proposers must comply with Oregon certification requirements and submit various mandatory attachments, including a Proposer Information and Certification Sheet, Reference Check Form, Responsibility Inquiry, and a Disclosure Exemption Affidavit. The procurement process requires detailed documentation demonstrating financial stability, past performance, required licenses, and possession of a current Pay Equity Certificate. Proposers must also certify compliance with tax laws, non-discrimination policies, and confirm the absence of conflicts of interest or inclusion on exclusion lists.