P2024024 Request for Proposal Cosumnes River Ecological Reserve Dillard Unit Permit for Excess Vegetation Disposal

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW), acting as an agent of the State of California, has issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) for a Permit for Excess Vegetation Disposal on approximately 70 acres of the Dillard Unit within the Cosumnes River Ecological Reserve in Sacramento County. The successful bidder will be selected to enter into a four-year and 8-month permit agreement to conduct vegetation disposal operations, such as grazing of livestock, that are consistent with the overall goals of the reserve, which include improving wildlife habitat, reducing wildfire risk, and enhancing pollinator habitat. Proposals must be received by September 19, 2024, and a mandatory site inspection is scheduled for August 15, 2024. The annual permit fee will be calculated based on the bidder's proposed fee amount per Animal Unit Month (AUM), multiplied by 22 AUs per month, and 7 months of grazing. The permit will require the successful bidder to maintain an average of 1,000 pounds per acre of Residual Dry Matter, avoid negative impacts on riparian areas and threatened/endangered species, ensure even distribution of cattle, and improve wildlife habitat during the permit term.

The RFP is being offered pursuant to Fish and Game Code Sections 1010 and 1745.1(a), and there are no set-aside designations or restrictions on the types of organizations that can respond. The CDFW may adjust the grazing period or AUMs based on environmental conditions. The State of California has not provided any information about an incumbent vendor or current contractor, nor has it specified a budget range for this opportunity.