P2025111 Request for Proposal Tehama Wildlife Area - Meyer Allotment

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) is seeking a qualified livestock operator to conduct excess vegetation disposal through grazing on the Meyer Allotment within the Tehama Wildlife Area, encompassing approximately 623 acres in Tehama County. This Request for Proposal (RFP) aims to manage deer winter range while meeting specific residual dry matter (RDM) objectives and protecting sensitive habitat. Only cattle may be used for grazing operations, with an annual grazing period from January 15 through May 15, requiring a minimum of 446 pounds and a maximum of 800 pounds per acre of RDM by the end of each period. Bidders must demonstrate a minimum of ten years of experience in wildlife-friendly grazing on public or conservation easement lands and possess the ability to respond to emergencies within two hours. A mandatory site inspection is scheduled for October 17, 2025, at 1:00 p.m., with proposals due by October 31, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. The evaluation process includes pass/fail requirements and a point-based system, with 140 total points available across eight operational goals, including RDM management, riparian and wetland protection, livestock distribution, and trespass mitigation. Cost proposals will be scored proportionally, with the highest bid receiving 10 points.

The procurement does not specify any specific set-aside designations or restrictions for disadvantaged enterprises. The proposed permit will have a term of four years and seven months, commencing on December 1, 2025, or upon state approval, and terminating on June 30, 2030, with no extension options. The annual fee will be calculated by multiplying the proposed fee amount by 623 acres and four months of the grazing period, with payments due annually on November 15, 2025 (or upon permit execution), and December 31 for subsequent years. Bidders must provide documentation including required attachments, statements of qualifications, reference letters, and disclosure statements about any legal claims or bankruptcy proceedings within the past five to ten years. The CDFW reserves the right to reject all proposals and is not obligated to award the permit. While no specific budget range is explicitly stated, the annual fee will be determined by the successful bidder's proposed rate, multiplied by the total acreage and grazing period. Insurance requirements include Commercial General Liability ($1,000,000 per occurrence/$3,000,000 aggregate), Automobile Liability ($1,000,000 combined single limit), and Workers' Compensation insurance with employer's liability limits of $1,000,000.