PRC Molecular Testing of eDNA or Specimens

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP) has issued an Invitation for Bid (IFB) solicitation number FWP-24-0161 for PRC Molecular Testing of eDNA or Specimens, seeking one to two laboratories to provide advanced environmental DNA (eDNA) and specimen testing services within the Northwestern Land Office's service area covering Flathead, Lake, Lincoln, and Sanders Counties. The procurement requires laboratories to have a minimum of five years of experience in DNA qPCR processing, utilizing state-of-the-art analysis equipment and following strict quality assurance protocols. Specific deliverables include qPCR analyses of filter disks for detecting Zebra and Quagga mussels, New Zealand mudsnails, Corbicula, and multiple fish species, with options for standard and expedited processing. Laboratories must process samples in triplicate, provide results within 14 business days (or 2 days for expedited samples), and maintain data confidentiality through a mandatory non-disclosure agreement. The bid opens on February 7, 2024, at 10:00 AM MST and closes on March 7, 2024, at 4:00 PM MST, with sealed bids to be reviewed on March 8, 2024, at 1:30 PM MST.

The contract has an estimated total value of $199,996, with anticipated processing of 350-400 samples annually and a potential contract length up to 4 years. Pricing is structured with standard eDNA qPCR filter sample testing ranging from $120-$150 per test for different species, and expedited testing priced at $480-$600 per sample. Additional services include adding species tests to existing samples or genetic verification of specimens, which are priced separately. Payment terms are set at 0% 0, Net 30, and the contract includes provisions for returning unused samples and developing new testing methodologies. While no specific set-aside designations or restrictions on responding organizations are mentioned, the technical requirements suggest that only highly specialized laboratories with advanced genetic testing capabilities and significant experience in environmental DNA analysis will be competitive. The contract allows for the potential development of novel qPCR diagnostic assays and requires comprehensive documentation and confidentiality of all testing results.