Quote-FP-04-2526 Aerial Thermal Survey for White-Tailed Deer

The Forest Preserve District of Kane County, Illinois, is conducting a procurement for Quote-FP-04-2526, seeking a qualified firm to perform an aerial thermal survey of white-tailed deer using unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) at four specific forest preserves: Big Rock, Brunner & Fox River Shores, Freeman Kame, and Lone Grove. The project aims to gather comprehensive data on deer abundance and distribution across approximately 4,605 total acres, with a clear objective of conducting thermal surveys to assess wildlife population dynamics. Bidders must possess all applicable FAA certifications and a scientific research permit, with the contract to be awarded to the lowest, most responsive, and responsible overall bidder. The solicitation requires electronic quote submissions via the Bonfire platform by October 31, 2025, at 4:00 PM CST, with survey work to be conducted between January 1 and March 3, 2026. Specific deliverables include a draft report due by April 15, 2026, and a final project report with comprehensive documentation to be submitted by April 30, 2026, which must include detailed field methods, deer location maps, GIS shapefiles, and thermal imagery samples.

The procurement does not explicitly mention specific set-aside designations or restrictions for disadvantaged enterprises. The contract will be paid on a total not-to-exceed basis, covering all materials, equipment, travel, labor, and report production, with a payment structure of 90% upon satisfactory completion of fieldwork and draft report submission, and the remaining 10% paid after final project report acceptance. Insurance requirements are substantial, mandating $2,000,000 in commercial general liability coverage, professional liability insurance, business auto liability of $1,000,000, and workers' compensation insurance. While no incumbent vendor is identified, the contractor must ensure all subcontractors maintain appropriate insurance coverage. The exact contract value is not specified in the documents, but the comprehensive requirements and multi-phase reporting suggest a technically complex project requiring specialized UAS and thermal imaging capabilities. The Forest Preserve District reserves the right to refuse any and all bid submittals, indicating a competitive and selective procurement process.