RJER/HCWA Permit for Excess Vegetation Disposal (Grazing)

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) is seeking proposals for a five-year permit to conduct vegetation disposal operations, primarily through grazing, at the Rancho Jamul Ecological Reserve (RJER) and Hollenbeck Canyon Wildlife Area (HCWA) in San Diego County. The permit covers approximately 2,400 to 3,278 total combined acres and aims to maintain wildlife habitat, enhance public use, and reduce wildfire hazards. Bidders must address nine specific goals in their proposals, including providing a minimum of 160 animal units, implementing grazing-related infrastructure, coordinating with monitoring efforts, and maintaining minimum residual dry matter levels. Proposals will be evaluated based on the bidder's qualifications, references, experience, and proposals for each of the nine goals. The annual permit fee will be calculated based on the proposed fee amount per animal unit per month, with a minimum of $2.00 per animal unit per month. Proposals are due by September 27, 2024, and the permit is expected to commence on November 15, 2024.

The RFP does not mention any set-aside designations or restrictions on the types of organizations that can respond. However, it does specify that bidders must have at least five years of experience in wildlife-friendly grazing practices and the ability to respond to emergencies within one hour. The current contract holder or incumbent vendor is not identified, nor are any details provided on existing infrastructure or technology that may require integration. The RFP does not include information on the total award value or budget range for this contracting opportunity.