Robotic Milkers for the University of Wisconsin Platteville

The University of Wisconsin Platteville, through its Purchasing Services Department, is seeking to procure two robotic milking units for Pioneer Farm through a competitive Request for Proposal (RFP) process. The solicitation requires fully functional robotic milking systems capable of milking at least 60 cows twice daily, 365 days per year, with comprehensive installation services including concrete, electrical, plumbing, and waste disposal work. Vendors must provide software and training on the complete system, with mandatory qualifications including local service engineer availability within 50 miles or one hour of contact year-round, and provision of the latest available model. The evaluation will be conducted on a 1,000-point scale, with eight evaluation criteria weighted equally at 10 percent (100 points) for both technical requirements and cost. Key dates include a mandatory site visit on November 9, 2020, written vendor questions due by November 16, 2020, proposal submissions due by 3:00 PM Central Time on December 1, 2020, potential demonstrations on December 8-9, 2020, and expected award notification on December 11, 2020. Proposals must remain valid for 60 calendar days and include cost information in a separate sealed envelope.

The RFP permits participation by Wisconsin Certified Minority Business Enterprises (MBEs), which may receive a scoring preference of up to 5 percent. Multiple proposals from a single vendor are allowed, and the university reserves the right to reject any or all proposals and negotiate contract terms with selected proposers. The procurement includes vendor removal and disposal of existing milking units at vendor expense, with the expectation of complete installation of two new, fully functional milking robots as determined by Pioneer Farm personnel. The university has specific technical requirements, including the capability to export raw infrared spectrum data from milk analysis equipment and provision for collecting and storing non-saleable milk from treated cows. While no specific budget range was disclosed, the comprehensive nature of the project suggests a significant investment in agricultural technology infrastructure. The contract includes provisions for cancellation with ten days' written notice and termination for breach of contract, providing flexibility for both the university and the selected vendor.