Rubber Boots. Waders and Muck.

The State of Maine Division of Purchases is requesting bids on rubber boots, waders, and muck boots, with bids due June 18, 2009. The solicitation includes a mandatory Code of Conduct Affidavit that must be completed, sworn before a notary public, and faxed to Sue Garcia at 207-287-6578 by the bid opening date; the affidavit requires certification of compliance with wage, health, labor, environmental, safety, and human-rights standards at all assembly facilities regardless of location, including prohibitions on forced labor, child labor, and involuntary prison labor.

The scope covers three product lines: Muck Boots Wetland Premium Field Boots (model WET-998K, Bark color) rated -20F to 70F with breathable Airmesh lining and 100% waterproof CR flex-foam bootie, available in men's sizes 5–15 and women's sizes 6–13; LaCross Big Chief hunting waders (model 700001, 32-inch height) with ozone-resistant premium rubber, 600 grams of Thinsulate Ultra Insulation, adjustable internal calf-harness, and air-grip outsole; and a third unspecified rubber boot category. No quantities are stated in the specification documents.

Bidders must submit separate unit prices for each item and may be awarded contracts on an item-by-item or group basis. The state reserves the right to reject any or all bids and adjust order quantities by up to 10 percent. Awards will be made to the lowest responsible bidder based on best value, including quality, conformity with specifications, delivery dates, and ultimate cost. A preference for in-state bidders and Maine-manufactured products applies when price, quality, and availability are equal. All transportation charges must be prepaid unless otherwise specified. The state is exempt from federal and Maine state sales and use taxes, which should be excluded from quotes.