South Dakota 2024 Elk Surveys

The South Dakota Department of Game, Fish and Parks (SDGFP) is seeking qualified vendors to conduct aerial wildlife survey services specifically targeting elk populations in the Black Hills Fire Protection District through a Request for Proposal (RFP #23RFP9074). The procurement involves comprehensive aerial surveys to be conducted between January 1 and March 31, 2024, covering management units in the Black Hills, Custer State Park, and a portion of Wyoming. Vendors must provide detailed proposals including itemized costs for flight hours, helicopter ferry charges, fuel service vehicle expenses, and crew-related costs. Proposals are due by September 22, 2023, with an anticipated contract award and negotiation date of October 10, 2023. The state will evaluate proposals based on specialized expertise, past performance, project availability, and technical capabilities for conducting precise wildlife population surveys. Interested vendors must submit inquiries via email to Andrew Norton at andrew.norton@state.sd.us, using the specific subject line "RFP #23RFP9074" and adhering to the communication protocols outlined in the solicitation.

While the RFP does not explicitly mention specific set-aside designations or restrictions for disadvantaged enterprises, the document suggests that qualified vendors with demonstrable aerial survey experience in wildlife population assessment will be considered. The contract appears to be open to professional wildlife survey firms or helicopter services with specialized expertise in conducting comprehensive aerial wildlife population studies. Although no specific budget range is directly stated in the provided documentation, the detailed cost itemization requirements indicate an expectation of comprehensive and potentially significant financial investment in the survey services. The geographic scope encompasses Harding County and surrounding areas in South Dakota, with potential extension into Wyoming, suggesting a regionally focused procurement. The solicitation implies that the selected vendor will need sophisticated aerial survey equipment, experienced flight crews, and the technical capability to accurately document and report elk population data across diverse terrain and environmental conditions.