South Dakota 2024 Elk Surveys

The South Dakota Department of Game, Fish and Parks is seeking qualified vendors to conduct aerial wildlife survey services for elk populations in the Black Hills Fire Protection District through a Request for Proposal (RFP) released on October 18, 2023. The procurement focuses on comprehensive aerial surveys to be performed between January 1 and March 31, 2024, utilizing helicopters and experienced pilots to assess elk populations across various management units. Key deliverables include detailed flight surveys, precise population counting methodologies, and comprehensive reporting of elk distribution and population dynamics. Proposals are due by November 3, 2023, with an anticipated award decision and contract negotiation scheduled for November 17, 2023. Bidders must submit extensive documentation demonstrating specialized expertise, including detailed qualifications of proposed personnel, past performance records, and operational capabilities. The evaluation criteria will emphasize the vendor's technical competence, experience in wildlife surveying, pilot qualifications, and cost-effectiveness of the proposed approach. The contract will be structured for a three-month duration in 2024, with the State reserving the right to negotiate final service scope and compensation with the highest-ranked offeror.

While the RFP does not explicitly specify set-aside designations or restrictions for disadvantaged business enterprises, it requires comprehensive qualifications from potential vendors. The proposal mandates detailed cost proposals including per-flight hour rates, helicopter ferry fees, fuel service vehicle mileage costs, and daily crew expenses. Vendors must demonstrate significant experience in aerial wildlife surveying, with particular emphasis on elk population assessment techniques. Although no incumbent vendors are mentioned, the RFP suggests a competitive bidding process open to qualified wildlife survey and aerial reconnaissance firms. While a specific budget range is not disclosed, the contract's comprehensive requirements indicate a substantial investment in precise wildlife population management. The procurement appears designed to select a vendor with specialized expertise in helicopter-based wildlife surveys, capable of providing accurate, scientifically rigorous population assessment services for the South Dakota Department of Game, Fish and Parks.