South Dakota Pronghorn Aerial Surveys 2024

The South Dakota Department of Game, Fish and Parks is seeking qualified vendors to conduct pronghorn aerial wildlife surveys across western and central South Dakota in 2024. The Request for Proposal (RFP #24RFP10682) solicits contractors with airplanes, pilots, and survey capabilities to complete approximately 29,000 miles of wildlife transects between April 24 and June 31, 2024. Specifically, contractors must provide Cessna 172 airplanes with a contract pilot, with a primary observer from the Department accompanying each survey flight. Proposals are due by April 10, 2024, with an anticipated award and contract negotiation date of April 19, 2024. Evaluation criteria will likely include pricing structures, which must comprehensively detail cost per flight hour, airplane ferry fees, crew per diem expenses, and other associated costs. Vendors may submit proposals for one or multiple airplanes and pilots, and the State reserves the right to award multiple contracts to ensure complete survey coverage.

The RFP does not explicitly specify set-aside designations or restrictions for disadvantaged business enterprises. No incumbent vendors are mentioned in the provided documentation. The contract allows for multiple vendors to be selected, with the State retaining negotiation rights to finalize the scope of services and compensation. While specific budget ranges are not detailed, the comprehensive pricing requirements suggest vendors should be prepared to provide transparent, itemized cost proposals. The survey will cover 24 different geographical units across South Dakota, indicating a potentially significant contract value. Vendors must be prepared to work flexibly, as the contract length accommodates potential weather-related challenges and optimal wildlife survey conditions. Interested parties can direct inquiries to Andrew Norton at andrew.norton@state.sd.us, with all communications and potential clarifications to be posted on the state's e-procurement system.