Southern California Drilling Services_10117049

The California Department of Water Resources has issued Invitation for Bid (IFB No. 10117049) for geological exploration drilling services throughout Southern California. The procurement seeks a contractor to provide up to two fully-equipped drilling rigs with staffed drillers and helpers on a call-up basis, covering projects in twelve counties including Imperial, Inyo, Kern, Los Angeles, Mono, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Diego, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, and Ventura Counties. Contractors must possess and maintain a valid C-57 Water Well Drilling License throughout the contract period, and provide comprehensive drilling services including core drilling, special equipment usage, and miscellaneous materials. Technical questions were due by February 29, 2016, with final bids required by March 9, 2016. The anticipated contract term is two years, with work expected to commence in April 2016, and will involve unit pricing for various drilling services including regular and overtime hours. Bidders must submit a 10% bid bond and be prepared to provide payment and performance bonds. Comprehensive insurance coverage, including general liability, automobile liability, and workers' compensation, is mandatory.

The solicitation includes specific set-aside and participation requirements for small businesses and disabled veteran-owned businesses. There is a 5% bid preference for Small Business (SB) participants and a mandatory 3% minimum goal for Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise (DVBE) participation. Contractors must be registered with the Department of Industrial Relations and comply with prevailing wage requirements. While no incumbent vendors are specified in the documentation, the contract appears designed to establish a multi-year drilling services agreement with flexible call-up provisions across multiple Southern California counties. The procurement suggests a potentially significant contract value, though specific budget ranges are not explicitly detailed in the available documentation. Successful bidders will be expected to demonstrate technical capability, financial stability, and compliance with state contracting regulations, with an emphasis on supporting local and disadvantaged business enterprises.