Statewide Remote Sensing Crop Mapping

The California Department of Water Resources (DWR), Division of Statewide Integrated Water Management, is seeking a qualified firm to provide statewide remote sensing crop mapping services through a Request for Qualifications (RFQ No. 10118884). The primary objective is to develop a comprehensive land use dataset using remotely sensed imagery to identify and quantify crop acreage across multiple regions including the Central Valley, Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta, Klamath Basin, Coastal area, and Southern California. Key deliverables will include imagery, GIS data files, mapping tools, and methodology documentation, with contractors responsible for obtaining satellite or aerial photography, formatting data, and maintaining agricultural land use and wetlands mapping. The RFQ requires firms to have extensive background in imagery analysis software and at least one team member with an engineering degree or license. A mandatory pre-SOQ submittal conference was held on April 15, 2016, with the final Statement of Qualifications due by 2:00 p.m. on May 4, 2016. The evaluation process will involve reviewing qualifications, conducting interviews with at least three most qualified firms, and negotiating with the top-ranked candidate. Pricing will be submitted in a sealed envelope and only opened for the most qualified firm.

The procurement includes specific small business participation goals, with a 25% target for small business involvement. While Disabled Veterans Business Enterprise (DVBE) requirements are exempted, the contract emphasizes opportunities for diverse business participation. The anticipated contract term spans from July 1, 2016, through June 30, 2021, with contractors required to maintain comprehensive insurance coverage including general liability, automobile liability, workers' compensation, and professional liability. Contractors will be responsible for software and licensing costs, with any rights existing at contract expiration potentially transferring to DWR as permitted by law. The RFQ allows for potential contract amendments to expand land use mapping beyond the initial agricultural and wetlands focus. While a specific contract value is not explicitly stated, the five-year duration and comprehensive mapping requirements suggest a significant investment in geospatial data collection and analysis. Hourly rates and associated costs will be negotiated during the final selection process, with the expectation that the selected firm will provide expert technical consultation and advanced remote sensing capabilities.