Umatilla Hatchery Aeration/Oxygen Pump Repairs

The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) is conducting a special procurement for Umatilla Hatchery aeration and oxygen pump repairs through a unique non-competitive bidding process. The project involves inspection, repair, and potential replacement of critical sump and oxygen pumps in the hatchery's rearing ponds, with the primary objective of preventing potential service interruptions that could negatively impact salmon returns to the Umatilla River. The procurement will utilize a purchase order for parts and services, with work to be completed between December 1, 2025, and May 31, 2026. Key deliverables include comprehensive pump system inspections, repairs, and restoration of backup equipment functionality. The special procurement is authorized under OAR 125-247-0288 and ORS 279B.085, with a specific focus on addressing complex equipment maintenance requirements that cannot be fully assessed without preliminary dismantling and inspection. The proposal submission deadline is December 22, 2025, with no formal bidding process, site visits, or bidders' conferences planned.

The procurement is restricted to specialized service providers with expertise in water pump systems, with only two companies identified as capable of performing the work in the service area. Schneider Water Works (SWW) is the incumbent contractor, having served since 2018 and demonstrating superior performance compared to previous vendors. The total project budget is estimated at $70,000, with the procurement specifically designed to prevent potential fishery management disruptions that could impact recreational, commercial, and tribal fishing interests across Oregon and Washington. No specific set-aside designations or restrictions for disadvantaged enterprises were mentioned in the documentation. The ODFW's Chief Financial Officer approved the special procurement request on December 10, 2025, after determining that the approach would not encourage favoritism, would not diminish competition, and would substantially promote public interest by maintaining critical hatchery infrastructure and supporting regional fishery management objectives.