Upper Colorado River Basin Contribution Program Consultant

The Colorado Department of Natural Resources, on behalf of the Division of the Colorado Water Conservation Board (CWCB), is requesting proposals for engineering and water resources consulting services to manage the Upper Colorado River Basin Contribution Program, with proposals due October 12, 2026. Service Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Businesses registered with the U.S. Small Business Administration may receive a 5 percent preference on their bid; resident bidders are eligible for preference as defined under Colorado statute.

The consultant will provide water user outreach, pre-application support, application processing, program implementation, and verification and accounting for water contribution projects funded through a $100 million federal grant awarded by the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation to the Upper Colorado River Commission. Colorado expects to receive an initial subaward of approximately $50 million, subject to adjustment based on program interest. The CWCB has allocated approximately $700,000 to assist with program administration.

The contract term is guaranteed through September 30, 2027, with up to four annual renewal options at CWCB's discretion, for a maximum performance period of five years expiring September 30, 2031. Proposed hourly rate sheets for all project team members and detailed cost proposals for four specified tasks are required. Prices must remain firm through September 30, 2027, with potential annual rate adjustments beginning October 1, 2027, based on Chained CPI for All Urban Consumers.

An optional pre-bid meeting is scheduled for September 22, 2026, at 11:30 AM MDT, with registration required by September 21. Questions are due September 28 at 10:00 AM MDT, with answers posted by October 1. A public proposal opening follows at 12:00 PM MDT on October 12. Evaluation is expected October 12–16, interviews on October 22–23, and award decision by October 28. The project start date is anticipated for November 25, 2026. All work products and intellectual property developed under the contract become the sole property of the State of Colorado.