Wolf Advisory Group Facilitation Services

The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) is soliciting proposals for Wolf Advisory Group (WAG) Facilitation Services through a competitive Request for Proposal (RFP) process. The procurement seeks a third-party neutral facilitator to provide strategic guidance and manage complex collaborative processes related to wolf management issues across multiple Washington counties. Key deliverables include conducting a one-time orientation meeting with WDFW staff, planning video conference meetings, facilitating WAG meetings (with options for two hybrid or two video conference meetings per fiscal year), assisting with new member recruitment, and providing communication support. Bidders must demonstrate at least 7 years of experience in managing collaborative processes, building relationships, and guiding participants through conflict resolution. The evaluation criteria will weight proposals as follows: 50% for approach and methodology, 20% for proposed staff experience and qualifications, 10% for project plan and schedule, 10% for company experience, and 10% for cost. The RFP was posted on April 15, 2025, with proposals due by May 30, 2025, and an optional pre-bid conference scheduled for April 29, 2025. The anticipated contract period runs from July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2027.

The WDFW specifically encourages proposals from Disadvantaged, Minority, and Women-Owned Business Enterprises. The total estimated budget for this contract is $196,000 for the two-year performance period. While the RFP indicates that WDFW is not seeking to change the current facilitator, they are following standard state transparency protocols by conducting an open competitive procurement process. The contract will require compliance with state and federal nondiscrimination laws, with mandatory insurance coverage including commercial general liability with minimum limits of $1,000,000 per occurrence. Contractors must also adhere to prevailing wage requirements and provide access to records for audit purposes. The solicitation covers jurisdictions across Washington state, including but not limited to Franklin, Grant, Grays Harbor, Chelan, and Yakima Counties, demonstrating a comprehensive approach to wolf management facilitation. Potential respondents should carefully review the attached documents, including the RFP, amendment documentation, and general terms and conditions to fully understand the scope and requirements of this procurement opportunity.