37--IA NEAL SMITH NWR 20' FLEX WING MOWER with TRADE
Overview
Buyer
Place of Performance
NAICS
PSC
Set Aside
Original Source
Timeline
Qualification Details
Fit reasons
- NAICS alignment with historical contract wins in similar service areas.
- Scope strongly matches core technical capabilities and delivery model.
Risks
- Past performance thresholds may require one additional teaming partner.
- Potential clarification needed on staffing minimums before bid/no-bid.
Next steps
Validate eligibility requirements, assign capture owner, and schedule partner outreach to confirm teaming strategy before submission planning.
Quick Summary
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS), under the Department of the Interior, is soliciting proposals for a 20' John Deere Flex Wing Mower for the Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) in Prairie City, IA. This acquisition is a Total Small Business Set-Aside and requires the acceptance of two trade-in mowers. Proposals are due by April 7, 2026, at 21:00:00Z.
Scope of Work
The opportunity, Solicitation 140FS226Q0079, seeks one (1) new 20' John Deere Flex Wing Mower. This procurement is specifically for a heavy-duty batwing mower capable of cutting trees/brush up to 4" in diameter, with a 1000 RPM PTO, ball-type self-level hitch, CV ASAE category 6 splined telescoping driveline, severe duty ag foam filled tires, 7 gauge deck thickness, a minimum 5-year warranty on gearboxes, and a heavy-duty stump jumper. The government has justified the brand-name requirement (John Deere FC20R) based on market research.
Key Requirements
Offerors must accept two trade-in mowers: a 2018 John Deere CX20 and a 2010 John Deere CX20. Acceptance of both trade-in units is a mandatory condition of award. Detailed specifications for the new mower include a 20 ft cutting width, 4-inch cutting capacity, 125 hp continuous per wing, 7700 LBS total weight, and laminated puncture-proof tires. Delivery is required by June 30, 2026, to the station's requested location, on-ground, without requiring station lift/move/transport.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Firm-Fixed-Price Contract
- Set-Aside: Total Small Business Set-Aside (FAR 19.5)
- Response Due: April 7, 2026, 21:00:00Z
- Published Date: March 23, 2026, 19:10:11Z
- Period of Performance: Delivery by June 30, 2026
Evaluation & Submission
Award will be made to the offeror whose submission conforms to requirements and offers the best value. Technical specifications and past performance are considered more important than price. Offerors are strongly encouraged to submit quotations on Standard Form (SF) 1449 and must include the country of origin and estimated delivery date with their offer. All supporting documents must be provided by the due date. Questions should be emailed to Jeremy Riva (jeremy_riva@fws.gov).
Additional Notes
An amendment (0001) was issued to clarify trade-in information. The justification for a brand-name (John Deere FC20R) procurement cites market research and specific technical needs for cutting invasive prairie plants and trees. Barriers to competition include SAM registration and acceptance of trade-in equipment.