6640--Caging System
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 Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), Network Contracting Office (NCO) 20, is conducting market research through a Sources Sought Notice to identify qualified sources for a rodent caging system for the VA Portland Health Care System (VAPHCS). This system must include an automated Avidity watering system and HEPA intake and exhaust filtration. The purpose is to determine the appropriate acquisition method. Responses are due by February 13, 2026, at 1:00 PM Mountain Time.
Scope of Work
The requirement is for an additional rodent caging system for the VAPHCS Veterinary Medical Unit. The system must be compatible with existing Thoren cages and supplies. Key specifications include:
- Capacity: At least 80 cage spaces.
- Rack Dimensions: Max 80" high, 72" wide, 30" deep; constructed from stainless steel; mobile.
- Cage Dimensions: Accommodate cages measuring exactly 12.125"x12.125"x7.37".
- Watering System: Automated Avidity system with current model lixits, resistant to bedding entry.
- Filtration: HEPA filters for both intake and exhaust air, supplied directly into each cage, adjustable CFM (30-100 air changes/hour), capable of positive or negative pressure relative to the room.
- Cages: Clear/light amber polysulfide, resistant to clouding/cracking, autoclavable up to 270°F.
- Ancillary: Stainless steel wire lids (hold 16 oz. bottle and feed hopper), filter covers (200 autoclave cycles), vertical cardholders, 16oz bottles, energy-efficient HEPA Filter/Blower Module, Remote Adjustment Box, Bracket.
- Warranty: 1 Year. All systems must meet regulatory and guidance requirements from the Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought / Market Research
- Set-Aside: None specified (market research stage)
- NAICS Code: 332618 (Size Standard: 500 employees)
- Response Due: February 13, 2026, 1:00 PM Mountain Time
- Published: February 6, 2026
- Estimated Award: April 1, 2026
- Shipping: 210-300 days after receipt of order
- Fulfillment: 12 calendar months from anticipated award
Submission Requirements
Interested contractors should email responses to Nazanin Kreiner at nazanin.kreiner@va.gov. Submissions must include company name, address, SAM UEI, country of manufacture, business size, point of contact (name, phone, email), and GSA Federal Supply Schedule contract status.
Place of Performance
VA Portland Health Care System, Building 101/6th Floor – Veterinary Medical Unit, 3710 SW US Veterans Hospital Road, Portland, OR 97239.
Additional Notes
This is a Sources Sought Notice for market research only and does not obligate the Government to award a contract. No solicitation is available at this time. Responses will be treated as proprietary, and no acknowledgement or feedback will be provided.