7G--PIT Tag IDIQ

Amendment / Modification

This amendment serves as a question and answer document, providing final clarifications for the solicitation.

• Clarifications are provided regarding testing procedures, equipment, and submission requirements.

• Specific questions addressed include:

  • Tag batch location and selection for testing.
  • Requirements for 12-gauge needles.
  • Confirmation of the removal of the "Interfering Distance Test."
  • Clarification on the testing environment (fully shielded, noise-free required).
  • Government's provision of the Biomark IS1001 reader, with vendors responsible for other equipment.
  • Confirmation that no signed certification is required from the vendor.
  • The government will not issue a consolidated testing protocol, as all revisions are within existing amendments.

• The solicitation closing date remains unchanged.

• All previously posted terms and conditions remain in effect.

• No further questions will be accepted.

Amendment / Modification

This document is Amendment 2 to Solicitation 140R4026R0003 for Passive Integrated Transponders (PIT) Tags and Related Equipment. The primary purpose of this amendment is to provide a question and answer document.

• The solicitation closing date and time are extended. The new closing date is Tuesday, June 2, 2026, at 14:00 (2:00 PM) Mountain Time.

• Specific questions and answers related to the Pit Tag Testing Protocol have been addressed, resulting in the removal of certain testing requirements and clarifications on physical tolerances and orientation requirements.

• The extension of the solicitation closing date provides additional time for offerors to prepare and submit their proposals.

• Clarifications on testing requirements may impact how vendors approach their testing procedures and proposal content.

Amendment / Modification

This amendment (0001) to solicitation 140R4026R0003 makes the following changes:

• Attaches the correct Final Attachment 3- Pit Tag Testing Protocol 2026.04.21.

• Removes the small business set aside and corrects it to Full and Open with Small Business Reserve.

• Includes answers to previously submitted questions.

• Extends the proposal due date to June 2, 2026, at 2:00 PM MDT.

• Includes clause 52.219-31 Notice of Small Business Reserve (Mar 2020).

• Includes FAR Clause 52.222-90 Addressing DEI Discrimination by Federal Contractors.

• Utilizes FAR 19.112 Reserves.

• Final Attachment 3 (Pit Tag Testing Protocol)

• Set-aside status

• Proposal due date

• Clauses 52.219-31 and 52.222-90 added

• The proposal due date has been extended to June 2, 2026, at 2:00 PM MDT.

• The set-aside status has changed, impacting eligibility for small businesses.

• Bidders must acknowledge receipt of this amendment and ensure their proposals reflect the updated attachments and clauses.

Questions & Answers / Clarifications

This document provides responses to vendor questions regarding the solicitation, clarifying requirements related to equipment, testing, and coding structures for PIT tags.

• Equipment Acceptance: Equivalent equipment or alternative testing methodologies will NOT be accepted. The Government will provide a reader, but the contractor is responsible for securing a facility capable of performing the required tests.
• Reader Justification: A specific proprietary reader is required because it is widely used by the Government, ensuring compatibility with existing interrogation systems.
• ICAR Compliance & Coding: A dedicated manufacturer's code is mandatory for PIT tags to ensure source identification and traceability. Tags must also be compatible with Columbia River Basin specifications requiring tag mask codes. Certain ICAR-recognized coding formats that do not meet these specific requirements will not be accepted.
• Evaluation Committee: Individual names of the Technical Proposal Evaluation Committee members will not be provided at this time.

These clarifications do not appear to alter any stated requirements, submission deadlines, or evaluation factors, but bidders should ensure their proposed solutions strictly adhere to the specified equipment and coding requirements.

Amendment / Modification

This amendment (Amendment 1) to Solicitation 140R4026R0003 makes the following changes:

• Attachment Update: The correct Final Attachment 3 - Pit Tag Testing Protocol 2026.04.21 is attached, replacing an inadvertently attached draft.

• Set-Aside Change: The small business set-aside has been removed and corrected to a "Full and Open with Small Business Reserve."

• Questions & Answers: Responses to vendor questions submitted are included.

• Proposal Deadline Extension: The proposal due date has been extended to Tuesday, June 2, 2026, at 2:00 PM Mountain Time.

• New Clauses Included:

  • 52.219-31 Notice of Small Business Reserve (Mar 2020)
  • FAR Clause 52.222-90 Addressing DEI Discrimination by Federal Contractors

• Reserves Utilized: The solicitation is utilizing FAR 19.112 Reserves.

• Attachment 3 (Pit Tag Testing Protocol)

• Solicitation set-aside status

• Proposal submission deadline

• Inclusion of clauses 52.219-31 and FAR 52.222-90

The proposal deadline has been extended to June 2, 2026. Bidders should ensure their proposals reflect the updated attachments and include the newly added clauses. The solicitation is now "Full and Open with Small Business Reserve."

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document outlines the required testing procedures, equipment, and evaluation criteria for vendors submitting PIT tags for performance testing. It serves as a protocol to ensure consistent, fair, and accurate evaluation of tag performance.

• General Instructions: Vendors must perform all tests, supply necessary equipment, and conduct testing in the presence of Government personnel. A Biomark IS1001 reader will be used. Testing stops if any tag fails a threshold.
• PIT Tag Testing Protocol: Details five specific tests:
  1. Physical Specifications: Evaluates length, diameter, and weight against specified criteria. Preferred dimensions (length ≤ 12.5 mm, weight ≤ 0.115 g) receive favorable consideration.
  2. Electrical Performance Test: Measures Turn-On Voltage, Resonant Frequency, Bandwidth, and Modulation. A minimum of 98% of tags must meet specific electrical parameters.
  3. Interfering Distance Test: Assesses detection efficiency when tags are in close proximity, requiring ≥ 95% efficiency at specified spacing distances.
  4. Minimum Read Distance Test: Determines the minimum read distance at various orientations and noise levels, with specific distance requirements for 0° and 45° orientations.
  5. Read Speed Test: Evaluates tag readability at high speeds, requiring ≥ 95% efficiency at 12 m/s with 10% noise and specified orientations.
• Submission Requirements: Vendors must submit a complete test report, signed certification of adherence to the protocol, and identification of any deviations.

This document is critical for vendors intending to bid on opportunities involving PIT tag performance. It details the exact testing methodology, performance standards, and submission requirements that vendors must meet or exceed. Understanding and adhering to this protocol is essential for successful proposal preparation and for ensuring the submitted PIT tags will meet government specifications.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document is a pricing schedule (Schedule B) detailing the CLINs, descriptions, quantities, and pricing for various items related to the opportunity. It serves as a template for vendors to provide their pricing.

• Section I: GCMRC, Maria Dzul: Preloaded FDX 134.2 kHz PIT TAGS (Biomark or equivalent) with specific delivery instructions and contacts.
• Section II: SJRIP, UCRIP, Biologic and Modem Subscriptions: Biomark Biologic Cell and Satellite subscriptions, including cell service and web portal access, for specified sites and durations.
• Section III: GCMRC TAGS AND READERS: Preloaded FDX 134.2 kHz PIT TAGS and Handheld Readers (Biomark or equivalent) with delivery instructions.
• Section IV: GC CONS MEAS AG&FD: Preloaded FDX 134.2 kHz PIT TAGS (Biomark or equivalent) with delivery instructions to Arizona Game and Fish Facility.
• Section V: UCRIP & SJRIP PIT Tags: Preloaded FDX 134.2 kHz PIT TAGS (Biomark or equivalent) with delivery instructions to U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
• Section VI: SJRIP SLICKHORN REMOTE UPLOAD: Various communication components (DOP Enclosures, Satellite Modems, SIM Cards, Cables, Switches) and related services (Biomark BioLogic Web Portal w/sat), along with Senior Engineer and Electronics Technician labor, and travel.
• Section VII: UCRIP RAZORBACK BAR CELLULAR UPLOAD: Communication kits (Cell Cloudgate 4G Kit WW, Enc Comm DOP BLE w/ DDR30G) and Biomark Biologic Cell subscriptions.

Bidders must use this schedule to understand the specific quantities and types of equipment and services required for each CLIN. The "Price EA" and "TOTAL" columns are expected to be populated by the bidder to reflect their proposed costs. Delivery locations, points of contact, and delivery timelines (no later than 60 days after award, unless otherwise specified) are also critical for proposal preparation.

Solicitation / RFP / RFQ

This solicitation is for the procurement of Passive Integrated Transponder (PIT) tags, PIT tag readers, and PIT tag implanters. The Department of the Interior uses this equipment for various applications, including tracking and recording animal locations, primarily fish. The contract awarded will be accessible to other DOI agencies.

• PIT Tags: Must be ISO 11784 and 11785 compliant, glass encapsulated, bio-compatible, operate at 134.2 kHz ISO, and function in temperatures from -25° to +100° Celsius. Specific requirements are detailed for 8mm, 9mm, 12mm, and 23-30mm FDX and HDX tags regarding weight, length, width, and coding.

• Readers: Must read 134.2 kHz PIT tags and be compatible with Biomark Inc. products. Various types are required, including pocket, portable, remote, and multi-antenna readers.

• Implanters/Guns: Must be compatible with the specified PIT tags and capable of quick insertion and healing.

• Software: Required for operating scanners, downloading data, and archiving information. Must be compatible with readers, Windows 10+, Android devices, and produce open format files.

• Antennas: Various styles and types are required, meeting specific construction and read distance requirements (minimum 18 inches at 10% noise for a 12mm tag).

• Miscellaneous Equipment: Includes communication cables, modems, batteries, solar power systems, etc.

• Contract Type: Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ)

• Period of Performance: 07/01/2026 to 06/30/2031

• Set-Aside: Partial set-aside for Small Business for CLINs 0010-00170 and 00210 (PIT tags and implanters).

• Proposal Submission: Must be emailed to Mr. Russell Oaks by May 25, 2026, 14:00 (2:00 PM) Mountain Time. Proposals must be in two volumes: Technical and Pricing.

• UEI Information: Must be included in the proposal.

• SAM.gov Registration: Required at the time of proposal submission.

• Evaluation Factors: Technical Capability, Services Experience, Past Performance, Price, and Small Business Participation.

• Technical Capability: Proposals must demonstrate compliance with minimum technical specifications, including ISO compliance, read distance, and operating temperatures. Testing of PIT tags will be conducted after the proposal due date.

• Questions Deadline: At least 5 business days prior to the closing date/time.

• This solicitation includes a partial set-aside for Small Business for specific CLINs.

• Attachment 1: Pricing Schedule B

• Attachment 2: First Delivery Order Pricing Schedule B

• Attachment 3: Pit Tag Testing Protocol 2026.04.16

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document outlines the required instructions, testing procedures, and evaluation criteria for vendors submitting PIT tags for performance testing. It ensures a consistent, fair, and accurate evaluation of tag performance.

• General Instructions: Vendors must perform all tests, supply necessary equipment, and testing will be conducted with Government personnel. A Biomark IS1001 reader will be used. Tags will be randomly selected, and sample sizes are specified per section. Testing stops if any tag fails.
• PIT Tag Testing Protocol: Details specific tests including:
  • Physical Specifications: Checks for structural integrity, length, diameter, and weight. Preferred dimensions (length ≤ 12.7 mm, weight ≤ 0.115g) receive favorable consideration.
  • Electrical Performance Test: Evaluates Turn-On Voltage, Resonant Frequency, Bandwidth, and Modulation. Minimum 200 tags required. Passing requirements include specific ranges for Resonant Frequency (132–136.5 kHz), Turn-On Voltage (≤ 700 mV), Modulation (> 75%), and Bandwidth (< 9 kHz).
  • Interfering Distance Test: Measures detection efficiency at close proximity. Requires 95% efficiency at 6-inch and 3-inch spacing.
  • Minimum Read Distance Test: Determines detection distance under various orientations and noise conditions (0% and 10%). Requires minimum read distances of 8" (0° orientation) and 6" (45° orientation) at 10% noise.
  • Read Speed Test: Evaluates readability at high speeds (~25 ft/sec) with 0° and 45° orientations and 25% noise. Requires ≥ 95% efficiency.

This document is critical for vendors to understand the exact performance standards and testing methodologies their submitted PIT tags must meet. Adherence to these protocols and achieving the specified passing criteria are essential for successful proposal evaluation and contract award. Vendors must prepare to conduct or facilitate these tests and submit a comprehensive report documenting methods, equipment, data, and results, along with a certification of compliance.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document is a pricing schedule (Attachment 2) that outlines the CLINs (Contract Line Item Numbers) for various PIT tags, readers, implanters, antennas, software, related equipment, professional services, and travel. Bidders are required to fill out all highlighted areas for the CLINs they are proposing on and include associated equipment under CLIN 00300.

• PIT Tags: Multiple CLINs (00010-00170) detail various types of PIT tags, including different sizes, duplex/half-duplex capabilities, and temperature sensing options. Some are preloaded and sterile/non-sterile.

• PIT Tag Readers: CLINs 00180-00200 cover hand-held and stationary readers.

• PIT Tag Implanters: CLIN 00210 includes implanters and needles.

• PIT Tag Antennas: CLINs 00220-00310 list various types and sizes of antennas.

• Software: CLIN 00320 covers custom software.

• Associated Equipment & Accessories: CLINs 00330-00340 cover related equipment and accessories.

• Professional Services: CLINs 00350-00370 detail loaded labor rates for Senior Engineers, Electronic Technicians, and Fisheries Specialists.

• Travel: CLIN 00380 outlines travel pricing, to be determined per Delivery/Task Order, in accordance with Federal Travel Regulations.

• Bidders must complete the highlighted sections of this pricing schedule for the CLINs they intend to propose on.

• Offerors are required to submit samples for CLIN 00020 to be considered technically acceptable for award.

• All associated equipment must be listed under CLIN 00300.

• The document specifies estimated quantities for each CLIN across calendar years 2026-2031.

• Contractual terms regarding order limitations and indefinite quantity are referenced (FAR Clause 52.216-19 and 52-216-22), with a minimum contract total of $10,000.00 and a maximum of $40,000,000.00.

Solicitation / RFP / RFQ

This is a presolicitation synopsis notice for an anticipated Request for Proposal (RFP) 140R4026R0003. The Bureau of Reclamation intends to procure PIT tags, PIT tag readers, PIT tag implanters, PIT tag antenna systems, related equipment, technical assistance, and software. These items are used by the Department of the Interior for tracking and recording animals, primarily fish, in research and monitoring activities.

The RFP will detail requirements including:

• Physical specifications for PIT tags (weight, length, width, ISO compliance, operating frequency).

• Operating specifications for readers (reading distance, read speed, electrical performance).

• Types of readers, including multi-antenna readers, and their operating temperature/environment.

• PIT tag implanters and injectors compatible with PIT tags, designed for quick insertion and withdrawal with minimal incision.

• Preloaded PIT tag needles (single-use, sterile and non-sterile), in trays.

• Replacement PIT tag implanter needles.

• Software and Antennas.

• Limited professional services for design, installation, and maintenance of PIT tag systems.

• The contract will be a five (5)-year Multiple Award, Indefinite Delivery Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract.

• The government intends to award to up to two large businesses and three small businesses.

• Firm Fixed Price (FFP) delivery orders will be issued.

• The government reserves the right to award with or without discussions.

• This notice is for planning purposes only; a formal RFP will be released.

• Interested parties should monitor www.SAM.gov for the official solicitation release, anticipated in January 2026.

• All responsible sources may submit a proposal.

• The solicitation is anticipated to be a Partial Small Business Set-Aside.

• CLINs 0010-00170 and 00210 (PIT tags and PIT tag implanters) will be set aside.

• This is not a solicitation and does not obligate the government to issue one.

• No telephone inquiries will be accepted.

• Contact: Russell Oaks, Contract Specialist, U.S. Department of the Interior, Bureau of Reclamation.

Solicitation / RFP / RFQ

This is a presolicitation synopsis notice for an anticipated Request for Proposal (RFP) 140R4026R0003. The Bureau of Reclamation's U.C. Regional Office intends to procure PIT tags, PIT tag readers, PIT tag implanters, PIT tag antenna systems, related equipment, technical assistance, and software. These items are used by the Department of the Interior for tracking and recording animals, primarily fish, for research and monitoring activities.

The RFP will detail requirements including:

• Physical measurements and ISO compliance of PIT tags (weight, length, width, operating frequency).

• Operating specifications for readers (reading distance, read speed, electrical performance, multi-antenna capability, environmental operating temperatures).

• Specifications for PIT tag implanters and injectors, ensuring compatibility and ease of use for tagging fish.

• Preloaded PIT tag needles (single-use, sterile and non-sterile), needles in trays, and replacement needles.

• Software and antenna systems.

• Limited professional services for design, installation, and maintenance of PIT tag systems.

• The contract will be a five (5)-year Multiple Award, Indefinite Delivery Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract.

• The government intends to award up to two large business contracts and three small business contracts.

• Firm Fixed Price (FFP) delivery orders will be issued.

• This is a presolicitation notice; the official RFP is anticipated in January 2026. Interested parties should monitor SAM.gov.

• The solicitation is anticipated to be full and open competition.

• The government reserves the right to award with or without discussions.

• Delivery orders may be competed among awardees or set-aside at the Contracting Officer's discretion.

• The government may award to a single contractor if only one is deemed technically acceptable or offers a fair and reasonable price.

• The contract will include awards to both large and small businesses.

• This notice is for information and planning purposes only and does not constitute a formal RFP.

• No telephone inquiries will be accepted.

• Contact: Russell Oaks, Contract Specialist, rdoaks@usbr.gov