Automated soil sensor probe
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 USDA Agricultural Research Service (ARS) is conducting market research via a Sources Sought Notice for an automated soil sensor probe with a UTV-mounted skid. This instrument must measure soil carbon content in situ to a depth of at least 12 inches and geo-reference each data point. The purpose is to identify qualified Small Business, SBA-certified HUBZone, Women-Owned, or Service Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) contractors. Responses are due by January 27, 2026, 11:00 p.m. ET.
Scope of Work
The requirement is for an automated soil sensor probe system with a UTV-mounted skid. Key capabilities include:
- Measurement: In-situ soil carbon content, soil penetration resistance, bulk soil apparent electrical conductivity (ECa), and soil dielectric permittivity (for water content) to a depth of at least 12 inches. All four data types must be collected simultaneously while the vehicle is in motion.
- Geo-referencing: Each data point must be geo-referenced for high-resolution soil map generation.
- Flexibility: Capable of mounting on light to heavy-duty vehicles.
- Data Management: Ability to log, download, process, and transfer data to commercial software, with an option for real-time visualization.
- Support: Manufacturer support and training are required.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought / Market Research
- Set-Aside Focus: Market research to determine potential for Small Business, HUBZone, SDVOSB, or Women-Owned set-asides.
- NAICS: 333111 Farm Machinery and Equipment Manufacturing (Size Standard: 1,250 employees)
- Response Due: January 27, 2026, 11:00 p.m. ET
- Published: January 15, 2026
Submission Requirements
Interested vendors should submit a Capabilities Statement (no more than 10 pages) to Katelyn.Nelson@usda.gov. Submissions must include:
- Organization Name, Contact Name, email, and phone number.
- Organization's UEI number.
- Business size status for NAICS 333111.
- Statement of interest in any forthcoming acquisition.
- Statement of capability to perform the detailed requirements outlined in the SOW.
- Country of origin of the product.
Evaluation
Responses will inform the Government's acquisition decision, including whether to limit competition to specific small business categories or proceed with an unrestricted solicitation. This is not a solicitation, and no contract will be awarded based on responses.