Cattle Feed (Protein Pellets/Cubes)
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 Agriculture (USDA) Agricultural Research Service (ARS) has issued a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for Cattle Feed (Protein Pellets/Cubes). This procurement supports livestock research projects focused on reproductive physiology, nutrition, and genetics at the Fort Keogh Livestock and Range Research Laboratory in Miles City, Montana. This acquisition is a Total Small Business Set-Aside.
Scope of Work
The contractor shall provide and deliver protein supplements meeting the following specifications:
- Task 1: 125 tons of cow cake protein supplement (~20% Crude Protein) as 3/4-inch pellets.
- Task 2: 14 tons of cow cake protein supplement (~20% Crude Protein) as 3/8-inch pellets.
- Product Standards: Crude protein must average ~20% (13%-28% range). Acceptable ingredients include alfalfa, barley, corn, peas, canola, or similar, with no added vitamins or minerals.
- Logistics: Deliveries must be made via semi-load or 1-ton bulk bags between January 2026 and May 2026. All shipments are F.O.B. Destination.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Request for Quotation (RFQ) / Firm Fixed-Price
- Set-Aside: Total Small Business Set-Aside
- NAICS Code: 311119 (Other Animal Food Manufacturing)
- Published Date: January 21, 2026
- Delivery Window: January 2026 through May 2026
Evaluation
Award will be made to a responsible source based on the evaluation criteria outlined in "Attachment 1 - Solicitation Terms and Conditions." Bidders must provide certified weight tickets and adhere to strict delivery notification protocols (3 workdays' advance notice).
Additional Notes
Delivery hours are Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. local time. The facility will handle unloading into storage bins. All tonnage must be confirmed in writing at the destination.