FY26 OLYM MULE PURCHASE
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 National Park Service (NPS), Olympic National Recreation Area, has issued a Sources Sought Notice for market research to identify potential sources for the purchase and delivery of 4-6 mules. This is for acquisition planning purposes and is not a solicitation. The government is seeking information from various members of the Small Business Community (including 8(a), HUBZone, VOSB, WOSB, SDB, SDVOSB) as well as large businesses. Responses are due by March 2, 2026, 9:00 am Pacific Standard Time.
Scope of Work
The mules will support critical park operations including trail maintenance, backcountry structure maintenance, ranger and crew operations, and resource management research. They are expected to travel over 30 miles daily with loads exceeding 140 pounds. Key selection factors include load capacity, reliability, health, temperament, and life expectancy.
Minimum requirements for the mules include:
- Acceptable Coggins Certificate and Vaccination Record
- Minimum height: 14.5 hands
- Maximum age: 12 years
- Previous pack and saddle training
- Positive response to human interaction
- Mild temperament
- Minimum weight: 1000 lbs
- Sound hoof structure and anatomy
- Fluid gait and pace
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought Notice (Market Research)
- Anticipated Contract Type (if solicited): Firm Fixed-Price
- NAICS Code: 112920, Horse and Other Equine Production
- Small Business Size Standard: $2.75M
- Response Due: March 2, 2026, 9:00 am PST
- Published: February 19, 2026
Submission & Eligibility
Interested parties must submit a written Statement of Capability, limited to 2 pages, demonstrating their ability to meet the requirements. The statement should include:
- Contractor's name, address, point of contact, phone, and email.
- Contractor's interest in providing a quote if a solicitation is issued.
- Contractor's capability to meet the requirements.
- Contractor's Unique Entity ID (UEI).
- Contractor's business size and small business type (if applicable).
Email submissions to michael_abner@nps.gov with "Sources Sought Notice #140P8326Q0015" in the subject line.
Additional Notes
This notice is for planning purposes only; it is not a solicitation, and no contract will be awarded from it. The government will not reimburse costs associated with responding. Businesses registered in SAM.gov should ensure their small business status is updated based on new size standards effective March 17, 2023.