ML0150 Sphagnum Moss for USDA-ARS
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 soliciting quotations for 700 bales of ML0150 long fibered Sphagnum Moss for its Sugarcane Field Station in Canal Point, Florida. This Total Small Business Set-Aside aims to procure moss for sugarcane breeding activities. Offers are due April 30, 2026, at 5:00 PM ET.
Scope of Work
This Request for Quotation (RFQ) is for the procurement of 700 bales of 2.0 cubic feet ML0150 long fibered Sphagnum Moss. The moss is essential for sugarcane breeding, promoting rooting, and maintaining stalk viability. Key Specifications:
- 100% natural and certified organic.
- Must possess unique water retention, anti-bacterial attributes, and high phenol content to suppress soil-borne pathogens. Delivery:
- Single delivery required within 60 days after award. Early deliveries are accepted.
- F.O.B. Point: Destination. Offerors must include estimated shipping costs in their proposals.
Contract & Timeline
- Opportunity Type: Combined Synopsis/Solicitation (RFQ)
- Anticipated Award Type: Firm-Fixed Price Purchase Order
- Period of Performance: May 15, 2026, to August 15, 2026
- Set-Aside: Total Small Business Set-Aside (FAR 19.5)
- NAICS Code: 113210 - Forest Nurseries and Gathering of Forest Products (Size Standard: $20.5 Million)
- Offers Due: April 30, 2026, 5:00 PM ET
- Questions Due: February 27, 2026, 5:00 PM Central Time
- Published Date: February 13, 2026
Submission & Evaluation
Award will be made to the offeror representing the best value to the Government, based on the Lowest Price Technically Acceptable (LPTA) criteria. Only the lowest priced offer will be evaluated for technical acceptability initially. Technical Acceptability: Offerors must provide descriptive literature or documentation demonstrating that the product meets all salient characteristics, including being 100% natural and certified organic. Merely stating compliance is insufficient. Price: Total evaluated price must include the cost of the moss and shipping to the destination. Offer Acceptance: Prices must be held firm for 90 calendar days from the offer due date. Submission: Offers are being requested; a separate written solicitation will not be issued.
Additional Notes
The full text of provisions and clauses may be accessed electronically at www.acquisition.gov. Attachment 2 contains the detailed Requirement Description. FAR 52.212-1, 52.212-3, and 52.212-5 are incorporated by reference.