PLANTING SEED CORN ON USDA FIELDS
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 National Animal Disease Center (NADC) in Ames, IA, is conducting a Sources Sought to identify contractors capable of planting seed corn on government-owned fields. The harvested corn will be used to feed research animals at the NADC. This effort is crucial for the NADC's dairy herd feeding program. Responses are due March 18, 2026.
Scope of Work
The contractor will be responsible for planting seed corn on designated government land. Key responsibilities include:
- Supervising all planting operations.
- Supplying all necessary equipment (tractor(s), planter), fuel, and labor.
- Maintaining a row width of 30 inches.
- Achieving a consistent planting population of 35,000 seeds per acre.
- Ensuring a consistent seed planting depth of 2 inches.
- Adjusting planter depth for consistent seed-to-soil contact based on soil moisture and texture.
- Providing documented evidence of previous direct experience in equivalent services.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought
- Set-Aside: None specified
- Period of Performance: Planting is scheduled between April 15, 2026, and May 15, 2026. Work must commence within 4 business days of request, subject to weather conditions.
- Response Due: March 18, 2026, at 4:00 PM ET
- Published: March 4, 2026
Place of Performance
1920 Dayton Ave, Ames, IA 50010
Government Furnished
The NADC will supply the required seed corn.
Security Requirements
The NADC campus is restricted. Authorized persons and approved visitors must present credentials, wear visitor badges, and adhere to rules prohibiting pets and weapons.
Evaluation
Responses will be evaluated based on technical acceptability, delivery capabilities, and price.
Additional Notes
This is a Sources Sought notice for market research purposes and does not constitute a solicitation or guarantee a future award.