Rio Grande NF Macroinvertebrate Analysis

Statement of Work (SOW) / Performance Work Statement (PWS)

To process and analyze up to 24 macroinvertebrate samples collected from lotic environments within the Rio Grande National Forest, focusing on the Rocky Mountain region. The analysis requires identification and enumeration of aquatic macroinvertebrates to the lowest possible taxonomic level.

• Processing and analysis of up to 24 quantitative macroinvertebrate samples collected in 2026 and 2027.

• Samples are collected via a one-minute kick net from fast-water units.

• Sorting, identification, and enumeration of aquatic macroinvertebrates.

• Preparation of samples according to the Standard Operating Procedure for Laboratory Identification and Enumeration by Colorado Dept of Public Health and Environment (2017).

• Processing involves sorting from sediment and debris, placing organisms into labeled vials with ethanol, and using a grid system for subsampling if necessary (aiming for at least 300 organisms per subsample).

• Identification to the lowest possible taxonomic level using current literature.

• QA/QC checks on 10% of picked/sorted samples to ensure accuracy, with re-picking if more than 5% of originally picked organisms are missed.

• Specimens of particular taxonomic groups may be sent to recognized experts for verification.

• QA/QC check ensures no more than 5% of total organisms are missed.

• Identifications and counts verified by another taxonomist.

• Turnaround time for the project is 3 months or less from final sample delivery.

• Samples collected in 2026 and 2027.

• Work to be performed at the contractor's facility; no work on USFS lands.

• Samples may be delivered to the contractor as available, primarily between August-October annually.

• Picked organisms to be preserved and delivered to: RIO GRANDE NATIONAL FOREST, 1803 WEST HWY 160, MONTE VISTA CO 81144.

• Contractor must be an individual(s) in the field of entomology focused on the Rocky Mountain region.

• QA/QC measures must be taken to ensure all insects are accounted for.

• Include shipping costs in the estimate.

• Include cost per site for Colorado MMI metric at up to 24 samples over two years.

• Sample data and QA/QC results submitted in three forms:

  1. Spreadsheet on hardcopy.
  2. Electronic spreadsheet compatible with Microsoft Access (e.g., Excel).
  3. Electronic copy attached to an e-mail.

• Follow-up technical communication to USFS concerning results via phone or email.

Solicitation / RFP / RFQ

This solicitation is for services to process and analyze macroinvertebrate samples collected in lotic environments. The work is focused on the Rocky Mountain region and requires an individual with expertise in entomology.

• Processing and analysis of up to 24 quantitative macroinvertebrate samples collected in 2026 and 2027.

• QA/QC measures for sample analysis.

• Work must be performed by an individual with expertise in entomology.

• No contractor work will be performed on USFS lands; all processing and analysis will be done at the contractor's facility.

• Contract Type: Firm-fixed price requirements contract.

• Period of Performance: September 1, 2026, to August 31, 2027.

• Total Duration: Not to exceed one year and six months.

• Award Type: One award is anticipated.

• Offer Due Date: June 25, 2026, 1000 MT.

• Questions Due: June 18, 2026, 10:00 AM Mountain Time (submit via email to stephen.holly@usda.gov).

• Offer Acceptance Period: 90 calendar days from the offer due date.

• Evaluation Criteria: Lowest price technically acceptable.

  • Technical Approach: Evaluated based on the ability to provide a sound and compliant approach, demonstrating understanding of requirements and capability to meet them. Includes ability to meet schedule and explanation of any unaccomplished requirements. Resumes for key personnel (Project Manager) are required.
  • Price: Must provide pricing for all line items. Evaluated for fairness and reasonableness.
  • Past Performance: Evaluated as Acceptable, Neutral, or Unacceptable based on prior contract performance.

• NAICS Code: 541380 (Testing Laboratories)

• Size Standard: $19 million

• The acquisition is set aside for Small Business (100%).

• The Statement of Work (SOW) is provided as Attachment 1.

• Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) and USDA Acquisition Regulation (AGAR) clauses and provisions are incorporated by reference and full text.

• Service Contract Labor Standards may apply; wage determinations will be provided for Monte Vista Co. and potentially other locations upon request.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document is a Wage Determination issued under the Service Contract Act (SCA). It establishes the minimum wage rates and fringe benefits required for various occupations performing services on federal contracts within specific geographic areas.

• Geographic Area: Colorado Counties of Alamosa, Baca, Bent, Conejos, Costilla, Crowley, Custer, Huerfano, Kiowa, Las Animas, Mineral, Otero, Prowers, Rio Grande, and Saguache.
• Occupational Listings: Provides a comprehensive list of job titles, corresponding occupation codes, and the minimum hourly wage rate for each.
• Fringe Benefits: Indicates that fringe benefits are required and follow the occupational listing. Specific details on Health & Welfare, Paid Sick Leave (EO 13706), and Vacation/Holiday pay are provided.
• Executive Orders: Notes the applicability of Executive Order 13706 (Paid Sick Leave) and Executive Order 13658 (Minimum Wage) with specific rates and conditions.
• Conformance Process: Outlines the procedure for requesting authorization of additional classifications and wage rates not listed in the determination.

This wage determination is crucial for bidders to accurately calculate labor costs for their proposals. It dictates the minimum wages and benefits that must be paid to employees performing work under the contract. Failure to comply with these rates can lead to bid disqualification or contract non-compliance.