Unmanned Aerial Systems Trials for Release of Sterile Insect Technique Navel Orangeworm
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 Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) is seeking a contractor to conduct Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) Trials for the release of Sterile Insect Technique (SIT) Navel Orangeworm (NOW). This effort aims to evaluate UAS as a more efficient and cost-effective alternative to current fixed-wing aircraft for insect release. This is a Total Small Business Set-Aside opportunity.
Purpose and Background
The current fixed-wing Cessna 206 method for sterile NOW releases has resulted in low and variable recapture rates, indicating operational unsuitability. Manual releases have shown significantly higher success. Given the high cost, limited operational resilience, and uncertain pilot availability of the fixed-wing platform, APHIS-PPQ is exploring UAS-based delivery to improve cost savings, operational flexibility, and efficiency. This evaluation will inform future program direction and investment.
Scope of Work
The selected contractor will:
- Conduct 8 UAS release events of SIT NOW over approximately 840 acres of pistachio orchards per event in Bowie, Arizona.
- APHIS-PPQ will supply the sterile insects.
- Provide a diagnostic report detailing each release event, including execution time and UAS operational parameters.
- Offer recommendations for improvements to UAS operations or release methodology.
Period & Place of Performance
- Period: July 1, 2026, to October 17, 2026.
- Location: Existing Navel Orangeworm (NOW) research plots in Bowie, Arizona.
Work Schedule
- Releases must be coordinated with APHIS.
- Work is to be completed between 12:00 PM and 12:00 AM (noon to midnight) on Saturdays, local time.
- Ideal schedule involves 8 consecutive weekly releases within the performance period.
- Releases must occur no earlier than dusk.
Contractor Responsibilities & Special Requirements
- Provide qualified and certified UAS pilots and support personnel.
- Furnish own UAS, equipment, and materials.
- Maintain necessary licensing and compliance with FAA regulations (Part 107 or waivers/exemptions), NDAA, USDA Directive DR3465-002, and other applicable laws.
- Submit a UAS Contractor Diagnostic Report and detailed Contractor Documentation; payment is contingent on accepted documentation.
- Adhere to all federal, state, and local safety regulations.
- Maintain workers' compensation and liability insurance.
Contract & Timeline
- Contract Type: Special Notice (for trials leading to potential future operational changes).
- Set-Aside: Total Small Business Set-Aside (FAR 19.5).
- Inquiry Deadline: June 7, 2026, 5:00 PM EST.
- Published Date: June 4, 2026.
Contact Information
All questions should be directed to Todd K. Bierl at todd.k.bierl@usda.gov or (612) 336-3465. For technical questions regarding the SOW, contact Dr. Michael Garvey at Michael.Garvey@usda.gov or (602) 431-3239.