The USMARC is soliciting recommendations for corn hybrids and soybean varieties for the 2025 growing season, focusing on yield-proven options supported by area test plot data. All hybrids and varieties must be currently available and detailed in the 2025 seed guide, with specific characteristics such as genetic diversity, insect resistance, and price impacting the selection process. Each field has unique conditions, requiring tailored recommendations, and hybrids must exhibit features like early-season vigor, plant health, and late-season integrity. Additionally, soybeans must incorporate certain resistance traits and be treated for optimal performance. Nutrient management follows UNL guidelines, and seed deliveries are expected by April 1, 2025. The document outlines specific fields requiring seed recommendations, emphasizing the significance of environmental conditions and pre-plant adjustments in meeting USMARC's agricultural needs. This proposal aligns with standard government procurement practices, aiming for efficient and effective resource allocation in agricultural research.
The USDA's Agricultural Research Service has issued Solicitation # 12805B25Q0014 for the procurement of corn and soybean seeds, exclusively set aside for small businesses. The request emphasizes the need for registration with the System for Award Management (SAM) before submission. The relevant NAICS code is 111110 for Soybean Farming, with a size standard of $2.25 million. The solicitation specifies quantities and units for corn and soybean seeds, as well as the submission protocol, which requires electronic responses and inclusion of key company information.
The document outlines various federal acquisition regulations (FAR) and clauses incorporated by reference that guide compliance and performance expectations for contractors, particularly regarding small business requirements, ethical conduct, and payment terms. Evaluation criteria prioritize technical acceptability, past performance, and price, indicating a value-based selection process rather than solely lowest price. Submission documents must be thorough, including detailed pricing and certification verifications, ensuring that bidders comply with USDA’s quality and performance standards for agricultural research. The contract period extends to April 1, 2025, focusing on enhancing agricultural outputs while supporting small businesses in the sector.