The USDA APHIS's Cattle Fever Tick Eradication Program (CFTEP) intends to combat the spread of cattle fever ticks through the use of ivermectin-medicated molasses tubs, a unique product manufactured solely by Positive Feed, Ltd., which holds the FDA permit for its use. This initiative is crucial in maintaining the Permanent Quarantine Zone (PQZ) along the southern Texas border. The product had undergone a rigorous nine-month field study and received a sponsor fee waiver from the FDA under the minor use/minor species provision for FY2025. Efforts to solicit offers from other potential sources were conducted but yielded no additional manufacturers. The contracting officer determined that pricing will be assessed based on historical data to ensure it remains fair and reasonable. The CFTEP will continue to perform market research to identify any other potential manufacturers with FDA permits for this product in future acquisitions. The document concludes with the necessary certifications and approvals from involved parties, confirming the justification for utilizing other than full and open competition in this procurement process.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Animal Plant Health and Inspection Service (APHIS) is seeking a contractor to supply ivermectin-treated molasses tubs as part of the Cattle Tick Fever Eradication Program (CFTEP). This program, which has been in operation since 1906, aims to combat the significant resurgence of cattle fever tick infestations, which threaten the cattle industry by spreading the disease bovine babesiosis. The molasses tubs serve as nutritional supplements for cattle and are available only under the authority of the CFTEP, with Positive Feeds being the sole manufacturer with FDA approval for this product. The contract will be a fixed-price Indefinite-Delivery Indefinite-Quantity (IDIQ) agreement, with a performance period of 12 months. Each tub will weigh 130 pounds, containing specific nutritional specifications and 200 mg of ivermectin per pound. Delivery is required within 8 weeks to designated USDA locations in Texas, and the vendor must coordinate through established points of contact. Invoices will be processed via the Invoice Processing Platform after deliverables are accepted. This initiative reflects the federal government's ongoing commitment to mitigating agricultural risks and improving animal health.