Digitize Bound Herbarium Volumes
ID: 12305B24Q0219Type: Combined Synopsis/Solicitation
Overview

Buyer

AGRICULTURE, DEPARTMENT OFAGRICULTURAL RESEARCH SERVICEUSDA ARS NEA AAO ACQ/PER PROPBELTSVILLE, MD, 20705, USA

NAICS

Computing Infrastructure Providers, Data Processing, Web Hosting, and Related Services (518210)

PSC

PHOTO/MAP/PRINT/PUBLICATION- OTHER (T099)

Set Aside

Total Small Business Set-Aside (FAR 19.5) (SBA)

Original Source

https://sam.gov/opp/4c3c01efe16441dd93578e83b6989834/view
Timeline
    Description

    The U.S. Department of Agriculture, specifically the Agricultural Research Service (ARS), is seeking a contractor to digitize ten fragile herbarium volumes containing approximately 2,520 bound pages of preserved plant specimens. The objective is to create high-resolution, non-destructive images of these volumes to enhance accessibility and preservation, with the digital files intended for hosting on the ARS Biocollections Portal. This initiative underscores the federal government's commitment to preserving biological heritage and ensuring public access to valuable historical collections. Interested small businesses must submit their proposals, including technical capability documentation and a firm fixed-price quotation, by September 10, 2024, with inquiries directed to Dilynn Rogers at dilynn.rogers@usda.gov.

    Point(s) of Contact
    Dilynn Rogers
    (301) 504-3691
    dilynn.rogers@usda.gov
    Files
    Title
    Posted
    CLAUSES_PROVISIONS.pdf
    The document outlines the Terms and Conditions for Purchase Orders related to commercial items as per the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) 2024-05. It details various clauses incorporated by reference, including requirements for compliance with the System for Award Management and stipulations regarding contractor ethics. Key clauses address important regulations, such as prohibitions on contracting certain entities, requirements for accelerated payments to small business subcontractors, and protective measures against trafficking in persons. The document emphasizes the contractor's obligations regarding representation and certifications related to business size and type, including definitions for small businesses, veteran-owned businesses, and women-owned businesses. The evaluation criteria for offers are confined to price and technical acceptability, adhering to a Lowest Price Technically Acceptable (LPTA) approach. Additionally, provisions are included for compliance with environmental regulations and federal laws, especially concerning the Buy American Act. This comprehensive framework serves to ensure that contracting practices align with federal guidelines and promote ethical and fair competition, particularly supporting small and disadvantaged businesses in federal contracting.
    SOW.pdf
    The U.S. National Arboretum is seeking services to digitize its collection of fragile, bound herbarium volumes containing delicate, preserved plant specimens dating back to the 1860s. The objective is to create high-resolution, non-destructive images of 10 volumes, totaling approximately 2520 pages, to enhance accessibility and preservation, eventually hosting the digital files on the ARS Biocollections Portal. Stringent handling and imaging standards are mandated, including compliance with the Federal Agencies Digital Guidelines Initiative (FADGI) for imaging quality, using specific equipment to prevent damage, and maintaining environmental conditions suitable for historic materials. Deliverables will include TIFF files named after barcodes on the specimens, organized by volume, and must be delivered securely back to the Arboretum. The process also requires post-processing reviews and a small test batch prior to the full project commitment. This initiative demonstrates the federal government's investment in preserving biological heritage and ensuring public access to valuable historical collections.
    WD.pdf
    The document pertains to federal and state/local Requests for Proposals (RFPs) and grants. It outlines the processes involved in the procurement of goods and services by government entities, emphasizing the importance of complying with applicable regulations and standards. Key sections detail the eligibility criteria for funding, including specific mandates for labor practices, environmental considerations, and project sustainability. Additionally, the document summarizes procedures for submitting proposals, including formatting guidelines, required documentation, and deadlines. It addresses criteria for evaluating proposals, focusing on the quality, feasibility, and potential impact of the proposed projects. Overall, the document stresses the necessity for transparency and accountability in the government procurement process, ensuring that resources are utilized effectively while fostering competition among contractors. It aims to provide clear guidance for potential applicants to navigate the complexities of federal and state/local funding opportunities efficiently while highlighting the critical role such funding plays in supporting public sector initiatives.
    Lifecycle
    Title
    Type
    Digitize Bound Herbarium Volumes
    Currently viewing
    Combined Synopsis/Solicitation
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