THIS IS A SPECIAL NOTICE OF INTENT TO AWARD A SOLE-SOURCE CONTRACT
ID: 1202SC25R2500Type: Special Notice
Overview

Buyer

AGRICULTURE, DEPARTMENT OFFOREST SERVICEUS

NAICS

All Other Miscellaneous Chemical Product and Preparation Manufacturing (325998)

PSC

MISCELLANEOUS CHEMICAL SPECIALTIES (6850)

Original Source

https://sam.gov/opp/6852fbba45b847d380285cb45995bfce/view
Timeline
    Description

    The United States Department of Agriculture, Forest Service (USDA/FS) intends to award a sole-source contract to Compass Minerals for the supply of approximately 900,000 gallons of Long-Term Fire Retardant (LTFR) product, specifically Qela, for an Operational Field Evaluation (OFE) during the wildland firefighting season from April 1, 2025, to October 31, 2025. This procurement is critical for ensuring effective fire management operations, as the LTFR product must meet specific qualifications outlined in USDA, USFS Specification 5100-304d and be listed on the Qualified Products List (QPL). The estimated value of the contract is around $13 million, and interested parties may submit capabilities statements to Nathan Sabo at nathan.sabo@usda.gov within 15 calendar days of this notice to be considered for participation.

    Point(s) of Contact
    Nathan Sabo
    (541) 408-8754
    nathan.sabo@usda.gov
    Files
    Title
    Posted
    Final JOFOC Signed.pdf
    The justification for other than full and open competition pertains to solicitation number 1202SC25R2500 from the United States Department of Agriculture Forest Service (USDA FS). The contract seeks to award Compass Minerals Company a negotiated firm fixed contract for the supply of approximately 900,000 gallons of Long-Term Fire Retardant (LTFR) for an Operational Field Evaluation (OFE) between April 1, 2025, and October 31, 2025. The estimated contract value is around $13 million. The USDA FS relies on the provisions outlined in 41 U.S.C. 3304(a)(1) which allows for sole source awards when only one responsible source exists. Compass Minerals has completed necessary qualifications to participate in the OFE process under USDA advice and regulation, showcasing unique capabilities that no other vendor has achieved. The need for specific co-mingling trials emphasizes safety and effectiveness in fire management operations. Market research indicates limited competition, with no other vendors qualifying for participation in the near term. Although notice of intent for a sole-source contract will be publicized, no further actions are expected to enhance competition prior to the required performance period. The contracting officer will ensure the negotiated costs are fair and reasonable through cost analyses.
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    THIS IS A SPECIAL NOTICE OF INTENT TO AWARD A SOLE-SOURCE CONTRACT
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