F--Exclusive Use Fixed Wing Single Engine Scooper Services
ID: 140D0424R0120Type: Presolicitation
AwardedDec 30, 2024
$30.1M$30,100,000
AwardeeAero Spray Inc 50 W SORENSON AVE Appleton MN 56208 USA
Award #:140D0425D0004
Overview

Buyer

INTERIOR, DEPARTMENT OF THEDEPARTMENTAL OFFICESIBC ACQ SVCS DIRECTORATE (00004)HERNDON, VA, 20170, USA

NAICS

Support Activities for Forestry (115310)

PSC

NATURAL RESOURCES/CONSERVATION- FOREST-RANGE FIRE SUPPRESSION/PRESUPPRESSION (F003)

Original Source

https://sam.gov/opp/e9e9fcaa947d4c0dba17cdd881b5ee95/view
Timeline
    Description

    The Department of the Interior, specifically the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), is seeking qualified contractors to provide Exclusive Use Fixed Wing Single Engine Scooper Services to support its Aviation Fire Service operations in Fairbanks, Alaska. The procurement aims to secure four amphibious aircraft equipped for water scooping, along with necessary personnel and support equipment, for fire suppression efforts during a performance period from May 20 to July 30 each year, with options for extension. This contract is critical for enhancing fire management capabilities in remote areas of Alaska, ensuring effective aerial firefighting resources are available when needed. Interested parties must submit proposals by November 7, 2024, at 2:00 PM ET, and can direct inquiries to Heather Sizick at heather_sizick@ibc.doi.gov.

    Point(s) of Contact
    Sizick, Heather
    (000) 000-0000
    heather_sizick@ibc.doi.gov
    Files
    Title
    Posted
    Attachment_1_-_SOL_140D424R0120_-_Questions_and_Answers_(FINAL)_0001.pdf
    The document outlines the responses to questions regarding the Single Engine Scooper (SES) solicitation related to aerial firefighting operations issued by the federal government. Key topics include certification requirements, eligibility of Canadian operators, and clarifications on various technical and procedural aspects of the contract. Integral points include the confirmation that contractors must comply with 14 CFR Part 137, updates to equipment specifications, and clarifications on data monitoring requirements. Additionally, the solicitation has adjusted training and proficiency flight criteria, emphasizing safety protocol enhancements. The document highlights revisions aiming to improve clarity and practicality for bidders, such as allowing more flexibility in evaluation locations and insurance premium adjustments, while addressing concerns over compliance and competitiveness related to aircraft specifications and contractor capabilities. Ultimately, the RFP is focused on ensuring that contractors meet operational, safety, and documentation standards, streamlining the award process while enhancing the overall effectiveness of aerial firefighting operations.
    B01_SPCA_Pre-Solicitation_Notice_FW_Single_Engine_Scooperv2_1.pdf
    The Department of the Interior's Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Aviation Fire Service (AFS) is preparing to issue a presolicitation notice for fixed-wing single-engine scooper services based at Fort Wainwright, Fairbanks, Alaska. The BLM seeks four contractor-operated amphibious water-scooping aircraft, which must meet specific minimum aircraft requirements outlined in the notice. These include having a Standard or Restricted Airworthiness Certificate, a minimum tank capacity of 800 gallons, and the ability to operate from remote gravel runways. The contract will involve an Indefinite Delivery Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) arrangement with fixed unit prices and will last five years, with an estimated exclusive use period from May 20 to August 2 each year. The solicitation is expected to be issued around September 23, 2024, and the current service provider is Aero Spray, Inc. The acquisition will adhere to Federal Acquisition Regulations and be open to all qualified bidders registered in the System for Award Management (SAM). This presolicitation serves to inform potential contractors about upcoming requirements and the associated terms of service.
    B03_WD_1995-0221_Rev_64_12_26_2023.pdf
    The document outlines wage determination guidelines under the Service Contract Act, issued by the U.S. Department of Labor. It specifies minimum wage rates applicable to federal contracts based on Executive Orders 14026 and 13658, which set pay rates for covered workers: $17.20 per hour for contracts effective January 30, 2022, and $12.90 per hour for earlier contracts not renewed post this date. The document details applicable wage rates for various occupations by region and highlights fringe benefits, including health and welfare, vacation, and holiday pay requirements for contractors. Furthermore, it addresses compliance protocols for unlisted employee classifications and variations in wage rates. The summary emphasizes the government's commitment to ensuring fair labor standards for federal contract employees while providing transparency in wage determinations and compliance measures. Additionally, the document notes that certain wage requirements are not enforced under specific conditions, including seasonal contracts in designated states. This information is crucial for contractors participating in federal RFPs and grants, ensuring they adhere to labor regulations and adequately compensate employees.
    B03_WD_1995-0222_Rev_65_4_16_2024.pdf
    The document is a Wage Determination under the Service Contract Act issued by the U.S. Department of Labor. It outlines minimum wage rates applicable to contractors working on government contracts, specifically detailing Executive Orders 14026 and 13658. For contracts initiated or renewed from January 30, 2022, the wage is a minimum of $17.20 per hour, while contracts awarded between January 1, 2015, and January 29, 2022, must pay at least $12.90 per hour. The document stipulates various provisions including fringe benefits for specific occupations like pilots and aerial photographers, paid sick leave for federal contractors, vacation entitlements, and holiday pay. It also includes guidelines for hazardous pay differentials and uniform allowances. Additionally, the process for classifying unlisted job roles via a conformance request is provided, emphasizing that the duties not covered under existing classifications must be reasonably grouped for wage determination. This file serves as an essential reference for contractors bidding on federal services, ensuring compliance with labor laws and proper remuneration practices, thereby contributing to fair labor standards in government contracting. It underscores the government's commitment to worker rights and proper compensation in federal contracts.
    B09_SA_140D0424R0120_(Sec_A-C-E)_BLM_EU_Single_Engine_Scooper_-_Amend_01_(Clean_DRAFT)_0001.pdf
    The document is a solicitation for exclusive use flight services involving single-engine, amphibious water-scooping aircraft for fire suppression operations in Alaska, specifically via an Indefinite Delivery Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract with the Bureau of Land Management. The contract aims to secure four aircraft, along with necessary personnel and associated equipment, commencing operations around May 20 for a duration of 75 days each year. Key requirements include compliance with various aviation certifications, aircraft specifications (such as a minimum tank capacity of 800 gallons and operational capabilities), and a fully equipped flight crew comprising a primary pilot, relief pilot, and on-site mechanics. The document outlines operational parameters, including potential extensions of service, maintenance requirements, and safety procedures for both aircraft and personnel. Supporting details cover various contractual clauses, pricing schedules, and expected qualifications for pilots and support staff, emphasizing the necessity of establishing a cooperative relationship between the contractor and government entities. Overall, the solicitation reflects a structured approach to securing vital airborne resources for effective fire management in remote areas of Alaska, highlighting regulatory adherence and operational readiness.
    Sol_140D0424R0120_Amd_0001.pdf
    This document serves as an amendment to a federal solicitation for "Exclusive Use Fixed Wing Single Engine Scooper Fire Flight Services" to support the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Aviation Fire Services, with operations based in Fairbanks, Alaska. The amendment addresses vendor inquiries and extends the proposal due date to November 7, 2024, at 2:00 PM ET. Key updates and responses to questions are provided in an attached document, highlighted for easy reference. Offerors must acknowledge this amendment and are reminded of submission requirements, including deadlines for inquiries. The period of performance for the contract runs from April 1, 2025, to March 30, 2030. The document stresses the importance of adhering to specified procedures for changes to offers and provides contact information for further clarifications.
    Sol_140D0424R0120.pdf
    The document outlines a solicitation for exclusive use of single-engine water-scooping aircraft to support fire suppression operations by the Bureau of Land Management in Alaska, specifically at Fort Wainwright. The contract aims to secure four amphibious aircraft, equipped for water scooping, along with necessary personnel and support equipment. The performance period commences from May 20, 2025, lasting 75 days annually, with options for extension up to 180 days, contingent on federal funding. Contractors must adhere to strict aviation regulations, including safety, equipment maintenance, and qualifications of pilots and mechanics. The aircraft must meet specific operational capabilities such as carrying 800 gallons of water and being certified for airworthiness. Additional pay items for extra services, flexible scheduling, and reimbursement for contractor-provided fuel are outlined. The contractor is responsible for comprehensive maintenance procedures and must ensure effective communication systems during operation. This document serves as a formal Request for Proposal (RFP) detailing requirements and expectations for service providers in government firefighting efforts, emphasizing operational efficiency and safety compliance in managing aerial firefighting resources.
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