This Request for Quotation (RFQ) by the USDA Forest Service (Solicitation Number: 12441925Q0050) seeks to procure five Clipper Eclipse 324 seed processing machines and associated components, including hoppers, variable speed bottom fans, and delivery to various nurseries and an extractory across multiple states. The project, titled "Clipper Eclipse 324 Machines," aims to enhance forest seed cleaning and processing operations to support reforestation efforts. The acquisition is set aside for A.T. Ferrell Company, Inc., with a NAICS code of 333112 and a small business size standard of 1,500 employees. Offers, including a completed and signed SF-1449 and a price proposal (Schedule of Items), must be submitted via email to Nicholas Zane by November 18, 2025, at 1700 CD. The evaluation will primarily consider price. The solicitation incorporates various FAR and AGAR clauses, with specific emphasis on representations regarding telecommunications equipment and services, and adherence to federal contracting regulations.
The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) is issuing a Statement of Work (SOW) for the procurement of five new Clipper Eclipse 324 seed processing machines. These machines are essential for supporting forest seed cleaning and processing operations within the USFS National Nursery System, aiming to increase efficiency and capacity for reforestation efforts. The SOW details specific technical requirements, including machine model, function (seed cleaner and separator with scalping, screening, and aspiration), screen area (324 square inches with three layers), built-in bottom blast fan, variable eccentric drive, and a 1 HP motor (110V/60Hz). The machines, manufactured by A.T. Ferrell Company, must be delivered to five different USFS sites by specific deadlines between December 2025 and March 2025. The contractor is responsible for providing, delivering, and ensuring the functional operation of the machines, including all standard accessories and documentation. Inspections upon delivery will verify compliance with specifications, functionality, and completeness. There are no government-furnished items, travel, security, or data rights requirements for this project.
The document describes a small-scale seed cleaning machine, detailing its construction, drive, power, capacity, dimensions, and weight. Key features include a heavy-duty tubular steel frame, marine-grade plywood, and three integrated screens for multi-stage seed separation with two flow configurations (scalp, scalp, sift or scalp, split-sift). It incorporates a ball tray screen cleaning system, an adjustable bottom air door, a hopper for even material spread, and a fan to remove lightweight inert material and dust. The standard power unit is a 1 HP, 60 Hz, 1800 RPM, TEFC, 1-phase, 115/230 V motor, with options for a 3-phase motor and variable speed fan. Capacity varies by seed type and cleaning mode, ranging from 80 BPH for soybeans, wheat, and corn (fast clean) to 35 BPH for rice and oats (precision clean). The machine measures approximately 38" W × 57" D × 62.5" H and weighs between 750 lbs (net) and 1000 lbs (shipping). This technical overview is typical of a government RFP or grant document specifying equipment requirements.
The Independent Government Estimate (IGE) form provides instructions for federal procurement, outlining different tabs for various requirements such as "Stand Alone IGE," "Stand Alone IGE w/options," "IDIQ" for recurring needs, and "Task Order" for existing contracts. The IGE must be an independent estimate, detailed similarly to the contractor's Schedule of Items pricing, and include underlying assumptions. Contracting Officers use the IGE to determine procurement value, identify applicable thresholds, and evaluate offeror understanding and price reasonableness. The form includes a "Schedule of Items" section for listing descriptions, estimated quantities, and pay units, with specific fields for project title, acquisition plan number, period of performance, and anticipated delivery dates. It also provides examples for items like "Clipper Eclipse" equipment and delivery services, emphasizing that award is anticipated to be a firm fixed price contract.
This document clarifies critical aspects of an RFQ for machines, addressing five key questions. The correct delivery addresses are specified in the Statement of Work (SOW), not the SF-1449. The Forest Service requires a single lump-sum payment and a master quote, despite contractors potentially using individual quotes for internal shipping, with the Schedule of Items (SOI) grand total matching the master quote. Each delivery site has a forklift and loading dock. The solicitation requires specific screen dimensions and perforations (64ths), with each delivery including three round screens between 10/64 and 20/64. Finally, while initial delivery dates on the SOW are estimates, reasonable delays are acceptable, but not delays extending to months.