Opportunity
Iowa State University Ionwave #RFQ-1001447 Addendum 1
Iowa State University Solicits 4-Row GPS Precision Research Planter with Training and Warranty
Posted
May 01, 2026
Respond By
May 15, 2026
Identifier
RFQ-1001447 Addendum 1
NAICS
333111
Iowa State University is seeking proposals for a new 4-row GPS-controlled precision research planter for its Plant Science Institute. - Government Buyer: - Iowa State University of Science and Technology, Plant Science Institute, Procurement Services (Madden Building) - OEMs and Vendors: - John Deere (ME5 row units, 5090M tractor compatibility) - Keeton (Seed Firmer) - Schaffert (rebounder Seed Firmer) - Equivalents allowed for all components - Products/Services Requested: - 4-row mounted GPS-controlled precision planter (1 unit) - Factory-installed options and equipment - John Deere ME5 row units or equivalent - Heavy-duty down pressure - Electronic drive precision vacuum metering units - GPS-RTK precision guidance (+/- 3 inch accuracy) - Geo-referencing and SMS Field Mapping capability - Remote monitor - Seed plates for corn (6 hole 4.75mm, 24 hole 4.75mm), sorghum (24 hole 2.3mm), soybean (60 hole 4.5mm) - Quick-attach Keeton Seed Firmer Short or equivalent - Quick-attach Schaffert rebounder Seed Firmer or equivalent - Stake driver alley marking system - Two operator stations with adjustable seats, seat belts, safety railing - 3-person noise-canceling communications headset - Planter weight under 4,600 lbs - Compatible with John Deere 5090M tractor with front loader 540M - Seed splitters with remote funnels on sliding mounts - Closing wheels, no row markers - Services: - Field training for ISU employees on planter operation - Warranty and service support (location of warranty work, trip charges, response time, parts availability, loaner machine, service availability) - Unique/Notable Requirements: - All equipment must be new and factory-installed - Delivery, setup, and training required at Curtiss Farm, Ames, IA - Emphasis on performance, cost, delivery lead time, and warranty terms - Vendors may propose multiple planters for evaluation - Safety features for operator protection - Planter must be delivered set up and ready to operate - Delivery preferred by March 15, 2027 - Place of Performance/Delivery: - Curtiss Farm, 2219 State Ave., Ames, IA 50011 (delivery location) - Iowa State University Procurement Services, Madden Building, 2221 Wanda Daley Drive, Ames, IA 50011 (contracting office)
Description
Iowa State University of Science and Technology (ISU) is soliciting proposals from qualified contractors to provide a new 4-row mounted GPS-controlled precision planter for use by the Plant Science Institute. The planter must meet detailed specifications including factory-installed equipment and options, GPS-RTK precision guidance, and compatibility with a John Deere 5090M tractor. The unit will be used for planting small to medium size research plots with features such as electronic drive precision vacuum metering units, geo-referencing capabilities, and operator safety features. Delivery is preferred by March 15, 2027, and training for ISU employees is required.