Texas DIR/ESBD #802-26-74010

Helicopter Services for Wildlife Surveys and Habitat Projects in Texas

The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) is seeking helicopter services to support aerial wildlife surveys and habitat management projects across Texas, with a focus on the Trans-Pecos region. - Government Buyer: - Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD), Purchasing and Contracting C-1 Office - OEMs and Vendors: - No specific OEMs or vendors are named; turbine helicopters such as Hughes 500E and Robinson R66 are referenced as suitable aircraft types - Products/Services Requested: - Helicopter aerial survey services for Desert Bighorn Sheep and Aoudad Sheep - 65 hours of survey flights beginning July 1, 2026 - 175 hours of survey flights from October 1-31, 2026 - Aerial gunning services for wildlife management (lethal removal of exotic or invasive species) - Long-lining (slinging) services for habitat improvement projects (e.g., water guzzler construction and maintenance) - Unique or Notable Requirements: - Aircraft must be turbine helicopters, with examples including Hughes 500E and Robinson R66 - Contractors must provide aircraft, pilots, fuel, and equipment - Pilots must have at least 1,000 hours of relevant flight experience - Compliance with FAA Part 135 (charter) and Part 133 (external load) regulations is required - Services are to be performed in challenging, mountainous terrain, primarily in West Texas - Flexible, as-needed scheduling across multiple regions - Estimated contract value is approximately $1,600,000 - Key locations include Big Bend Ranch State Park, Black Gap Wildlife Management Area, and the broader Trans-Pecos region

Description

Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) is soliciting bids to establish blanket contract(s) for statewide Desert Bighorn Sheep and/or Aoudad Sheep Aerial Survey in the state of Texas as well as external load work for special projects. The solicitation involves helicopter services for aerial surveys and related tasks. The contract aims to support wildlife management and conservation efforts across multiple highway districts in Texas. The estimated contract value is $1,600,000.00, and proposals are due by June 3, 2026, at 2:00 PM.

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