SAM #1169789

USDA APHIS-PPQ UAS Field Trials for Sterile Navel Orangeworm Release in Arizona

This opportunity from USDA APHIS-PPQ seeks a contractor to conduct field trials using Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) for releasing sterile Navel Orangeworm (NOW) moths as part of the Sterile Insect Technique (SIT) program. - Agency: USDA APHIS-PPQ Center for Plant Health Science and Technology - Purpose: Evaluate UAS platforms for efficient and effective release of sterile NOW insects over pistachio orchards - Current method: Fixed-wing Cessna 206 aircraft; UAS sought for improved operational flexibility and efficacy - Scope of work: - Contractor to perform eight UAS release events, each covering ~840 acres in Bowie, Arizona - Contractor must supply UAS platforms, pilots, and support personnel - Must adhere to FAA and USDA regulations - Provide diagnostic reports and recommendations for operational improvements - APHIS will supply sterile insects and assist with logistics - No specific OEMs, part numbers, or models are named; focus is on UAS technology and release mechanisms - Sole source evaluation; further technical details in Statement of Work - Period of performance: July 1, 2026 – October 17, 2026 - Commercial opportunity for UAS manufacturers and service providers specializing in agricultural applications

Description

SOLE SOURCE 

The joint APHIS–CDFA Navel Orangeworm (NOW) Sterile Insect Technique (SIT) Program in California currently relies on a fixed‑wing Cessna 206 for sterile NOW releases. However, this method has consistently produced low and highly variable recapture rates (less than 0.1 percent), indicating that fixed‑wing aerial release may be biologically and operationally unsuitable for NOW.In contrast, manual (hand) releases conducted in Arizona have yielded recapture rates one to three orders of magnitude higher, suggesting that the challenge lies with the release method rather than insect quality. This substantial disparity, combined with the high cost and limited operational resilience of the fixed‑wing platform, underscores the need to evaluate alternative release technologies. Future pilot availability is also uncertain.Given advances in Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS), associated equipment, and release methods, UAS-based delivery may offer improved cost savings, operational flexibility, and efficiency compared to the current aircraft‑based approach. The program is under increasing pressure to enhance efficiency and effectiveness, reduce costs, and plan for operational contingencies—including pilot availability. Stakeholders have also expressed interest in emerging technologies such as UAS for SIT applications.Accordingly, this is a valuable area for further exploration to potentially improve program savings, efficacy, and long‑term sustainability. APHIS‑PPQ has therefore initiated an evaluation of UAS‑based NOW SIT releases, including preliminary field trials, to inform program direction and assess whether operational changes or future investments are warranted to support the long‑term viability of the APHIS NOW SIT program.

JUNE 07, 2026 5:00PM (EST) is the deadline for inquiries.

All questions addressed to the below indiviual:

Todd K. Bierl (Major Program Contracting Officer) Emergency Acquisition Marketing and Regulatory Program Business (MRPBS) Acquisition and Asset Management Division (AAMD) Acquisition Branch Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) Office#(612)336-3465 Cell# (612)500-1321/(763)286-8084

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