SAM #1169789PPQ

Sole Source UAS Service for Sterile Insect Release Trials in Arizona Pistachio Orchards

This opportunity is a sole source procurement by USDA APHIS PPQ CPHST for specialized UAS-based release services: - The contractor will conduct eight Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) release events of sterile Navel Orangeworm (NOW) moths using the Sterile Insect Technique (SIT) - Each event covers approximately 840 acres of pistachio orchards near Bowie, Arizona - USDA APHIS will supply the sterile insects; the contractor must provide UAS platforms, qualified pilots, and support personnel - All operations must comply with FAA and USDA regulations - The contractor must deliver a diagnostic report after the trials - Report must include operational parameters (altitude, speed, etc.), execution time, and recommendations for improvement - The period of performance is July 1, 2026, to October 17, 2026 - No specific OEMs, part numbers, or product brands are named; the focus is on service delivery and operational expertise - This is a sole source requirement; no competitive solicitation is planned - Potential competitors would be companies with experience in agricultural UAS operations and SIT insect release services

Description

SOLE SOURCE 

Project:

Unmanned Aerial Systems Trials for Release of Sterile Insect Technique Navel Orangeworm 

Scope of Work:

Contractor will perform 8 release events of SIT NOW in Bowie, AZ over ~840 acres of pistachio orchards per event by UAS. APHIS-PPQ or one of our cooperators will supply the insects at the time of the release.   Contractor will provide a diagnostic report detailing a review of these 8 release events, including but not limited to time to execute all work in-field, parameters the UAS are operated under (altitude, speed, etc..), and other pertinent information for conducting SIT NOW releases by UAS.   Contractor will make recommendations for improvements if needed (if any).

All inquiries will go through Contracting Officer:

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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