26-422DNR-RESCO-B-50807 | Freshwater Mussel Surveys in the Illinois River

Contract ORC50807 is an Invitation for Bid issued by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources for the execution of qualitative freshwater mussel surveys in the upper Illinois River and its major tributaries. The primary objective is to identify state and federally-listed species using a combination of diving and wading searches. The awarded vendor is required to conduct at least seven surveys, expending six person-hours of effort per survey, and must provide all necessary equipment and obtain all required state and federal permits. Key deliverables include a preliminary report due by December 15, 2026, and a final report due by March 1, 2027, which must include detailed maps, habitat descriptions, a data table in Microsoft Excel, and a photo voucher appendix for each collected species. The contract term extends through June 30, 2027, with a firm total price based on the lowest responsive and responsible bidder. The vendor must adhere to strict administrative requirements, including notifying the Primary Job Coordinator 48 hours before starting work and performing equipment decontamination to prevent the spread of nonindigenous organisms. Insurance requirements include one million dollars per occurrence for general commercial and auto liability, as well as legally required worker's compensation. Invoicing is permitted no more frequently than monthly, with a final invoice deadline of June 1, 2027. The award process is managed through the BidBuy portal, requiring comprehensive vendor disclosures and certifications to ensure compliance with Illinois procurement laws.