26CRDLWBKPOOL-0003 - Wood Turtle Monitoring

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources is soliciting proposals under solicitation number 26CRDLWBKPOOL-0003 for a study to monitor a population of state-endangered wood turtles in Black Hawk County, specifically near Waterloo, Iowa. The primary objective of the project is to assess the current status of the population, evaluate habitat use and availability, and identify risks to the species to provide actionable data for conservation planning and prevent local extirpation. This effort is particularly significant as the species was petitioned for federal protection under the Endangered Species Act in 2012. Eligible respondents must demonstrate a minimum of 10 years of experience tracking wood turtles in Iowa and hold a valid scientific collectors permit. Proposals must be submitted via the designated electronic portal by September 15, 2026, and must include separate technical and cost proposal files. The agency requires strict adherence to confidentiality marking protocols for any sensitive information and mandates the use of a specific exceptions form for any proposed contract modifications. The point of contact for this solicitation is Colton Lullmann.