27AL2334 Pyramid State Park - East Conant Unit Farm Lease

Solicitation 27-422DNR-REALT-B-54130 is an Invitation for Bid issued by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources for a farm lease at the Pyramid State Park East Conant Unit. The objective of the lease is to implement a land management program that utilizes ecologically sound agricultural practices to improve soil health, minimize erosion, and enhance water quality to benefit local wildlife populations and habitats. The contract covers a five-year period from 2027 through 2031, with varying annual acreage ranging from 311.57 to 375.07 acres. The state will award the contract to the responsive and responsible bidder offering the highest overall total price. Bids are due by November 12, 2026, at 2:00 P.M. and should be submitted via BidBuy or in sealed paper format. Required submission documents include the Offer, Contract, Equipment List, and either the standard Vendor Disclosure or the IPG Active Registered Vendor Disclosure. Awarded vendors must adhere to a strict cropping plan, follow the Agronomy Handbook Chapter 8, and comply with prohibitions against double cropping. Additionally, the vendor must maintain liability and workers compensation insurance naming the State as an additionally insured party and ensure all hay or straw bales are removed from the site by December 31 annually. Payment is governed by the State Prompt Payment Act, and the contract is subject to the Illinois Freedom of Information Act.