27AL2335 Pyramid State Park - East Conant Unit Farm Lease

Solicitation 27-422DNR-REALT-B-54129 is an Invitation for Bid issued by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources for a farm lease at the East Conant Unit of Pyramid State Park. The primary objective of this land management program is to implement ecologically sound agricultural practices that improve soil health, minimize erosion, and enhance water quality to benefit local wildlife populations. The contract will be awarded to the responsive and responsible bidder who offers the highest overall total price. Bids are due by November 12, 2026, at 2:00 P.M., and can be submitted electronically via BidBuy or in paper format. The lease includes a detailed cropping plan for 2026 through 2031 and imposes strict operational restrictions, including a total prohibition on double cropping and restrictions on specific insecticides and Dicamba. The lessee is responsible for invasive weed control, food plot management, and maintaining soil pH levels between 6.0 and 6.5. Financial requirements include guaranteed lease payments via prepayments or letters of credit, and bidders must prove they are not delinquent on any existing IDNR leasehold taxes. Mandatory submission documents include Vendor Disclosures, an equipment list, and proof of liability insurance covering general liability and workers compensation.