Deer Density FLIR Drone Surveys

The Fairfax County Park Authority is seeking a qualified contractor to perform aerial infrared drone surveys to determine deer densities across 24 parks covering approximately 9,250 acres within the Washington DC area, specifically within the 30-mile and 15-mile Special Flight Rules Area (SFRA). The project requires FAA clearance for operations in G airspace and additional permissions for nighttime flights, as infrared surveys are planned to be conducted during night hours to enhance data accuracy. The contractor must ensure all drone operations comply with FAA regulations, including certification of all uncrewed aerial systems and adherence to Temporary Flight Restrictions unless explicitly waived by the FAA. Pilots must hold FAA Part 107 licenses and have prior experience with deer density surveys. The Fairfax County Park Authority emphasizes that most surveys will be conducted at night, although exceptions may be granted for certain parks, and the contractor is responsible for obtaining all necessary approvals to operate legally within each location. The contract is valued between $50,000 and $150,000, with a response deadline of November 29, 2024. The project is managed by the County of Fairfax, Virginia, and the primary contact for inquiries is Bushra Mirza. Interested vendors can review detailed scope and requirements through the provided online link. The contract aims to leverage advanced drone technology to gather critical wildlife data efficiently, ensuring all operations meet federal and local regulatory standards for safety and legality.