High-capacity soil batch mixer

The contract solicits a single Model SD-3 Super Duty Batch Mixer with an 18-cubic-foot capacity for use in a USDA ARS potato breeding program in Aberdeen, Idaho, with delivery required by August 1, 2026. This acquisition is a total small business set-aside under NAICS code 333111, restricted exclusively to small businesses including HUBZone and service-disabled veteran-owned small business concerns, with a size standard of 1,250 employees. The mixer must meet strict performance specifications outlined in Attachment 2, including sawtooth-edged auger paddles to prevent media grinding, a water spray system for precise moisture control, and the ability to achieve full homogeneity when blending sand, peat, and vermiculite with up to 60% sand content. The contract is structured under FAR Part 12 as a commercial item acquisition using a firm-fixed price basis, with evaluation based on technical acceptability, acceptable past performance, and fair and reasonable pricing, but not on a lowest-price technically acceptable basis. Technical acceptability is a pass/fail criterion, and the award will go to the highest technically rated offeror whose price is determined reasonable—not automatically the lowest. The item is to be delivered F.O.B. destination to 1691 S 2700 W, Aberdeen, ID 83210, and acceptance will occur upon government inspection at that location using Standard Form 1449. Proposals must be submitted electronically via email to katelyn.nelson@usda.gov by April 28, 2026, with no page or word limits specified. The contract includes numerous FAR clauses mandating small business compliance, including limitations on subcontracting, nonmanufacturer rules, and subcontracting plan requirements with potential liquidated damages for noncompliance. Environmental, labor, and ethical standards are enforced through clauses covering Buy American, ozone-depleting substances, sustainable products, fair labor standards, whistleblower rights, and contractor code of conduct. Security and information protection requirements are imposed via safeguarding clauses for contractor information systems and personnel security protocols. Anti-discrimination and DEI compliance is required under a recently issued AGAR clause, and affirmative certifications are needed regarding trafficking in persons and payments to influence federal transactions. Payment will be administered by USDA ARS Acquisition and Property D in Beltsville, Maryland, with invoicing instructions provided to that office. No contract value or pricing is specified in the solicitation