ML0150 Sphagnum Moss for USDA-ARS

The USDA Agricultural Research Service is soliciting 700 bales of ML0150 long-fibered Sphagnum Moss under Solicitation Number 1232SA26Q0190, with delivery required within 60 days of award to the Sugarcane Field Station in Canal Point, Florida. This is a total small business set-aside under NAICS code 113210, restricted to small businesses with average annual receipts below $20.5 million, including HUBZone and service-disabled veteran-owned small businesses eligible to compete. The contract will be awarded using a Lowest Price Technically Acceptable evaluation method, where only the lowest-priced offer that meets all technical requirements will be considered. Technical acceptability is strictly defined: the moss must be 100% natural, certified organic, of ML0150 grade, with each bale measuring 2.0 cubic feet and exhibiting water retention of up to 20 times its weight, along with antibacterial properties and pathogen suppression. Offerors must submit supporting documentation such as product datasheets or website links proving compliance—verbal or written assurances alone are insufficient. Delivery must comply with F.O.B. Destination terms per FAR 52.247-34, meaning the contractor assumes all risk and cost until the product is received at the destination. The contract is a firm-fixed price purchase order, and payment will be made via Electronic Funds Transfer through the System for Award Management. Contractors must maintain active SAM registration and adhere to clauses related to whistleblower protections, combating human trafficking, child labor, equal opportunity, and accelerated payments to small business subcontractors. The closing process allows for unilateral closeout if unliquidated funds are $1,000 or less. Proposals must be submitted on SF-1449 by April 30, 2026, at 5:00 PM ET, via mail or courier to the delivery site, with any inquiries directed to Kerrie Hodges at USDA-ARS. No specific packaging, labeling, or military standards are mandated beyond general FAR compliance.