RFB-785-2700000221-1 | RFB12042026 Lease of Agriculture Land Barren River WMA

The Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources is soliciting bids for the lease of approximately 1,300 acres of agricultural land at the Barren River Lake Wildlife Management Area across Barren and Allen Counties. The land is divided into six management units—Barren River, Beaver Creek, Dry Creek, Long Creek, Peters Creek, and Skaggs Creek—and is intended for the production of hay, corn, soybeans, and small grains. The primary goals are to maintain open lands for wildlife, provide food for wintering Sandhill Cranes, and generate revenue to offset operational costs. The lease is awarded to the highest bidder that is most advantageous to the Commonwealth, with a preference for those bidding on entire management units. Bidders must provide an annual cash rental payment per acre and cannot bid below the specified minimum per acre price. The contract is for a one-year term with options for four successive one-year renewals, totaling up to five years. Full payment of the annual lease balance is due by March 15 each year via money order, cashier's check, or certified check. The lessee is responsible for all labor, equipment, and supplies, and is prohibited from subleasing. Key operational requirements include maintaining soil fertility at a medium level or above, controlling noxious weeds, and leaving five percent of crops standing in a pattern determined by a supervising wildlife Public Lands Biologist. The lessee must also maintain field edges and low water fords. Insurance requirements include a Commercial General Liability policy with a 1,000,000 dollar combined single limit and a 2,000,000 dollar aggregate, naming the Commonwealth as an additional insured. Either party may cancel the lease for no cause with 30 days written notice, and the Commonwealth may terminate the lease for default if the bidder fails to cure a breach within 30 days. Bids must be submitted on the official Form of Proposal along with a notarized affidavit by December 4, 2026.