VIPR I-BPA for Heavy Equipment with Water for Regions 1,2,4, and 9 (East Zone)

The USDA Forest Service's Equipment and Services Branch in the East Zone (covering Regions 1, 2, 4, and 9) is preparing to issue a solicitation for competitive quotes on Heavy Equipment with Water, including Skidgines, Softtracks, and Pumper Cats, to support fire suppression and all-hazard incident responses nationwide. The contract will encompass all necessary equipment, materials, supplies, transportation, lodging, and trained personnel, with the option for interagency cooperators to utilize the agreement subject to their own terms. The resources are intended primarily for land protection and incident response, with the USFS reserving the right to add additional contractors during an annual open season process based on the Government’s best interests. Rates should be proposed based on a 16-hour daily shift, covering all costs within the specified pricing and estimated quantities. Agreements will be awarded through a competitive process within the designated regional dispatch centers, with vendors encouraged to select the dispatch center closest to their resources to ensure timely response and cost efficiency. The procurement will be conducted via the Virtual Incident Procurement (VIPR) system, requiring vendors to have a valid DUNS number, active SAM registration, and USDA Level 2 eAuthentication. The awards are anticipated to be multiple, small business set-aside Blanket Purchase Agreements (BPAs), emphasizing socioeconomic advantages. The solicitation details, including equipment specifications, will be available through the VIPR system, with responses due by March 12, 2022. The primary contact for the solicitation is Jeffrey Gardner, reachable via email or phone.