RFP P2025201 Cosumnes River Ecological Reserve Arno Unit Permit for Excess Vegetation Disposal

Background
The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW), acting as an agent of the State of California, is issuing a Request for Proposal (RFP) for a Permit for Excess Vegetation Disposal (Grazing) on approximately 156 acres known as the Arno Unit within the Cosumnes River Ecological Reserve (CRER) in Sacramento County.

The CDFW aims to conserve unique botanical and wildlife resources while managing the land effectively. The selected contractor will help achieve ecological goals through innovative grazing practices.

Work Details
The contractor will conduct vegetation disposal operations focused on removing non-native European grasses while preserving young oak trees.

The grazing will occur in three pastures: Arno Pasture, North Pasture, and Snake Marsh Pasture. Specific requirements include:
1. Grazing activities must not start before December 15, 2025, and must conclude by May 31, 2030.
2. A maximum of 137.5 Animal Unit Months (AUM) per annual grazing period, or 25 Animal Units (AU) per month.
3. Only cattle (bulls, steers, cows, and cows with calves) are permitted for grazing.
4. An average of 750–1,000 lbs./acre of Residual Dry Matter (RDM) must remain at the end of each grazing period.
5. The contractor must coordinate with CDFW regarding timing and duration of grazing to ensure ecological integrity.

Period of Performance
The contract will commence on December 15, 2025, or upon approval by the State, and will terminate on July 1, 2030.

The annual grazing period is set for five months and 16 days each year during this term.

Place of Performance
The work will be performed at the Arno Unit within the Cosumnes River Ecological Reserve located in Sacramento County, California.

Bidder Requirements
Bidders must demonstrate experience with vegetation disposal agreements on public or conservation easement lands and possess livestock necessary for the operation. Minimum qualifications include:
1. Two references from relevant projects completed in the last five years.
2. At least three years of experience in wildlife-friendly grazing practices.
3. Ability to respond to emergencies within one hour during the annual grazing period.