Purchase of Alfalfa Hay for Elkhorn Wildlife Area

Background
The State of Oregon, through the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW), is issuing this Invitation to Bid (ITB) to establish contracts for the purchase of current year, quality, weed-free Alfalfa Hay. This procurement is essential for feeding wintering elk in Baker and Union Counties, supporting the goals of the Elkhorn Wildlife Area Program. The program aims to manage wildlife habitats and provide recreational opportunities. The purchase is funded entirely by federal funds.

Work Details
The contract involves the procurement of 700 tons of current year, second crop or better, weed-free Alfalfa Hay in 3x4 bales weighing up to 2000 pounds. Bids will be accepted for alfalfa in fifty-ton lots. The hay must meet specific criteria:

- No rain after cutting
- Bale moisture content less than 16%
- Weed-free (not certified)
- Less than 5% grass (hay with more than 5% grass will be rejected)
- Minimum leaf-to-stem ratio of 40/60 (preferably 60/40)

If necessary, ODFW may also consider first and third cutting alfalfa. Bidders must grow the hay within 150 miles of the Elkhorn Wildlife Area. Delivery will be coordinated with ODFW staff at designated feeding sites.

Period of Performance
The contract period will commence upon execution and is expected to continue until all hay has been delivered and accepted by ODFW. The closing date for bids is set for September 17, 2024.

Place of Performance
The Alfalfa Hay will be delivered to various feeding sites in Baker and Union Counties, Oregon. Specifically, it will be delivered to the Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife at Elkhorn Wildlife Area located at 61846 North Powder Lane, North Powder, Oregon 97867.