Geothermal Energy Collaborative Process Facilitation

Background
The Washington Department of Ecology (ECOLOGY) is seeking strategic facilitation services to support a geothermal energy collaborative process established by the state legislature through Senate Bill 6039. This initiative aims to promote the development of geothermal energy resources while engaging with various stakeholders, including Tribal communities and state agencies.

The collaborative process is designed to identify opportunities and risks associated with geothermal resource development in specific focus areas along the Cascade Range, including Mount Baker, Mount St. Helens, and the Wind River valley. ECOLOGY's mission is to protect and enhance Washington's environment, ensuring sustainable management of natural resources for current and future generations.

Work Details
The contractor will provide facilitation services that include:
1. Organizing and facilitating community and Tribal workshops, forums, and interagency meetings to gather input on geothermal energy development.
2. Assisting in the preparation of legislative reports based on community engagement outcomes.
3. Developing an engagement plan that outlines communication strategies with interested parties, including potentially affected communities and Tribes.
4. Conducting interviews with stakeholders to inform the engagement plan.
5. Preparing meeting materials such as agendas, presentations, and summaries for all workshops and forums.
6. Ensuring accessibility of meetings by providing interpretation services in multiple languages as needed.
7. Delivering a final report with recommendations regarding the impacts of geothermal resource development on various stakeholders, including Tribal cultural resources and environmental concerns.

Period of Performance
The contract period will commence upon award and continue until June 30, 2027. ECOLOGY reserves the right to extend the contract for one additional year or portions thereof based on funding availability.

Place of Performance
The work will primarily take place in Washington State, specifically in areas near Mount Baker, Mount St. Helens, and the Wind River valley for in-person engagements.

Bidder Requirements
Bidders must be licensed to do business in Washington State and have at least three years of experience providing facilitation services related to environmental issues. They should demonstrate familiarity with Tribal communities and environmental justice concerns within Washington State. Additionally, bidders must not be suspended or debarred from government contracts.