This is a combined synopsis/solicitation for commercial items prepared in accordance with the format in FAR Subpart 12.6, as supplemented with additional information included in this notice. This announcement constitutes the only solicitation; proposals are being requested and a written solicitation will not be issued. Solicitation No. 12505B21S1029940-1 is being issued as a Request for Quote (RFQ). This solicitation document and incorporated provisions and clauses are those in effect through Federal Acquisition Circular 2021-05. The NAICS code applicable to this acquisition is 111150 (Corn Farming). This requirement is for full and open competition.

The USDA, ARS location in Ames, Iowa has a requirement for GEM Isolated Crossing Seed Production services. The Government intends to award one firm fixed price contract.

This acquisition is for the following item as identified in the Contract Line Item Number (CLIN):

CLIN 1: GEM Isolated Crossing Seed Production services per specifications

The Contractor shall provide all items F.O.B. destination.  Location of the Government site is aboard USDA ARS Columbia, Ohio and will be identified in the contract. 

Offerors responding to this announcement shall submit their Proposal in accordance with FAR 52.212-1. 

The basis for award is Lowest Price Technically Acceptable (LPTA).  LPTA means the best value is expected to result from selection of the technically acceptable proposal with the lowest evaluated price.  Pursuant to FAR 52.212-2, the criteria for evaluation are: (1) Company Experience and (2) Price and must also have satisfactory Past Performance.  The lowest priced proposal will first be evaluated for technical acceptability in accordance with the minimum specifications identified.  If determined not technically acceptable, it will be removed from competition and the next lowest priced proposal will be evaluated for technical acceptability.  This will continue until the lowest price proposal is determined technically acceptable.  Once the lowest priced proposal is determined technically acceptable, then a determination of responsibility will be completed.  If found responsible, evaluations will be closed and award will be made.

DOCUMENTS TO BE INCLUDED IN QUOTE: In order to be considered for award, Offerors shall provide 1) technical approach/proposal; 2) price; 3) completed Representations and Certifications in the attached provisions and clauses document and 4) company's DUNS number.

REJECTION OF QUOTATION: Failure to demonstrate compliance will be cause to reject the quote without further discussions. All responsible sources may submit an offer which will be considered.

To be eligible for an award, all contractors must be registered in the System for Award Management (SAM).  A contractor can contact SAM by calling 1-866-606-8220 or e-mail at www.sam.gov.  NO EXCEPTIONS. A DUNS (Dun and Bradstreet) number is required in order to register.  All invoices shall be submitted electronically.

Questions regarding this solicitation shall be emailed (no phone calls will be accepted) to Kristen Turner, Contracting Officer at [email protected] no later than 3:00 PM (Central) Friday, April 23, 2021.  All answers to questions will be posted as an attachment in this solicitation.

Furnish quotes no later than 3:00 PM (Central), Friday, April 30, 2021 to Kristen Turner, Contracting Officer at [email protected] .  Quotes will only be accepted via email, no phone calls will be accepted.