The USDA-Agricultural Research Service, Cropping Systems and Water Quality Research Unit in Columbia, Missouri has a requirement for a Row-Crop Planter.  THIS IS A SOURCES SOUGHT NOTICE ONLY and the SOLICITATION IS NOT CURRENTLY AVAILABLE.  This notice is for information and planning purposes only and shall not be construed as a solicitation or an obligation on the part of the government.  

All interested vendors must be registered in the SAM database to be considered for any awards.  See FAR clause 52.204-7 for registration instructions.  The registration is free.  Website for FAR clauses is:  https://acquisition.gov/far/current/html/52_200_206.html#wp1137850. 

ROW-CROP PLANTER SPECIFICATIONS:

The intent of these procurement criteria is to provide the purchasing framework for the acquisition of one (1) row-crop planter.   

• 6/11 split-row configuration. That is, a standard 6-row planter with a 30-inch row spacing and a second set of row units between the 30-inch rows for 11 rows on a 15-inch row spacing.
• Ability to raise and lock up second set of row units so that only the six 30-inch rows are engaging the soil
• Drawn (towed) configuration
• Vacuum-based seed delivery system
• Independently operating gauge wheels (may be referred to by different manufacturers as "load equalizing", "walking", etc.)
• Individual row seed boxes, 1.5 bushel minimum capacity
• Pneumatic down-force with manually adjustable setting
• Granular insecticide delivery system on 6 main rows
• Liquid fertilizer delivery system, including tanks (300 gal. minimum), piston pump, distribution manifold, and hoses to convey fertilizer to the 6 main rows. Fertilizer openers not required.
• Seed monitoring system. Preferred to be ISOBUS- compatible for use with John Deere Greenstar monitor available in existing tractor that will be used to pull planter. Stand-alone monitor a less-preferable alternate.
• Marker arms not required. RTK guidance on existing tractor will be used.
• Frame only for attaching closing wheels. User will supply closing wheels.
• Row cleaner/row tillage attachments not required. User will supply.
• Seed disks for corn (6), soybean (11), sorghum (6), sugar beets (11) and small edible beans (11)
•  Delivery and setup included

The deadline for responding to this Sources Sought Notice is Wednesday, September 17, 2014 at 10:00 a.m. CDT.    In responding to this notice, please provide your company name, address, email address, phone/fax number, and DUNS number.  Responses should be sent to Karen L. Reddick at [email protected] or by fax to 573-449-6148.  No information will be taken by telephone.