How to bid on a farm lease at Pyramid State Park for DNR - Natural Resources

What the agency is buying and why it matters

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is looking for bids to lease approximately 496.76 acres of land for agricultural farming. This land is located within Pyramid State Park’s Captain Unit in Perry County, Illinois. The lease is for crop year 2027.

This opportunity allows a vendor to farm a significant acreage of state-owned land. The estimated annual value to the state is $68,165.41, which breaks down to about $137.22 per acre. The estimated annual value to the vendor is $213,147.27.

Key dates and what happens at the deadline

This solicitation was published on September 22, 2026. All bids must be submitted by November 04, 2026, at 2:00 PM ET. It is important to submit your response before this deadline, as late submissions may not be considered.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is suitable for farming businesses or individuals experienced in agricultural operations, particularly crop farming. The land is located in Perry County, Illinois, and the lease is specifically for agricultural purposes. Firms with a focus on food and agriculture will find this relevant.

How to respond

To access the full documents and learn how to respond, you need to view the original source of the bid. This will open the bid’s detail page on BidBuy, the State of Illinois procurement portal. The necessary documents will be listed there.

If you wish to submit your quote electronically, you will need to register a free vendor account on the BidBuy portal. Alternatively, you can follow the specific submission directions provided within the Invitation for Bid (IFB) document. Ensure your submission is made before the stated deadline.

Practical tips for preparing a competitive response

Carefully review the Invitation for Bid (IFB) for exact locations, acreage details, and all response requirements. Pay close attention to any specific farming practices or land management expectations outlined by the DNR.

When preparing your bid, clearly outline your proposed farming plan for crop year 2027. Highlight your experience in agricultural farming and your capacity to manage the approximately 496.76 acres effectively. Ensure your bid reflects a clear understanding of the land's value and your proposed lease terms.