Bid guide
How to bid on the BLM-CO TRFO Basin Well and Water System for the Department of the Interior
What the agency is buying
The Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management (BLM), is seeking a contractor to provide a turnkey solar-powered well and water system. This system will be located near Naturita in Montrose County, Colorado. The project involves pumping water from an existing well to a buried storage tank, which will then gravity-feed a wildlife drinking tank. The system must include freeze protection and be designed for a future stockwater connection.
This is a 100% small-business set-aside opportunity under NAICS code 237110, which covers Water and Sewer Line and Related Structures Construction. The work is expected to be completed within 360 days of the Notice to Proceed.
Key dates and deadlines
The deadline for submitting bids is September 17, 2026, at 8:00 AM Mountain Time (10:00 AM ET). All questions regarding this solicitation must be submitted by September 14, 2026, at 8:00 AM Mountain Time.
Work on the project must be completed within 360 days after the contractor receives the Notice to Proceed. Work is allowed Monday through Friday, except on Federal holidays. Contract time can be paused if snow or snowmelt prevents work at the site.
Who this opportunity suits
This opportunity is specifically for small businesses in the construction sector, particularly those with experience in water and sewer line construction, well systems, and solar power integration. The NAICS code is 237110, with a small business size standard of $45 million.
Firms with expertise in designing and installing freeze-proof water systems for remote locations would be well-suited. Experience with projects involving wildlife and stockwater systems would also be beneficial.
How to respond
To access the solicitation documents, you will need to view the original source on the portal. Sometimes the first click may take you to the portal's homepage; if so, click the link again to go directly to the bid. A free account may be required to view documents for some bids, but not all.
Ensure your company has an active registration on SAM.gov. Assistance for SAM.gov registration is available through local APEX Accelerators. Invoicing and payments will be processed through IPP.gov, with a 14-day prompt pay policy for progress payments.
Tips for a competitive response
Carefully review the Performance Work Statement (PWS) to understand all requirements for the turnkey solar-powered well and water system, including the specific design for freeze protection and the future stockwater connection. Address each requirement clearly in your proposal.
Since this is a construction project, be prepared for potential Bid, Performance, and Payment Bonding requirements. Familiarize yourself with FAR Part 12 (Acquisition of Commercial Products and Commercial Services) and FAR Part 36 (Construction Provisions and Clauses). Ensure your proposed wages comply with the Davis Bacon Act for Montrose County, Colorado. The basis of award will be 'Best Value', so highlight your firm's experience, technical approach, and ability to deliver a reliable, low-maintenance system.
See the live bid — deadline, agency details, and how to respond
Dates and requirements can change via addenda; always verify on the bid page and at the original source before responding.
View this bid on BiddingSimpleThis guide was prepared by BiddingSimple from the solicitation’s public posting. It is not official guidance from Bureau of Land Management; the original posting controls.