Bid guide
How to bid on a Compact Track Loader for the US Fish and Wildlife Service
What the agency is buying and why it matters
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) intends to purchase a Caterpillar CAT 275XE compact track loader, equipped with forestry attachments. This equipment is for the Wildland Fire Branch at Camp Bullis, Joint Base San Antonio (JBSA), in San Antonio, Texas.
This purchase is important because the compact track loader will be used for critical fire operations and project work. The agency values the specific hydraulic cooler, operator controls, and the existing service and support network for Caterpillar equipment, which helps minimize downtime for repairs and parts. Having multiple units of this type already in use within the Wildland Fire Branch allows for easier movement of equipment and specialized attachments between modules.
Key dates and what happens at the deadline
The deadline for submitting questions, comments, or capability statements is August 7, 2026, at 2:00 PM Eastern Daylight Time (EDT).
This is a Notice of Intent, not a request for competitive quotes. The FWS plans to award this contract directly to Caterpillar Inc. However, other sources can submit a capability statement by the deadline. These statements will be reviewed to determine if conducting a competitive procurement would be advantageous to the government.
Who this opportunity suits
This opportunity is primarily for vendors who can demonstrate clear and convincing evidence that they can provide a compact track loader with forestry attachments that offers advantages over the Caterpillar CAT 275XE, and that competition would benefit the government without being cost or time prohibitive.
The relevant NAICS code is 333120, Construction Machinery Manufacturing. Firms with experience in providing heavy equipment, especially those with robust service and support capabilities for equipment used on military bases, may find this relevant.
How to respond
To respond, you must submit a capability statement via email. Direct your email to Contracting Specialist Fred Riley at [email protected]. Telephone inquiries will not be accepted.
Ensure your email subject line includes: Notice of Intent Capability Statement Submission - DOIFFBO260145. Your statement must clearly demonstrate how competition would be advantageous to the Government and not be cost or time prohibitive.
Tips for preparing a competitive response
Even though this is a Notice of Intent for a sole source award, a well-prepared capability statement can still be effective. Focus on clearly articulating how your offering provides a superior solution or significant benefits compared to the intended sole source.
Highlight specific features, performance metrics, or support services that directly address the agency's stated needs, such as hydraulic cooler performance, operator controls, and service/support. Emphasize how your solution would minimize downtime and support fire operations effectively. Provide concrete evidence and examples to support your claims, demonstrating why your solution would be advantageous for the government.
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 US Fish and Wildlife Service; the original posting controls.