Bid guide
How to bid on a compact track loader for Vandenberg AFB Wildland Fire Branch, US Fish and Wildlife Service
What the agency is buying and why it matters
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) plans to acquire one CAT 275XE compact track loader, including forestry attachments. This equipment is for the Wildland Fire Branch at Vandenberg Air Force Base in Vandenberg, California. The agency states that this specific model is preferred due to its hydraulic cooler, operator controls, and existing service and support infrastructure already in place for similar units within the Wildland Fire Branch.
The FWS intends to award this order directly to Caterpillar Inc. However, other businesses have an opportunity to submit a capability statement. This statement should demonstrate that a competitive procurement would be advantageous to the government and would not be cost or time prohibitive. This is an opportunity for vendors to show the government that other options exist that could provide better value.
Key dates and what happens at the deadline
All questions and comments regarding this Notice of Intent are due by 2:00 PM EDT on August 6, 2026. This is also the deadline for submitting capability statements.
Responses received will be reviewed by the agency to determine if a competitive procurement should be conducted. The agency has discretion in deciding whether to proceed with a sole-source award or to open it up for competition based on the submissions received.
Who this opportunity suits
This opportunity is primarily for businesses that can supply compact track loaders, specifically those that can offer a model comparable to the CAT 275XE with forestry attachments. The relevant NAICS code is 333120, Construction Machinery Manufacturing.
Vendors should be able to demonstrate that their equipment offers similar or superior features, particularly regarding hydraulic cooling, operator controls, and the ability to provide service and support on Air Force bases. The agency emphasizes the importance of minimizing downtime for equipment repairs and parts availability for fire operations.
How to respond
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Capability statements and any questions or comments must be submitted via 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 - DOIFFBO260140.
Tips for preparing a competitive response
When preparing your capability statement, focus on how your offering directly addresses the agency's stated needs and preferences. Highlight specific features of your equipment that match or exceed the CAT 275XE's preferred hydraulic cooler and operator controls. Clearly articulate your firm's ability to provide timely service and support, especially on Air Force bases, to minimize equipment downtime.
Provide clear and convincing evidence that a competitive procurement would be advantageous to the government. This could include demonstrating potential cost savings, improved delivery times, or enhanced features and support compared to a sole-source award. Ensure your submission is concise, well-organized, and directly responds to the requirements outlined in the Notice of Intent.
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.