How to bid on a Custom Shallow-Water Boat and Trailer for the Dept of the Army

What the Army Corps of Engineers is buying

The Department of the Army, specifically the Army Corps of Engineers, needs a custom shallow-water boat, motor, and trailer. This equipment is for the Fort Randall Project in Pickstown, South Dakota. The boat will be used to safely navigate the shallow, debris-heavy waters of the middle Missouri River. Its purpose is to support the Threatened and Endangered Species monitoring program.

This is an opportunity for small businesses to provide specialized equipment for an important environmental monitoring effort.

Key dates and what happens at the deadline

This solicitation was published on July 07, 2026. The deadline for submitting your response is August 10, 2026, at 3:00 PM ET. All proposals must be submitted by this time. Late submissions are generally not accepted, so plan to submit well in advance of the deadline.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is a small business set-aside, meaning only small businesses are eligible to bid. It is suitable for firms that specialize in custom boat fabrication, marine equipment, or similar categories. Vendors with experience in designing and building vessels for specific environmental conditions, such as shallow and debris-laden waters, would be well-suited for this requirement.

How to respond to this solicitation

To access the full solicitation details, click “View original source”. If the first click takes you to the portal’s homepage, click the link again to go directly to the bid. You may need to create a free account on the portal to view all documents, though this is not always required for every bid.

Practical tips for a competitive response

When preparing your response, focus on demonstrating your ability to meet the specific requirements for a custom shallow-water boat. Highlight any past experience with similar projects, especially those involving specialized marine environments or government clients. Clearly describe your fabrication process, the materials you will use, and how your design will ensure safe navigation in shallow, debris-heavy waters.

Pay close attention to all instructions in the Request for Proposal (RFP). Ensure your proposal is complete, accurate, and addresses every point requested. Providing detailed specifications for the boat, motor, and trailer, along with a clear delivery schedule and operational instruction plan, will strengthen your submission.