How to bid on Fence Replacement at Ames, IA for the Agricultural Research Service

What the agency is buying

The Agricultural Research Service, an agency of the USDA, is seeking a contractor to replace fencing and renovate feeding areas at their Ames, Iowa campus. This work is essential for containing research animals and improving the corral areas.

This opportunity is a total small business set-aside, meaning only small businesses are eligible to submit a bid. The applicable North American Industry Classification Standard (NAICS) Code is 238990, All Other Specialty Trade Contractors, with a small business size standard of $19.0 million.

Key dates and deadlines

This Request for Quotation (RFQ) was published on July 15, 2026. All quotations must be submitted by August 06, 2026, at 7:30 AM ET. It is crucial to submit your quote before this deadline, as late submissions may not be considered.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is specifically for small businesses in the construction and specialty trade contracting sectors. Firms with experience in fence installation, animal containment solutions, or general renovation work, particularly those familiar with agricultural or research facility requirements, would be well-suited.

The NAICS code 238990, All Other Specialty Trade Contractors, indicates a broad range of specialized construction services. If your business falls under this category and meets the small business size standard, this could be a good fit.

How to respond

To access the solicitation documents, click “View original source” on the portal. If the first click takes you to the portal’s homepage, click it 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.

Once you have reviewed the solicitation, prepare your quotation according to the instructions provided within the document. This is a Request for Quotation (RFQ), and a separate written solicitation will not be issued.

Tips for a competitive response

Carefully read all sections of the Request for Quotation to ensure full compliance with all requirements. Pay close attention to the scope of work, including specific details about fence types, materials, and renovation tasks for the feeding areas.

Clearly articulate your firm's experience with similar projects, especially those involving animal containment or agricultural facilities. Provide a detailed and competitive price breakdown, ensuring it covers all labor, materials, and any other associated costs. Double-check that all required forms and certifications are completed accurately and submitted by the deadline.