Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) is seeking proposals for helicopter aerial gunning services statewide. Services are on an as-needed basis for wildlife management, including lethal removal of exotic and feral animals. Bids are due June 18, 2026, at 2:00 PM CT. The contract term is from September 1, 2026, through August 31, 2028, with renewal options. Contractors must meet minimum qualifications including 5 years of experience, specific pilot flight hours, and FAA Part 135 certification. Aircraft must be turbine helicopters like Hughes 500 series, Bell 206, or Robinson R66, or approved equivalents. Pricing is all-inclusive per hour. TPWD will evaluate proposals based on best value, considering compensation, technical proposal, and qualifications/experience.
Proposals are due June 18, 2026, at 2:00 PM CT. Services will be performed on an as-needed basis, with exact dates determined by mutual agreement between TPWD and the contractor.
Payment normally will be made to the contractor within 30 days after receipt of a properly prepared invoice or the receipt and acceptance of services ordered, whichever is later. State agencies are required by state law to pay properly submitted invoices within 30 days.
Manufacturers standard warranty shall apply unless otherwise stated in the solicitation.
Award will be based on best value criteria, including compensation and fees (15%), technical proposal (15%), and qualifications, experience, references, capability, facility, equipment, expertise, and ability of pilot and key personnel, and safety and effectiveness of wildlife survey operations (35% each).
Contractor shall be engaged in helicopter wildlife/livestock services including aerial gunning for a minimum of five years. Pilots must have a minimum of 2,000 hours PIC in helicopters, with 1,000 hours in aerial gunning in mountainous terrain. The business must possess an FAA Part 135 certificate.
Default in promised delivery without accepted reasons or failure to meet specifications authorizes TPWD to purchase supplies elsewhere and charge the full increase in cost and handling to the defaulting contractor.
Proposals received after the due date and time will be disqualified. Failure to periodically check the ESBD for updates may result in disqualification from addenda or additional information. Failure to submit required documentation will result in disqualification.