Planting Seed Corn on USDA Fields

Summary (Newest Update)

Background The USDA - National Animal Disease Center (NADC) in Ames, Iowa, is seeking a contractor to plant seed corn that will be harvested for use in feeding research animals. The mission of the NADC is to provide animal care and support services for internal users that rely on animals and animal products for research, testing, and training. The corn silage produced from this planting is essential for the NADC's dairy herd feeding program. Work Details The contractor will be responsible for planting seed corn on government-owned land as designated by the ARU Farm Manager. Key responsibilities include: - Supplying all necessary equipment and supplies (tractors, planters, fuel, and labor) - Planting seed corn with a row width of 30 inches - Achieving a consistent planting population of 35,000 seeds per acre - Ensuring a planting depth of 2 inches - Maintaining seed-to-soil contact - Regularly checking planter depth - Adjusting down pressure based on soil moisture and texture - Supervising all operations under their responsibility including maintenance and safety of equipment. Evidence of previous experience in similar services must be provided, along with documentation for any subcontractors involved. Period of Performance Planting is scheduled to occur between April 15, 2026, and May 15, 2026. Weather may affect these dates, and planting must commence within 4 business days of a request by the USDA procurement officer or NADC Farm Manager. Place of Performance 1920 Dayton Ave, Ames IA 50010