Cattle Lease Dinner Island Ranch WMA Caracara Unit

Background

The Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is responsible for the management and conservation of fish and wildlife resources in Florida. The agency has issued a solicitation for a cattle lease at the Dinner Island Ranch WMA Caracara Unit, with the goal of managing land use for wildlife conservation while generating revenue through agricultural practices.

Work Details

The contract involves leasing land for cattle grazing at the Dinner Island Ranch WMA Caracara Unit. The awarded bidder, AB Cattle, LLC, submitted a total bid price of $7,223,580.00. Other bidders included Hilliards Brothers of Florida with a bid of $6,067,912.50 and First American Land & Cattle LLC with a bid of $5,265,000.00. The lease will facilitate sustainable cattle grazing practices that align with the agency's conservation goals.

Period of Performance

The contract period is not explicitly stated in the provided information; however, it is implied that the lease will commence following the award decision on May 8, 2026.

Place of Performance

Dinner Island Ranch WMA Caracara Unit, Florida.

Bidder Requirements

Bidders must comply with Florida Statutes regarding protest procedures. Any person adversely affected by the agency's decision must file a written notice of protest within 72 hours after the posting of the decision. Additionally, a bond equal to 1% of the estimated total volume of the contract must be posted at the time of filing any formal protest.