Unmanned Aerial Systems Trials for Release of Sterile Insect Technique Navel Orangeworm

Project ID: 1169789 FederalOpportunitiesSpecial Notice

Overview

Agency	Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service
Deadline	06/07/26
Posted	06/04/26
Estimated Value	$100,000 - $350,000 (AI estimate)
Set Aside	SBA
NAICS	115112 - Soil Preparation, Planting, and Cultivating
PSC	F108 - Environmental Systems Protection- Environmental Remediation
Location	Bowie, AZ 85605 United States

Description

Primary Latest Change

SOLE SOURCE

The joint APHIS CDFA Navel Orangeworm (NOW) Sterile Insect Technique (SIT) Program in California currently relies on a fixed wing Cessna 206 for sterile NOW releases. However, this method has consistently produced low and highly variable recapture rates (less than 0.1 percent), indicating that fixed wing aerial release may be biologically and operationally unsuitable for NOW.In contrast, manual (hand) releases conducted in Arizona have yielded recapture rates one to three orders of magnitude higher, suggesting that the challenge lies with the release method rather than insect quality. This substantial disparity, combined with the high cost and limited operational resilience of the fixed wing platform, underscores the need to evaluate alternative release technologies. Future pilot availability is also uncertain.Given advances in Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS), associated equipment, and release methods, UAS-based delivery may offer improved cost savings, operational flexibility, and efficiency compared to the current aircraft based approach. The program is under increasing pressure to enhance efficiency and effectiveness, reduce costs, and plan for operational contingencies including pilot availability. Stakeholders have also expressed interest in emerging technologies such as UAS for SIT applications.Accordingly, this is a valuable area for further exploration to potentially improve program savings, efficacy, and long term sustainability. APHIS PPQ has therefore initiated an evaluation of UAS based NOW SIT releases, including preliminary field trials, to inform program direction and assess whether operational changes or future investments are warranted to support the long term viability of the APHIS NOW SIT program. JUNE 07, 2026 5:00PM (EST) is the deadline for inquiries. All questions addressed to the below indiviual: Todd K. Bierl (Major Program Contracting Officer)

Emergency Acquisition

Marketing and Regulatory Program Business (MRPBS) Acquisition and Asset Management Division (AAMD)

Acquisition Branch

Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) Office#(612)336-3465 Cell# (612)500-1321/(763)286-8084

Summary (Newest Update)

Background The contract is issued by the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) in collaboration with the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) for the Navel Orangeworm (NOW) Sterile Insect Technique (SIT) Program. The program aims to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of sterile insect releases to control NOW populations, which have historically relied on fixed-wing aircraft. Due to low recapture rates and uncertainties regarding pilot availability, there is a need to explore Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) as a more effective alternative for releasing sterile insects. This initiative seeks to improve operational flexibility, reduce costs, and ensure long-term sustainability of the program. Work Details The contractor will conduct eight release events of sterile NOW over approximately 840 acres of pistachio orchards in Bowie, Arizona, using UAS technology. The contractor is responsible for providing qualified UAS pilots and necessary equipment for these operations. Each release event must be conducted between 1200-2400 hours on Saturdays, starting no earlier than dusk. The contractor will also prepare a diagnostic report detailing each release event's execution time, operational parameters of the UAS (such as altitude and speed), and any recommendations for improvements. All work must adhere to FAA regulations and safety protocols. Period of Performance The anticipated period of performance for this contract is from July 1, 2026, to October 17, 2026. Place of Performance Bowie, Arizona. Bidder Requirements Bidders must meet the following requirements: Small Business Set Aside - Total (SBA); possess necessary licensing in good standing; provide qualified UAS pilots; comply with all FAA regulations; maintain workers' compensation and liability insurance; and follow best practices for safety during operations.

Contacts