Wi-Genoa NFH-Chironomid Bloodworms

Summary (Newest Update)

Background The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) is seeking to procure frozen bloodworms of the Chironomidae species for hatchery feeding operations at the Genoa National Fish Hatchery located in Genoa, Wisconsin. This solicitation aims to ensure a reliable supply of high-quality feed for aquatic species, supporting the mission of the FWS in wildlife conservation and management. Work Details The contract involves the procurement and delivery of up to 8,500 pounds of frozen bloodworms. The specifications include: 1. Bloodworms must be harvested and processed according to standard commercial practices for aquatic feed products. 2. Excess moisture, sediment, debris, and by-catch must be removed prior to freezing. 3. The product should be frozen immediately after capture to maintain quality and nutritional value. 4. It must remain continuously frozen during storage and transportation. 5. The product must be free from foul odor, visible spoilage, decomposition, mold, excessive freezer burn, excessive ice accumulation, foreign material, and hazardous contaminants. 6. Each frozen block should average approximately one pound (16 oz) and be sealed in plastic bags packed in corrugated boxes suitable for frozen transport. 7. Each box must be clearly labeled with product description, net weight, harvest or production date (if available), lot/batch number, and contractor name. Period of Performance The period of performance for this contract is from June 4, 2026, to August 31, 2026. Place of Performance Deliveries are to be made to the Genoa National Fish Hatchery located at S5631 State Hwy 35, Genoa WI 54632. Incumbent Analysis (see Incumbents section for more detail) This opportunity appears to have a confirmed incumbent based on prior FWS Genoa National Fish Hatchery bloodworms procurement under contract 140FS225P0131, awarded to ALL Aquaria Lc for $96,000 (04/28/25–09/30/25) for “WI-GENOA NFH-FY25 BLOODWORMS.” The current requirement for frozen Chironomidae bloodworms delivered to the same hatchery and during a similar summer feeding period suggests continuity in product type and delivery location. A closely related prior BPA against contract 140F0118D0011 (Nelson & Sons, $6,866; 09/02/22–06/30/23) for “Q4 FISH FOOD” also indicates ongoing fish feed sourcing at Genoa that may include similar frozen feed items.