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

The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) is seeking a contractor to perform Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) trials for the release of Sterile Insect Technique (SIT) Navel Orangeworm (NOW) in Bowie, Arizona. The contractor will be responsible for conducting eight release events of SIT NOW over approximately 840 acres of pistachio orchards per event using UAS. The contractor will also provide a diagnostic report detailing the results of the release events and make recommendations for improvements. The work is expected to be completed between July 1, 2026, and October 17, 2026. • The contractor will perform 8 release events of SIT NOW in Bowie, AZ over ~840 acres of pistachio orchards per event by UAS. • The contractor will provide a diagnostic report detailing a review of the 8 release events. • The contractor will make recommendations for improvements if needed. • The contractor will coordinate closely with APHIS personnel for moth transfer, pre-flight checks, release timing, and post-release debriefing. • The contractor will follow best practices and any applicable laws/regulations when performing work.