Description
The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) is seeking a qualified livestock‑grazing operator to lease approximately 3,465 acres of pasture within Palo Duro Canyon State Park (Randall and Armstrong Counties, TX) for a five‑year term ending September 30, 2031, with an optional five‑year renewal. The lease requires a minimum stocking rate of 200 Animal Units (AU) and a grazing season from October 1 to April 30 each year. Bidders must submit a price per Animal Unit Month (AUM), a 10 % deposit, and demonstrate experience as a stockman/range manager. The site is land‑locked, accessed only via a private ranch, and TPWD will evaluate bids based on the highest price per AUM that meets qualification criteria.
• Lease area: Upper Mesquite Mesa (1,523 ac), Lower Mesquite Mesa (523 ac), Cita Canyon (1,419 ac) – total 3,465 ac.
• Lease term: Award → Sept 30, 2031 (5 years) with one optional 5‑year renewal.
• Grazing season: Oct 1 – Apr 30 each year; minimum 200 AU (≈35 months total).
• Compensation: Bid price per AUM; total contract value estimated at $56,000 (per solicitation).
• Deposit: ≥10 % of total bid (certified check).
• Qualifications: Proven stock‑managing experience, range‑resource management, ability to maintain fences, water facilities, and perform prescribed burns or brush management.
• Pre‑bid site visit: Oct 5‑9, 2026 (optional).
• Submission deadline: Oct 14, 2026 2:00 PM CT (sealed bid, one original).
• Contact: Jennifer Robinson, Purchasing & Contracting C‑1 (email & phone above).