Description
This solicitation seeks a qualified agricultural operator to lease approximately 830 acres of state‑owned land within the Jim Edgar Panther Creek State Fish & Wildlife Area for a five‑year period (2027‑2032). The lessee will be responsible for all farm operations, including planting, harvest, cover‑crop management, and compliance with strict environmental and pesticide restrictions. The State requires annual reporting of chemical and seed logs, soil‑testing results, and proof of lease‑hold tax payment, as well as appropriate liability insurance and an irrevocable Letter of Credit or pre‑payment. The contract awards are based on the highest‑priced responsible and responsive bidder, with a firm‑price lease rate per acre.
• Lease of ~830 acres each year (2027‑2031) with annual per‑acre value estimated at $347.33.
• Mandatory compliance with pesticide bans (neonicotinoid‑treated soy, Dicamba, biosolids) and required cover‑crop planting.
• Annual reporting obligations: chemical application logs, seed logs, soil‑test data, and tax receipts by December 15 each year.
• Financial guarantees: ½ of lease payment due July 15, balance by Dec 15; or an irrevocable Letter of Credit submitted within 30 days of contract execution.