Key Takeaways:
- Agricultural Lease Contracts Available: The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) will accept bids for approximately 30 agricultural lease contracts covering the 2025-2029 crop years.
- Focus on Ecologically Sound Practices: The leases are designed to promote wildlife-friendly agricultural practices, improving soil health, reducing erosion, and benefiting water quality.
- Bid Process via BidBuy: All prospective bidders must register on Illinois’ procurement platform, BidBuy, to participate in the bidding process.
- Non-Mandatory Vendor Conference: Details of each lease will be discussed during vendor conferences, with information made available through public notices.
IDNR to Accept Agricultural Lease Bids for 2025-2029
The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) announced it will be accepting sealed bids this fall for around 30 agricultural lease contracts for crop years 2025 through 2029. These leases will support wildlife populations and recreational opportunities at IDNR-managed sites while promoting sustainable agricultural practices.
Ecologically Focused Agricultural Leases
The IDNR uses agricultural leases as a tool to manage lands while promoting practices that benefit the environment. The leases are designed to implement agricultural practices that support soil health, minimize soil erosion, and reduce chemical impacts to improve water quality and wildlife habitats. This approach helps ensure that both the land and wildlife thrive during the lease term.
Bid Process via BidBuy
Interested parties must register with BidBuy, Illinois’ procurement system, to participate in the bidding process. Prospective bidders will be required to enter specific National Institute of Governmental Purchasing (NIGP) codes, including 944-00 (Farming and Ranching), 944-48 (Hay Farming), 944-34 (Corn Farming), 944-76 (Soybean Farming), and 944-38 (Crop Farming NEC and Grain Farming NEC), when registering.
Once registered, bidders will receive email notifications when agricultural lease openings are posted. Bid documents and required forms will be available for download from the BidBuy website prior to the vendor conferences, where further details about each lease will be provided.
Non-Discrimination Policy
The State of Illinois upholds non-discriminatory practices in all aspects of its operations, including employment and contracting. IDNR follows federal and state laws that prohibit discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, or any other protected category.
For more information on the agricultural lease bids and to register with BidBuy, prospective bidders are encouraged to visit the platform and follow the necessary steps to participate.
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