26CRDLWBKPOOL-0003 - Wood Turtle Monitoring

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources is seeking a qualified contractor to conduct a two‑year scientific study of a wood‑turtle (Glyptemys insculpta) population near Waterloo, Black Hawk County. The effort will assess population status, habitat use, and threats, delivering actionable data for conservation planning and risk mitigation. The contract may be extended up to six years total, with required deliverables including weekly/bi‑weekly field updates, an interim report (Jan 31 2027), and a final report (Jan 31 2028). Minimum qualifications include at least ten years of wood‑turtle monitoring experience in Iowa and a valid State of Iowa Scientific Collectors Permit. • Conduct visual encounter surveys, capture, mark, and telemetry of up to three turtles, with weekly/bi‑weekly tracking. • Perform detailed habitat assessments within a 300 m buffer of watercourses and identify risk factors (road‑kill hotspots, land‑use pressures, etc.). • Produce interim and final technical reports, GIS data layers, and mitigation recommendations; submit separate technical and cost proposals via IMPACS.