Contractor will conduct survey using helicopters (preference will be given to contractors with R44 or similar helicopters) with the contract pilot in the front right, a primary observer in the front left (State representative) and a secondary observer behind the pilot (State representative). South Dakota Black Hills elk management units 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 9, and Custer State Park will be completely surveyed. Approximate land area of each unit and estimated min/max flight time is listed below. Multiple helicopters will be used for the survey and contractors with multiple pilots and helicopters are encouraged to submit proposals and detail how many helicopters and pilots they have available. However, proposals with only one pilot and helicopter will also be considered. Qualifications and past experience of the pilot and past experience with low-level surveys will be considered when evaluating contracts so proposals should include detailed information regarding pilot experience and qualifications with specific helicopters and wildlife surveys.
