Agency Water & Soil Resources Board

Contractor Metro Blooms

SWIFT Contract Number 202135

Project Name Lawns to Legumes Program Implementation Phase 2

Project Number (if applicable) {Empty}

Summarize purpose of the contract, including why it was necessary: Under Minnesota Statute §15.061, the State is empowered to engage such assistance as deemed necessary. Minnesota Session Laws 2021, Chapter 6, Article 6, Section 2, Subd. 8(P), Chapter 6, Article 5, Section 2, Subd. 20(B), and Chapter 6, Article 5, Section 2, Subd. 8(M) provide environment and natural resources appropriations.

Project Duration

Start Date Mon, 11/01/2021 - 00:00

Original end date Wed, 11/01/2023 - 00:00

Actual end date Fri, 11/01/2024 - 00:00

Did project finish on time? Yes

Total billable hours utilized (if applicable) {Empty}

Contract Amounts

Original contract: $725000.00

Amendments $427413.00

Contract total $1152413.00

Did project finish within budget? Yes

What was the funding source? 2050/R9PELT0 and 2050/RT9PELL1

Is this a sole source contract? Yes

If this was a single source contract, explain why the agency determined there was only a single source for the services (if applicable) Blue Thumb Partnership is the only organization that has all the necessary components in place to implement this program-they have experience running a native plant reimbursement and recognition program; conducting landowner workshops on the topic of turf conversion and pollinator habitat; and they have expertise in coordinating coaching landowners along with other conservation partners. Additionally, they are currently conducting train the trainer workshops which are a component of this project. The workplan for this appropriation was approved by the Legislative Citizens Commission on Minnesota Resources (LCCMR) and states most of the work should be performed by the Blue Thumb Partnership. Metro Blooms is the fiscal coordinator of the Blue Thumb Partnership.

Evaluator Name Dan Shaw

Evaluator Email Address dan.shaw@state.mn.us

Evaluate the contractor's timeliness The contractor was successful with time management and was able to meet all program deadlines.

Evaluate the contractor's quality The contractor provided a high quality service leading to successful program outcomes. The results of a survey demonstrated that residents participating in the program valued the contractor’s work.

Evaluate the contractor's cost The contractors costs were reasonable and comparable to other non-profit organizations. The contractor was able to complete the work on budget.

Evaluate the contractor's overall performance The contractor’s overall performance was high. The contractor had several roles related to the Lawns to Legumes Program including the coordination of program applications and awards, coordination of coaching, program outreach, and providing technical assistance to residents. All of these components of the program were successfully implemented, and the program has resulted in strong outcomes as a result of the work.

Would you engage the contractor's services again? Yes

Describe any negative action taken during the duration of this contract (i.e., termination, pursuit of suspension, etc.): {Empty}

Please rate the overall experience with the contractor 5 - very satisfied