(a) An annual statewide announcement of expected needs for architecture, landscape architecture, engineering, environmental services, land surveying or construction project management services shall be published in the California State Contracts Register, in accordance with the Government Code (commencing with Section 14825), and through the publications of the respective professional societies. Failure of any professional society to publish the announcement shall not invalidate any contract.

(b) The announcement for each proposed project shall include, as a minimum, a brief description of the services required, location, duration, eligibility and preferences, submittal requirements, contact person for the Conservancy, and the final response date for receipt of statements from firms of their demonstrated competence and professional qualifications.

(c) The Executive Officer shall identify potentially qualified small business firms interested in contracting with the Conservancy, and provide copies of project announcements to those small business films that have indicated an interest in receiving the announcements. Failure of the Executive Officer to send a copy of an announcement to any firm shall not invalidate any contract.