The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Forest Service awarded a $16,500 firm-fixed-price contract to Universal Mechanical Services LLC, a self-certified small disadvantaged business, to replace the existing HVAC system at the Parsons, West Virginia research laboratory of the Forest Service's Northern Research Station. The contract, which has a completion date of July 30, 2024, was set aside for total small business participation. The original solicitation sought a contractor to furnish labor, materials, and equipment to install a new high-efficiency natural gas HVAC split system, including performing a heating and cooling load calculation, installing a gas line, and integrating the new furnace with the existing ductwork. Based on Universal Mechanical Services' prior contract history with the USDA Forest Service, the company specializes in HVAC installation, maintenance, and repair services for government research facilities.