Mowing/mulching RCW clusters is necessary to maintain understory to reduce woody shrub vegetation…

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission awarded contract C7E7C7 on September 1, 2026, for habitat management services valued at $34,800.00. The contract encompasses mechanical treatment and mowing/mulching operations across 116 acres of Red-cockaded Woodpecker (RCW) clusters to reduce woody shrub vegetation in the understory. The work is designed to maintain suitable habitat conditions for natural communities and native species while preparing designated areas for prescribed burning operations.

The contract period extends from the award date of September 1, 2026, through June 30, 2027. The mechanical treatments target invasive hardwoods within RCW clusters, with the work performed at a fixed rate of $300.00 per acre. These habitat management activities are intended to improve conditions prior to prescribed burning, minimize fire intensity within RCW clusters, and protect cavity trees and RCW populations from fire damage. The prime contractor was not identified in the contract documentation provided.