124150 O3 Addendum Three SPB 28.docx

This is Solicitation Addendum Number Three updating the work plan dates for a tree clearing service contract issued by the Nebraska Game & Parks Commission (NGPC). The solicitation (Number 124150 O3) seeks qualified bidders to remove Eastern Red Cedar and Rocky Mountain Juniper trees measuring 18 inches and taller across approximately 4,262.5 acres at Merritt Reservoir Wildlife Management Area in Cherry County, Nebraska. The project encompasses 3,965.1 acres of grasslands and 297.4 acres of woodlands, with primary removal methods including mulching and cutting/piling for trees exceeding 20 feet in height with greater than 6-inch diameter at breast height. A mandatory bidders' conference was held on January 21, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Merritt Reservoir State Recreational Area, with attendance required for bid submission. The solicitation opened on January 8, 2026, with a response deadline of February 10, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. Central Time. The contract will commence on March 9, 2026, and must be completed by June 30, 2027, with an intent to award on February 20, 2026. This addendum clarifies that the entire project must be completed by June 30, 2027, updating the work plan dates referenced on page 23 of the original RFP.

The State will award the contract to the lowest responsible bidder and may provide preference to resident disabled veterans or businesses in designated enterprise zones if all other factors are equal. Contractors must maintain comprehensive insurance coverage, including Workers' Compensation, Commercial General Liability with a $2,000,000 general aggregate, and Commercial Automobile Liability with a $1,000,000 combined single limit. Bidders are permitted to exchange merchantable timber for a decreased per-acre thinning rate, with all materials required to be removed by the contract end date. Completed work areas must measure at least 200 acres and require Nebraska Game & Parks Commission staff inspection prior to payment. The cost sheet indicates that per-acre pricing will serve as the basis for contract valuation, with work performed under dry or frozen ground conditions to minimize environmental impact. The project includes specific environmental restrictions protecting Western Prairie Fringed Orchid, Northern Long-eared Bat, and Whooping Crane habitat. No specific budget range is provided in the solicitation.