124150 O3 Addendum Two SPB 28.docx

This is a Solicitation Addendum Number Two issued by the Nebraska Game & Parks Commission updating the cost sheet for a tree clearing service contract at Merritt Reservoir Wildlife Management Area. The solicitation (Number 124150 O3) involves removing Eastern Red Cedar and Rocky Mountain Juniper trees 18 inches and taller across approximately 4,262.5 acres, comprising 3,965.1 acres of grasslands and 297.4 acres of woodlands. Primary removal methods include mulching, with cutting and piling permitted for trees exceeding 20 feet in height with greater than 6-inch diameter at breast height. The project also encompasses fuel reduction efforts in designated areas and a 200-foot boundary treatment. A mandatory solicitation 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 bids due on February 10, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. Central Time. The contract will commence on March 9, 2026, and run through June 30, 2027, with an intent to award on February 20, 2026. The addendum, effective January 23, 2026, corrects the cost sheet to list Woodlands instead of Wetlands.

The contract will be awarded to the lowest responsible bidder, with the State reserving the right to conduct reference and credit checks. Preference may be given to resident disabled veterans or businesses located 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. Per-acre pricing will serve as the basis for contract valuation, with work to be performed under dry or frozen ground conditions to minimize environmental impact. Contractors may exchange merchantable timber for a decreased per-acre thinning rate, provided materials are removed by contract completion. Completed work areas must be at least 200 acres in size and require Nebraska Game & Parks Commission staff inspection prior to payment. Environmental restrictions apply to Western Prairie Fringed Orchid, Northern Long-eared Bat, and Whooping Crane habitats.