Appendix I - Maps for Mustang Loop Invasive Plant Treatment

This appendix contains technical specifications and bidding requirements for herbicide treatment services issued by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS). The project involves herbicide treatment of 300 acres of invasive plants classified as Florida Invasive Species Council 2023 Category 1 and 2 species at Okaloacoochee Slough State Forest near LaBelle, Florida. The treatment area comprises primarily mixed pine flatwoods and oak hammock vegetation. A mandatory pre-bid meeting is required at the Okaloacoochee Slough State Forest office located at 6265 Keri Rd, Felda, FL 33930. Public opening of bids will occur via teleconference at (888) 585-9008, Conference Room 407 639 217. The contract completion deadline is September 1, 2026. At bid submission, contractors must provide proof of a certified commercial herbicide applicators license in natural areas weed management and/or the aquatic category, and must maintain all required certifications, licenses, and permits throughout the contract term.

The scope of work specifies recommended treatment methods including cut stump, basal bark, and frill/girdle/hack-and-squirt applications for mature trees and shrubs using up to 20-25% Triclopyr 4; broadcast/foliar spraying with 3% Glyphosate/3% Imazapyr mixture for seedlings and saplings; and 2-4% glyphosate solution for herbaceous plants and vines. Alternative methods and herbicides may be used with prior Project Manager approval. Herbicide mixing and storage areas must be established and approved by the Project Manager, with all containers disposed of off-site. Application is prohibited during rainy conditions, when wind exceeds 10 mph, or when standing water is present in the treatment area. Contractors must adhere strictly to all herbicide label requirements, federal and state safety regulations, and Forest Service safety requirements. Use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs/drones) for site surveying is prohibited by Florida Forest Service policy. Treated vegetation will generally remain standing on-site to decompose, except for large flowering or seed-bearing melaleuca trees.