Attachment 6 - MRWMA Unit 6.pdf

This file is a map attachment related to a tree clearing service contract solicitation issued by the Nebraska Game & Parks Commission (NGPC) for the Merritt Reservoir Wildlife Management Area in Cherry County, Nebraska. The solicitation requests tree clearing services across approximately 4,262.5 acres, including 3,965.1 acres of grasslands and 297.4 acres of woodlands, with removal of Eastern Red Cedar and Rocky Mountain Juniper trees measuring 18 inches and taller. Primary removal methods include mulching, with cutting and piling permitted for trees exceeding 20 feet in height and 6-inch diameter at breast height. The project also encompasses fuel reduction efforts in designated areas and 200-foot boundary treatment. A mandatory solicitation conference is scheduled for January 21, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Merritt Reservoir State Recreational Area, with attendance required for bid eligibility. The solicitation opened January 8, 2026, with responses due February 10, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. Central Time. The contract will commence March 9, 2026, and conclude June 30, 2027, with an anticipated award date of February 20, 2026.

The State will award the contract to the lowest responsible bidder and may conduct reference and credit checks. Compensation is based on per-acre pricing submitted on the cost sheet, with no specific budget range disclosed. 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. Environmental restrictions apply to protect Western Prairie Fringed Orchid, Northern Long-eared Bat, and Whooping Crane habitat. Contractors may exchange merchantable timber for a reduced per-acre thinning rate, with materials to be removed by contract end. Completed work areas must encompass a minimum of 200 acres and require NGPC staff inspection prior to payment authorization. Work must be performed under dry or frozen ground conditions to minimize environmental impact. Preference may be extended to resident disabled veterans or businesses located in designated enterprise zones when all other factors are equal.