Attachment 7 - MRWMA Unit 4 Fuels Reduction.pdf

Attachment 7 is a geographic information system (GIS) map document supporting a tree clearing service contract solicitation issued by the Nebraska Game & Parks Commission (NGPC). The solicitation requests removal of Eastern Red Cedar and Rocky Mountain Juniper trees 18 inches and taller across approximately 4,262.5 acres at Merritt Reservoir Wildlife Management Area in Cherry County, Nebraska, 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 and 6 inches in diameter at breast height. The project 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 proposals due February 10, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. Central Time. The contract period extends from March 9, 2026, to June 30, 2027, with intent to award on February 20, 2026.

The State will award the contract to the lowest responsible bidder and reserves the right to conduct reference and credit checks. Compensation will be based on per-acre pricing submitted on the cost sheet. Contractors may exchange merchantable timber for reduced per-acre thinning rates, with all materials required to be removed by contract end. Completed work areas must meet a minimum 200-acre size requirement and require NGPC staff inspection prior to payment. Contractors must maintain comprehensive insurance, 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. The project includes environmental restrictions protecting Western Prairie Fringed Orchid, Northern Long-eared Bat, and Whooping Crane habitat. Work must be performed under dry or frozen ground conditions to minimize environmental impact. Preference may be given to resident disabled veterans or businesses in designated enterprise zones if all other factors are equal.