CropTree thining Block 1.jpg

This image file is a photograph related to a timber stand improvement project at Embarras River Bottom State Natural Area in Lawrence County, Illinois, managed by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. The image depicts a cropped tree thinning operation in Block 1 of the project area, showing the forest management technique being applied. The project scope encompasses timber stand improvements across three restoration units (R6, R11, and R14) involving chainsaw cutting, stump treatment, herbicide application via hack-and-squirt and basal-bark methods, and forestry mowing to promote growth of native bottomland hardwood species including oaks and pecans. The anticipated work totals 216 hours distributed across six activity units, with some units located approximately 2.5 miles from the equipment staging area. Proposals were due August 5, 2026, and all work must be completed by December 31, 2027, with a maximum contract term not to exceed ten years. A pre-bid on-site meeting with the Contract Field Coordinator is required prior to work commencement, and a final evaluation meeting must be scheduled at least three days before the last planned work day.

The vendor must submit pricing on a per-hour basis for time spent at the job site, excluding travel time, with an estimated contract value of $32,400 and firm contract value pricing. Herbicide and dye materials will be supplied by the State and excluded from hourly rate bids. Subcontractors are permitted if they meet all vendor qualifications and are identified at the time of bidding. A small-business set-aside program waiver request has been filed, with waiver determination status pending. The vendor must demonstrate knowledge of native Illinois flora, identify rare, threatened, and endangered species during the growing season, and maintain General Commercial Liability insurance of $1,000,000 per occurrence with $2,000,000 annual aggregate and Auto Liability coverage of $1,000,000 per occurrence. One hundred percent of contract performance occurs at the Embarras River Bottoms State Natural Area in Illinois.