CropTree thining Block3.jpg

This is a visual supporting exhibit for a timber stand improvement project being solicitated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources at Embarras River Bottom State Natural Area in Lawrence County. The image depicts "CropTree thinning Block 3," illustrating the forestry management approach planned for the project. The scope of work encompasses timber stand improvement restoration activities across three restoration units (R6, R11, and R14), including chainsaw cutting, stump treatment, hack-and-squirt and basal-bark herbicide application, and forestry mowing designed to promote the growth of oaks, pecans, and other native bottomland hardwood species. The total anticipated work is 216 hours distributed across six activity units, with some units located approximately 2.5 miles from the equipment staging area. Proposals are 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 beginning work, and a final evaluation meeting must be scheduled at least three days before the last planned work day.

Pricing shall be submitted on a per-hour basis limited to vendor time spent at the job site, excluding travel time, with an estimated contract value of $32,400. The State will supply herbicide and dye materials, which are excluded from the hourly rate bid. A small-business set-aside program waiver request has been filed, indicating the procurement may not be subject to Illinois's standard small-business set-aside requirements. Vendors must demonstrate knowledge of native Illinois flora and the ability to identify rare, threatened, and endangered species during the growing season. Subcontractors are permitted if they meet all vendor qualifications and are identified at the time of bidding. All work will be performed in Illinois at the Embarras River Bottoms State Natural Area. Vendors must maintain General Commercial Liability insurance of $1,000,000 per occurrence with a $2,000,000 annual aggregate and Auto Liability coverage of $1,000,000 per occurrence.