Merritt SRA Unit 7.pdf

This file consists of a map and project specification document prepared by the Nebraska Game & Parks Commission for a tree clearing service contract at Merritt Reservoir State Recreational Area located in Cherry County, Nebraska. The project requires comprehensive clearing of eastern red cedar, Rocky Mountain juniper, and scattered ponderosa pine across approximately 216.6 acres using mulching and cutting/piling methods. The work must be divided into units of at least 50 acres each, with 50 percent completion required in the first year and 50 percent in the second year. A mandatory solicitation conference is scheduled for January 21, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the project site (88079 State Highway 97, Valentine, NE). Written questions must be submitted by January 28, 2026, with state responses posted by February 4, 2026. Electronic responses are due via ShareFile by February 10, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. Central Time. The state plans to issue an Intent to Award by February 20, 2026, with contract finalization by March 4, 2026, and final award by March 5, 2026. The contract term runs from execution through June 30, 2027, with potential extension by mutual agreement.

Bidders may negotiate reduced per-acre thinning rates in exchange for removing and utilizing merchantable timber, subject to specified removal conditions, providing potential cost offsets through marketable material removal. The contract requires compliance with standard state contractual provisions, civil rights laws, and Americans with Disabilities Act requirements, along with specific insurance coverage including $2,000,000 Commercial General Liability, statutory Workers' Compensation, and $1,000,000 Commercial Automobile Liability. Work is restricted to dry or frozen ground conditions and limited by specific timeframes to avoid interference with campground operations and events. The project is subject to legislative appropriation of funds with no advance payments permitted. Contractors must be registered with the Nebraska Secretary of State and meet all state contractual requirements.