OSF Prospectus and Appendices.pdf

Previous edition obsolete

FS-2700-34 (REV-02/2017)

OMB No. 0596-0082

Use Code 141

Prospectus for Campground and Related Granger-Thye Concessions

Ozark-St. Francis National Forests

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE

Forest Service

Ozark-St. Francis National Forests, Mt. Magazine Ranger District

July 2025 i

Contents I. Business Opportunity

A. Introduction B. Area Description C. Description of Developed Recreation Sites and Facilities D. Government Furnished Property E. Government Furnished Supplies F. Utilities and Waste Management

II. Forest Service Concession Programs and Policies A. Recreation.gov B. Pass Discounts C. Camp Stamps D. Site Closure E. Administrative Use F. Applicable Forest Orders G. Fee Tickets and Compilation of Use and Revenue Data H. Customer Service Comment Cards I. Performance Evaluations J. Accessibility K. Camping Unit Capacity L. Stay Limit M. Fees Charged to the Public N. Law Enforcement O. Other Pertinent Information

III. Special Use Permit A. Permit Term B. Permit Holder Responsibilities C. Granger-Thye Fee Offset Agreement D. Insurance

IV. Application A. Instructions for Submitting Applications B. General Terms, Qualifications, and Reservations C. Application Package Requirements D. Evaluation of Applications

V. Post-Selection Requirements

Prospectus for Campground and Related Granger-Thye Concessions, Ozark-St. Francis National Forest ii

Appendices

Appendix 1: Vicinity and Area Maps Appendix 2: Maps of Developed Recreation Sites Appendix 3: Inventory of Government-Furnished Property Appendix 4: Applicable Forest Orders Appendix 5: Sample Use Report Appendix 6: Sample Customer Service Comment Card Appendix 7: Standard Performance Evaluation Form Appendix 8: FSM 2342.1, Exhibit 01, Law Enforcement at Concession

Campgrounds Appendix 9: Minimum Content of the Proposed Annual Operating Plan Appendix 10: FS-2700-4h, Special-Use Permit for Campground and Related

Granger-Thye Concessions, and FS-2700-4h, Appendix-G, Operation of Federally Owned Drinking Water Systems

Appendix 11: FS-2700-4h, Appendix B, Annual Granger-Thye Fee Offset Agreement Appendix 12: Potential Government Maintenance, Reconditioning, Renovation, and Improvement Projects Appendix 13: Indirect Cost Reimbursement Letter Appendix 14: FS-2700-4h, Appendix H, Granger-Thye Fee Offset Claim Appendix 15: Sample Collection Agreement for Granger-Thye Fee Offset Work Appendix 16: Sample Business Plan Appendix 17: FS-6500-24, Financial Statement Appendix 18: FS-6500-25, Request for Verification

VI. Optional Appendices

Appendix 19: National Quality Standards for Recreation Site Management

(formerly Meaningful Measures)

VII. Pertinent Materials (Available Upon Request) “Cleaning Recreation Sites” (USDA-Forest Service) PDF: https://www.fs.usda.gov/t-d/pubs/pdf/95231206.pdf

“In Depth Design and Maintenance Manual for Vault Toilets” (USDA-Forest Service) PDF: https://www.fs.usda.gov/t-d/pubs/pdfimage/91231601.pdf

“Vault Toilet Pumping Contract Specifications and Guidelines for Preparing Contracts” PDF: https://www.fs.usda.gov/t-d/pubs/pdfimage/92231308.pdf https://www.fs.usda.gov/t-d/pubs/pdf/95231206.pdf https://www.fs.usda.gov/t-d/pubs/pdfimage/91231601.pdf https://www.fs.usda.gov/t-d/pubs/pdfimage/92231308.pdf

I. Business Opportunity A. Introduction This prospectus is being issued to solicit applications for a concession campground special use permit. A permit or permits to provide high-quality public service in the operation and maintenance of Government-owned recreation facilities located on the Mt. Magazine Ranger District, Ozark-St. Francis National Forests, will be issued. The permit or permits will include the following developed sites:

Table 1. Site List

Site Name Site Type

Cove Lake Recreation Area Campground and Day Use Area

The authorized officer for this business opportunity is the Forest Supervisor for the Ozark-St.

Francis National Forests.

Dan Olsen Ozark-St. Francis National Forests Forest Supervisors Office 605 West Main Russellville, AR 72801

The current permit for this concession expires on December 31, 2026. Over the past three years, this concession has generated the following gross revenues:

Table 2. Three Year Average Gross Revenue

Year Gross Revenue

2024 $66,815.75 2023 $64,594.00 2022 $63,206.00

Three Year Average Gross Revenue $64,871.92 These totals only include camping fees and day use fees, no additional amenities.

B. Area Description

Overview of the Ozark-St. Francis National Forest The 1.2 million-acre Ozark-St. Francis National Forests offer endless opportunities for adventure.

As one of America's most scenic and picturesque areas, the Ozark-St. Francis provides a lot of the "natural" in the Natural State of Arkansas. A variety of developed and dispersed recreation opportunities await you on the forest. Hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, floating, kayaking, boating, camping, picnicking, swimming, hunting, fishing, four-wheeler riding and taking pictures are just some of the activities people enjoy while visiting the forest. Each of the recreation areas, trails, wilderness areas or wild and scenic rivers provides unique opportunities to observe nature and enjoy your favorite outdoor activities from cavern tours to hunting black bear and white-tail deer. The Ozark-St. Francis National Forests have something for everyone and are on the way to almost everywhere in Arkansas!

The Mt. Magazine Ranger District is located in the Arkansas River Valley on the western edge of the Ozark National Forest. The district is known for its beautiful natural scenery of sandstone bluffs, flowing streams, lakes, and pristine landscapes.

For general information on the Ozark-St. Francis National Forests and the sites included in the prospectus, refer to the forest webpage (https://www.fs.usda.gov/osfnf).

C. Description of Developed Recreation Sites and Facilities The Cove Lake Recreation Area is located on the Mt. Magazine Ranger District in Logan County, approximately 9 miles southeast of Paris, Arkansas. The area is accessed from Paris, Arkansas taking Highway 109 south, then turning southeast on Highway 309 for 9 miles.

The Cove Lake Recreation area features a 160-acre mountain lake near Magazine Mountain - the highest point in Arkansas with an elevation of 2,753 feet provides a great summer get-away for many. The lake is home to catfish, Large Mouth bass, Bluegill, Redear Sunfish, Black Crappie and perch. It is stocked every other year, although a small amount of catfish are stocked annually and just prior to a yearly kids' fishing derby. This area offers swimming, fishing, and boating for your enjoyment. Nearby are the cities of Paris, Booneville, Danville, Fort Smith, Dardanelle, and Russellville, home of Arkansas Tech University.

Concession services include boat rentals, cabins, and food service from Memorial Day to Labor Day. The area contains a boat launching ramp, 36 family campsite units, 24 family picnic units, bathhouse, volleyball courts, playground and a Pavilion w/electricity (can be reserved). Camp trailers are allowed but no special facilities are available.

The campground, boat ramp, cabins, and pavilion are open year-round. The beach area is open April to Labor Day. Reservations are available for 18 campsites. Current fees are as follows per site/per day unless otherwise stated:

• Campground $15

• Pavilion $35 full day; $17.50 half day

• Day-use area $5

• Boat Ramp $5

D. Government Furnished Property The Forest Service will provide certain property in conjunction with the concession campground special use permit (see Appendix 3 of the prospectus). Included in this inventory are a description, the quantity, and the estimated replacement cost of the applicable property.

E. Government Furnished Supplies The Forest Service will not furnish any supplies for day-to-day operation of the concession.

Government-furnished supplies will be limited to those necessary for programmatic consistency, including:

https://www.fs.usda.gov/osfnf

• Forms to report use and revenue (see appendix 5).

• A copy of the Forest Service publications, “Cleaning Recreation Sites,” “In-Depth Design and Maintenance Manual for Vault Toilets,” and “Vault Toilet Pumping Contract Specifications and Guidelines for Preparing Contracts.”

• A copy of “Recreation Opportunity Guides,” which the holder may reproduce at its expense.

• Title VI signs.

“Recreation Opportunity Guides” can be viewed and downloaded from the Forest’s website under the Maps & Publications page, available at the following URL:

https://www.fs.usda.gov/main/osfnf/maps-pubs

F. Utilities and Waste Management Certain utilities and infrastructure exist for the developed recreation sites identified in this prospectus. The permit holder will be responsible for securing, managing, and paying for these utilities. Applicants should contact current service providers to obtain estimated costs for the utilities. These utilities are listed below in Table 3.

Table 3. Utilities Service Contact Electrical Arkansas Valley Electric Coop

Avecc.com

1-800-468-2176 OR 1-479-667-2176

208 S 17th Street Ozark, AR 72949

Telephone & Internet Century Link (Dialup) Centurylink.com

(985) 249-6296

Wave Rural Connect (Fiber)

Waveruralconnect.com

(833) 492-8372

Water Greasy Valley Water Users Association 479-963-6847

1211 E Walnut Street Paris, AR 72855

Garbage* Waste Management Wm.com/us/en/location/ar

800-497-9257

CARDS of Arkansas Cardsrecycling.com

(877) 592-2737 3739 N Steele Blvd

Suite 300 Fayetteville, AR 72703 https://www.fs.usda.gov/main/osfnf/maps-pubs

Service Contact Liquid & Solid Waste Disposal On the Spot Pressure Washing and Tank Cleaning

P.O. Box 831 Ozark, AR 72949

479-518-5036

*Current concessionaire handles all trash removal.

II. Forest Service Concession Programs and Policies Government-owned concessions are authorized by special use permits issued under Section 7 of the Granger-Thye (GT) Act, 16 U.S.C. 580d, and implementing regulations at 36 CFR Part 251, Subpart B.

In addition, there are certain Forest Service programs and policies that apply to campground concession. All applications must be consistent with these requirements.

A. Recreation.gov The Ozark-St. Francis National Forests participate in Recreation.gov, which provides nationwide, toll-free telephone reservations for single-family or group camping sites, rental cabins, permits, tours, tickets, and other recreational facilities. Visitors pay the camping fee at the time they make a reservation, and no fees are collected at the site (although the permit holder may allow occupancy of any site that is unreserved and charge on site for that use). Recreation.gov is part of the Recreation One-Stop Program, which is managed by the Washington Office Recreation, Heritage, and Volunteer Resources staff. The Forest Service contacts and program managers for Recreation.gov are listed below. Applicants should not contact the Recreation.gov contractor directly.

Table 4. Rec.gov contact Name Location Contact

Griffin Schireman Forest Service Contracting Officer’s Technical Representative (COTR)

Phone: 202-360-7234 Email:

griffin.schireman@usda.gov

Recreation.gov is the only authorized reservation system for Forest Service-developed recreation sites, including but not limited to campgrounds, cabins, and group use areas. Applicants may recommend adding sites to or deleting sites from Recreation.gov or changing the number of sites that may be reserved, the minimum number of days per reservation, or the location of sites that may be reserved. The permit holder also may make these recommendations during the term of the permit. The authorized officer will decide whether to accept or reject the recommendations.

Under Recreation.gov, the following guidelines must be followed, unless there are compelling operational reasons:

1. For each developed recreation site included in Recreation.gov, at least 60 percent of the units must be available for reservations. The rest of the units may be occupied on a first-come, first-served basis.

mailto:griffin.schireman@usda.gov

Reservation windows vary by type of site and are as follows:

• Individual campsites: from 6 months to 0-4 days prior to arrival date, depending on location.

• Group use areas: from 12 months to 0-4 days prior to arrival date, depending on location.

2. When Recreation.gov is utilized, the permit holder is responsible for on-site administration and will be required to:

• Obtain daily arrival reports (DARs) each morning by establishing at least one central facsimile location, email address, or other means of obtaining and distributing DARs.

• Develop a system for posting reservations at the sites so other visitors know which units are reserved.

• Post and hold reserved sites for 26 hours past the posted check-in time.

• Ensure that the party with the reservation is the party using the site.

• Resolve any disputes over the use of reserved sites by drop-in campers.

• Verify that visitors hold a valid federal pass (listed below) before giving the discount on fees for those passes (see section II.B). Do not discount fees if a visitor cannot present a valid pass.

♦ Golden Age or Golden Access Passport.

♦ America the Beautiful–The National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Senior Pass or Access Pass.

♦ Other passes as required by the authorized officer and described in this prospectus, such as local area passes.

• Develop inventory data for sites being added to Recreation.gov, and update data for sites including fees charged the public and temporary site closures. Submit data updates to Recreation.gov at least annually.

• Communicate to Recreation.gov any emergency closures or other relevant operational changes as they occur.

• Approve customer refunds as appropriate, and process them through Recreation.gov.

Refund policies can be found at Recreation.gov (https://www.recreation.gov/rules-reservation-policies).

Because reservations can be made up to a year in advance for group sites and up to 6 months in advance for family sites, Recreation.gov is currently accepting reservations for the upcoming operating season. Fees received by Recreation.gov will be held by the Forest Service and distributed following issuance of a special use permit to the successful applicant. In the final year of the permit, fees will be held in the same manner until a new permit is issued. The permit holder will honor reservations made prior to issuance of the permit at the price in effect when the reservations were made. If funds are distributed prematurely for dates outside the permit term, a bill for collection will to be issued to the permit holder.

https://www.recreation.gov/rules-reservation-policies

B. Pass Discounts The permit holder must provide a 50 percent discount on recreation fees charged under REA at developed recreation sites covered by this prospectus to holders of Golden Age and Golden Access Passports, as well as holders of the Interagency Senior and Access Passes.

Specifically, holders of these passes are entitled to a 50 percent discount on the fee for a single campsite occupied by the pass holders. The pass holders are not entitled to a discount on the fee for a multiple-family campsite, cabin, or group use area or any additional campsites occupied by those accompanying the pass holders. The 50 percent campsite discount does not include utility, water, or any other hookup fees.

Any loss of fee revenue from honoring the passes should be factored into applicants’ bids.

The permit holder will not be required to offer discounts on camping to holders of the Annual or Volunteer Pass.

The following is a list of sites covered by this prospectus where the 50 percent discount for passes applies:

• Cove Lake Campground

Standard Amenity Recreation Fee Sites Under REA [Reserved]. The Forest Service is proposing a revision to FSM 2344.3 to address treatment of standard amenity recreation fee sites in the concession program. The agency reserves the right to amend a special use permit issued under this prospectus to be consistent with any change in that directive.

• Cove Lake Group Pavillion

• Cove Lake Day Use Area (Swimming Beach, Boat Launch, Picnic Area)

C. Camp Stamps Camp stamps must be honored at their face value and submitted to the authorized officer for reimbursement.

D. Site Closure The Forest Service reserves the right to close all or a portion of any area in this prospectus for repair; construction; floods, snow, extreme fire danger, or other natural events; wildlife protection; or risks to public health and safety. The Forest Service shall not be liable to the permit holder for lost revenue, operating costs, or any other losses resulting from these closures.

However, for fee calculation purposes, the permit shall be placed in non-use status as provided by FSH 2709.11, section 31.23.

E. Administrative Use If the Forest Service requires the permit holder to provide a service for the agency, the permit holder will be compensated for that use.

F. Applicable Forest Orders Forest Orders may be issued to address a variety of management concerns on a particular forest.

Sample orders related to the offering are identified in Appendix 4. Additional applicable forest orders may be issued in the future.

G. Fee Tickets and Compilation of Use and Revenue Data The permit holder must provide fee tickets to visitors that include at least the following information:

• The site number and total amount paid.

• The date of issuance and number of days paid for.

• If a pass is used, the pass number.

• The number of people in the group.

• The number of vehicles and their license plate numbers.

The permit holder must provide use and revenue data to the Forest Service (see Appendix 5 of the prospectus for a sample use report). Use reports must be completed monthly and at the end of the operating season for each developed recreation site, provided that when the holder performs GT fee offset work in lieu of paying the land use fee in cash, use reports may be submitted quarterly, rather than monthly. At a minimum, monthly and year-end use reports must include:

• The total number of units occupied based on daily counts.

• The total number of people based on daily counts.

• The percentage of occupancy by month.

• Total recreation fee revenue.

• Total fee revenue for other goods and services.

• The total number of Camp Stamps collected.

• The total number of passes used.

In addition, year-end use reports must include:

• Total fee revenue collected under the NRRS.

• Total taxes paid.

• Total gross revenue.

• Total net revenue.

H. Customer Service Comment Cards The permit holder must provide a customer service comment card to visitors at each developed recreation site (see Appendix 6 of the prospectus).

I. Performance Evaluations At a minimum, the Forest Service will perform a year-end performance evaluation within four months of the close of the operating season (see Appendix 7 of the prospectus). An unsatisfactory rating may be cause for suspension or revocation of the special use permit. Sustained satisfactory performance is required for a permit extension.

J. Accessibility The Architectural Barriers Act of 1968 (ABA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 require new or altered facilities to be accessible, with few exceptions. In 2004, the Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance Board (Access Board) issued revised accessibility guidelines for buildings and facilities subject to the ABA and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). These new guidelines are called the ADA/ABA Accessibility Guidelines. In 2006, the Forest Service issued the Forest Service Outdoor Recreation Accessibility Guidelines (FSORAG).

The FSORAG addresses types of recreational facilities, including developed recreation sites that are not covered by ADA/ABA Accessibility Guidelines.

Any Government maintenance, reconditioning, renovation, or improvement (see section III.C) must meet ADA/ABA Accessibility Guidelines, where applicable, as well as the FSORAG.

The FSORAG and the ADA/ABA Accessibility Guidelines are posted on the Forest Service’s website at (https://www.fs.usda.gov/recreation/programs/accessibility/). Questions regarding ADA/ABA Accessibility Guidelines may be referred to the Access Board at www.access-board.gov. Questions regarding the FSORAG may be referred to the accessibility coordinator for the local National Forest.

The permit holder is responsible for ensuring effective communication with visitors with disabilities, including persons with impaired vision or hearing, so that all visitors may obtain information on accessible services, activities, and facilities.

K. Camping Unit Capacity Number of Vehicles Per Camping Unit

A single-family camping unit may accommodate one vehicle. A “vehicle” is defined as any motorized conveyance, except that for purposes of vehicular capacity, two motorcycles are considered one vehicle. Additional vehicles may be allowed at a camping unit, if the camping unit can safely accommodate them. When extra vehicles are allowed, an extra fee of up to 50 percent of the camping unit fee may be charged for each extra vehicle. If an extra vehicle exceeds the camping unit capacity (i.e., the extra vehicle causes a safety hazard or resource damage), the customer may be required to pay for an additional camping unit or park in an overflow parking area, if available. One towed vehicle per single camping unit will be allowed for no extra charge if it can be parked completely on the surfaced area and does not create a safety hazard. Examples of towed vehicles include a boat trailer or a car towed by a motor home.

Group Site Capacity

The capacity established for group sites is as follows:

https://www.fs.usda.gov/recreation/programs/accessibility/ http://www.access-board.gov/

Table 5. Group Site Capacity Facility / Site Name People Vehicles

Cove Lake Group Pavilion 50 22

Day Use Site Capacity

Table 6. Day Use Capacity* Facility / Site Name People Vehicles

Cove Lake Day Use Area Varies 80 *Cove Lake Day Use Area has approximately 80 designated parking spaces, with additional overflow and side parking available, and its capacity for visitors varies due to the wide range of available amenities and open space.

L. Stay Limit Campers at overnight sites will be limited to a 14-day stay limit during any consecutive 30-day period.

M. Fees Charged to the Public The permit holder may charge the public fees only to the extent that the Forest Service can charge recreation fees under REA. All recreation fees must be specified per developed recreation site.

The holder must honor the proposed pricing through the first full operating season. Thereafter, the holder may propose price adjustments with justification.

Permit holders may not charge for any of the following:

• Solely for parking, undesignated parking, or picnicking along roads or trailsides.

• General access, unless specifically authorized by REA.

• Dispersed areas with low or no investment, unless specifically authorized by REA.

• Persons who are driving through, walking through, boating through, horseback riding through, or hiking through NFS lands without using the recreational facilities and services for which a fee is charged.

• Camping at undeveloped sites that do not provide the minimum number of facilities and services prescribed by REA.

• Use of overlooks or scenic pullouts.

• Travel by private, noncommercial vehicle over any national parkway or any road or highway in the Federal-aid System that is commonly used by the public as a means of travel between two places, either or both of which are outside an area in which recreation fees are charged.

• Travel by private, noncommercial vehicle, boat, or aircraft over any road, highway, waterway, or airway to any land in which the person traveling has a property right, if the land is in an area in which recreation fees are charged.

• Any person who has a right of access for hunting or fishing privileges under a specific provision of law or treaty.

• Any person who is engaged in the conduct of official federal, state, tribal, or local government business.

• Special attention or extra services necessary to meet the needs of the disabled.

N. Law Enforcement Forest Service Manual (FSM) 2342.1, Exhibit 01, addresses the law enforcement authorities and responsibilities of concessionaires, state and local law enforcement agencies, and the Forest Service at concession campgrounds. See Appendix 8 of the prospectus.

O. Other Pertinent Information Forest Day Use Pass

The Ozark-St. Francis National Forests has a Forest Day Use Pass available for purchase at any of their offices. The $30 pass allows day use access to several recreation areas across the forest.

The holder is not required to honor the pass at this location.

Annual Fishing Derby

The Mt. Magazine Ranger District hosts an annual youth fishing derby at Cove Lake Campground, typically held on the first weekend in June. The event is organized in partnership with local organizations such as the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, the National Wild Turkey Federation, and the Paris Rotary Club. This event takes place within Campground Loop A and typically draws families and young participants for a morning of fishing and prizes.

Historically, three campsites have been provided for free administrative use for two nights, but it is not required. The holder can deduct this from their gross revenue reporting if desired.

Wildlife Mitigation

Forest Service periodically fertilizes and draws down Cove Lake to enhance various fish, aquatic, and vegetative species. Notification to permittee will occur before these types of operations occur.

Other vegetative removal may be necessary from time to time and due to safety and/or environmental issues, please coordinate with the local USFS representative before proceeding with these operations.

Endangered Species

Any trees greater than 3 inches diameter to be removed after April 15th will be required to be cleared by Forest Service wildlife specialists first for protection of the endangered Indiana bat. If a bat is present, the tree will not be cut unless there is extreme risk to visitors. Trees can be cut September 16 through April 14 without needing clearance from the wildlife specialists.

Archaeological Resources

Protection of Historic Properties: The permit holder has responsibilities under the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 (NHPA). Prior to any activity with the potential to effect National Register Properties (i.e. designated or eligible National Register sites are found in the Recreation Areas) the permit holder must notify the Ozark-St. Francis National Forests of his/her intentions and obtain Forest Service approval prior to any ground disturbance or starting work on any structures. Depending on the actions proposed and the sites involved, the review process can take up to several months. For such recurring activities as painting and replacing barrier posts, agreements will be worked out with the permit holder and will be included in the Annual Operating Plan.

Condition of Trees

The oak and pine stand within the campgrounds are mature to over-mature. During the past few years, the trees have experienced some damage from wind, ice, snow, and heavy rain. Big trees that look healthy on the exterior may contain rotten cores and can drop a heavy limb without any warning.

Hazard Tree Removal

The permit holder will have to conduct pre-season inspection of the campgrounds to identify existing and potential hazards, including hazard trees. The permit holder also will be responsible for monitoring and identifying hazard trees during the operating season. After securing written approval from the authorized officer, the permit holder’s financial responsibility for removing hazard trees and associated slash will not exceed 1% of adjusted gross revenue per year. The annual operating plan will address appropriate disposal of hazard trees and slash.

Butane and Propane Installations

For safety and regulatory reasons, the permit holder is not allowed to install or store bulk butane or propane.

III. Special Use Permit In exercising the rights and privileges granted by the special use permit, the permit holder must comply with all present and future federal laws and regulations and all present and future state, county, and municipal laws, regulations, and other legal requirements that apply to the permit area, to the extent they do not conflict with federal law, regulation, or policy. The Forest Service assumes no responsibility for enforcing laws, regulations, and other legal requirements that fall under the jurisdiction of other governmental entities.

A. Permit Term The permit term will be for up to 5 years, with an option to extend the term for up to an additional 5 years at the sole discretion of the authorized officer. The decision to extend the term will depend, in part, on sustained satisfactory performance of the permit holder. Upon expiration of the permit, continuation of the permitted activity will be at the sole discretion of the authorized officer and will be subject to a competitive offering. A new prospectus will be issued during the final year of the permit term.

If the decision to select a permit holder is appealed, a permit will not be issued until the appeal has been resolved, unless operation is needed during the appeal, in which case a permit with a term of one year or less may be issued.

B. Permit Holder Responsibilities This section highlights the requirements of the special use permit, which is contained in Appendix 10 of the prospectus. Applicants are responsible for familiarizing themselves with all permit requirements that govern the operation covered by this prospectus.

Responsibility for Day-to-Day Activities

As a general rule, the holder will be required to conduct the day-to-day activities authorized by the permit. Some, but not all, of these activities may be conducted by someone other than the permit holder, but only with the prior written approval of the authorized officer. The permit holder will continue to be responsible for compliance with all the terms of the permit.

Permit Holder-Furnished Supplies and Equipment

The permit holder will be required to provide all vehicles, equipment, and supplies necessary to operate the authorized developed recreation sites in accordance with the special use permit.

Holder-Furnished Vehicles

The permit holder may not use all-terrain vehicles in developed campgrounds. The holder may propose use of golf carts or other similar vehicles to facilitate daily maintenance of the facilities.

If authorized, carts must stay on designated roads or trails while driving between sites or loops.

Holder Maintenance, Reconditioning, or Renovation (MRR)

Maintenance, reconditioning, and renovation are defined in the permit (FS-2700-4h, clause V.D.1(d)). Holder MRR is defined as maintenance, reconditioning, or renovation that neither materially adds to the value of the property nor appreciably prolongs its life. The work serves only to keep the facility in an ordinary, efficient operating condition. From an accounting or tax perspective, it is work that may be expensed, but not capitalized. In fulfilling these responsibilities, the holder must obtain any licenses and certified inspections required by regulatory agencies and follow state and local laws, regulations, and ordinances and industry standards or codes applicable to the permitted operation (FS-2700-4h, clause IV.H.1). The permit holder, at its expense, will be required to perform holder MRR under a holder MRR plan (FS- 2700-4h, clause II.D and V.F). The holder MRR plan will describe required holder MRR and its frequency. The holder MRR plan will become part of the permit holder's annual operating plan.

C. Granger-Thye Fee Offset Agreement The federal government owns all the improvements at the developed recreation sites covered by this prospectus. Under Section 7 of the Granger-Thye (GT) Act and the terms of the permit, the permit fee may be offset in whole or in part by the value of Government maintenance, reconditioning, renovation, and improvement (MRRI) performed at the permit holder’s expense.

Government MRRI is defined as maintenance, reconditioning, renovation, or improvement that arrests deterioration, improves and upgrades facilities, and appreciably prolongs the life of the property. Government maintenance, reconditioning, renovation or improvement, whether performed by the holder or the Forest Service, shall be performed at the sole discretion of the authorized officer. See Appendix 14 of the prospectus and FS-2700-4h, clause V.D.1(e).

All Government MRRI shall be enumerated in an annual GT fee offset agreement signed by the holder and the Forest Service in advance of the operating season (see Appendix 11 of the prospectus and FS-2700-4h, Appendix B). Alternatively, a multi-year fee GT fee offset agreement can be prepared for consolidated fee payments. A list of sample Government MRRI projects is included in Appendix 12 of the prospectus.

Either the holder or the Forest Service may perform GT fee offset work. This determination will be made annually. When the holder performs GT fee offset work, if it includes construction that costs more than $2,000, it is subject to the Davis-Bacon Act and the fee offset agreement must contain Davis-Bacon Act wage provisions. Additionally, indirect costs may be offset provided the holder submits either a currently approved indirect cost rate or accounting procedures and supporting documentation to determine an indirect cost rate (see Appendix 13 of the prospectus).

The holder’s claims for GT fee offset must be documented using the FS-2700-4h, Appendix H, Granger-Thye Fee Offset Certification Form (see Appendix 14 of the prospectus). This form requires the holder to itemize allowable costs incurred for an approved GT fee offset project and to certify the accuracy and completeness of claims.

When the Forest Service performs GT fee offset work, the holder will deposit fee payments into a CWFS account. The Forest Service will perform GT fee offset work under a collection agreement and offset those costs against the permit holder’s annual permit fee (see FS-2700-4h, clause V.D.2, and Appendix 15 of the prospectus). The Forest Service’s indirect costs may be offset at the agency’s approved rate. The Forest Service and the holder will agree on the work to be performed in advance of each operating season.

D. Insurance Liability Insurance

The successful applicant must have liability insurance covering losses associated with the use and occupancy authorized by the permit arising from personal injury or death and third-party property damage in the minimum amount of $1,000,000 for injury or death to one person per occurrence;

$1,000,000 for injury or death to more than one person per occurrence; and $25,000 for third-party property damage per occurrence, or in the minimum amount of $1,000,000 as a combined single limit per occurrence. Insurance policies must name the USDA Forest Service as an additional insured (see Appendix 10 of the prospectus and FS-2400-4h, clause III.K).

IV. Application A. Instructions for Submitting Applications Applicants must submit a written application for all developed recreation sites offered in this prospectus.

Forest Led Facility Tour

A facility tour led by the Forest is scheduled for Wednesday, October 8, 2025. Interested parties must RSVP to Matt Pfeifler at 479-754-2864 and matthew.t.pfeifler@usda.gov by Friday, October 3, 2025.

The information in this prospectus is from generally reliable sources, but no warranty is made as to its accuracy. Each applicant is expected to make an independent assessment of the business opportunity offered in this prospectus.

All applications must be submitted to;

Table 7. Application submittals Addressee Title Attention Address Dan Olsen Forest Supervisor Matt Pfeifler Pleasant Hill Ranger District

2591 Highway 21 North Clarksville, Arkansas 72830

Applications must be received by close of business (4:30 p.m.) on Monday, December 1, 2025.

Applicants must submit one hard copy and one electronic copy of their application to the Forest Service contact listed above. The electronic copy must be provided on a flash drive. The electronic copy must be prepared in a Microsoft Office program or PDF that allows for copying and pasting of text and must separately address each evaluation criterion listed in the prospectus.

Applications will not be returned to applicants.

Please ensure that all requested information is submitted. Missing or incomplete information will result in a lower rating for the corresponding evaluation criteria.

Applications must be signed. The person signing for an entity must have authority to sign for that entity. Applicants must include their address, telephone number, facsimile number, and email address.

Corporations also must include:

• Evidence of incorporation and good standing.

• If reasonably obtainable, the name and address of each shareholder owning 3 percent or more of the corporation’s shares and the number and percentage of any class of voting shares that each shareholder is authorized to vote.

• The name and address of each affiliate of the corporation.

• If an affiliate is controlled by the corporation, the number of shares and the percentage of any class of voting stock of the affiliate owned, directly or indirectly, by the corporation.

• If an affiliate controls the corporation, the number of shares and the percentage of any class of voting stock of the corporation owned, directly or indirectly, by the affiliate.

Partnerships, limited liability companies (LLCs), associations, or other unincorporated entities must submit a certified copy of the partnership agreement or other documentation establishing the entity or a certificate of good standing under the laws of the state where the entity is located.

Applicants should contact Matt Pfeifler at 479-754-2864 or matthew.t.pfeifler@usda.gov regarding any questions related to this prospectus. The deadline to submit questions regarding the prospectus is Monday, November 10, 2025.

B. General Terms, Qualifications, and Reservations All applicants have an equal opportunity to apply. Except for members of Congress, Resident Commissioners, and current Forest Service employees, any individual or entity may apply.

The Forest Service does not guarantee a profitable operation. Rather, applicants are responsible for reviewing the prospectus and making their own determination concerning business viability.

The Forest Service will select the application that offers the best value to the Government. The Forest Service reserves the right to select the successful applicant based on a trade-off between the fee to the Government and technical merit.

The Forest Service is not obligated to accept the application with the highest return to the Government.

The Forest Service reserves the right to select the successful applicant based solely on the initial application, without oral or written discussions.

The Forest Service reserves the right to reject any or all applications and to rescind the prospectus at any time before a special use permit is issued.

Any oral statement made by a representative of the Forest Service shall not modify the requirements of this prospectus. If it is determined that an error or omission has been made or additional information is required, a written amendment will be sent to each person or entity receiving a copy of this prospectus.

If there is a conflict between the terms of the prospectus and the special use permit, the terms of the permit will control.

The Forest Service is proposing a revision to FSM 2344.3 to address how passes and passports are honored in the concession program. The agency reserves the right to amend the special use permit consistent with any change to that directive. In addition, the Forest Service reserves the right to amend the special use permit, to make it consistent with applicable laws and regulations, including REA; other Forest Service directives; or other management decisions.

The information contained in applications will be kept confidential to the extent permitted under the Freedom of Information Act (5 U.S.C. 552) and the Privacy Act (5 U.S.C. 552a).

C. Application Package Requirements Applications must be in writing and must include or address the following:

• A proposed annual operating plan (including required and optional services).

• A business plan, business experience, references, and Small Business Development Center (SBDC) review fee, if applicable (see section IV.C.2).

o SBDC business plan review fee of $300.00 made payable to El Camino College

SBDC

• Fee to the government.

• Fees charged to the public.

• Financial resources.

• Initial processing fee.

1. Proposed Annual Operating Plan (Including Required and Optional Services) Applicants must submit a proposed annual operating plan that addresses all required and optional services. Applicants must utilize the sample annual operating plan (see Appendix 9, Minimum Content of the Proposed Annual Operating Plan) to organize their response to this section. The successful applicant’s proposed operating plan will be attached to and become a part of the special use permit.

Applicants must specify whether another party will assist with any of the operational aspects of the concession, and if so, must include the other party’s name, address, telephone number, email address, and relevant experience.

Below are highlights of what needs to be addressed in the proposed annual operating plan. For more detail, see the Minimum Content of the Proposed Annual Operating Plan in Appendix 9 of the prospectus.

Operating Season

The minimum operating season is Memorial Day to Labor Day.

Applicants need to propose the period in which they will operate the sites listed in the prospectus.

All sites must be open and operational seven days per week during the minimum operating season, unless a Forest Service closure order is in effect.

Staffing

Applicants must address appropriate staffing to meet customer service and cleanliness standards.

The holder will be responsible for furnishing all personnel for the developed recreation sites and for adequately training and supervising their activities under the terms of the permit. The holder must meet requirements of federal and state laws governing employment, wages, and worker safety. Based on past experience, recommended staffing is outlined in Appendix 9 of the prospectus. Applicants should address worker hours and schedules. Applicants also should address staff training for effective customer service, conflict resolution, area-specific emergency procedures, and dissemination of recreation and tourism information.

Supervision and Management

Applicants must designate an individual to serve as the agent of the holder for purposes of administration of the permit by the Forest Service. The designated agent must periodically review attendant performance on site and must be available to resolve repair needs within 24 hours of discovery or notification. The holder will be responsible for the conduct of its employees, including preventing conduct prohibited by 36 CFR part 261, Subpart A, and ensuring that employees are not under the influence of intoxicating beverages or narcotic drugs while on duty or representing the holder. Applicants also must include a policy for removing employees who engage in inappropriate conduct.

Uniforms and Vehicle Identification

Applicants should describe employee uniforms, insignia, name tags, and the applicants’ policy for ensuring a clean, professional appearance by staff while on duty. The holder’s employees may not wear any component of the Forest Service uniform. Additionally, applicants should address their policy for vehicle maintenance and appearance; types of vehicles to be used for operations (vehicles may not be driven off designated roads or trails); and signage to identify the concessionaire to the public.

2. Business Plan, Business Experience, and References Applicants must submit a business plan utilizing the format in Appendix 16 of the prospectus.

This part of the application package must be a separate document. The business plan provides a thorough analysis of an applicant’s vision of the proposed business. A good business plan is essential for running a successful business, maintaining and improving the business, and raising needed capital.

Applicants must furnish a detailed description of their experience relating to operating and maintaining developed recreation sites (e.g., campgrounds, beaches, and marinas). The description must include experience in private business, public service, or any nonprofit or other related enterprises. Applicants are encouraged to contact their local SBDC if they need assistance in completing their business plans. Alternatively, applicants who have already received a review of their business plan from an SBDC or the Forest Service for the current fiscal year may submit a copy of the review report.

SBDC Review

All business plans will be independently reviewed by an SBDC. If an applicant’s current fiscal year business plan has already been reviewed by an SBDC, the applicant may submit a copy of the review report.

Along with a business plan, applicants also must submit a cashier’s check in the amount of $300.00 made payable to El Camino College SBDC. Applicants submitting a current fiscal year review report by the Forest Service or an SBDC need not enclose payment.

Performance Evaluations

Applicants who have experience in managing Forest Service or other Government concessions must provide copies of the most recent annual written performance evaluations for each Forest Service or other concession the applicants have operated or are operating.

References

Applicants also must furnish three business references with names, addresses, telephone numbers, and email addresses in support of relevant business experience. These references will be contacted for information regarding applicants’ past performance. In addition, the Forest Service may consider past performance information from other sources.

3. Financial Resources Applicants must submit a complete set of all financial statements for the last three fiscal years that have been audited, reviewed, or compiled by a certified public accountant (CPA). For any financial statements that were only compiled by a CPA, applicants must complete FS-6500-24, Financial Statement (see Appendix 17 of the prospectus) for certification of the accuracy of the financial statements.

Applicants must complete FS-6500-24 for any of the last three fiscal years they were in business for which a financial statement was not audited, reviewed, or compiled by a CPA. An applicant who has had a financial ability determination (FAD) conducted within the past year should include a statement to that effect along with the forest name, contact name and telephone number, Additionally, applicants must identify any pending applications or new permits obtained from the Forest Service since the FAD was completed.

In completing FS-6500-24, LLCs must list the name of the company in block 1, the names and interests of the principals in block 5, and their members should be listed in block 6. In addition, LLCs must complete the certification in Part (D)(1) of FS-6500-24.

An applicant who has not been in business for the last three fiscal years, and therefore cannot submit audited, reviewed, or compiled financial statements or an FS-6500-24, must submit three fiscal years of projected financial statements compiled by a CPA using the forecast method.

Any financial information submitted by applicants must conform to generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) or other comprehensive bases of accounting. Any previously prepared financial documents that are submitted must be unredacted and in their original form, including footnotes.

Applicants must show at least 25 percent of the first year's operating costs in liquid assets. Liquid assets are assets that are readily converted into cash.

Applicants also must complete blocks 1 through 5 of form FS-6500-25, Request for Verification (see Appendix 18 of the prospectus) and submit the signed and dated form with the application.

The Forest Service will forward the FS-6500-25 for the most qualified applicant to the Albuquerque Service Center for processing. The auditor assigned to conduct the FAD will send a copy to each financial institution with which the applicant does business. The financial institutions must complete blocks 6 through15 of the form and mail the completed form to USDA Forest Service, Albuquerque Service Center, Attention: Auditor, ASC-B&F, 101 B Sun Ave NE, Albuquerque, NM 87109.

4. Fees Charged to the Public Applicants must provide a list of all fees they propose to charge to the public for the first three years of operation, including fees for required and optional services (see Appendix 9, Minimum Content of the Proposed Annual Operating Plan for a list of required and optional services). Discuss any variable pricing, discounts, and passes. All proposed fees to be charged to the public also must be included in the business plan as an income item.

The Forest Service reserves the right to regulate the rates charged to the public.

5. Fee to the Government The Government is obligated to obtain fair market value for the use of its land and improvements.

The minimum fee is $3,159.26 per year. The minimum fee is the concession’s average gross revenue for the past three years multiplied by the current 30-year Treasury bond rate. The minimum fee will be adjusted at the end of the first five years of the permit term if the permit is extended for five years.

Minimum Fee Calculation

Table 8. Minimum Fee Calculation

Year Gross Revenue

2024 $66,815.75 2023 $64,594.00 2022 $63,206.00

Grand Total $194,615.75 Average = Grand Total ÷ 3 $194,615.75 ÷ 3 = $64,871.92

Three Year Average Gross Revenue $64,871.92

Total gross revenue ÷ 3 = average gross revenue

Average gross revenue multiplied by the current 30-year Treasury bond rate = the minimum annual fee. In the following example, the 30-year Treasury bond rate is 4.87 percent.

$64,871.92…