RFP 250000002704_V2 Park tree and shrub specs Updated 7.1.25.docx

bidder must hold INVASIVE SPECIES pre-qualifiCATION in the areaS

OF TREE & SHRUB control AND HERBICIDE for the department of natural resources to be awarded this project

TREE/SHRUB CONTROL

Black Locust, Buckthorn, bittersweet and other woody invasives AT eight (8) state parks and recreation areas

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL RFP # 250000002704

BID DUE DATE: August 1, 2025 at 9:30 A.M. EST

WORK STATEMENT

A BACKGROUND/PROBLEM STATEMENT

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR), Parks & Recreation Division, Stewardship Unit is requesting bids for control of the following invasive shrubs and trees. Black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia), glossy buckthorn (Frangula alnus), common buckthorn (Rhamnus cathartica), autumn olive (Elaeagnus umbellata), non-native honeysuckle (Lonicera spp.), bittersweet (Celastrus orbiculata),and other invasive plants will be targeted in remnants of native marsh, prairie, prairie fen, oak barrens, and other natural communities at eight (8) state park and recreation area facilities. They are Algonac SP, Belle Isle Park, Brighton RA, Fort Custer RA, Highland RA, Island Lake RA, Waterloo RA, and Watkins Lake SP. Large portions of these facilities are in the process of being restored to high quality native natural communities. The landscapes will be representative of the wetlands, prairies, grasslands, barrens, and woodlands that were common in southern Michigan prior to widespread European settlement.

The general goal of this project is to control specific invasive plants in targeted areas of the parks listed above. This work will be accomplished by a combination various herbicide treatments depending on treatment zone, species, size class and time of year. For the majority of zones (60%), this will be a follow-up to treatments that occurred in the last five years. About 40% of the zones are first time chemical treatments, but are follow up to prescribed fire, land clearing or some other management activity.

See Section D below for a description of the parks/treatment areas.

For some zones all treatments must be completed by September 30, 2025. For some zones treatments must be completed by March 1, 2026. Other zones may have the option to complete by September 15, 2026. Deadlines will be discussed at the respective prebid meetings.

B OBJECTIVE

1. PARK / SPECIES / TREATMENT

Algonac State Park In Treatment Zones 2, 5, 6, 10,12, 20, 23 and 30 Treat all stems of glossy buckthorn (Frangula alnus), common buckthorn (Rhamnus cathartica), and all non-native bittersweet (Celastrus orbiculata) as specified below (section C2). Treat all other non-native woody plants and common teasel (Dipsacus fullonum).

In zones 20, and 23 Additionally, treat all dogwood thickets over 6 feet tall.

In Treatment Zones 11,13,15, 18, 21, 22 28 and 29 Treat all stems of glossy and common buckthorn over 2 feet tall. Also treat all smaller glossy buckthorn and common buckthorn that occur in dense carpets or thickets (greater than 90% cover). Treat all non-native bittersweet (Celastrus orbiculata). Treat all common teasel (Dipsacus fullonum).

In Treatment Zones 7, 31 Treat all stems of glossy buckthorn (Frangula alnus), common buckthorn (Rhamnus cathartica), tree of heaven (Ailanthus altissima) and non-native bittersweet (Celastrus orbiculata) as specified below. Also, in treatment areas 7 treat all non-native woody plants over 2 feet tall under 5 inches DBH plus sassafras and black cherry in this same size class. All resprouting thickets from previous year treatments shall be treated as well.

Avoiding non-target damage at all parks, sites and zones is critical. In particular Algonac has globally rare Lake Plain Prairie including highly diverse remnants areas. Please note specifications #8 and #11.

Belle Isle State Park In Treatment Areas M, N, O, H and I Control all non-native woody plants. The roadway zones (N, O, H and I) are 50-foot-wide corridors extending from both sides of the former roadbed Oakway and Shadownook and along Central Ave. Zone M is the entire Island between Shadownook and Central Ave. Brush shall be pulled and scattered further into the woods. Windrows shall not be created. Piles should be avoided unless otherwise approved by project manager. Only one visit is required provided contractor can remove and treat all wood invasives effectively over the course of the contract period.

Also, in zones H, I and M treat all reed canary grass populations. Treatments shall occur in late summer (September) or early spring (May) when its cooler and plants are actively growing.

In treatment areas J, K, L and P Control all non-native woody plants including non-native bittersweet. Also control all non-native thistles, reed canary grass, common teasel (Dipsacus fullonum), sweet clover and other non-native herbaceous plants that threatens the establishment of native plantings. The areas are defined by the former roadbed footprint if the web map polygon which may not be as precise.

Note: these three areas are former roads that were removed in 2021-2022 and have been planted with native seed, plugs and several hundreds of oak trees. Intent of the treatments is to control non-natives (not eradicate) to reduce competition with native plantings and establishment of forest.

It is anticipated that oak seedlings are under many reed canary patches. It is our goal to release these young trees (not kill them). Care shall be taken to avoid or protect all trees including seedlings and saplings when treating reed canary grass and during all other contracted treatments.

Euonymus atropurpureus (Eastern wahoo) and Lindera benzoin (spice bush) are just two of several native woody species prevalent on the island. Applicators should familiarize themselves with these and the other native plants they will encounter while treating the dozen or so target plant species. All treatments should be adjusted to prevent non-target damage.

Brighton Recreation area Treatment Zone 1 Treat all live stems of glossy buckthorn (Frangula alnus), common buckthorn (Rhamnus cathartica), multiflora rose (Rosa multiflora), autumn olive (Elaeagnus umbellata), non-native honeysuckle (Lonicera spp.), non-native bittersweet (Celastrus orbiculata), black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia). Using the techniques described below.

All black locust 4 or more inches DBH shall be girdled and treated instead of cut.

Treatment Zone 2: Re-treat black locust zone Treat all live stems of glossy buckthorn (Frangula alnus), common buckthorn (Rhamnus cathartica), multiflora rose (Rosa multiflora), autumn olive (Elaeagnus umbellata), non-native honeysuckle (Lonicera spp.), Asian bittersweet (Celastrus orbiculata), black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia). Using the techniques described below.

All black locust 4 or more inches DBH shall be girdled and treated instead of cut.

Fort Custer Recreation Area Zone G Treat all non-native woody plants in this zone. Treat all living poplar stems in the zone (under 6 inches DBH). Treat all non-native herbaceous monocultures, to be discussed at pre-bid meeting. This zone was land cleared in 2025, and this is follow up work.

If necessary, treat dense stands of locust with a soil application of Velpar L herbicide for control of locust and other affected non-native vegetation. Apply herbicide directly to soil in grid pattern of measured dosage with spot-gun. If heavy chips or other debris from forestry mowing, etc. is present contractor will need to remove as needed in order for herbicide to be applied directly to the soil.

Any portions of the treatment zones that have more scattered/young black locust (lack dense locust) and are dominated by native vegetation other techniques as described below in section C2 (girdling, foliar, etc.) will be used to control locust and the other target species.

In zones K and L Treat all stems of black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia), honey locust (Gleditsia triacanthos), honey suckle, autumn olive and any other invasive woody plants. Treat sassafras, cherry, sumac and any other woody plants except oaks, hickories, and aromatic sumac, hazelnut, new jersey tea (section C2) that are under 10 inches DBH. Trees/clones need to be cut if within 50 feet of the paved park road edge and if necessary, pulled back from all ditches and road shoulders.

In zones H, J and M Treat roadsides (50 feet from pavement edge). Treat all stems of woody plants except oak, hickory and native trees over 10 inches DBH. Stems that are cut must be pulled out of road right of way.

Zone P Treat live stems of black locust in this zone. Locust in this zone was treated in 2024 and this is follow up work.

Treat all live stems of black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia) and non-native bittersweet (Celastrus orbiculata). Treat all live stems of all other non-native woody plants. Use one or more of the techniques listed below. Preferred methods/timing will be discussed at prebid meeting.

In zone 6 and 10: Treat all live stems of black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia) Zone 6 is a mature mixed hardwood stand and treatment will be follow-up to primarily girdling of all locust in 2023. Zone 10 has is a mixed hardwood stand composed of predominately mature black locust with cherry, white pine, and oak mixed in. No treatment has occurred.

Island Lake Recreation Area Treatment Zones 1, 2, 2.5, 5,8,10,14,15, 16 and 17 Treat all non-native woody plants particularly live stems of glossy buckthorn (Frangula alnus), common buckthorn (Rhamnus cathartica), multiflora rose (Rosa multiflora), autumn olive (Elaeagnus umbellata), non-native honeysuckle (Lonicera spp.), non-native bittersweet (Celastrus orbiculata), black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia) and tree of heaven (Ailanthus altissima). Additionally non-native thistles, sweet clover, non-native teasle species, Chinese bush-clover and any other non-native species that is forming a dense monoculture.

NOTE: Zones 1,2,2.5 and 5 were land cleared in winter 2024. Zones 16 and 17 were land cleared winter 2025. Larger spray techniques may be used in areas where carpets of buckthorn, bittersweet and other invasive plants dominate and native prairie/barrens species are absent.

In zones D, E, Treat all live stems of all non-native woody plants.

In zone E treat all small cherry and poplar (under 6 inch DBH) via cut stump. Brush piles need to be outside quality prairie vegetation.

In zone D additionally treat all Chinese bush-clover (Lespedeza cuneata).

Zones F,G,H,I Treat all live stems of glossy buckthorn (Frangula alnus), common buckthorn (Rhamnus cathartica), multiflora rose (Rosa multiflora), autumn olive (Elaeagnus umbellata), non-native honeysuckle (Lonicera spp.), non-native bittersweet (Celastrus orbiculata), black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia) and tree of heaven (Ailanthus altissima).

Treat all live stems of glossy buckthorn (Frangula alnus), common buckthorn (Rhamnus cathartica), multiflora rose (Rosa multiflora), autumn olive (Elaeagnus umbellata), non-native honeysuckle (Lonicera spp.), non-native bittersweet (Celastrus orbiculata), black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia) and tree of heaven (Ailanthus altissima).

If necessary, treat dense stands of locust with a soil application of Velpar L herbicide for control of locust and other affected non-native vegetation. Apply herbicide directly to soil in grid pattern of measured dosage with spot-gun. If heavy chips or other debris from forestry mowing, etc. is present contractor will need to remove as needed in order for herbicide to be applied directly to the soil.

Any portions of the treatment zones that have more scattered/young black locust (lack dense locust) and are dominated by native vegetation other techniques as described below in section C2 (girdling, foliar, etc.) will be used to control locust and the other target species.

Zones: 5, 24-4, 24-9, 23-7, 18-1, 17-2 Treat all black locust seedlings, saplings and trees using techniques outlined below that do not harm recently planted oak saplings and any other native deciduous trees.

Zones: 6, 7, 9, 10, 12, 13, 16, 25, 27 Treat all black locust seedlings, saplings and trees using techniques outlined below. These zones have not yet been planted with trees. Dense stands of locust may be treated with a soil application of Velpar L herbicide for control of locust and other affected non-native vegetation. Apply herbicide directly to soil in grid pattern of measured dosage with spot-gun. If heavy chips or other debris from forestry mowing, etc. is present contractor will need to remove as needed for herbicide to be applied directly to the soil.

Due to steep slopes and other factors drone application may also be permitted.

Watkins Lake State Park In zones K and L Treat all live stems of glossy buckthorn (Frangula alnus), common buckthorn (Rhamnus cathartica), multiflora rose (Rosa multiflora), autumn olive (Elaeagnus umbellata), non-native honeysuckle (Lonicera spp.), Asian bittersweet (Celastrus orbiculata), and black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia.

2. TECHNIQUES

The contractor may choose one of the following techniques for each plant they treat, based on the criteria provided and then efficiency and effectiveness of removing the plant and preventing re-sprouting. Note that cut stump is not desired for initial black locust treatments unless plants are isolated/surrounded by native species.

≥ 2” diameter at ground level – isolated &/or surrounded by natives Girdle/Frill OR Basal bark (dormant season only) (v)

OR Hand swipe (iii)

≥ 8 feet tall OR ≥ 2” diameter at ground level – isolated &/or surrounded by non-natives Girdle/Frill OR Basal bark (dormant season only) (v) OR Soil Treatment (needs DNR approval)

≥ 0.5” diameter at ground level – isolated &/or surrounded by natives Cut-stump (i)

OR Cut-stump (i) OR Basal bark/cut stump combo (ii) OR Hand swipe (iii) OR Basal bark (dormant season only) (v)

OR Basal bark/cut stump combo (ii)

OR Cut-stump (i) OR Basal bark/cut stump combo (ii) OR Hand swipe (iii)

Girdle/frill (vi)

< 4” DBH

Cut-stump (i) without herbicide

Hand swipe (iii)

Dense thickets/carpets &/or surrounded by non-natives

Foliar spray (iv)

i. GIRDLE/FRILL: Make a single continuous cut through the bark and cambium completely around the tree at a convenient height. If making a double cut it should be 6” from the first cut. All cuts must be deep and wide enough to ensure complete interruption of sap flow between the roots and crown. Cuts should be at a depth and width sufficient to prevent healing of the cambium, but not excessively weaken the structural integrity of the tree. The girdle technique consists of cutting a groove or notch continuously around the tree with a chainsaw. The frill technique consists of a series of downward angled cuts made continuously around the tree with an axe or hatchet. If herbicide required, it will be specified in herbicide section.

ii. BASAL BARK: Application of herbicide with spray wand on lower 15” portion of stem/trunk (360deg) to point of wetness, not run-off. Only allowed in dormant season.

iii. CUT STUMP: Cut the plant within three (3) inches of ground level and apply herbicide to the cut surface of each stump. Immediately following cutting (within 5 minutes), the exposed cambium of all cut stumps shall be treated with herbicide until the surface is thoroughly wet. All herbicide treatments must be with a sponge applicator (or similar device) to ensure no damage to adjacent non-target vegetation or soil. See tasks #2–3 below for herbicide specifications. Trees and shrubs shall be felled so they do not block any trails or roads. Sparse populations of trees and shrubs may be left where they fall, as long as they are in a safe position and cut brush does not interfere with herbicide application to the stumps or with significant areas of native plant growth. In moderate density populations brush shall be scattered. Dense infestations of brush and all large trees shall be piled appropriately per #10 below.

iv. BASAL BARK/CUT STUMP COMBINATION: Treat as specified in (i) above, except cut stump height to 4–6 inches. Additionally, all sides of the stump must be treated with herbicide (similar to a basal bark application) along with the cut surface.

v. HAND SWIPE: Apply herbicide to the live foliage of the plant using a hand-swiping and/or spray-bottle method to carefully direct herbicide only on the target plant (vertical cone spray with no overspray may be equitable). Avoid overspray or drift onto adjacent non-target vegetation. Foliar treatments must occur after plant leaves are fully developed in spring and prior to first frost and leaf color change in fall. Ideally foliar treatments should occur when temperatures are between 65–85 degrees Fahrenheit and remain in this range for several days during and after treatment. See tasks #2–3 below for herbicide specifications.

vi. FOLIAR SPRAY: For live target plants that form dense thickets/carpets and/or are surrounded by non-native vegetation, apply herbicide to the live foliage of the plant. Avoid overspray or drift onto adjacent non-target vegetation. Foliar treatments must occur after plant leaves are fully developed in spring and prior to first frost and leaf color change in fall. Ideally foliar treatments should occur when temperatures are between 65–85 degrees Fahrenheit and remain in this range for several days during and after treatment. See task #2–3 below for herbicide specifications. This technique may not be used in the “No ORV/No Slop” areas shown on the map.

vii. DRONE USE may be permitted wherever broad foliar spray would be allowed. This may be part or all of a treatment zone. It is subject to the approval of the project manager. PRD drone use policy must be followed. Bidders should submit this request in writing with their bid.

viii. Other techniques may be considered at the request of the contractor. Any additional techniques must be approved in writing by the contract administrator prior to use.

3. HERBICIDES

a. Required herbicides are:

· Triclopyr (Garlon 4/Ultra (60.45% AI concentration)

· Triclopyr (Garlon 3A (44.4% AI concentration)

· Aminopyralid (Milestone 40.6% concentration)

· Hexazinone (Velpar L (25% AI concentration)

· Transline (40.9% clopyralid) or comparable brands at comparable concentrations to above

b. Acceptable alternative herbicides for select species/zones/parks are:

· Imazapyr (Stalker or Habitat at 27.7% AI conc.)

· Glyphosate (aquatic generic at 53.8% AI conc.)

· 2, 4-D LV Ester (63.7% AI conc.)

· GrazonNext (8.2%/41.3%)

· Clearcast (12.1% Ammonium salt of imazamox)

· Element 4 / Element 3A (triclopyr)

ALL PARKS (except Algonac)

c. For all soil/ground treatments to dense locust stands (at Fort Custer, Waterloo and Highland) use Velpar L at 20% by volume or 3 quarts/acre. Apply directly to soil in grid pattern under locust stand of measured dosage with spot-gun.

d. For all black locust stems that are treated Girdle/Frill treatments - apply a 25% Garlon 4 Ultra + 2% Milestone mixture with remainder (73%) penetrating oil.

Basil bark treatments (dormant season only) - apply a 25% Garlon 4 Ultra + 2% Milestone mixture with remainder (73%) penetrating oil

Imazapyr may be a required substitute for select zones at some sites.

e. For all black locust stems within the dripline of large oak:

Girdle/Frill treatments - apply a triclopyr only mix concentration of 50% by volume Basil bark treatments - apply a triclopyr only mix concentration of 50% by volume

f. Black locust foliar treatments shall use triclopyr at a mix concentration of 7% by volume.

g. For all other species – apply a triclopyr-only mix as indicated below:

· Foliar treatments shall use a mix concentration of 5% by volume

· Stump treatments shall use a mix concentration of 50% by volume

· Basil bark treatments shall use 50% v/v

Wherever operating in or near wetlands or water (mutually agreed to by contractor and DNR project manager), the required herbicide is Garlon® 3A.

· Foliar treatments shall use a mix concentration of 5% by volume

· Stump treatments shall be at full strength (44%)

Imazapyr, milestone or glyphosate may be a required substitute for select zones at some sites.

h. ALGONAC - ONLY The required herbicide is Garlon® 4 Ultra.

· Foliar treatments shall use a mix concentration of 7% by volume.

· Stump and basal bark treatments shall use a mix concentration of 50% by volume.

Wherever operating in or near wetlands or water (mutually agreed to by contractor and DNR project manager), the required herbicide is Garlon® 3A.

· Foliar treatments shall use a mix concentration of 10% by volume

· Stump treatments shall be at full strength (44%)

Milestone or glyphosate may be a required substitute for select zones/species at Algonac.

i. Belle Isle Flatwoods The required herbicide for all non-native thistles is Transline (40.9% clopyralid) for foliar (backpack) treatment use 0.1% by volume (equates to 1 fl. oz per 3 gallons of water) and non-ionic surfactant at 0.50% of the mix volume.

For all other herbaceous target species including reed canary grass the required herbicide is a formulation of aquatic glyphosate (i.e. Rodeo at 53.8% AI) at a mix concentration of 2% by volume. A non-ionic surfactant shall be used at a rate of 0.8% of the mix volume.

For all woody species follow the specifications above (d. through g.).

See item #8 below if other herbicides/concentrations or techniques are preferred/thought to be more effective for any species at any park/zone.

4. ADJUVANTS

When using Garlon® 4 Ultra in a mix with Milestone, or other approved herbicides for cut stump, basil bark, and girdle/frill treatments, a penetrating oil must be used at rate specified above (typically the remaining percentage of the mix or a ratio of 1:1 as specified). Cygnet Plus® must also be used at a rate of 0.8% of the mix volume.

When using Milestone or Imazapyr without Garlon® 4 Ultra water may be used as the carrier. Cygnet Plus® must also be used at a rate of 0.8% of the mix volume.

When using Garlon® 4 Ultra for foliar treatments, Nu-Arbor or a similar emulsifiable soybean oil must be used at 25% of the volume of herbicide concentrate.

When using Garlon® 3A, Aquatic glyphosate, Habitat or similar for foliar treatments Cygnet Plus must be used at a rate of 0.8% of the mix volume and water would be the required carrier.

Marking dye (appropriate to the herbicide used) shall be used in all treatments.

5. RESULTS

The contractor is expected to achieve a minimum of 98% treatment of the extant live target plants and a minimum of 95% kill of all chemically treated target plants within treatment area.

Treatment must occur between one of the following time periods. Timing will be discussed for all sites at each prebid. Final determination for those zones will be made upon award.

· Some zones all treatments must be completed by September 30, 2025.

· Some zones treatment must be completed by March 1, 2026.

· Some zones treatment may have the option to be completed by September 15, 2026.

The deadline for completion of work in any one treatment zone is separate from, and need not be the same as, the other zones on the same bid line item (treatment zone groups).

Bidders should make note in the discounts section and/or the minimum/maximum section of their bid response form how many zones and/or what specific zones they are willing/able to complete by September 30, 2025 and what zones they would prefer to complete by September 15, 2026. Price discounts for doing work the following year (dormant season, growing season or some combination of the two) should be noted.

6. The contractor is responsible for re-treatment if rain occurs within six (6) hours of the original treatment for foliar and hand swipe applications and within two (2) hours of the original treatment for cut stump, basal bark/cut stump combo, basil bark and girdling/frill applications.

7. Contractors must be extremely careful and avoid any damage (drift/overspray) to any non-target vegetation in the areas marked “No ORV/No Slop” on the project maps. Foliar spraying treatment technique may NOT be used in these No ORV/No Slop areas.

8. Bidders must propose specific treatment technique(s), specific herbicide(s), and surfactant(s) in their bid. Specific brand name chemical products must be listed in the bid and are subject to approval by the DNR project manager. Herbicides or surfactants other than those specified in #3-4 and techniques specified in #2 above will be considered if requested by the bidder. Bidder should include such information in the bid with a brief written justification of why they wish to make the change. Any herbicide, concentration or techniques other than those specified above must be approved by the DNR Project Manager prior to use. The contractor shall apply herbicide at a concentration not outside label directions for the appropriate task/technique. All herbicide concentrations must be mutually agreed upon by the contractor and the DNR project manager prior to treatment.

9. All herbicide treatments must be according to label specifications and performed by a certified commercial pesticide applicator. Proof of certification in appropriate categories will be required prior to start of work. Overspray onto non-target vegetation and/or soil as well as runoff of the herbicide into the ground or water must not occur. All treatments must be marked in the field. An appropriate marking dye shall be used with the herbicide. Flagging may be required in some zones to document which plants have been treated.

10. State-listed endangered and threatened species occur throughout the treatment areas and are subject to the protection of Michigan Public Act 451 of 1994, Section 365 (Endangered Species Protection). In addition to listed plants and animals many of these parks, sites and zones receiving treatments at Algonac, Island Lake, Watkins Lake and Fort Custer all have large areas full of rare plants and intact natural communities. Most of the treatment zones are in these highly diverse remnants.

All herbicide applicators working at these sites must be capable of identifying the applicable protected plants, rare plants as well as the common native plants that could be confused with the target species (such as blue-joint grass, native sedges, native phragmites, native cattail, spirea (Spirea spp.), shrubby St. John’s-wort (Hypericum spp.), etc.).

All herbicide applications should be done using equipment and techniques that minimize non-target damage to native plants (such as cone nozzles, spray shields, hand applicators, hand swiping, and other techniques (see section C2 chart for basics).

11. Creating brush piles versus scattering brush shall be as determined in section 3.iii. (cut stump specifications) above. In areas where piling of brush is required, cut brush/branches/logs shall be tightly packed into piles in areas without native prairie vegetation (i.e., in dogwood thickets or in bare ground areas under former shrub thickets). Piles should be taller than wide. Piles may be up to 15 feet tall by 10 feet in diameter. Fewer large piles are preferred over many small piles. Piles shall not be placed within 100 feet of any oak tree greater than 6 inches diameter, within 50 feet of each other, or on areas dominated by native herbaceous vegetation (i.e. sedge, grass, forbs) unless approved by the DNR project manager. Contractor will coordinate with DNR project manager regarding placement of brush piles. Piles are not allowed within No ORV/No Slop Areas and other sensitive areas as defined by DNR project manager. Piles shall be densely packed to minimize size and maximize the ability to burn the piles by hand in winter. All stems and logs must be cut into sections 6-feet long or less when placed into piles to ensure tight packing. The contractor is not responsible for burning the brush piles. The contractor shall record the location of every brush pile created with a handheld GPS unit. Each point shall be labeled “BPN1”, “BPN2”, etc. The GPS pile location data must be sent to the DNR project manager with the final report upon completion of the project.

12. MAPPING

a. For all treatment areas (zones) thoroughly survey the entire zone for the target species. To thoroughly survey the entire zone, it is required that surveyors systematically walk transects through the zone at a tight spacing (approximately 50–75 feet apart). The bidder’s proposed survey methodology and type of GPS equipment should be described in their bid response. Alternate survey methods besides tightly spaced transects will be considered if proposed in the bid response. Maps of zones will be provided (see link to WebApp elsewhere in this document for mapped target species and zones). Identification/location of all populations of the target species within the defined treatment zones is the responsibility of the contractor.

13. Signs must be posted by the contractor wherever chemical treatment occurs within 50 feet of a trail or developed area or anywhere else where there is a reasonable expectation of public exposure to the herbicide. Signage shall remain in place for the minimum length of time as determined by the herbicide label and for a maximum amount of time as agreed between the contractor and the DNR project manager. The contractor is responsible for removing all signage. Sample signage (contractor’s and any required EGLE) shall be submitted to project manager for approval prior to start of work.

14. Non-permit related signage must have the following listed at readable font. Statement of action, avoidance or no-entry statement, date of application, chemicals used (chemical and brand name), contractor name and phone number, DNR project manager name and number.

15. An EGLE Aquatic Nuisance Control (ANC) Certificate of Coverage has been obtained by DNR for all treatment areas over standing water or in Great Lakes Bottomlands. A copy of the COC will be provided to contractor just prior to the start of treatments at awarded parks. If the bidder wishes to use different herbicides that are not specified on the General Permit, they will be responsible for obtaining a modification to the ANC permit.

16. In all treatment areas where an ANC permit is required and obtained, the contractor will be responsible for posting the required advisory signage as specified in the ANC permit for the site. In locations where ANC signage is required, it is also required to place contractor signage on the same stake (on the back of or below the ANC signage). ANC advisory signage must be posted surrounding the landward side of any area where chemicals will be applied over standing water or on Great Lakes bottomlands on the day of treatment (just prior to commencing spraying) at 100-foot intervals.

The approved sign may be downloaded from the EGLE aquatic nuisance control web site (Treatment Posting Sign). The contractor is responsible for printing and duplicating the sign, attaching it to stakes (supplied by the contractor), and posting the signs at the required 100-foot intervals along the landward side of any area where chemicals will be applied over standing water or on Great Lakes bottomlands. Signage shall remain in place for the minimum length of time as determined by the herbicide label and the requirements of the ANC permit and for a maximum amount of time as agreed between the contractor and the DNR project manager. The contractor is responsible for removing all signage.

17. To maintain compliance with the federal Clean Water Act, pesticide treatments under this contract that occur “in, over, or near waters of the state” will fall under a National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Certificate of Coverage under the EGLE General Permit for Nuisance Plant and Algae Control. All treatments conducted in areas that fall under this Certificate of Coverage must follow all conditions of the NPDES general permit and the DNR, Parks & Recreation Division Pesticide Discharge Management Plan.

18. DECONTAMINATION - Equipment Moving and Weed Seed Contamination All equipment, footwear, clothing, and all other materials brought to each park (and in some cases sites within each park) for this project must be completely clean and free of ALL plant material, organisms and soil (seeds, pieces of vegetation, chunks of soil, etc.) prior to arrival at each park location. This shall include both inside and outside of all vehicles. Power washing and/or similar methods shall be used as needed, for all undercarriages, metal and rubber tracks, tires (chained and unchained), and all other parts of vehicles brought to each park to ensure they are clean and free of seed, plant materials and soil. These precautions are critical to preventing the spread of invasive plants, disease causing organisms and vectors as well as contamination of genetic material (seeds) from locations outside of each state park.

All footwear, clothing, and equipment must be checked and cleaned of seeds, other plant fragments, and soil again before moving between work areas of differing ecological quality to prevent the spread of invasive plants between relatively un-infested areas and heavily infested areas. Travel routes and order of work between treatment areas may be dictated by the DNR project manager to further prevent the possible spread of invasive seed and plant material.

19. Off-Road Vehicles (quads, trucks, etc.)

0. As a general rule, all vehicles including off-road vehicles (quads, trucks, ORVs, UTVs, etc.) are NOT allowed off the road and parking lots at any state park or recreation area.

0. No off-road vehicles (quads, trucks, etc.) are allowed in the areas marked “No ORV/No Slop” on the maps provided FOR ANY REASON.

0. With prior approval from the DNR project manager access to treatment areas using two-tracks, trails or shorelines (below the ordinary high-water) mark with ORVs MAY be granted to transport equipment, people and herbicide to a location near the work areas.

0. With prior approval from the DNR project manager use of tracked or wheeled UTVs MAY be granted for use within treatment areas provided it can be done without making ruts, destroying native vegetation, or spreading invasive plants.

0. In all areas where off-road vehicle use is conditionally allowed for transport between areas, or within treatment areas their use (number of trips and means and methods for gridding a treatment area) shall be kept to a minimum.

0. Where and how a contractor plans to use UTVs must be discussed with the DNR project manager prior to starting work. What is permitted will be provided in writing by DNR project manager.

0. Where off-road vehicles are allowed on trails or within treatment areas they must not create ruts deeper than 2 inches. If any ruts or tracks greater than 2 inches deep are created, the DNR project manager must be notified the same day they are created. The contractor may be responsible for repairing damage to site.

20. The contractor must obtain prior approval from the DNR project manager to work on Saturdays or Sundays due to high park visitor use. Other specific dates may be unavailable for work due to special events at one or more of the parks. The contractor will be notified of any such dates a minimum of two weeks in advance.

21. The contractor will be expected to navigate and find treatment area boundaries, no-slop areas, and species point and polygon locations in the field using GPS. ArcGIS Field Maps App will allow field use of the web map application. If requested contractor will be provided with treatment area boundaries point locations and polygons via GPS Exchange format (.gpx) file. The DNR project manager will provide clarification, including ground marking as needed.

22. The Contractor is responsible for supplying all equipment needed to complete the job, including cutting and pulling tools, herbicide, herbicide applicators, safety equipment, signs, and transportation. All work must be performed by hand (handheld power tools such as chainsaws, clearing saws, etc.) unless otherwise explicitly approved by the project manager.

23. All equipment must be removed from the site within one (1) week following completion of work under this contract.

24. The contractor shall make known to the public its presence through signage, vehicle logos, uniforms, or some other means of identifying the ongoing work whenever workers are present on site.

25. All GPS data must be submitted to the DNR electronically at the conclusion of the project as either GPS Exchange format (gpx) files or ArcGIS shapefiles in the Michigan Georef (meters) coordinate system. 1) New invasive plant waypoints, and (2) tracks/polygons around large populations, (3) all brush pile point data. One .gpx file or shapefile for each of these items should be submitted.

All work that requires a NPDES permit must have reports turned in within two weeks of the treatment date regardless of whether the project is complete or not.

D DESCRIPTION OF TREATMENT AREAS

The work sites are all located in southern Michigan within eight (8) state parks and recreation areas. Approximately 60% of treatment zones are follow up to treatments made last year or within the last five years. Basic site management history and/or current condition of zones as well as target species is provided below. More information will be provided at a mandatory prebid meeting or you may submit questions via Sigma before the deadline (see section H).

The WebApp link below contains all eight project parks (their locations, boundaries and treatment zones). It is accessible for viewing/on-site navigation through ArcGIS Field Maps App. PDF maps can be generated from this WebApp. Acreages of each zone are provided in the table below and can be viewed in WebApp by clicking on a zone.

DNR PRD Woody Contract

NOTE: The zones included in this contract are in the GIS layer called Woody Contract Zones 2025.

Required permits, treatment forms and report forms will be provided to contractors upon award of contract.

Algonac SP contains globally rare Lakeplain prairie and Great Lake Marsh along the St. Clair River. Primary target species is buckthorn. All zones have received treatment to the targeted species within the last five years, except zones 11, 28, 30,31. Management has included one or more treatments of herbicide, prescribed fire and mowing. All zones received prescribed fire treatments in 2023.

Belle Isle Park is located in Detroit MI. The main treatment zones (J,K,L) are recently restored areas where roads were removed. Target invasive species are thistles, sweet clover and reed canary grass, not a lot of non-native woody species have established. The other zones are the road edges to these areas and have typically non-native woody plants throughout.

Brighton RA is located in Brighton MI. Primary target species are black locust resprouts and non- native bittersweet and in this oak barrens. Additional species for control are glossy and common buckthorn, multiflora rose, autumn olive and non-native honey suckle. Zone 2 is follow-up treatment of a black locust stand treated in 2019.

Highland RA is located in Howell MI. Target species are black locust and non-native bittersweet in this oak barrens. Zone 10 is a large locust stand that has never been treated.

Island Lake RA is located in Livingston county. Target species are black locust, buckthorn and non-native bittersweet within oak barrens. All numbered zones have been recently land cleared. All zones were dominated by pine. Zone 10 had significant black locust. Zone F was forestry mowed and had a significant volume of mature pine completely removed in 2022. All other zones received some level of herbicide treatments in 2023.

Fort Custer RA is located in Augusta, Michigan. Target species are non- native woodys in zones H, J, K,L,M and P. Zone G was land cleared in the winter of 2024. The work in this zone will be to control any plants forming monocultures.

Watkins Lake State Park. The zones at this location are in and around fen. Primary target species is buckthorn.

Waterloo State Park is located in Chelsea MI. Zone A is a oak barrens. This zone has been treated each year since 2021 and is follow up work to control non-native invasive woody plants. All other zones are restoration work around a gravel mine site. The target species is black locust.

NOTE: All treatment zones contain a diverse array of native vegetation and in most zones rare and/or listed plant species. All possible care must be taken to prevent damage or death to native vegetation and minimize wildlife disturbances.

NOTE: All of these locations have a healthy quantity of ticks, mosquitos, biting flies, and poison ivy. Watkins Lake has the added hazard of the tall shrub poison sumac.

Algonac SP

Belle Isle

Fort Custer RA

Highland RA

Island Lake RA

Waterloo RA

E PROJECT CONTROL AND REPORTS

b. The Contractor must contact the DNR project manager within five (5) business days after the contract is awarded to provide an approximate schedule of work start and end dates.

c. The Contractor will notify both the DNR project manager and the State Park supervisor a minimum of 24 hours prior to beginning on-site work at the park, and within 24 hours following final completion of all on-site work at the park under this contract.

d. Once work begins on site, the Contractor will keep the DNR project manager informed of the progress of the work at least weekly and any real or anticipated problems (such as chemical spills, injuries, etc.) as they arise. The Contractor will also inform the DNR project manager of any long-term breaks in work (longer than one week) during the course of the project.

e. The contractor will also notify the DNR project manager a minimum of 48 hours before the expected project completion at each park date so that a final field inspections can be scheduled.

f. All follow-up procedures and deadlines specified in pre-qualification Exhibit A, Section 1.04 apply.

2. Reports

a. Within 10 business days following the completion of the project, the contractor shall submit one electronic copy of a brief report using the templates provided. All information must be filled in completely on the customized report templates.

All work that requires a NPDES permit must have reports turned in within two weeks of the treatment date regardless of whether the project is complete or not.

b. In addition to the final report template and associated pesticide information, the contractor shall provide all GPS data for brush piles and all newly mapped points/polygons.

c. The above reports and information shall be sent by email to:

Emily Leslie LeslieE1@Michigan.gov

F INFORMATION REQUIRED FROM BIDDERS

Return the “Contractor Bid Response” form with the following information:

1. Work Plan/Task Description Provide a brief technical plan (sequential summary and description of tasks) for accomplishing the work. Describe anticipated techniques per treatment area as best you can. Describe your proposed specific type of equipment to be used. List all chemicals to be used. Indicate the approximate number of days that are anticipated to complete the fieldwork and the estimated number of personnel expected to be working on site.

2. Project Staffing The contractor must be able to staff a project team (or individual) which possesses the talent and expertise necessary to complete the tasks associated with this project. Include names of each person/employee (grouped by job title) that will be employed in the work. If any people will be working on this project that were not listed in your company’s pre-qualification documents, they must be identified. The project manager must be identified.

3. Subcontractors List all subcontractors; include firm name and address, contact person, complete description of work to be subcontracted. Include descriptive information concerning subcontractor's organization and abilities. Any subcontractors to be used on this project must have been already named in your company’s approved pre-qualification.

4. Prior Experience Provide three references who can verify prior experience of your company directly related to the specific work to be performed in this project. Include sufficient detail in the description of work performed to demonstrate the relevance of the experience to this project.

The successful bidder will be a pre-qualified vendor who has experience controlling invasive species in a manner similar to the specifications of this project, possesses a team (or individual) capable of carrying out the work effectively and with knowledge on the identification of all target species and associated native prairie, and savanna plants, and use the most cost-efficient technique(s) that are effective but cause the least amount of incidental damage to the surrounding native vegetation.

G PRICE PROPOSAL

All prices/rates quoted in bidder's response to this work statement will be firm for the duration of the Contract. No price changes will be permitted.

This project will be bid on a lump sum basis by treatment area. The price for each line item should reflect the complete cost of surveying and applying herbicide as specified. This includes the cost of all equipment, labor, herbicide, and transportation. NO additional charges (such as equipment repair) beyond the original bid price will be permitted.

Bidders should submit a bid for each line item. Indicate in your bid any price discounts that may apply in the box provided.

Return the “Contractor Bid Response” form on the Sigma website where this project is posted by the due date noted at the top of page one of this work statement.

H BID INFORMATION

A MANDITORY PRE-BID MEETING IS SCHEUDLED FOR THE PARKS LISTED BELOW. NO PRE-BID MEETINGS ARE SCHEDULED FOR THE PARKS NOT LISTED. The purpose of the meetings is to briefly view the treatment areas with the DNR project manager to understand the general layout of the land and the general density and patchiness of the target invasive plants in the areas. Only one pre-bid meeting will be held so that all prospective bidders have the same opportunity to view the site and ask questions. Questions for all sites may be addressed at each scheduled pre-bid. Prospective vendors must attend the scheduled pre-bid meetings to be eligible to submit bids on the treatment areas at those parks. If no prebid is scheduled for a park venders are free to bid on those parks without attending any on-site meeting.

The provided maps along with this work statement should provide the information needed for formulating more specific bids tailored to the expected amount of work in each treatment area. Prospective bidders are also strongly encouraged to visit the parks with no prebid meeting to view the treatment areas on their own time prior to submitting a bid.

All questions about this project may be submitted to Amanda Pauly at paulya3@michigan.gov by Friday, July 25, 2025 5:00 P.M. EST. Questions, answers and addendums to this project will be posted in Sigma by Tuesday July 29, 2025 5:00 P.M. EST.

Prebid for Algonac State Park will be held on Thursday, July 17, 2025 at 1:30. Meet at park headquarters located at 8970 River Road, Clay Twp., MI 48001. The meeting should last 2 hours.

Prebid for Waterloo Recreation Area will be held on Thursday, July 24, 2025 at 9 am. Meet at the corner of Waterloo Road and M52 Road.

Prebid for Island Lake RA will be held on Thursday, July 24, 2025 at 1 pm. Meet at the far south end of the park. Parking lot associated with Liberty and Dodge picnic shelters. The meeting should last 2.5 hours.

Prebid for Highland RA will be held Wednesday, July 23, 2025 at 9 a.m. Meet at the Silo field trail area. Parking lot is off East Livingston Road between Pettibone Lake and Beaumont Roads.

Call Emily Leslie at 517-242-8760 if you need better directions or are running late for a pre-bid meeting.

BID DUE DATE IS August 1, 2025 at 9:30 A.M. EST.

Bid Response form must be submitted via Sigma VSS. If you are having difficulty with the Sigma system, please contact Amanda Pauly at Paulya3@michigan.gov as early as possible before the due date and time.