Chippewa National Forest - Site Prep for Seedling Planting

The U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service is seeking contractors to perform site preparation services on the Chippewa National Forest using two distinct methods: the "Chippewa Harrow" for mechanical disking and the "Roller Chopper" for soil scarification and vegetation management. Contractors may bid on one or both line items, with the Harrow method covering 446 acres and the Roller Chopper method covering 201 acres across multiple ranger districts. The work involves preparing forest sites for seedling planting through scarification, tree removal, and land treatment while adhering to strict environmental protocols to prevent invasive species spread and minimize damage to residual trees. The evaluation will consider technical factors including past performance and technical capability, which are weighted more heavily than price in the selection process. Offers are due by August 22, 2025, at 1:00 PM CT via email to the contracting officer.

This solicitation is 100% set aside for small businesses under NAICS code 115310 with a size standard of $11.5 million, and no incumbent contractors are identified in the documentation. The contract structure allows for multiple awards with firm fixed pricing per acre, though specific budget ranges are not disclosed in the solicitation materials. The performance period extends from September 1, 2025, through April 30, 2026, with work scheduled to begin in mid-August 2025, though timing may vary based on weather conditions and soil suitability. Operations will take place across the Chippewa National Forest in Bemidji, Minnesota, specifically within the Walker, Deer River, and Blackduck Ranger Districts. The contractor must comply with federal wage determinations for Minnesota forestry workers, with rates ranging from $13.59 to $27.30 per hour depending on job classification.