Fertilizer and application of hayfields at Ninemile Ranger District

The United States Department of Agriculture Forest Service is seeking a small business contractor to provide fertilization services for hayfields located at the Ninemile Ranger Station in Lolo National Forest. The solicitation requires the application of pelletized fertilizer with a specific 70-20-20-15 Nitrogen-Phosphorus-Potassium-Sulfur blend, to be applied at 250 pounds per acre across 219 acres. The procurement will be evaluated using the Lowest Price Technically Acceptable (LPTA) method, with all questions due by April 15, 2025, at 1700 MST and quotes to be submitted by April 29, 2025, at 1700 MST to Contract Specialist Sarah Cotton. Potential contractors must have an active System for Award Management (SAM) registration and submit a technical proposal that includes past performance and experience. The solicitation requires all fertilizer to be manufactured in the United States and contractors must demonstrate capability to complete the project using their own labor, equipment, and skilled operators.

The contract is a 100% small business set-aside with a performance period from May 2, 2025, to May 31, 2025, during daylight hours. The work will be conducted within three miles of the Ninemile Ranger Station, with fields featuring oversized gates to accommodate various vehicle types. Contractors will be required to coordinate directly with the Contracting Officer Representative, who will inspect the fertilizer and verify application rates. While no specific award value is mentioned, the scope involves comprehensive fertilization services for a defined geographical area. The wage determination document indicates that contractors must comply with federal minimum wage requirements, currently set at $17.75 per hour for workers on contracts entered into after January 30, 2022, and must provide appropriate fringe benefits including health and welfare contributions.