GMF Reforestation Tree Planting

The United States Department of Agriculture Forest Service's Eastern Region (Region 9) is seeking a small business contractor to perform tree planting services in the Green Mountain National Forest in Vermont. The solicitation, numbered 12444325Q0012, requires planting approximately 15,500 government-furnished tree seedlings across four distinct units totaling 45.7 acres. Specific requirements include planting a mix of bareroot seedlings including White Pine, Red Oak, Red Spruce, and White Oak using precise spacing and planting techniques. The technical evaluation will assess past performance, relevant experience, technical capability, key personnel, and equipment, with technical and past performance factors being more important than price. Proposals are due by March 14, 2025, at 1700 CT, with a planned period of performance from April 14, 2025, to May 22, 2025.

This solicitation is a 100% small business set-aside under NAICS code 115310 with a size standard of $11.5M. The contract will cover tree planting across four specific locations: Garage Unit 17 (9.9 acres), Mayo Meadow Unit 6 (9.8 acres), West River Unit 12 (10.7 acres), and Dutch Hill Unit 5 (15.3 acres), all located near Rochester and Manchester, Vermont. Contractors must provide all labor, equipment, supervision, transportation, and supplies except for the tree seedlings, which will be government-furnished. The planting must adhere to strict environmental and technical specifications, including specific temperature, humidity, and wind restrictions. Wage rates will follow the Service Contract Act Wage Determination, with workers guaranteed a minimum of $17.75 per hour and associated benefits. The contract will be awarded on a best-value basis, considering technical merit and past performance more heavily than pricing.