VA-GREAT DISMAL SWAMP NWR-POCOSIN Hazard Fuels Re

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is seeking qualified contractors to perform hazard fuel reduction and forest management services at the Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge, specifically involving the chipping and mastication of previously cut and bundled trees across 126 acres in the C3 block. The project requires contractors to use low ground pressure equipment to create a healthy, open pine stand while protecting large-diameter residual pines (trees greater than 15 inches in diameter) and red-cockaded woodpecker habitat. Key contract requirements include maintaining rutting depth under 10 inches, ensuring even distribution of woody debris, operating only during favorable weather conditions to minimize soil and water quality impacts, and providing weekly progress reports. Evaluation will be based on technical experience (including SAM registration without terminations), past performance, and price, with technical and past performance weighted more heavily than cost. Critical deadlines include written questions due by November 28, 2025 at 3:00 PM EST, and quotation submissions due by December 18, 2025 at 3:00 PM EST to Contracting Officer Merenica Banks at merenica_banks@fws.gov.

This opportunity is designated as a total small business set-aside with a pricing threshold not to exceed $250,000. The project is scheduled for completion between March and September 2026, with contractors required to provide skilled operators, equipment lists, personnel documentation, and at least three references from the past five years demonstrating similar work experience. The work will be performed at the Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge located in Suffolk, Virginia, which spans portions of both Virginia and North Carolina. Prospective bidders are encouraged to conduct site visits by contacting Gene Nawrot at the provided phone numbers (757-986-3460 office, 757-734-5075 desk, or 757-617-4970 cell). Submission requirements include completed SF18 and SF30 forms, a detailed price schedule with SAM Unique Entity ID, equipment and personnel lists, and the past experience and references attachment documenting relevant project history.