2022 Forestry Gypsy Moth Suppression FPM22-02

The Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Bureau of Forestry, Division of Forest Health is seeking a contractor to perform aerial application of insecticides over approximately 26,992 acres of forested areas to prevent defoliation by Lymantria dispar (gypsy moth) across multiple state forests. The project requires two fixed-wing aircraft capable of applying Bacillus thuringiensis subspecies kurstaki (Btk) insecticide during a contracted period from May 1-31, 2022, with an expected completion timeframe of 1-4 weeks. The contractor must provide qualified spray pilots, aircraft, support equipment, and necessary personnel to conduct the aerial insecticide application. A mandatory virtual pre-bid conference was held on January 19, 2022, and the final bid submission was due on February 3, 2022, at 10:00 am. Key contractor requirements include holding a valid Pesticide Application Business License, submitting detailed aircraft and pilot documentation, and ensuring compliance with all safety and security protocols. The contractor will be responsible for purchasing, storing, and transporting the Btk insecticide, with compensation calculated on a per-acre basis.

The contract is specifically reserved for self-certified small businesses, with restrictions on bidder eligibility that require detailed documentation of pilot qualifications, aircraft capabilities, and pesticide application credentials. Contractors must submit comprehensive forms including Spray Pilot Approval Forms, Aircraft Description Forms, and Contractor Personnel and Equipment Forms to demonstrate compliance with technical specifications. The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources maintains the right to delete up to 15% of contracted acreage if treatment conditions do not warrant intervention, with contractors receiving 25% of the bid price for any deleted acreage beyond the 15% threshold. While no specific incumbent is mentioned, the contract includes provisions for automated flight following and requires satellite-based aircraft tracking hardware to monitor spray operations. Though an exact budget is not specified, the project covers approximately 26,992 acres with pricing to be determined through the competitive bidding process, with compensation structured on a per-acre rate that includes all associated costs for insecticides, materials, and services.