2023-2024 Babcock Ranch Preserve Initial Exotic Plant Treatment

The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) is seeking to establish a contractual services agreement for the initial herbicide treatment of invasive exotic plants within 1,831 acres of the Babcock Ranch Preserve (BRP) located in Charlotte County, Florida. The project will involve the application of herbicides to all Florida Exotic Pest Plant Council (FLEPPC) Category 1 non-native invasive plants within the project area. The contractor must possess the appropriate state-issued pesticide applicator licenses and permits to perform the work, with the on-site supervisor required to hold a valid FDACS pesticide applicator license in the natural areas weed management category. The Invitation to Bid (ITB) includes detailed treatment specifications and application methods for large woody plants, vines, herbaceous plants, and seedlings/saplings. Pricing is requested on a firm fixed price per acre basis, and FDACS reserves the right to increase or decrease the total acreage based on available funding. The mandatory pre-bid site visit is scheduled for February 13, 2024, with sealed bids due on February 28, 2024 at 5:00 PM ET.

The ITB does not mention any set-aside designations or restrictions on the types of organizations that can respond. There is also no information provided about any incumbent vendors or current contractors, or any existing infrastructure or technology that requires integration. The total contract value will depend on the quoted unit price and the total acreage treated, but the ITB does not specify a budget range or award value.