2025 Burning Star SFWA Tree Planting

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR), Division of Forest Resources, is seeking a qualified reforestation contractor for the 2025 Burning Star State Fish and Wildlife Area (SFWA) Tree Planting project in Jackson County. The contract requires planting 60,000 tree seedlings across 83.7 acres spanning 15 different sites, with a required planting density of 726 seedlings per acre. Specific planting requirements include tree species such as American Plum, various oak varieties, Bald Cypress, and Dogwood, with rows spaced 10 feet apart and individual seedlings positioned 6 feet apart. The contractor must pick up seedlings from Mason State Tree Nursery and complete planting between February 1, 2025, and May 30, 2025, with a final project completion deadline of June 30, 2025. Key qualifications include direct experience planting hardwood reforestation seedlings on at least 15 acres within the last 5 years, possession of a valid Illinois Department of Agriculture commercial pesticide applicators license, and the ability to own or access mechanized planting equipment. Performance standards mandate an 80% survival rate for planted stock and 70% effective weed control over 90% of the project site. The proposal is due by February 21, 2025, with the contract opportunity officially posted on February 11, 2025.

While no specific set-aside designations are explicitly outlined in the documentation, the contractor must comply with numerous state certifications and standard terms that include equal employment opportunity requirements and minority business considerations. The project requires comprehensive insurance coverage, including $1,000,000 in General Commercial Liability and Auto Liability, and adherence to state procurement regulations. Vendors must complete a comprehensive 33-point certification process covering areas such as educational loan obligations, environmental compliance, and cybersecurity requirements. Though a specific budget range is not provided, the project involves substantial tree planting infrastructure across multiple site units, with some areas (specifically Units 2, 12, and 13) designated for direct IDNR planting. The contractor is responsible for all herbicide products and equipment, and must submit electronic invoices to Kyle Burkwald within 60 days of completed and approved work. Subcontracting is prohibited without prior authorization, emphasizing the need for a primary contractor with comprehensive capabilities in reforestation and site preparation.