2026 Longleaf Pine Tubelings

The Northwest Florida Water Management District is soliciting bids for 2026 Longleaf Pine Tubelings through Invitation to Bid (ITB) No. 25B-006, seeking to procure a minimum of 331,000 longleaf pine tubelings for delivery in January 2026. The tubelings must be sourced from a xeric longleaf pine sandhill upland or acceptable seed source, and must meet specific technical requirements including 1-0 tubeling stock with a minimum plug length of six inches, plantable using a standard dibble planting bar. Sealed bids must be submitted electronically through DemandStar by 2:00 P.M. Eastern Time on February 27, 2025, with the delivery location specified as 6418 E. Highway 20, Youngstown, FL 32466. Bid evaluation will be based on the lowest total lump sum amount, and the successful bidder must provide refrigerated trailers with a minimum capacity of 200,000 boxed longleaf pine tubelings. A performance bond of 10% of the total contract amount is required from the awarded vendor.

The procurement includes provisions for potential bid prioritization for certified minority business enterprises, veteran's business enterprises, and companies with drug-free workplace programs in the event of tied bids. Contractors will be required to demonstrate compliance with specific technical specifications regarding root collar diameter, with at least 50% of extracted tubelings having a root collar diameter of at least one-half inch. The Northwest Florida Water Management District reserves the right to reject any and all bids and to negotiate with the lowest responsive bidder. While no specific budget range is explicitly stated, the minimum quantity requirement of 331,000 tubelings suggests a significant procurement value. The contract is subject to satisfactory performance, availability of funds, and mutual agreement between the District and the selected vendor, with delivery anticipated in January 2026.