23NC Nettie Lewis Crop Tree

The Northcentral Region of the Pennsylvania Game Commission is soliciting bids for a mechanical crop tree release project on 123 acres of State Game Land No. 037 located in Tioga County. The procurement involves felling interfering trees with chainsaws or handheld brush cutters to provide a "crown touching" release for specifically marked crop trees, which is a habitat enhancement technique. Bidders will need to complete the work between the date of award and June 30, 2025, with no contract extensions permitted. The bid will be awarded on a per-acre basis, with payment contingent upon successful completion of work that meets all specified requirements. A mandatory pre-bid site visit is scheduled for August 15, 2024, at 9:30 AM, and electronic bids must be submitted through the Commonwealth's PA Supplier Portal by 2:00 PM on August 28, 2024. Technical questions should be directed to Gary Glick at 570-398-4744 ext 30310. The Pennsylvania Game Commission will award the contract to the lowest responsive and responsible bidder, reserving the right to reject any or all bids.

The contract opportunity does not specify explicit set-aside designations or restrictions for disadvantaged business enterprises. Bidders will be required to complete several mandatory forms, including a Worker Protection and Investment Certification, Lobbying Certification and Disclosure, and Iran Free Procurement Certification. While no incumbent vendor is mentioned, contractors must demonstrate compliance with Pennsylvania state labor and workplace safety laws, including the Construction Workplace Misclassification Act, Minimum Wage Act, and Prevailing Wage Act. Failure to provide accurate certifications could result in contract termination and a three-year prohibition on bidding for future contracts. Though specific budget ranges are not detailed, the contract will be structured on a per-acre pricing model, with the total project covering 123 acres. The comprehensive bid must include all labor, equipment, tools, insurance, and materials disposal necessary for successful project completion, with payment made only for acres successfully treated according to the specified standards.