38 Hinebaugh Bid 23H-M-2 MachHerb

The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania's Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR), Bureau of Forestry, is soliciting bids for Contract 23H-M-2, a machine-based herbicide application project in Forest District 15, located in Potter County. The procurement seeks a qualified contractor to apply herbicide by machine-only for removing competing vegetation across an estimated 912 acres distributed among 11 scattered, flat spray blocks. Specific herbicides required include Accord, Roundup Pro, and Oust, with application rates ranging from 1.5 to 3 quarts per acre. The contract term will commence upon receipt of a Purchase Order or July 1, 2024, whichever is later, and will terminate on June 30, 2025, with actual spray services anticipated in July and/or August. Bidders must provide qualified spray equipment operators, designate a project supervisor, and comply with detailed specifications for herbicide application, equipment, and safety procedures. The bid response is due by November 6, 2023, and the Commonwealth intends to make a single award to the lowest responsive and responsible bidder.

This contract opportunity is exclusively reserved for Small Business Procurement Initiative participants, meaning only bidders self-certified as small businesses through the Department of General Services can submit a bid. The contractor must provide performance security, meet specific insurance requirements, and comply with Pennsylvania's Reciprocal Limitations Act, which gives preference to bidders offering supplies produced within the state. Contractors will be required to submit various certifications, including a Lobbying Certification, Iran Free Procurement Certification, and Worker Protection and Investment Certification. While specific budget ranges are not explicitly detailed, the per-acre pricing must comprehensively cover herbicide, adjuvants, labor, insurance, equipment, and all associated expenses. The DCNR reserves the right to cancel spray blocks or require respraying, and potential liquidated damages may be assessed for non-compliance with contract specifications. Successful bidders will work under direct supervision of DCNR personnel who will oversee and direct the spray operations.