42479 - Twelve Mile Swamp Conservation Area - West Augustine Mulch Mowing

The St. Johns River Water Management District is requesting submittals on mechanical mowing and mulching services at the Twelve Mile Swamp Conservation Area – West Augustine parcel under IFB 42479, with submittals due September 2, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. and the last day for questions August 27, 2026 at 5:00 p.m.

Respondents must demonstrate a minimum of three years of experience and two qualifying projects involving at least 100 acres each of mulching vegetation up to four inches in diameter at breast height within natural areas, conservation lands, or mitigation sites. All respondents must hold active Florida business registration, E-Verify enrollment, current applicable licenses or certifications, and proof of insurability with an A.M. Best Company rating of at least A-.

The scope covers approximately 180 acres of understory vegetation and shrub mowing and mulching for hazardous fuel-load reduction and prescribed-fire preparation. Treatment areas include upland and transitional pine forest with understory vegetation primarily consisting of saw palmetto and gallberry; wetland areas are excluded. Palmettos must be mowed or mulched to a maximum height of approximately twelve inches above ground level. Contractors may utilize multiple skid steers, compact wheeled loaders, or combinations thereof. Approved equipment includes Fecon Mulching Heads, Diamond Drum Mulchers, Diamond Rotary Mulchers, or equivalents.

The estimated budget is $80,000, with compensation based on a cost-per-acre rate for completed and accepted acreage. The District will consider bids exceeding the estimate estimate if otherwise responsive and responsible. The original completion deadline of September 25, 2026 has been extended to November 30, 2026 per Addendum #1 issued August 28, 2026. Contractors may submit monthly itemized progress invoices with standard payment terms of net forty-five days; no mobilization or advance payments are available. Completed acreage will be calculated via GPS at project completion. No bonding or retainage requirements apply. Failure to complete work by November 30 may constitute default and subject the contractor to termination for cause or District completion through other means. No pre-bid meeting is scheduled; site visits may be arranged by contacting the North Region Land Manager at tmostell@sjrwmd.com.