AHWA Bison Fence & Enclosure

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) is seeking bids for the Appalachian Hills Wildlife Area (AHWA) Bison Fence & Enclosure project located at 9499 State Route 83 in McConnelsville, OH. The procurement involves comprehensive infrastructure development for a bison enclosure, including approximately 13,790 feet of fixed-knot woven wire bison fence, 3,350 feet of 4-board poplar wood secondary fence, and associated infrastructure. Specific deliverables include three 200-gallon freeze-proof watering facilities, one watering hydrant, 4,900 feet of livestock pipeline, 480 square feet of watering heavy use area protection (HUAP) pads, 1,080 square feet of feeding HUAP pads, and nine gates. The project requires mandatory site visits by appointment through Jordan Skates, with all work to be completed by August 15, 2025. Evaluation will be based on the lowest responsive and responsible bidder, calculated by multiplying unit costs by estimated usage. The bid documents outline detailed specifications for fence construction, including post requirements, gate installations, and hot wire systems.

The contract opportunity includes several set-aside provisions and preferences for bidders, including Buy American (5%), Buy Ohio (2%), and Veteran-Friendly Business (2%) preferences. Potential bidders must comply with Ohio ethics laws, election laws, and workers' compensation requirements, and are prohibited from performing services outside the United States or in Russia. The contract requires Commercial General Liability insurance of at least $1,000,000 per occurrence, Automobile Liability coverage, and Workers' Compensation insurance. Contractors must complete an Affirmation and Disclosure Form detailing service locations and data storage sites. While specific budget ranges are not explicitly stated, the contract terms indicate that payments will be processed within 30 calendar days after receipt of a proper invoice. Bidders must also submit an OPERS Independent Contractor Form and adhere to the state's Standard Terms and Conditions, which outline comprehensive regulatory and compliance requirements for vendors doing business with Ohio state agencies.