Archaeological Survey of White River WLA East Cascades Oak Partnership (ECOP) Treatment Areas

The Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife (ODFW) is seeking professional archaeological survey services for the White River Wildlife Area near Tygh Valley, Oregon, through RFP S-63500-00012184. The procurement involves conducting a comprehensive archaeological pedestrian survey across 5,050 acres of priority restoration areas, with an optional Task 2 covering an additional 2,586 acres of supplemental survey areas. Contractors must be qualified archaeological professionals meeting the Secretary of the Interior's professional standards, with specific expertise in the Columbia Plateau cultural area. Required deliverables include a detailed literature review, tribal outreach, pedestrian surveys, and comprehensive reporting following Oregon State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) guidelines. The evaluation criteria are weighted across seven categories: Cover Letter (5 points), Experience/Key Personnel (25 points), Understanding/Approach (15 points), Statement of Work (25 points), DEI Values (5 points), Required Forms (Pass/Fail), and Price (25 points). Key procurement dates include January 8, 2025, for questions/clarifications, January 15, 2025, for proposal opening, with the contract anticipated to be effective from February 2025 and terminate in June 2026.

The procurement appears open to multiple archaeological consulting firms, with no specific set-aside designations explicitly mentioned. Seven companies submitted proposals, including SWCA Environmental, PaleoWest LLC (Chronicle Heritage), ASM Affiliates, RLR Cultural Resources LLC, WestLand Engineering & Environmental Services, Stell Environmental Enterprises, and Sundance Consultants LLC. PaleoWest LLC was ultimately selected with the highest score of 91.5 points. The project is funded through the Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board (OWEB) via the East Cascades Oak Partnership and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, with the primary objective of supporting future fuels reduction, thinning, and conifer removal to restore oak woodlands. While specific budget details are not provided, the comprehensive nature of the survey and the multiple task options suggest a substantial contract value. Contractors must coordinate closely with the Wildlife Area Manager, provide one week's notice before site access, and adhere to specific guidelines regarding site documentation, property access, and seasonal considerations.