Bullfrog Creek Nature Preserve Cattle Lease

Hillsborough County's Conservation and Environmental Lands Management Department is seeking a qualified vendor to lease approximately 223 county-owned acres at the Bullfrog Creek Nature Preserve for cattle grazing. The eight-year lease is structured as an annual revenue-generating opportunity with a critical requirement for "In-kind Services" performed by the contractor. These services include comprehensive land management activities such as invasive plant species control, fertilization, fencing repairs, road improvements, and removal of feral hogs and nuisance animals. The maximum stocking rate is set at one Animal Unit per five acres, with a maximum cattle census of 44 AU. A non-mandatory pre-bid conference is scheduled for November 6, 2025, at 10:00 AM in Wimauma, Florida, with final bids due by November 25, 2025, at 2:00 PM Eastern Time through the County's electronic bidding system. Vendors must complete a detailed Vendor Questionnaire Survey demonstrating technical capabilities in rangeland management, invasive species control, infrastructure maintenance, and cattle operations. The contract will be awarded to the highest bidder, with the contractor responsible for all operational expenses and required to provide an annual report detailing activities, herd status, and chemical treatments.

While no specific set-aside designations are mentioned, vendors must demonstrate significant qualifications in cattle management and land conservation. Contractors are required to maintain comprehensive insurance coverage, including Commercial General Liability with a minimum of $1,000,000 per occurrence, and must be authorized entities with A.M. Best ratings of A-, Class 7 or better. The lease agreement includes a security deposit equal to the first and last year's annual rent, and contractors must comply with a Drug-Free Workplace certification as per Florida Statute 287.087. Though specific budget ranges are not explicitly stated, the contract is structured as a revenue-generating opportunity for the county, with the successful bidder paying an annual rent and providing substantial in-kind services valued at the contractor's direct expense. The vendor must also complete additional documentation including a Substitute W-9 form and Direct Deposit Authorization to facilitate financial transactions. The comprehensive requirements suggest the county is seeking an experienced agricultural operator with significant land management expertise and financial stability.