Butcher PCT LS

The Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) is conducting a Limited Solicitation (LS) for a Pre-Commercial Thinning (PCT) project located approximately 7 miles southwest of Trego, Montana. The solicitation, numbered DNRC-LimtSol-2024-1131TBH, seeks forest-related services including hand thinning of sapling-sized trees across a 40-acre cutting unit using chain saws and/or brush cutters, with a target average tree spacing of 14' x 14'. Bidders are required to visit the job site and obtain a gate key/combo from the Stillwater State Forest Headquarters. The contract will run from execution through October 31, 2024, with an operational timing period for Unit 1 from June 16 to March 31 annually. To receive full payment, contractors must ensure 90% of the unit area meets prescribed tree stocking levels, which will be verified through sight estimates and/or 1/300th acre circular plots. The solicitation was posted on November 7, 2023, with bid responses due by December 5, 2023. Bidders must submit per-acre and total bid prices, demonstrating capability to work in bear habitat and comply with specific forest fire regulations.

No specific set-aside designations or restrictions for disadvantaged enterprises were explicitly detailed in the documents. Insurance requirements include commercial general liability coverage of $1,000,000 per occurrence and $2,000,000 aggregate, and automobile liability coverage with a $1,000,000 limit. The State reserves the right to terminate the contract with 15 days' notice or if funding is not appropriated, and performance assessments may impact future solicitation opportunities. While a specific budget range was not provided, bidders will submit line-item pricing for the 40-acre project. Contractors must be prepared to work in challenging environmental conditions, including bear habitat, and must carry EPA-registered bear spray, maintain awareness of surroundings, and follow detailed safety protocols. Additional requirements include registration with the Secretary of State, compliance with debarment regulations, and adherence to comprehensive fire prevention and safety guidelines applicable during the forest fire season from May 1st to September 30th.