Calico Creek Timber Stand Improvement Winter 2026/ 2027

Missouri Department of Natural Resources is requesting bids on timber stand improvement at Calico Creek Winter 2026/2027, with proposals due September 4, 2026. The project encompasses forest management on the adjacent Goedeker and Ladd properties at the confluence of Calico Creek and the Big River in Jefferson County, Missouri.

The scope addresses overstocked midstory conditions on upland areas with Chert Upland Woodland, Chert Exposed Backslope Woodland, and Shallow Dolomite Upland Glade/Woodland ecological site descriptions. Both properties were heavily harvested approximately 25–30 years ago and currently require thinning of eastern red cedar and undesirable saplings as prescribed in their respective Forest Management Plans. The Goedeker property spans 284 acres across 10 stands; the Ladd property scope is detailed in its own Forest Management Plan. Work must comply with U.S. Forest Service Forest Stewardship Program standards, USDA NRCS Farm Bill Programs, the American Tree Farm System, and Missouri Department of Conservation's Missouri Managed Woods Program. Management activities prioritize removal of undesirable midstory trees while preserving oaks, black walnut, and select species; prescribed burning is recommended every 3–5 years for specific stands. The scope includes threatened and endangered species protections for Indiana bats, gray bats, and bald eagles, with specified no-cut periods and buffer zones around riparian areas and cave sites.

The project is funded through settlement proceeds from ASARCO LLC bankruptcy related to Big River Mine Tailings and Southwest Jefferson County Lead Mine Superfund Sites. The project integrates with EPA's Calico Creek pilot restoration initiative and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers ecosystem restoration efforts. Technical specifications and implementation standards are detailed in Attachments E (Goedeker 2027 TSI) and F (Ladd 2027 TSI). Site location reference materials and Forest Management Plan documents are provided. Contract award will be made to the lowest responsive and responsible bidder.