Chassahowitzka WMA Boundary Mulching

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is soliciting competitive bids for selective forestry mulching services at the Chassahowitzka Wildlife Management Area in Hernando County under ITB FWC 25.26-107, with sealed bids due September 4, 2026 at 2:00 PM ET and a mandatory pre-bid conference and site visit on August 13, 2026 at 10:00 AM ET.

The scope encompasses mulching 779.59 acres of moderate to dense vegetation across sandhill and mesic flatwoods habitat to reduce vegetation height and density for enhanced prescribed burning application. The project targets 260 acres annually over three years, though final acreage and locations are subject to change based on funding availability and hydrological conditions. All vegetation 6 inches in diameter or smaller must be mulched to a height of 4 inches or lower. The contractor must provide all labor, materials, equipment, supplies, and vehicles; demonstrate familiarity with common native Florida plants; comply with all state and local regulations; and maintain equipment capability with a 7-day replacement provision. Work must be completed by June 1, 2027. Subcontracting is not permitted.

The estimated total project budget is $225,000. The contract term is one year from Purchase Order issuance, with renewal options available for up to two additional years at the Commission's sole discretion under the same terms and conditions. Liquidated damages are assessed at $200 per calendar day for failure to meet the completion date.

Award will be made to the responsive, responsible bidder submitting the lowest total estimated project cost. Bidders must be registered in both the MyFloridaMarketPlace and SunBiz systems prior to bid opening and must submit a minimum of three references for similar projects. The project utilizes federal funds under the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021; successful bidders must obtain a Unique Entity Identifier on sam.gov and complete financial registration within specified timeframes. Written questions are due August 20, 2026 at 5:00 PM ET, with responses anticipated by August 26. The anticipated award date is September 9, 2026.