Conservation Field Fencing

Hillsborough County's Conservation and Environmental Lands Management Department is seeking a qualified vendor to install farm field fencing at three distinct nature preserve locations: Brooker Creek Headwaters Nature Preserve (1,400 linear feet), Blackwater Creek Nature Preserve (6,430 linear feet with a 35-foot inset entrance and 16-foot metal pipe gate), and Cypress Creek Terell Parcel (670 linear feet). The project, designated as Invitation to Bid ITB-25-00344, requires the selected contractor to complete the fencing installation within 60 days of receiving the Purchase Order, with an electronic bid submission deadline of September 30, 2025, at 2:00 P.M. Eastern Time. The primary objectives include securing preserve boundaries, preventing unauthorized vehicle access, and creating barriers to restrict wildlife movement near roads and private properties. Contractors must demonstrate expertise in field fencing installation and comply with various local, state, and federal requirements, including E-Verify workforce verification and non-discrimination standards. No pre-bid conference or site visit is scheduled, but interested bidders are encouraged to conduct drive-by property inspections.

The contract appears open to all qualified vendors without specific set-aside designations for disadvantaged enterprises. Contractors must provide comprehensive insurance coverage, including general liability, automobile liability, excess liability, and workers' compensation, with Hillsborough County named as an additional insured party. The project budget is estimated at $85,000.00, and the county will award the contract to the lowest responsive and responsible bidder meeting all specified requirements. Vendors must complete several mandatory compliance documents, including a Drug-Free Workplace Form, an Affidavit of Compliance regarding business operations in specific foreign countries, a Substitute W-9 form, and a Direct Deposit Authorization form. Additionally, contractors are prohibited from having ownership, controlling interest, or principal business operations in designated "Foreign Countries of Concern" such as China, Russia, Iran, North Korea, Cuba, Venezuela, and Syria. The contract is non-exclusive and does not guarantee a minimum total purchase, providing flexibility for the county in future procurement decisions.