Contract Tree Growing

The City of Fort Collins is requesting proposals for contract tree growing production and delivery under RFP 10113, with proposals due October 26, 2026, at 3:00 PM Mountain Time and questions due October 12, 2026, at 3:00 PM MT.

The scope covers growing and supplying approximately 2,000 trees across 12 specified species over a five-year contract term, with deliveries occurring in early spring based on arboricultural best practices. Trees must meet ANSI Z60.1-2014 standards and include QR code traceability with digital tracking integration. Root development, trunk condition, and integrated pest management practices are subject to strict quality control. Container materials must be recyclable or compostable. The City reserves the right to award to one or more service providers.

Winning proposers' growing operations must be located no more than 500 miles from Fort Collins unless the City's Project Manager grants an exception. Pricing is unit-cost-based per tree species on a fixed-price basis. Annual payments are structured not to exceed one-fifth of the total extended cost, with final payment upon delivery of trees meeting City specifications. Proposals must include detailed cost breakdowns for each tree species on a mandatory Exhibit A cost sheet.

The contract may be funded in part or in whole by Federal USDA funds, requiring compliance with applicable Federal 2 CFR part 200 terms and conditions. New service providers must submit IRS Form W-9 and accept direct deposit electronic payments.

Evaluation criteria weighting: scope of proposal (3.0), firm capability and assigned personnel (3.0), and cost competitiveness (4.0). Interviews are tentatively scheduled for the week of November 12, 2026, with contract award anticipated for November 23, 2026.