CPW - Cherokee SWA Forest Habitat Improvement

The State of Colorado Department of Natural Resources on behalf of Colorado Parks and Wildlife is requesting proposals for forest habitat improvement services at the Cherokee State Wildlife Area (Upper Unit), with proposals due September 2, 2026 at 12:00 PM MDT and a mandatory pre-bid meeting on August 12, 2026 at 9:00 AM MDT in Larimer County. A 5% SDVOSB preference on bid pricing applies, and resident bidders receive applicable preference.

The scope covers restoration and improvement of up to 332 acres of big game habitat through logging and mastication activities to restore healthy forest conditions, reduce wildfire severity risk, and improve wildlife habitat. Contractors must demonstrate qualifications through at least two similar project examples with references, provide a detailed implementation plan, equipment list, and proposed work schedule. By June 30, 2027, contractors must complete a minimum of 75% of total project acreage. A work closure period runs from September 2, 2027 through November 21, 2027, with full project completion no later than September 1, 2028. All work must be performed within Colorado.

Pricing is submitted on a per-acre basis, with option items available for decking, staging, hauling, and material removal at the contractor's discretion. The State will enter into a single contract and reserves the right to decline optional services. Required insurance includes workers' compensation, commercial general liability with minimum limits of $1 million per occurrence, and automobile liability of $1 million combined single limit, with the State named as additional insured.

Evaluation criteria include qualifications and experience, implementation plan detail and achievability, equipment appropriateness, schedule feasibility, and best value pricing. Contractors with below-standard performance ratings with the State of Colorado are ineligible. Written questions are due August 19, 2026, with answers posted by August 24. Interviews are estimated for September 14–18, 2026, with an expected award decision by September 23. The estimated project start date is October 12, 2026. Monthly payment is based on completed acreage invoiced and approved by the Project Manager.