DCR 996 Forest Landowner Assistance

The Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation is requesting responses for Forest Landowner Assistance (DCR 996) with proposals due August 10, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. through COMMBUYS.

The scope encompasses technical guidance on forest management practices, forest stewardship planning, information on conservation programs, and support for sustainable forestry initiatives, with emphasis on expanding outreach to underrepresented populations and increasing participation in state forestry programs. The contract focuses on promoting best management practices, supporting forest health initiatives, and connecting private forest landowners with available state and federal assistance programs across Massachusetts.

All bidders must be registered with the Massachusetts Department of Revenue and the Secretary of State's Corporations department. A mandatory Supplier Diversity Plan is required with a minimum 1% spending commitment with certified diverse businesses (MBE, WBE, SDVOBE, VBE, M/NPO, W/NPO, V/NPO, DOBE, or LGBTBE) or the awardee will not receive contract award.

Evaluation allocates points as follows: Supplier Diversity Plan (25%), company experience (25%), price (15% — including estimated total annual staffing and overhead costs), employee qualifications (8%), financial stability (10%), business references (5% — minimum three required), capacity planning (4%), environmental specifications (4%), and online/web capability (4%). Capacity planning requires submission of a bank letter demonstrating ability to carry a $300,000 line of credit for 45 days; failure to provide results in automatic disqualification. Online/web capability requires demonstration of a public-facing online presence with regular updates and identified resources for maintaining a robust digital presence.

Mandatory submission requirements include a completed Bidder Response Form with detailed cost tables including overhead and staffing expenses with hourly rates; business resume; bank letter; Vendor Digital Accessibility Questionnaire; Prompt Payment Discount Form (specifying discounts for payment within 10, 15, 20, and 30 days); Environmentally Preferable Products/Practices Form; Business Reference Form; and Certificate of Insurance. Proposals must include supplemental documentation demonstrating company experience, financial stability, and employee qualifications. All submissions must be completed in full; incomplete responses are subject to disqualification.