DNR fire assistance feng

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) is seeking a qualified vendor to provide prescribed fire assistance for its South Region, specifically targeting Heritage and Illinois Natural Preserve Commission (INPC) sites across twelve counties in southern Illinois. The contract requires vendors to supply trained crew members capable of supporting IDNR staff in conducting prescribed burns, with responsibilities including site preparation, ignition, holding, mop-up operations, and hazard mitigation. Crew members must possess specific qualifications, including completion of S-130, S-190, and fire field day training, experience with at least ten prescribed burns led by IDNR staff, participation in two fire seasons, and proficiency with specialized equipment like chainsaws, UTVs, fire pumps, and backpack blowers. The contract encompasses approximately 860 billable hours and will extend through April 15, 2027, with vendors required to be available within 24 hours' notice and limited to declining no more than three assistance requests per calendar month. The proposal is due on December 2, 2025, with the primary contact being Christina Feng, District Natural Heritage Biologist, who can be reached at 217.993.2248 or christina.feng@illinois.gov.

The solicitation does not explicitly outline specific set-aside designations or restrictions for disadvantaged enterprises. Vendors must submit a per-hour bid for the total contract term on a firm-price basis, with payment covering only on-site work time and excluding travel expenses. Insurance requirements are stringent, mandating General Commercial Liability insurance of $1,000,000 per occurrence and $2,000,000 annual aggregate, Auto Liability of $1,000,000 per occurrence, and Worker's Compensation Insurance as legally required. Subcontractors are not permitted under this contract, and the total contract value will be determined by the State prior to execution. The contract is funded through IDNR and is contingent upon the availability of appropriated funds, with invoicing allowed no more frequently than monthly and a final submission deadline of April 15, 2027. While a specific budget range is not explicitly stated, the 860-hour contract suggests a moderate-scale procurement focused on specialized environmental management services.