DNR George Fell Nature Preserve Forestry Mower Followup

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) is seeking a contractor for a forestry mower follow-up project at the George Fell Nature Preserve within Castle Rock State Park, located in Morgan County. The procurement involves comprehensive herbicide treatment of woody species resprouts following previous forestry mowing, with specific requirements for basal bark and foliar treatments during dormant and growing seasons. Contractors must complete a minimum of three passes through the project area over two growing seasons, targeting invasive species such as multiflora rose, brambles, honeysuckles, and buckthorn. Key qualifications include having at least 50% of on-site staff with a minimum of two years of professional experience in herbicide application in natural areas, and the prime contractor must complete at least 51% of the work. The project is funded through the Natural Areas Acquisition Fund (NAAF) Stewardship Project, with a contract term extending through December 31, 2026. The solicitation (Bid Number B45388) was posted on November 4, 2024, with proposals due by November 15, 2024, and work to begin upon contract signing and a mandatory site meeting with the Primary Job Coordinator.

The contract appears to have no specific set-aside designations for disadvantaged enterprises, though standard Illinois state procurement guidelines will apply. Contractors must maintain specific insurance requirements, including $1,000,000 per occurrence for General Commercial Liability and Auto Liability, plus Worker's Compensation Insurance. Subcontracting is permitted for up to 49% of the work, provided subcontractors meet all specified qualifications. The project is priced based on an hourly rate for 532 hours of work, with potential for additional hours to be determined. While no incumbent vendor is mentioned, the work is a follow-up to initial forestry mowing completed in winter 2021-2022. Contractors must provide all necessary herbicides, equipment, and qualified staff, and will be required to work around hunting seasons as specified on the Hunt Illinois website. Access to the work area will be via trails, with permission granted for pickup truck or UTV access.