DNR RFB Aitkin Mechanical Tree Planting

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is seeking bids for a mechanical tree planting project in Aitkin County, specifically targeting two Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) - Hay Point and Robert's-Wickstrom. The procurement involves planting approximately 17,900 DNR-provided tree and shrub seedlings across 25.9 total acres, including species such as White Pine, Bur Oak, White Spruce, Red Oak, Red Pine, Wild Plum, Pin Cherry, and Chokecherry. Contractors must provide their own equipment, including a minimum 50hp tractor and tree planter with a sod scalper, with the option to rent a DNR planter for $40 per day. To qualify, prime contractors must demonstrate completion of at least one verifiable contract of similar scope within the past 48 months, involving ten or more acres of mechanical tree planting. The bid submission period runs from January 9, 2025, at 8:00 AM to January 23, 2025, at 2:00 PM, with work to be completed by May 31, 2025. Potential bidders can arrange site visits by contacting Project Supervisor Derek Frost at 218-429-3055, and all responses must be submitted electronically through the Swift Portal.

The solicitation includes preference options for Minnesota resident vendors and veteran-owned small businesses, offering a 12% preference on procurements up to $2,000,000. Targeted Group, Economically Disadvantaged Business, and Veteran-Owned businesses will receive additional evaluation considerations. Contractors must register in the Swift Portal system and submit required documentation, including a Qualification Form and Equipment Form. The contract will be awarded to the lowest responsible vendor meeting all specifications, with the DNR reserving the right to award items separately or by total, depending on what is most advantageous to the state. Contractors must carry specified insurance coverage, including workers' compensation, automobile liability, and commercial general liability. While a specific budget range is not explicitly stated, the project involves planting across approximately 25.9 acres with unit pricing to be determined by the contractor's bid. The DNR Project Supervisor retains the right to withdraw the contract offer due to insufficient funding or limit the number of acres completed based on available resources.