DNR RFB Owen-Hinz WMA Winter Brush Mowing

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is soliciting bids under RFB 2027-374 for winter brush mowing of approximately 27 acres in the Little Falls Wildlife Work Area of the Owen-Hinz Wildlife Management Area in Todd County, Minnesota, with bids due November 10, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. CST. The solicitation identifies no small business, minority-owned, women-owned, service-disabled veteran, or economically disadvantaged set-aside. Minnesota Resident Vendor status may be claimed for resolving tied bids or reciprocal preference consideration.

Responders must demonstrate that they have substantially completed, as prime contractor, at least one written and verifiable contract since August 1, 2023, for mechanical brush mowing of similar scope with a minimum project size of 25 acres. The work covers mulching and/or mowing of standing willow, alder, and aspen, with labor, equipment, materials, tools, and transportation included. Equipment must include a rubber-tracked skid steer with at least 100 gross engine horsepower and 35 gallons per minute hydraulic flow, or alternative tracked equipment meeting specified horsepower minimums, fitted with heavy-duty rotary brush mowers and drum-style mulching attachments. Operators require at least 250 hours of experience on the specified equipment. Mandatory Vendor Qualification and Equipment and Operator Experience Forms must accompany bids. The State will reject responses showing default, terminations for cause, or willful OSHA citations within the past 36 months. Insurance requirements include $1,500,000 per occurrence commercial general liability, $1,500,000 combined single limit commercial automobile liability, and Minnesota statutory workers' compensation, with proof due if awarded.

Pricing is per acre and must be all-inclusive, covering labor, materials, tools, transportation, equipment, sales tax, and use tax, with unit prices entered directly into SWIFT. Direct Pay Permit 1114 does not apply. Work may begin January 1, 2027, or upon Notice to Proceed and approval of frozen ground conditions, with substantial completion required by March 1, 2027, or before significant thaw causes rutting, and contract expiration on April 1, 2027. Award goes to the lowest responsible vendor meeting all specifications and terms. Responses must be submitted electronically through the Swift Portal, with no email or fax submissions accepted. Site visits are arranged through Project Supervisor Jeremy Maslowski at 320-232-1067. Questions go to Masami Evans at 218/308-2630 or masami.evans@state.mn.us. Vendors must review Exhibit F maps and all other attachments, and the Contractor Assistance Help Desk is available at 651-201-8100, Option 1.