DNR RFB Rushford TSI-TIS Project FY27

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is soliciting bids under RFB 2027-368, the Rushford TSI-TIS Project FY27, for invasive plant and undesirable tree species control on approximately 83.5 acres in two bid groups, with responses due November 3, 2026. No set-asides are indicated in this solicitation.

Work uses cutting and herbicide hand-application methods, including basal bark, cut-stump, and foliar applications, on designated invasive species such as non-native honeysuckle and buckthorn and undesirable trees including elm, boxelder, ironwood, and ash. Bid Group 1 (perimeter treatment) covers 38.2 acres and Bid Group 2 (interior forest and timber stand improvement) covers 45.3 acres in the Richard J. Dorer Memorial Hardwood State Forest, Rushford Village Township, Fillmore County. Scope includes labor, licensing, equipment, mobilization, materials, herbicides, disposal and cleanup, reporting, and incidentals.

Every individual working with chemicals on the project must hold a current Minnesota Commercial Pesticide Applicators License and have a minimum of two years of experience applying the contracted treatments. The prime contractor submits a completed Prime Contractor Response Qualification Form with license copies attached. The sample contract prohibits subcontracting. Commercial Automobile Liability Insurance of $1,000,000 per occurrence combined single limit and Workers' Compensation Insurance are required; Commercial General Liability and Pollution Liability are waived.

Compensation is a price per acre for each bid group, and unit prices must include all costs, including labor, materials, tools, transportation, equipment, sales tax, and use tax. Direct Pay Permit 1114 does not apply. Payment follows Minnesota Statute 16A.124, due within 30 days of an undisputed invoice for accepted acres. All work must be completed by June 23, 2027. The contract takes effect upon Notice to Proceed or full execution of all signatures, whichever is later.

The state will award to the lowest responsible vendor meeting all specifications and terms, and it may award by item, by group, or by total. Non-compliant responses are rejected, and the DNR determines whether vendors meet specifications. Site visits are arranged through project supervisor Angela Yuska at 507-259-5827, though the sample contract lists 507-765-7832. Responses must be submitted electronically through the Swift Portal, with email and fax not accepted, and vendors must respond to the latest event version. Registration help is available from the Contractor Assistance Help Desk at 651-201-8100, Option 1.