Due Diligence: NOI Former Tanner-Hiller Airport (EQLT)

The Massachusetts Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program (NHESP) is directing MESA Mitigation Funding to the East Quabbin Land Trust (EQLT) for ecological restoration at the former Tanner-Hiller Airport located at 295 McEvoy Road in New Braintree and Barre, Worcester County. The primary service being procured involves selective tree removal across 26 acres to expand existing sandplain grassland by approximately 10 acres and improve sightlines for state-listed grassland bird species, specifically upland sandpiper (Endangered), grasshopper sparrow (Threatened), and eastern meadowlark (Special Concern). Vendors must demonstrate expertise and knowledge in selective tree removal for grassland bird habitat management and must own the property. The ecological restoration project must be coordinated with EQLT's rail trail project, with the rail trail component requiring completion by June 30, 2026, and all work estimated for completion by December 31, 2026. The primary objective is to establish a locally significant source population of state-listed grassland birds within the greater Ware River Watershed while providing long-term net benefits to endangered and threatened species conservation in accordance with the Action Plan for the Conservation of State-listed Obligate Grassland Birds in Massachusetts. All responses must be submitted through COMMBUYS by 3:00 PM Eastern Time on Monday, April 6, 2026. No site visits or bidders' meetings have been specified in the posting.

No set-asides or designations for disadvantaged enterprises are identified in this procurement opportunity. The notice does not identify any incumbent vendors, current contractors, or renewal options. The NHESP has dedicated $100,000 in MESA Mitigation Funds to support this direct, on-the-ground ecological restoration effort, representing the available budget for the project. Qualified vendors must submit quotes online through the COMMBUYS system following the established bid process and standard procurement procedures. Technical assistance is available through the COMMBUYS Help Desk via website, email, or telephone during standard business hours for vendors requiring support with submission or system navigation.