Exotic-invasive plant treatment services

The Suwannee River Water Management District (SRWMD) has issued Invitation to Bid (ITB) No. 24/25-012 OPS for Exotic-Invasive Plant Treatment Services, targeting the Lake Rowell Tract in Bradford County, Florida. The procurement seeks a contractor to treat approximately 516 acres of invasive plant species, with potential for additional work areas, to support natural community restoration goals. Specific invasive species to be eradicated include Chinese tallow, camphor trees, and Japanese climbing fern, with contractors required to guarantee 98% coverage and 95% mortality of targeted species. Contractors must provide a licensed field supervisor with Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services certifications and demonstrate capabilities in equipment, past project experience, and geographic data management. The bid is due on September 8, 2025, with contract execution tentatively planned for October 1, 2025, and an initial three-year contract term with potential for two subsequent one-year renewals contingent on performance, funding, and mutual agreement. The per-acre treatment rate will be all-inclusive, covering travel, labor, equipment, and materials, with a phased invoicing approach of 70% payment after initial coverage verification and 30% after mortality confirmation.

The solicitation does not explicitly mention set-aside designations or restrictions for disadvantaged enterprises. The contract appears open to qualified environmental services or vegetation management contractors with specialized expertise in invasive species control. Invoicing and payment will be structured with an initial 70% payment following coverage verification and a final 30% payment after confirming 95% mortality of targeted invasive species, approximately 3-6 weeks post-treatment. While specific budget ranges are not detailed, the district reserves the right to adjust treatment acres based on annual budget constraints. The multi-year contract structure suggests potential stability for the selected vendor, with opportunities for contract renewal based on performance. Contractors will be required to provide comprehensive documentation using the district's Chemical Vegetation Management Form, which tracks detailed treatment information including species identification, control methods, herbicide applications, and post-treatment observations. The overall project aims to support the Suwannee River Water Management District's land management plan by systematically controlling and eradicating invasive plant species.