FAC120, Category 4 - Vegetation Management - Wachusett Spillway RFP

The Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation, Division of Water Supply Protection, is requesting proposals for chemical vegetation management at the Wachusett Reservoir spillway in Clinton, with proposals due August 14, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. via Commbuys and a mandatory bidders' conference on August 7, 2026 at 9:00 a.m. at DWSP Gate 40.

The scope is foliar herbicide application and cut-stem treatment using aquatic-safe formulations of glyphosate and/or triclopyr to control all vegetation within a 1.2-acre exposed rocky channel immediately downstream of the spillway. Work must be completed by September 15, 2026 with an estimated project duration of one day. Vendors must provide a detailed scope of work outlining all materials and equipment proposed for use. Prior to starting work, contractors must notify DCR at least one week in advance and notify the local Conservation Commission before commencing activities. Access to the work area is controlled through gated access point 40; DCR staff will manage gate access or allow contractor padlocks.

All work is subject to Massachusetts prevailing wage requirements; wage rates vary by classification, with base wages ranging from approximately $25 to $117 per hour plus health and pension benefits. Contractors must submit weekly payroll reports to DCR and maintain records for three years. Apprentices registered with the Massachusetts Division of Apprentice Standards may be paid reduced rates based on training step level.

Evaluation criteria are vendor availability to meet project deadlines (35% weight), project cost (25%), completeness of proposal including acknowledgment of tasks, materials, and equipment (20%), and experience in similar work (20%). Questions are due August 12, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. via Commbuys Q&A, with answers provided by August 13. The anticipated award date is August 21, 2026. Billing inquiries should be directed to Christy Raillo at christy.raillo@mass.gov.