FRD GNA HMNF FY25 Heritage Surveys

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources, Forest Resource Division, is issuing RFP 250000002585 for Phase I Archaeological (Heritage) Inventory Survey Services across the Huron-Manistee National Forests in Washtenaw County and Burt CDP. The procurement requires consultants to conduct comprehensive pre-field Class I archaeological research, including archival searches, geomorphological analysis, and intensive pedestrian walkover visual surveys with shovel testing across 2,095 acres spanning six timber sale areas (GNA Exploits, GNA Beech Road, Millerton Grade, Locust Road, Rollways, and GNA Sauger Creek). Deliverables include a complete pre-field inventory utilizing archival and informant data, identification of previously recorded cultural resources, Class I research conducted at HMNF offices and State Historic Preservation Office archives, professional designation of testing areas for moderate probability zones, draft reports due December 15, 2025, and final reports with revisions due January 15, 2026. All field work must be completed by November 15, 2025, with no contract extensions permitted regardless of permit receipt dates. The contractor must provide expertise in geo-archaeological research, verify all previously identified sites, and conduct metal detection and soil coring as methodologically necessary. Evaluation criteria consist of technical evaluation (70 points for Statement of Work sections and 30 points for vendor questions and experience, with 80 points minimum for pricing consideration) and price evaluation on a per-acre basis for three probability categories: High Probability (125 acres), Moderate Probability (319 acres), and Low Probability (1,651 acres). The proposal deadline is June 30, 2025, at 9:30 a.m. Eastern, with bidder questions accepted until June 18, 2025, and answers posted by June 23, 2025; the anticipated contract begin date is July 7, 2025.

The RFP does not specify set-aside designations or restrictions limiting the types of organizations that can respond, nor does it identify incumbent vendors or existing contractors. The contract is for one year with up to four additional one-year renewal options at the State's sole discretion. Progress payments are structured as 70 percent upon field work completion, 20 percent upon draft report submittal, and 10 percent upon final report submittal and approval, with liquidated damages of $2,500 plus $100 per day applicable for late or improper completion. The contractor must maintain Commercial General Liability insurance ($1,000,000 each occurrence), Automobile Liability ($1,000,000 per accident), and Workers' Compensation coverage. All archaeological collections and records become the property of the United States Forest Service and must be relinquished to the Huron-Manistee National Forests Heritage Program Manager prior to final payment. Specific budget or award value information is not disclosed in the available documentation; pricing will be evaluated based on per-acre rates submitted by responsive bidders meeting the technical evaluation threshold.