Herbicide application multiple wildlife areas

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) is seeking qualified vendors to perform selective herbicide application on reclaimed strip-mined properties across six wildlife areas in Ohio, covering approximately 6,513 total acres. The procurement opportunity involves treating woody vegetation, including autumn olive, black locust, honeysuckle, and other invasive species, with the objective of achieving a 95% kill rate while preserving grass ecosystems. Mandatory pre-bid site visits are scheduled between March 27 and April 2, 2025, and vendors must attend these meetings for the specific wildlife areas they intend to bid on, with bids due by April 14, 2025. Vendors are required to develop comprehensive treatment proposals that address methodology, chemical usage, scheduling, staging areas, and necessary certifications, demonstrating expertise in selective herbicide application on challenging terrain. Evaluation criteria will include the lowest responsive and responsible bid, with potential preference given to Buy American, Buy Ohio, and Veteran-Friendly Business offerings. The contract requires initial and follow-up treatments to be completed by June 30, 2025, with payment contingent upon successful completion and post-work site visit evaluation.

The solicitation appears open to various types of businesses, with potential scoring adjustments for diversity and veteran-owned enterprises. Vendors must be prepared to navigate complex site conditions, including coordinating with existing grazing contracts and using georeferenced PDF maps to identify treatment areas. Strict prohibitions exist against using Chinese-made drones, and contractors must provide precise treatment documentation. While specific budget ranges are not explicitly stated, the comprehensive nature of the project suggests significant potential contract value across the six wildlife areas. Vendors must complete an Independent Contractor/Worker Acknowledgment form with the Ohio Public Employees Retirement System and adhere to standard state contract terms, including compliance with Ohio ethics laws, equal employment opportunity requirements, and maintaining a drug-free workplace. The contract will be structured to not extend beyond the current biennium, with potential for renewal through a separate addendum, and total payments are contingent upon Ohio General Assembly appropriations.