High desert sage steppe habitat restoration

The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife is soliciting bids under ITB 323-26 for western juniper removal on approximately 5,693 acres of BLM land, with bids due November 25, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. through OregonBuys Bid S-63500-00018257. Bidders must submit a COBID Certification/Outreach Plan with their bids. The ITB identifies no set-asides, and recycled products are preferred per state policy.

The work is hand severing, lopping, piling, and covering of juniper and conifer trees below 9 inches diameter at breast height. Exceptions apply to marked trees, trees with cavity or stick nests, trees with attached fence wire, and trees exhibiting two or more old-growth characteristics. The project area is divided into 10 units south of U.S. Highway 20 near Brothers, Oregon, with maps in Attachment G. The objectives are reducing wildfire risk and improving habitat for mule deer, greater sage-grouse, and other sage steppe-dependent species. ODFW prepared the ITB with the Prineville District Bureau of Land Management, and the project uses federal funds.

ODFW anticipates awarding one contract. Funding is fixed, and acreage treated depends on the bidder's unit price and available funds. Work must be completed by June 30, 2027, with invoices due by July 31, 2027. Minimum qualifications and responsibility determinations are pass/fail. Cost comparison and references also factor into award. Required bid documents are a Disclosure Exemption Affidavit, Reference Check Form, Bid Submittal Form, COBID Certification/Outreach Plan, and Responsibility Inquiry Form. Additional terms appear in Attachment A (Sample Contract) and Exhibit C (Special Terms and Conditions).

Questions and solicitation inquiries route to Jake Howard, Procurement Specialist III, at jake.e.howard@odfw.oregon.gov or 971-600-4697.