Invasive Plant Species Removal Services

The Missouri Department of Conservation is requesting bids for invasive plant species removal services at Big Creek Conservation Area in Adair County, Missouri, under IFB MDC 0000000232SL, with proposals due August 6, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. Central Time. The contractor must hold a Commercial Certified Pesticide Applicator certification in Missouri and provide proof upon request — a mandatory qualification filter.

The scope covers approximately 85 acres and requires deadening five species: Autumn Olive, Multiflora Rose, Honeysuckle, Honey Locust, and Burning Bush. Work must be scheduled to avoid specified firearms deer hunting seasons. Herbicide application methods require advance Department approval; diesel fuel is prohibited for treatments. The contractor cannot deploy bulldozers or allow brush piles to accumulate at the base of live standing trees and must complete 50 percent of required services by December 31, 2026, and all remaining work by April 9, 2027.

Pricing is firm, fixed unit price per acre multiplied by the estimated 85 acres, with all costs for labor, equipment, materials, supplies, and supervision included. The Department makes no guarantee regarding actual acreage to be serviced and reserves the right to prioritize areas if appropriations are insufficient. The original contract period extends from award through April 15, 2027.

The Department applies Missouri business preferences when quality and price are equal or better. Suppliers proposing participation by organizations for the blind or sheltered workshops and committing to a minimum of two percent of total contract value or $5,000 may qualify for five to fifteen bonus evaluation points.

Award will be made to the lowest and best bid complying with all mandatory requirements. An optional tour of the work area is available; interested suppliers must request at least five calendar days in advance by contacting Dylan Hilts at (660) 785-2424 ext. 6511. All required business compliance exhibits, including proof of Missouri tax compliance and Secretary of State registration, are mandatory. No formal pre-bid conference is scheduled.