Jackson Creek Forest Restoration Project

Douglas County Government's Department of Open Space and Natural Resources is seeking bids for the Jackson Creek Forest Restoration Project through Invitation for Bid (IFB) #021-25. The procurement seeks highly-qualified contractors to perform comprehensive forest restoration services across 510 acres, including 294 acres of mechanical treatment and 216 acres of hand treatment spanning 9 private properties and 1 county-owned property. Key project objectives include reducing wildland fire hazards, improving forest health, and protecting watershed integrity through specialized forest management techniques such as mastication of ladder fuels, selective tree removal, and preservation of specific forest characteristics. The project requires contractors to submit detailed cost proposals per acre for mechanical and hand treatments, along with a comprehensive plan of operations detailing equipment, crew size, project approach, and wood product utilization. A mandatory site visit is scheduled for August 7, 2025, with bid responses due by August 19, 2025, at 4:00 PM. The initial contract period will run from approximately September 1, 2025, to December 31, 2026, spanning 16 months, with potential for annual renewal contingent upon funding and performance.

The solicitation does not explicitly specify set-aside designations for disadvantaged business enterprises. The contract requires contractors to maintain specific insurance coverages, including $1,000,000 in Commercial General Liability, $1,000,000 in Automobile Liability, statutory Workers' Compensation limits, and $1,000,000 in Professional Liability. A damage deposit of $2,000 will be required, with potential penalties for excessive damage to the remaining forest stand. The contract is funded annually and contingent upon budget appropriations, with pricing to remain firm and fixed during the initial contract period. While specific budget ranges are not detailed, the project involves treatments across 510 acres with mechanical and hand treatment components. The county reserves the right to award the contract based on its evaluation of submitted bids and contractor qualifications, with continuation subject to annual funding appropriation and the county's satisfaction with services rendered.