James M John - Toybox Forest Habitat Improvement Project

The State of Colorado Department of Natural Resources, on behalf of Colorado Parks and Wildlife, is soliciting proposals for logging and habitat improvement services on up to 301 acres at the James M John State Wildlife Area near Trinidad, Colorado, with proposals due October 26, 2026 at 10:00 AM MDT. A mandatory pre-bid meeting is scheduled for October 8, 2026 at 10:00 AM MDT; attendance is required or proposers will be disqualified. Service Disabled Veteran Owned Small Businesses certified through the U.S. Small Business Administration may receive a 5% preference, and resident bidders are eligible for preference under Colorado Procurement Code.

The scope requires selective tree removal to reduce basal area from 195 to an average of 85 in the 8-inch to 24-inch diameter at breast height classes, prioritizing removal of white fir, Douglas-fir, Engelmann spruce, and encroaching conifers around aspen stands. Work must occur on slopes of 30 percent or less. Contractors must complete a 5-acre test section for CPW approval before proceeding with full implementation, comply with 2023 Forestry Best Management Practices and Section 404 of the Clean Water Act, and clean and inspect all equipment for weed seeds prior to commencing work. Monthly completion maps and weekly status reports are required. Failure to meet the June 30, 2027 completion deadline incurs liquidated damages at $458.53 per calendar day.

The maximum project budget is $600,000, with payment based on completed monthly acreage at an agreed-upon price per acre. CPW does not guarantee a minimum work amount and reserves the right to adjust acreage based on budget constraints. All pricing must remain firm for 180 days following proposal submission. Contractors must obtain comprehensive insurance with general liability and automobile liability of $1,000,000 each, with the State named as additional insured. All work must be performed within Colorado, and the contractor must maintain a place of business and be registered with the Colorado Secretary of State or IRS. Top candidate interviews are scheduled for November 2–4, 2026, with award notification expected November 6, 2026 and project start November 23, 2026. Proposals must be submitted through Colorado Vendor Self Service or Google Forms. Questions are due October 15, 2026, with answers posted by October 20, 2026.