Landscaping improvement project for the Magee Marsh Visitor Center

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) is seeking a contractor for a landscaping improvement project at the Magee Marsh Visitor Center located in Oak Harbor, Putnam County. The project involves creating a comprehensive landscape design featuring native plant species, including the installation of a 4-foot wide gravel walkway, river stone hardscaping, and pollinator-friendly native gardens across five distinct zones surrounding the visitor center and pond area. Key deliverables include precise planting of 21 different native plant species such as Prairie Dropseed Grass, Purple Coneflower, and Butterfly Weed, with specific quantities and placement detailed in the project plans. A mandatory site visit is required, with appointment dates available on July 30, 31, and August 7, 2025. Proposals must be submitted through Ohio Buys by the due date of August 19, 2025, with construction scheduled to commence upon purchase order approval and anticipated completion by April 15, 2026. Bidders will be evaluated based on a low lot total calculation, with potential additional scoring applied through Buy American, Buy Ohio, and Veteran-Friendly Business preferences.

The procurement opportunity appears to have several set-aside and preference considerations, including potential advantages for Minority Business Enterprises (MBE) and Executive Diversity, Growth and Equity (EDGE) vendors. Contractors must complete and submit an Affirmation and Disclosure Form, which includes strict requirements about service locations, prohibiting offshore services and engagement with Russian institutions. The contract is contingent on Ohio General Assembly appropriations and requires contractors to comply with state ethics and election laws. Bidders must provide documentation confirming their independent contractor status using the OPERS Independent Contractor Form. While a specific award value is not explicitly stated, the project involves comprehensive landscaping work with multiple planting zones and requires careful ecological integration. Successful contractors will need to demonstrate expertise in native plant installation, environmental conservation, and the ability to create ADA-compliant pathways with minimal ecosystem disruption.