Newton Boat Ramp Best Management Practices (BMPs)

The Country Pond Lake Association (CPLA) has issued an Invitation to Bid (RFB DES 2026-01) for the 2025 Country Pond Watershed Management Plan Implementation Phase 1, specifically targeting Newton Boat Ramp Best Management Practices (BMPs) in Newton, New Hampshire. The procurement involves constructing comprehensive stormwater control practices at the boat launch ramp, including vegetated swales, sediment traps, an infiltration basin, and a deep sump catch basin to mitigate stormwater runoff and erosion into Country Pond. Bidders must demonstrate significant experience with environmental regulations, stormwater management, erosion control, and native vegetation establishment. The project requires compliance with environmental permits, including a Shoreland Impact Permit and a Wetlands Permit-by-Notification. Key deliverables include regrading and stabilizing the boat ramp with pavement in the upper section and concrete pads in the lower section, with strict environmental protection conditions. Bids are due by 5:00 pm on August 1, 2025, with contractor selection anticipated on August 22, 2025. Construction is mandated to begin after November 1, 2025, and must be completed by December 31, 2025, with site restoration finalized by May 1, 2026.

The project is funded through multiple sources, including the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) of 2021, with funds awarded to the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (NHDES) and subsequently to NH LAKES for cyanobacteria mitigation efforts, complemented by additional funding from the Town of Newton and CPLA. While no specific set-aside designations for disadvantaged enterprises are explicitly mentioned, the procurement appears open to qualified environmental contractors with demonstrated expertise in stormwater management and ecological restoration. Payment will be structured on a percentage-completed basis: 30% for material procurement, 10% for site preparation, 50% for boat launch ramp construction, and 10% for site restoration. The total project cost will be determined through the competitive bidding process, with the expectation that contractors can effectively implement complex environmental management practices. The project emphasizes technical capability, environmental compliance, and precise execution of stormwater control and habitat preservation strategies, targeting comprehensive watershed management and water quality improvement in the Newton area.