NR FRD Drone Aerial Release Spray FY26

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources Forest Resources Division is requesting proposals for drone herbicide spraying services to support conifer plantation maintenance at multiple treatment sites in Michigan's Upper and Lower Peninsulas, with proposals due July 28, 2026 at 9:30 a.m. EST. The contract term runs through September 30, 2026, with all spraying work to occur between September 1–20 in the Upper Peninsula and September 1–27 in the northern Lower Peninsula.

This is a mandatory-capability procurement with strict eligibility filters: bidders must hold an MDARD license to apply pesticides with aerial drones, FAA compliance certifications (Part 107 and 137), a valid Michigan Commercial Pesticide Applicator's License, and DNR chief-pilot certification. The contractor must supply all equipment, batteries, GPS, safety PPE, and maintenance materials.

Operational constraints are tightly specified. Wind conditions must be sustained at 3–7 mph with gusts up to 10 mph no more than 5% of the time. No rain is permitted within four hours before or after application. Bidders must submit per-acre pricing that includes all chemical costs necessary to meet project objectives. Pricing is firm for the entire contract period.

The State will evaluate proposals on a pass/fail basis across multiple Statement of Work sections and award to the responsive and responsible bidder with the lowest price. Questions are due July 20, 2026; answers will be posted on the State's SIGMA VSS system by July 23, 2026.

The contractor bears financial and operational risk. Liquidated damages of $5,000 plus $100 per day apply for late or improper completion. A fixed penalty of $500 per acre applies for any area sprayed outside designated boundaries. The contractor assumes liability for all damages from spray drift or overspray. Weekly reporting of treatment schedules, completed shapefiles, and chemical use is required, with a consolidated report due at season's end. The State disburses payments through Electronic Funds Transfer within 45 calendar days of invoice receipt and final acceptance.