QR 40945 – Deep Creek Conservation Area Terrestrial Forestry Site Preparation

The St. Johns River Water Management District is seeking a contractor to perform terrestrial forestry site preparation through a broadcast ground herbicide application at the Deep Creek Conservation Area in Polk County, Florida. The project requires applying herbicides across approximately 140 acres to eradicate Primrose Willow and Cogongrass using a tractor or skidder-mounted herbicide spray rig. Qualified contractors must possess a valid Florida Pesticide Applicators License for Natural Areas, demonstrate a minimum of five years of relevant experience, and have completed at least two similar projects within the past three years. The contractor must provide their own equipment, including low ground pressure machinery capable of operating in soft ground conditions, and a field supervisor who will be onsite during applications. Quotes are due by 2:00 PM on January 29, 2025, and must be submitted electronically through DemandStar or Central Bidding, or via thumb drive to the District office. The project must be completed by September 15, 2025, with the contractor required to provide GPS tracklogs and weekly reporting forms documenting activities, wind speed, herbicide usage, and work hours.

The solicitation does not specify any specific set-aside designations or restrictions for disadvantaged enterprises. The District will supply all herbicides, surfactants, and application rates, effectively reducing the contractor's material costs. Contractors must provide their own personnel protective equipment and labor. The total contract amount is not to exceed $25,000, with award to be based on the lowest quote that meets all specified requirements. While no scheduled site visits are planned, contractors may contact the Project Manager, Taylor Clark, to arrange a site visit with 24-hour notice. Contractors must also provide three client references as part of their qualification documentation. The project requires precise environmental management, focusing on targeted herbicide application in a conservation area near an active homestead and farmland, as explicitly noted in Addendum 1 to the quote request.