RE-post of cone harvesting services

The South Carolina Forestry Commission is requesting bids for cone harvesting services at the Niederhof Forestry Center under IFB 5400030191, with sealed bids due September 16, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. and award notification scheduled for September 17.

The scope covers harvesting cones from 59 acres across three pine species: Improved Third-Cycle Coastal Loblolly Pine (17 acres, estimated yield up to 800 bushels), Improved Third-Cycle Piedmont Loblolly Pine (12 acres, estimated yield up to 200 bushels), and Improved 1.5-Generation Longleaf Pine (30 acres, estimated yield up to 800 bushels). The contract period runs October 1 through December 31, 2026. Estimated yield volumes are provided for planning purposes only and are not guaranteed quantities; the Commission reserves the right to set quotas during harvest operations.

Bidders must possess a minimum of three years of verifiable cone harvesting experience and provide proof of liability insurance compliant with all applicable federal and state guidelines. Contractors are responsible for providing lift units (preferably 65-foot units to minimize soil compaction), crew supervision, fuel, maintenance, and adherence to all safety and labor guidelines. The SC Forestry Commission will provide sacks, cone crates, ripeness checks, quality inspections, and final volume tallies.

Pricing is determined on a per-bushel basis calculated from tallies of filled crates according to specified criteria, with volumes determined by SCFC personnel. The award will be made to the single lowest responsible and responsive bidder. Site visits are scheduled for August 20–21, 2026 from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at 2045 Cotton Hill Road, Tillman, SC 29943. Questions must be received by September 9, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. Payment may be made as partial payments or a single lump-sum payment based on final tally determination.