Wetland Tree Planting

The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) issued Request for Proposal (RFP) #200000000749 for wetland tree and shrub planting services across multiple regions, specifically targeting sites in Ottawa and Marquette Counties. The procurement requires contractors to plant 500 trees/shrubs per site using specified native species, with a focus on wetland mitigation and environmental restoration. Qualified vendors must be MDOT Pre-Qualified contractors in Work Type H (Landscaping) and demonstrate at least five years of specialized experience in native plant material installation. Key personnel must provide three client references documenting previous native plant installation projects. The planting work involves site preparation, installing container-grown trees with a minimum 1/4 inch caliper and shrubs in 3-gallon containers, implementing tree guards, and maintaining plants through the first full growing season. Proposals were due February 24, 2020, by 5:00 p.m. Eastern, with an anticipated contract start date of April 1, 2020, and planting seasons restricted to April 15-May 31 or October 1-November 15. Evaluation criteria include mandatory requirement compliance, key personnel qualifications, and pricing, though MDOT is not obligated to select the lowest-priced proposal.

The contract opportunity does not include specific set-aside designations for disadvantaged enterprises, though it is not subject to Michigan's Qualified Service-Disabled Veteran preference. The project is federally funded through the Federal Highway Administration, which triggers compliance with Davis-Bacon Act prevailing wage requirements for construction contracts over $2,000. While no incumbent vendors are explicitly identified, the contract allows for a one-year renewal at MDOT's discretion. Contractors must carry specific insurance coverage, including $1M in Commercial General Liability and Automobile Liability, and be registered in the state's vendor system (SIGMAVSS). Pricing is structured on a per-tree/shrub unit basis, with additional payments for site visits, watering, and cultivation. Liquidated damages of $1,000 plus $100 per day may be assessed for late or improper work completion. Though exact budget ranges are not specified, the contract covers multiple planting sites with 500 trees/shrubs per location, suggesting a potentially significant project value.