Buck Helene Fuels Reduction IRSC
Overview
Buyer
Place of Performance
NAICS
PSC
Set Aside
Original Source
Timeline
Qualification Details
Fit reasons
- NAICS alignment with historical contract wins in similar service areas.
- Scope strongly matches core technical capabilities and delivery model.
Risks
- Past performance thresholds may require one additional teaming partner.
- Potential clarification needed on staffing minimums before bid/no-bid.
Next steps
Validate eligibility requirements, assign capture owner, and schedule partner outreach to confirm teaming strategy before submission planning.
Quick Summary
The U.S. Forest Service is conducting market research via a Sources Sought / Request for Information (RFI) to identify qualified vendors for hazardous fuels reduction on steep and rugged terrain within the Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) of Western North Carolina. This urgent requirement follows Hurricane Helene. Responses are due by 08:00 A.M. on April 30, 2026.
Scope of Work
The anticipated scope of work includes:
- Manual felling and preparation of damaged timber and small roundwood for helicopter yarding.
- Helicopter yarding and ground transportation of over 300,000 tons of timber.
- Planning and site preparation for helicopter landings, processing, and sort yards.
- Maintaining tractor trailer accessibility for loading timber.
- Restoration of deck areas post-operations.
- Aerial seeding of landslides.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought / Request for Information (RFI)
- Product Service Code: F099 - Other Natural Resources And Conservation Services
- Place of Performance: Various locations in Western North Carolina impacted by Tropical Storm Helene.
- Period of Performance: Anticipated start Late Spring/Early Summer 2026, estimated not to exceed two operational seasons.
- Set-Aside: None specified (market research stage)
- Response Due: April 30, 2026, at 08:00 A.M.
- Published: March 26, 2026
Requested Capability Statement Content
Vendors should submit capability statements detailing:
- Company information (UEI, address, POC, socio-economic status).
- Relevant experience, particularly in hazardous fuel reduction, helicopter yarding, steep slope timber operations, and WUI operations.
- Safety program details and crew qualifications.
- Equipment lists and mobilization capabilities.
- Past performance references.
Additional Notes
This RFI is for market research and planning purposes only and does not constitute a solicitation. The Government will not reimburse accompanying costs. Responses should be submitted electronically to matthew.daigle@usda.gov.