Malheur NF Tree Planting
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 USDA Forest Service is soliciting proposals for Tree Planting Services on the Malheur National Forest in Oregon, specifically within the Blue Mountain and Emigrant Creek Ranger Districts. This Total Small Business Set-Aside opportunity aims to reforest approximately 5,000 acres impacted by 2024 high-severity fires, with an option for an additional 319 acres. The contractor will furnish all labor, equipment, supervision, and transportation for planting Government-furnished coniferous tree seedlings. Proposals are due by April 1, 2026, 10:00 AM Pacific Time.
Scope of Work
The contractor will perform hoedad planting of Government-furnished bareroot and container coniferous tree seedlings (approximately 10% container stock). Mandatory planting covers about 5,000 acres across Sand, Rail Ridge, EmiC, HC, and Saw units, with an optional 319 acres in YJ units. Work areas may require 4-wheel drive vehicles and some walk-in access. Specific unit details, including acreage, terrain, target trees per acre (TPA), spacing, and species mix (e.g., Ponderosa Pine, Douglas Fir, Western Larch), are provided in the detailed DUIS spreadsheets and numerous planting unit maps.
Performance Requirements
Contractors must ensure a planting quality of 90% or higher, with deductions for lower quality. Strict seedling handling procedures are required to prevent damage, maintain moisture, and ensure proper storage and refrigerated transport (33-38°F). Planting must utilize microsite techniques and 24-inch scalps for Sand and Rail Ridge units. A written job-specific Safety Plan and a Quality Control Plan (QCP) are mandatory deliverables. Contractors must also adhere to fire protection and suppression requirements, including developing a fire plan, complying with Industrial Fire Precaution Levels (IFPLs), and providing personnel/equipment for initial fire attack.
Contract Details
This is a Firm-Fixed Price, Requirements contract. The period of performance is generally April 1, 2026, to June 30, 2026. The place of performance is the Malheur National Forest, John Day, OR. This acquisition is a Total Small Business Set-Aside. Bidders must comply with the U.S. Department of Labor Wage Determination (No. 1977-0079, Revision No. 81) for Forestry and Logging Services in Oregon, which specifies minimum hourly wage rates and fringe benefits.
Submission & Evaluation
Offers must be submitted electronically via email to kevin.flores@usda.gov by April 1, 2026, 10:00 AM Pacific Time. Submissions require three separate attachments: Technical Capability, Past Performance, and Price. Evaluation factors include Past Performance (recency, relevancy, quality), Experience (similar nature, scope, and geographical conditions), Technical Approach (key personnel, crews, vehicles, equipment, production rates), and Price. Offerors are encouraged to conduct their own site research. Receipt of Amendment 0001 and a signed SF30 must be acknowledged.
Key Attachments
The solicitation includes a revised Performance Work Statement (PWS Rev. 2), Schedule of Items, detailed DUIS spreadsheets for all planting units, numerous geographical maps for specific units and access, a Government Quality Assurance Plan, various exhibits detailing planting techniques and weather guidelines, a Past Performance and Experience Form, a Job Hazard Analysis, and the applicable Wage Determination.