Aerial Spraying Invasives, Wheeler NWR, AL
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. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) is soliciting quotes for Aerial Spraying Services to control invasive species at Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) in Alabama. This is a 100% Small Business Set-Aside opportunity. The primary objective is to reduce invasive species to promote native plant growth for wintering waterfowl. Quotes are due by February 3, 2026, at 2:00 PM EDT.
Scope of Work
The contractor shall provide aerial spraying services via helicopter to treat up to 350 acres annually within designated areas of Wheeler NWR. The primary target is alligatorweed, with secondary control of other woody vegetation like black willow, red maple, and sweetgum. The government will provide aquatic-labeled herbicides and surfactant for one application. The contractor is responsible for all personnel (ground crew, licensed pilot), equipment (helicopter, PPE), supplies, and any repeat applications required. A quality control program ensuring 95% treatment coverage is mandatory. Application standards include operating at less than 60 mph, using specific nozzle sizes, and avoiding spray drift and non-target areas.
Period & Place of Performance
The anticipated period of performance is from June 1, 2026, to October 15, 2026, at Wheeler NWR in Decatur, AL.
Contract Details
- Opportunity Type: Request for Quotation (RFQ)
- Solicitation Number: 140FS326Q0020
- Set-Aside: Total Small Business (NAICS 115310, $34 Million size standard)
- Contract Type: Firm Fixed-Price
- Response Due: February 3, 2026, at 2:00 PM EDT
- Questions Due: January 30, 2026, at 2:00 PM EDT
- Contracting Office: FWS SAT TEAM 3, Servicing U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service
Evaluation & Submission Requirements
Award will be made based on best value, with technical factors and past experience considered more important than price. Offerors must submit required documents, including SF1449, solicitation provisions, and an addendum to FAR 52.212-1. A Past Performance Questionnaire (Attachment 4) must be completed, requiring three contract references from the past three years, similar in size and complexity. Contractors and pilots must possess all necessary licenses and certifications for aerial herbicide application. Compliance with the Service Contract Act (SCA) Wage Determination 2015-4591 (Revision 31, 12/03/2025) for Alabama counties is required. An active registration in SAM and IPP is mandatory for award eligibility and payment. A site inspection is urged prior to quote submission; contact Nick Wirwa at nick_wirwa@fws.gov. Quotes must be emailed to Contract Specialist Fred Riley at fred_riley@fws.gov.