CATO - FY26 HAZARD TREE PKG 1
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 National Park Service (NPS) is soliciting quotes for the CATO - FY26 Hazard Tree Package 1 project at Catoctin Mountain Park in Thurmont, MD. This requirement involves comprehensive arborist services to mitigate hazardous trees that pose risks to visitors, staff, and infrastructure. Quotes are due by 5:00 PM EST on February 13, 2026.
Scope of Work
The contractor shall provide all labor, equipment, and supervision for cyclic tree maintenance, including:
- Tree Operations: Felling, removing, flattening, stump grinding, and pruning of designated trees.
- Debris Management: Woody debris removal, log chipping, and scattering.
- Specialized Tasks: Processing piled logs into firewood (Option 4) and performing work along Route 77, which requires Maryland State Highway lane closure permits.
- Emergency Services: On-call emergency tree services available within 24 hours of notice.
- Standards: All work must comply with ANSI Z-133, ANSI A300, and ISA Best Management Practices.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Firm-Fixed Price Task Order.
- Set-Aside: 100% Small Business (NAICS 561730).
- Period of Performance: Varies by task; Base tasks 1-3 are due by April 25, 2026, while others extend up to 365 days after the Notice to Proceed (NTP).
- Site Visit: A mandatory site visit is scheduled for January 29, 2026, at 9:00 AM EST at the Park Headquarters.
Evaluation Factors
Award will be made on a Best Value basis. Evaluation factors include:
- Technical Capability: Personnel qualifications (ISA Certified Arborist required on-site) and technical approach.
- Past Performance: Evaluated via questionnaires and references.
- Price: While Technical and Past Performance are more important than price, price remains a determining factor.
Additional Notes
Bidders must submit quotes in three separate volumes (Technical, Past Performance, and Price). Specific personnel requirements apply, including minimum experience levels for climbers, equipment operators, and flaggers.