Crest Switchback DxP 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 USDA Forest Service is soliciting proposals for the Crest Switchback DxP IRSC project within the Cibola National Forest, Sandia Ranger District, New Mexico. This opportunity is restricted to approved companies eligible for call orders under the R3 Southwest Stewardship BPA. The project aims to reduce hazardous fuel loading, improve forest health in high-elevation spruce-fir stands, and enhance the scenic integrity of the Sandia Crest National Scenic Byway (NM-536). Proposals are due February 23, 2026, at 4:00 pm MT.
Scope of Work
This project involves comprehensive natural resource and conservation services, including:
- Unit-Level Treatment: Mechanical forest thinning, debris removal and disposal, and machine piling of slash, following a Designation by Prescription (DxP) guide.
- Traffic Control: Development and implementation of a traffic control plan, including highway closure and authorized user access, conforming to MUTCD standards.
- Hazard Tree Removal: Felling and removing hazard trees along NM-536 to ensure safety.
- Timber/Product Removal: Includes the removal of biomass, with detailed specifications for harvesting, processing, and scaling.
- Road Maintenance: Contractor is responsible for all pre, during, and post-haul road maintenance for specific roads (FR 488, Kiwanis Cabin Road) without additional compensation.
Contract Details
- Contract Type: Blanket Purchase Agreement (BPA) Call Order, utilizing simplified procedures.
- Period of Performance: Two options: Date of Award through January 15, 2027, OR Date of Award through September 30, 2027 (government's discretion).
- Set-Aside: Full and Open, but restricted to existing R3 Southwest Stewardship BPA holders.
- NAICS Code: 115310 - Fuels Management Services (Small Business Size Standard: $34 Million).
- Place of Performance: Cibola National Forest, Sandia Ranger District, Albuquerque, NM.
Submission & Evaluation
- Eligibility: Only companies eligible for call orders under the R3 Southwest Stewardship BPA will be considered.
- Submission: Quotes must be emailed electronically (technical and price proposals) to Ingrid Anderson (ingrid.anderson@usda.gov) and Eduardo Cortez (eduardo.cortez@usda.gov).
- Evaluation Criteria: Proposals will be evaluated based on Technical Approach, Relevant Past Performance, and Utilization of Local Work Forces/Benefit to Local Community. Technical factors are more important than cost/price.
- Site Visit: A site visit is scheduled for February 4, 2026, at 10:30 am local time.
Key Deadlines
- Site Visit: February 4, 2026, 10:30 am local time.
- Response Due Date: February 23, 2026, 4:00 pm MT.
- Proposal Acceptance Period: 60 calendar days from receipt.
Additional Notes
This solicitation incorporates provisions and clauses by reference, available at https://www.acquisition.gov/far/. A pre-work meeting is anticipated 10 days after contract award. Bidders should review the provided appendices for detailed technical specifications, maps, traffic control plans, timber cruise data, and the Service Contract Act Wage Determination for New Mexico.