F--SERVICE: HERBICIDE APPLICATION FOR FWS TRUSTOM POND NWR.
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), under the Department of the Interior, is seeking quotes for herbicide application services at Trustom Pond National Wildlife Refuge in South Kingstown, Rhode Island. This Total Small Business Set-Aside opportunity involves treating approximately 36 acres of invasive plant species. Quotes are due by February 9, 2026, at 1700 EST.
Scope of Work
The contractor will provide comprehensive treatment of invasive plant species during the 2026 field season. This includes:
- Treatment of common reed (Phragmites australis) along shorelines of Trustom Pond and Cards Pond.
- Spot treatment of invasive shrub species, such as beach rose (Rosa rugosa) and Morrow's honeysuckle (Lonicera morrowii), in dune and back beach habitats at Moonstone Beach.
- Treatment of mile-a-minute vine (Persicaria perfoliata) in upland fields north of the barrier beach. The total estimated acreage for treatment is 36 acres. Performance standards aim for 70-100% control depending on the species and treatment type.
Period & Place of Performance
Treatments for Phragmites australis and invasive shrubs must occur after August 25th, 2026, to avoid disturbing the breeding season, and prior to plant senescence for optimal herbicide efficacy. There are no seasonal restrictions for mile-a-minute vine treatment. Work is contingent upon fund availability. The place of performance is Trustom Pond National Wildlife Refuge, South Kingstown, Rhode Island.
Contract Details
- Contract Type: Firm Fixed Price
- Product/Service Code: F105 - Pesticides Support Services
- Set-Aside: Total Small Business Set-Aside (FAR 19.5)
Submission Requirements
Quotes must be submitted via email to chantal_bashizi@fws.gov by February 9, 2026, at 1700 EST. Required submissions include:
- UEI number (SAM.gov registration).
- Detailed narrative of capability and approach.
- Per acre bid price for full treatment and total cost for 36 acres.
- Application plan detailing herbicide types, rates, timing, applicator licenses, and a spill/contamination action plan.
- Proof of a valid Rhode Island commercial herbicide applicator's license.
- Proof of liability insurance of at least $1,000,000 per incident.
Evaluation Criteria
Award will be based on a best value approach considering price, acceptable specification/proposal, past performance (CPARS/FAPIIS), and the Contracting Officer's personal knowledge.
Special Requirements & Notes
Contractors must use tracked, low-ground-pressure equipment (2 PSI or less) for sensitive wetland and dune environments. No vehicles or equipment are permitted landward of the primary dune line without explicit approval. No water sources are available on-site. Herbicides must be registered for wetland use and approved by the refuge project officer, with non-toxic carriers and adjuvants. Adherence to weather-related restrictions (wind, rainfall) is mandatory. A pre-work meeting is required within 10 days of contract award. The contractor is responsible for all equipment, supplies, and damages, and must comply with OSHA safety standards and implement a hazard communication program. Reapplication at no additional cost is required if desired results are not achieved. Public safety measures, including advance notification and warning signs, are also required. Wage Determination No. 2015-4105, Revision No. 31 applies, and bidders must incorporate these minimum wage rates and fringe benefits into their proposals.