Libby Tree Cooler HVAC Replacement
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 seeking proposals for the Libby Tree Cooler HVAC Replacement project (Solicitation 1240LS26Q0028) at the Kootenai National Forest in Libby, MT. This Total Small Business Set-Aside opportunity involves replacing outdated HVAC systems for two tree coolers to improve energy efficiency and functionality. Offers are due May 18, 2026, at 10:00 AM MT.
Scope of Work
The project requires the replacement of HVAC systems for two tree coolers:
- Tree Cooler 1 (Base Item): Located at Libby Fire Cache (1263 Highway 37, Libby MT 59923).
- Tree Cooler 2 (Option Item 1): Located at Libby District office complex (12557 Highway 37, Libby MT 59923).
Tasks include the removal and disposal of existing equipment, and the sizing and installation of new condensers, evaporator fans/coils, refrigeration lines, digital thermostats, environmental controllers, and centrifugal humidifiers. The new systems must maintain temperatures between 28-40°F (±2°F, adjustable in 1°F increments) and humidity between 85-95%. Compressors must be compatible with R-404A or R-448A refrigerants. The work also involves testing, commissioning, site cleanup, owner training, and compliance with all federal and state codes, including proper coolant disposal. Certified HVAC technicians and electricians are required.
Contract Details & Timeline
- Contract Type: Firm-Fixed-Price Request for Quotation (RFQ).
- Set-Aside: Total Small Business Set-Aside (NAICS 811310, $12.5 million size standard). Vendors must ensure their SAM registration reflects small business status under this NAICS code.
- Period of Performance: Work is anticipated to begin July 1, 2026, and continue through early fall, weather permitting. The tree coolers will be in use until the end of June 2026.
- Site Visit: May 12, 2026, at 10:00 AM MT at the Libby Fire Cache.
- Questions Due: May 13, 2026, at 10:00 AM MT via email to arlen.fausett@usda.gov.
- Offers Due: May 18, 2026, at 10:00 AM MT via email to arlen.fausett@usda.gov.
- Offer Acceptance Period: 90 calendar days.
Submission & Evaluation
Award will be made to the offeror representing the best value to the Government, based on a comprehensive evaluation of Technical Approach, Past Performance, and Price. The technical approach will assess the ability to meet requirements and understanding of the project. Past performance will be rated as Acceptable or Neutral. Price will be evaluated for fairness and reasonableness after the highest technically rated offeror is identified; award will not necessarily go to the lowest-priced offeror.
Required submission documents include SF-1449, Schedule of Items (Attachment 3), Technical Response, Country of Origin Table, Equipment List (Exhibit 1), Biobased Product List (Exhibit 2), Past Performance Datasheet (Exhibit 3), and SF-1413 Subcontractor Form (Exhibit 4, if applicable). Bidders must return signed copies of Amendments 001 and 002 with their offer.
Amendments
- Amendment 001: Corrected the Statement of Work (SOW), replacing a PDF with a Word document.
- Amendment 002: Split the SOW into four separate documents (SOW, Pictures A, B, and C) to facilitate easier download from SAM.gov. All other terms and conditions remain unchanged.