FY26 Finger Lakes National Forest Pasture Mowing

Background
The Finger Lakes National Forest, part of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, has a requirement to mow pastures and grasslands managed for wildlife during the summer of 2026. This solicitation is issued as a Request for Quotation (RFQ) number 12444826Q0032, which is set aside for small business concerns under the North American Industry Classification Standard Code 561730, with a small business size standard of $9.5 million for Landscaping Services.

Work Details
The contractor will be responsible for furnishing all labor, materials, tools, equipment, and services necessary for mowing in pastures according to the Statement of Work (SOW). The mowing will occur in areas where cattle will be present and must be completed by October 31, 2026. Specific tasks include:
- Mowing all sites to a ~6” grass stubble height.
- Mowing all material less than 3 inches in diameter.
- Operating near grazing cattle, livestock ponds, fences, corrals, and other natural features while ensuring gates are closed immediately upon entry and exit.
- Scheduling mow timing with the Contracting Officer Representative (COR) to ensure surveys for sensitive birds are complete before mowing begins.
- Following Best Management Practices for Water Quality to minimize soil disturbance and avoid wetland areas.
- Ensuring all machinery is clean from debris and residual vegetation before entering each site.

Period of Performance
The period of performance is from September 14, 2026, to October 31, 2026.

Place of Performance
The contract will be performed at the Finger Lakes National Forest located in Schuyler and Seneca Counties, NY.

Bidder Requirements
Bidders must meet the requirements for small business concerns as this acquisition is a Total Small Business Set-Aside. Additionally, bidders must demonstrate their ability to meet schedule requirements outlined in the SOW and provide documentation of past performance on similar projects within the last three years. Key personnel qualifications must also be provided.