Install a bat-friendly wildlife gate located on the Olympic National Forest

Background
The USDA Forest Service is issuing this solicitation for the installation of a bat-friendly wildlife gate at the historical adit adjacent to the Copper Creek trail #876 in the Olympic National Forest, Mason County, WA. This project aims to restrict public access while allowing ingress and egress for bats and other wildlife species that inhabit the mine feature. The need for this project arose from a post-fire assessment following the Bear Gulch Fire, which damaged an existing wildlife-friendly bat gate. The goal is to prevent unauthorized public entry to preserve human life and safety.

Work Details
The contractor will be responsible for the following tasks:
1. **Project Workplan**: Prepare a workplan that includes a description of all equipment and materials to be used, work methods, fire prevention procedures, and a project schedule. A Health & Safety Plan (HASP) must also be included.

2. **Portal Closure**: Install a bat-friendly steel gate at the historical adit adjacent to Copper Creek trail #876. The gate must be permanently anchored to bedrock, restrict public access, and allow ingress and egress for bats. Specifications include:
- Minimum spacing of 5 ¾ inches
- Utilize ¾” X ¾” square steel tube with 1/8” or 3/16” thickness
- No design requirement for human entry
- All waste material and equipment must be removed at project completion.

3. **Work Report**: A report summarizing actions taken, results, and recommendations for future work must be completed at the end of field operations. This report should include field notes and photographs of the completed portal closure.

Period of Performance
July 27, 2026, to September 21, 2026

Place of Performance
Olympic National Forest, Mason County, WA

Bidder Requirements
This acquisition is set-aside for small business concerns. Bidders must provide evidence of relevant certifications (e.g., Hazwoper) for personnel conducting field work as part of their Health & Safety Plan (HASP). Additionally, bidders are required to submit pricing for all items listed in the solicitation.