USDA APHIS - Asian Longhorned Beetle (ALB) Ground Survey - MRAS

The General Services Administration (GSA), on behalf of the Department of Agriculture (USDA), is conducting market research to address the infestation of the Asian Longhorned Beetle (ALB) in Worcester County, Massachusetts. ALB, a nonnative pest, poses significant threats to various hardwood tree species across several states, including New York, Ohio, Massachusetts, and South Carolina. Its potential spread could lead to substantial losses in ornamental and commercial tree populations. In response to this threat, the Secretary of Agriculture has declared an emergency and allocated resources towards eradicating ALB and restoring affected urban forests.

The Asian Longhorned Beetle Cooperative Eradication Program is tasked with implementing a comprehensive tree survey program aimed at detecting ALB infestations within Worcester County. The survey will involve both ground and aerial inspections conducted by professional surveyors who will examine host trees for signs of infestation on both public and private properties. The overarching goal is to identify all infested trees promptly to facilitate swift eradication efforts.

The scope of work involves inspecting a total area of 66,807.2 acres within the regulated zone. This area is divided into three levels: Level 1 covers approximately 34,341.03 acres; Level 2 encompasses about 26,685.63 acres; and Level 3 includes around 5,780.54 acres inside the regulated boundary. Contracted surveyors are required to document their findings using electronic devices such as tough books while being monitored by DCR/USDA staff members.

Task Order #1 under this contract focuses on surveying an initial area totaling 999.71 acres located in Boylston, MA. This region includes diverse zones comprising commercial properties, light industrial areas, residential lots of varying sizes, cultivated lands, and large wooded tracts. Coordination between government personnel and contractors will ensure efficient coverage without duplication of effort while maintaining contractor responsibility for timely completion as stipulated in task orders.