Babcock Ranch Preserve Nuisance Plant Herbicide Treatment

Background
The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) is seeking competitive bids for herbicide maintenance treatment of nuisance plants on approximately 5,370 acres within the Babcock Ranch Preserve, located in Charlotte County, Punta Gorda, Florida. This initiative aims to manage invasive plant species effectively to protect the natural ecosystem.

Work Details
The contractor shall perform initial herbicide treatment of all Florida Exotic Pest Plant Council (FLEPPC) Category 1 non-native invasive plants within approximately 5,370 acres. The contractor must provide all labor, tools, transportation, and supervision necessary for the invasive exotic plant control project. Treatment methods include:

- Large woody plants and vines: Cut stump or frill/girdle/hack-and-squirt application using a 50% Triclopyr 3A mix with water or a 25% glyphosate/10% imazapyr mix in areas of melaleuca infestation.

- Herbaceous plants and vines: A solution of 2-4% glyphosate shall be used on herbaceous plants and vines. Up to 0.5% imazapyr can be added for cogon grass.

- Seedlings and saplings: Hand pulling or spraying with glyphosate herbicide mix. The contractor is responsible for collecting data on treatment dates, locations, methods, herbicide mixes used, and weather conditions. All equipment must be approved by the FFS project manager.

Period of Performance
The anticipated contract period is from execution of the state purchase order through June 15, 2025. The initial treatment should begin upon receipt of the purchase order (weather permitting) and contract manager approval.

Place of Performance
The contract will be performed at Babcock Ranch Preserve located in Charlotte County, Punta Gorda, Florida.