Due Diligence: NOI Former Tanner-Hiller Airport (EQLT)

Background
The Massachusetts Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program (NHESP) is responsible for the protection, conservation, and recovery planning of species listed under the Massachusetts Endangered Species Act (MESA). This solicitation involves a partnership with the East Quabbin Land Trust (EQLT) to direct MESA Mitigation Funding towards ecological restoration efforts at the former Tanner-Hiller Airport located in New Braintree and Barre, MA. The goal is to restore wildlife habitat and support state-listed grassland bird species, which are experiencing population declines.

Work Details
The contract involves ecological restoration activities on EQLT's property at the former Tanner-Hiller Airport. Key tasks include:

1) Selective tree removal across 26 acres to expand the existing sandplain grassland by approximately 10 acres;

2) Enhancing sightlines associated with the grassland to increase habitat for state-listed grassland birds such as upland sandpiper, grasshopper sparrow, and eastern meadowlark;

3) Coordination with the installation of a rail trail on the property, ensuring that both projects maximize conservation impact without negatively affecting each other. The EQLT has secured $100,000 in MESA Mitigation Funds for these restoration efforts.

Period of Performance
All work is estimated to be completed by December 31, 2026.

Place of Performance
The ecological restoration will take place at the former Tanner-Hiller Airport located at 295 McEvoy Road in New Braintree and Barre, MA.

Bidder Requirements
Interested vendors must own property and possess knowledge and skills necessary for effective synchronization of ecological restoration with EQLT’s Rail Trail project. Qualified vendors experienced in selective tree removal for grassland bird habitat management are encouraged to contact EQLT to submit a quote.