DFW-2027-039 Mashpee Pine Barrens WMA Tree Thinning

The Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife is soliciting bids for woodland thinning on approximately 35 acres at the Mashpee Pine Barrens Wildlife Management Area and adjacent Town of Mashpee lands during Fiscal Year 2027. The project aims to restore an open canopy pitch pine and oak woodland with a 25-45% canopy cover to benefit native wildlife and reduce woody fuel loads for future prescribed fires. Key technical requirements include thinning pitch pine to a density of approximately 30 feet between trees, ensuring stumps protrude no more than 6 inches from the ground, and strictly avoiding the crossing of wetland boundaries. All tree felling must be completed by March 15, 2027, with skidding, processing, and clean-up finished by March 31, 2027. The contract will be awarded to the lowest responsible and eligible bidder who demonstrates the necessary skill, machinery, and integrity. Bidders must provide a 5% bid deposit and, upon selection, a performance bond equal to 100% of the contract sum and a labor and materials payment bond. Compliance requirements include adherence to Massachusetts prevailing wage rates, the Massachusetts Endangered Species Act, and the Forest Cutting Practices Act. Additionally, all onsite employees must have completed a 10-hour OSHA-approved construction safety and health course. Submissions must be delivered as two complete paper copies by November 30, 2026, and must include a mandatory bid sheet, a notarized affidavit, business references, and timber harvester license numbers for all machine operators.