F--OK-WICHITA MTNS WILDL RFG-WMR FUEL BREAK

The OK-WICHITA MTNS WILDL RFG-WMR FUEL BREAK project, solicitation number 140F0S23R0017, is a firm-fixed-price contract awarded by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service under the Department of the Interior. The project focuses on vegetation removal at the Wichita Mountains National Wildlife Refuge in Indiahoma, Oklahoma, specifically targeting approximately 157 acres. The scope of work includes vegetation mastication, chipping, and the cutting of standing dead trees to create 100-foot wide corridors along firebreaks. These efforts are designed to reduce wildfire risk and protect the critical habitat of the black-capped vireo across several key areas, including Greenleaf Canyon, Graham Flat, Soldiers Dam, and the Wilderness Area. Classified under NAICS code 115310 as a small business set-aside, the contract carries a performance period of 12 months, originally scheduled from June 8, 2023, to June 7, 2024. Due to the nature of the work, the contractor is required to adhere to a mandatory Wildfire Prevention Plan. This plan mandates the use of equipment spark arresters, the maintenance of fire toolboxes, the designation of a Fire Guard, and the strict following of fire response and reporting protocols to ensure the safety of personnel and the surrounding environment.